Remembering The Best Montana Businesses No Longer Around

Memories are a powerful thing. They can take us back to a special time in life, whether it's the lyrics of a song, a smell, or driving by an old empty building that was once filled with people and products.

Here in Montana, one of the things we're known for is our Ghost Towns. However, even in cities and towns with thriving populations, there are deserted storefronts where once-popular businesses stood.

It's never easy saying goodbye to something you love.

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Recently, we learned a popular restaurant/bar in Livingston was closing its doors after 120 years of serving Montanas.

READ MORE: Legendary Livingston business prepares to say goodbye

What are the reasons so many Montana businesses are closing?

Why do so many of our favorite spots close down? I suppose there are a few reasons behind it. Many of these legendary businesses are family-owned, if there is no one to continue the tradition, sometimes you need to know when to fold them.

Another issue that business owners are facing is the high price of real estate. While many might own their building, if you are renting, the price of rent, food, and supplies have increased drastically over the last few years and it can be tough to make ends meet.

Then there was the pandemic.

For almost 2 years, people were told to stay inside, and let's be honest, if you are a retailer or a restaurant and no one is coming to your place of business, that's an uphill battle, and a battle that many Montana business owners couldn't win. While the restrictions here weren't as harsh as other areas, they still delivered a big blow to local businesses.

While it's nice to have options and we certainly have those with chain stores and national retailers, there's something special about a local business and part of the everyday community.

Which local Montana businesses do you miss the most? Let us know by sending us a message on our station app.