Bannack, Montana

Montana's answer to Bodie, and the one to choose if you want to stay the night. Montana's first major gold discovery was made here on July 28, 1862, and Bannack went on to become the first capital of Montana Territory, a title it held only briefly. Over 50 log and frame buildings line Main Street. The state park has a 28-site campground, so you can see the street empty at dusk, and Bannack Days on the third weekend of July fills it with re-enactors and displays. Come outside that weekend if you want it quiet.