Dude Rancher Lodge, motel in Billings, Montana
The Dude Rancher Lodge is a motel in Billings with a two-story building shaped like a U, featuring a central courtyard. Its exterior walls use bricks salvaged from old Billings structures, while guest rooms display wood paneling and carpets woven with cattle brand designs.
The building opened in 1950 during a period when new motels were being built for growing road travel. The Goan family operated the lodge for over 40 years, establishing it as a recognized destination for travelers in the region.
The lodge displays Western themes through fixtures and furnishings styled after ranch houses. The interior features knotty pine paneling and custom Western-style furniture, while the former Stirrup Coffee Shop used wood and cowhide pieces to create a small-town dining experience.
The lodge is located on North 29th Street in Billings and appears on the National Register of Historic Places, ensuring its historical protection. An on-site parking lot and restaurant facility make it practical for guests staying in the city.
The lodge has a reputation for paranormal occurrences, particularly involving Annabel Goan who managed the business for decades. Guests and staff report flickering lights, unexplained sounds, and strange shadows, with room 226 being especially noted for activity.
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