Are you looking for the perfect destination for your next vacation? Look no further than Bozeman, Montana! This beautiful mountain town offers something for everyone, from outdoor activities to delicious restaurants and unique attractions. Here are some of the best things to do in Bozeman.
Bozeman is the largest city in Montana's Gallatin Valley. Mountains and river valleys, forests and prairies, lakes and streams, and the Rocky Mountains give Bozeman a wide variety of terrain that appeals to outdoor enthusiasts, hikers, skiers, hunters, fishermen and more.
The quaint downtown features a bustling pedestrian promenade and stunning architecture, from turn-of-the-century terraced houses to Greek-style churches and a Victorian opera house.
Let's get down to our favorite things to do in Bozeman, MT.
The best things to do in Bozeman, Montana
1. Palisade Falls
If you are looking for a great hiking destination near Bozeman, Montana, the Palisade Falls is for you. The 1.6 km long circular hiking trail is completely paved and therefore easily accessible for hikers of all levels of difficulty. It's a relatively short walk and ideal for children.
On average, the trail takes 34 minutes and features an elevation gain of 250 feet. Along the way, enjoy stunning views of Palisade Falls and the dense forest, perfect for cooling off in the summer heat. Please note that the trail can get slippery in some places, so appropriate footwear is recommended.
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2. Museum der Rocky Mountains
ÖRocky-Mountain-Museumis a Smithsonian subsidiary based in Bozeman, Montana. Delight visitors with touring exhibits from around the world, permanent indoor and outdoor local history exhibits, planetarium shows, educational programs and more.
Ranked 4th out of 58 attractions in Bozeman, this museum has something for everyone. If you are looking for an exciting and educational experience, the Museum of the Rocky Mountains is definitely for you.place to visit!
3. American Museum of Computers and Robotics
For a once-in-a-lifetime experience, visit the American Museum of Computer Science and Robotics in Bozeman. This museum spans 4,000 years of human history, from the original cuneiform tablets to the first personal computers. It is the perfect place for technology lovers who can learn about artificial intelligence, communication and robotics. Located at the southern end of the city, this museum is definitely worth a visit.
4. Take a tour of a craft brewery.
For beer lovers, Bozeman is the place to be. With several craft breweries located throughout the city, visitors can take a craft brewery tour and sample some of the finest local beers. A great option for craft beer lovers is Mountains Walking Brewerycross. This professionally guided tour takes visitors from brewery to brewery, giving them the chance to taste local beers while learning about the brewing process.
Visitors are also given a tasting journal with information on local craft beers. At Bridger Brewing, visitors can enjoy award-winning pizza and some of the best craft beers in town. Bridger Brewing takes inspiration from wild places to create its unique beers. With so many options for great local beer, a microbrewery in Bozeman is sure to be an experience to remember!
5. Visit Yellowstone National Park
After exploring Bozeman's unique attractions like the Museum of the Rocky Mountains and the American Museum of Computer Science and Robotics, why not pay a visit?Yellowstone Nationalpark? Just a short drive away, Yellowstone offers breathtaking natural beauty, from mountains, rivers and waterfalls to geysers, hot springs and wildlife.
A private tour lets you explore it allnational parksincredible resources and soak up the history and beauty of this famous area. After a full day of exploring, return to Bozeman to relax with a visit to Bozeman Hot Springs or watch the sunset from Burke Park.
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6. Antiques
If you're looking for unique Bozeman souvenirs, be sure to visit the town's antique shops. One of the most popular is the Antique Market and More at Huffine Ln #2. It's a great place to shop for antiques and primitives.
It's a well structured store with free coffee and air conditioning to keep you comfortable. They also have clean toilets which is always a plus. You can find all kinds of items from jewelry to furniture and more so it's worth a visit.
7. Tigela Bridger
Next up in Bozeman is the Bridger Bowl. It is a ski area with many slopes and trails for beginners and experts. With a breathtaking view of the mountains, this is the perfect place to enjoy the view while having an amazing skiing experience.
The races vary in difficulty, so everyone can find something to suit their skill level. The resort also has a ski school, making it the perfect place to learn to ski or snowboard. Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned skier, the Bridger Bowl is sure to provide you with an unforgettable experience.
