Montana doesn’t really do the “big city” thing—even our more populated areas would be considered mid-sized cities elsewhere. Our small towns are where you’ll find some of the best people, restaurants, shops and attractions. If you’re lucky enough to call the Treasure State home, you should make it a point to see as many tiny towns as you can—and you should definitely visit Ennis.

Ennis is located in Madison County in the southwestern portion of the state.
Spend A Day Touring, LLC / Flickr
Its population was a whopping 852 in 2013, so it’s definitely a great place to be for people who don’t enjoy crowds.
The valley is primarily cattle country, so the people who live in Ennis are mostly ranchers and people who love fly fishing and hunting.
sringsmuth / Flickr
Even though there aren’t many jobs in Ennis itself, the town is close to bigger places like Bozeman and Big Sky.
Ennis has an authentic Western atmosphere, and the surrounding scenery looks too beautiful to be real.
Dylan Van Dyke Brown / Flickr
Its secluded location makes it look like some kind of old Western movie set.
Despite its rustic ranching town nature, Ennis is also home to some refined outdoor art.
Paul Iwancio / Flickr
You’ll find professionally painted walls and bronze sculptures by local artists David Lemon and Jim Dolan. You can even take a self-guided art tour through the small town.

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Come hungry. You’ll find great eats in Ennis.
Meg S. / Yelp
The Bear Trap Grille, The Alley Bistro, Banditos and Nacho Mama’s Burritos (pictured here, and yes, that’s their real name) are a few local favorites.
Save room for dessert, because Yesterday’s Soda Fountain is amazing.
Milo R / Yelp
They’re only open until 2:30, so go early.
Take a stroll through the downtown area and check out the local small businesses.
steve lyon / Flickr
If you're planning to go fly fishing, you can get everything you need at the Tackle Shop at 127 Main Street.
Spend a relaxing night or two at the Diamond J Ranch.
Diamond J Ranch Retreats Facebook
Most of the accommodations here are classic log cabins that were built in the late 1920s. A hot breakfast is included with your rate.
If you have time, the Ennis Railroad and Cultural Heritage Museum is worth visiting.
Paula M / TripAdvisor
You'll find lots of great information on the local history here.

Ennis may be a small town, but it’s an amazing place to visit (and live). Here are some other charming small towns in Montana worth exploring.

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