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8th Bozeman Symphony
For those who like music, theBozeman SymphonyIt is a must. The Bozeman Symphony Society presents a repertoire of symphonic and choral music performed for the benefit of individuals, students and the community.
From classical to modern pieces, this orchestra offers something for everyone. Whether you're a fan of classical music or a fan of modern composers, the Bozeman Symphony will make your visit to Bozeman an unforgettable experience.
9. Bozeman Fish Hatchery
For anglers, the Bozeman Fish Hatchery is a must-see attraction. Here you can take advantage of the technical support provided by conservation fish farming and reproduction programs. The hatchery also has a fish management program and is an ideal spot for fishing. It's a great place to learn more about fly fishing and other fishing techniques and get insider tips.
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10. Tubing on the Madison River
If you are looking for a fun activity that the whole family can enjoy,Madison River-PipelineIt's the perfect way to experience the beauty of Montana. Located near Bozeman, Madison River offers a variety of tubing and rafting tours for all skill levels. You can also rent floats, rafts and stand-up paddleboards for your own swimming adventure.
The six steps to a successful rafting trip on the Madison River include finding the right swimming gear, transportation, river safety, etc. With its warm waters and beautiful scenery, tubing on the Madison River is sure to be an unforgettable experience!
11. Gallatin Valley Shopping Center
After exploring Bozeman's outdoor wonders, it's time to discover all the great shopping, dining and entertainment at Gallatin Valley Mall. Located in the heart of Bozeman, the mall is convenient to many attractions and activities.
It's the perfect place to find unique souvenirs and gifts, grab a bite to eat, or just relax after a long day of exploring. With a wide variety of shops, restaurants and attractions, Gallatin Valley Mall is sure to have something for everyone.
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12. Bozeman Hot Springs
Bozeman Hot Springs is a great place to relax and unwind after a long day of exploring the city. It offers nine thermal pools, a full-service spa, gym, dry sauna, and Amazon rainforest room. Childcare is available for families with young children so everyone can enjoy the hot springs.
If you're looking for an extra special experience, take a trip to Norris Hot Springs - it's worth the extra 30 minutes! Norris Hot Springs is known for its unique "Water of Life" experience, making it one of the most popular hot springs in the area.
13. Meeting Grizzly in Montana
The next stop on your Bozeman, Montana tour should be the Montana Grizzly Gathering. This grizzly bear rescue and education center is located at 80 Bozeman Hill Rd.
Here you can get up close and personal with the majestic brown bears, learn about their habitat and behavior, and meet Brutus the bear and his friends. It's a great way to experience Montana's wildlife and get a taste of the world of grizzly bears. So don't miss this unique opportunity at the Montana Grizzly Encounter.
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14. Catch the sunset at Burke Park
After a long day of exploring Bozeman, Montana, one of the best ways to unwind is to watch the sun set over Burke Park. This park is located in the heart of the city and offers spectacular panoramic views of the area. You can hike to the top of Peets Hill and enjoy beautiful sunsets over the mountains.
Not only is it a great place to relax and take in the beauty, but it's also a great way to stay active with plenty of wide trails. So be sure to add Burke Park to your list of things to do in Bozeman!
15. Ellen Theater
The Ellen Theater in downtown Bozeman is a unique and historic venue. Built at the beginning of the 20th century, it was one of the most popular theaters of its time. It has hosted a variety of shows and events including live theater, variety shows, silent films, school assemblies and more.
Today, the Ellen Theater still hosts a variety of events and shows for visitors. From musicals to stand-up comedy, plays, concerts and more, there is something for everyone at the Ellen Theater. So make sure you add this unique theater to your list of things to do in Bozeman.
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16. Gallatin Museum of History
The Gallatin History Museum is a wonderful place to explore and learn about Montana's history. Opened in 1991, the museum houses more than 150,000 artifacts and specimens from Montana's natural and cultural history. One of the state's largest and most impressive natural history museums, it showcases the state's unique history through its diverse collections.
Visitors can explore the museum's many galleries, learn about Montana's past, and see some of the notable artifacts that make up the museum's collection. Whether you're a local or a visitor, the Gallatin Museum of History is a must-see for anyone interested in learning about Montana's past.
17. Skiing and snowboarding at Big Sky Resort
Big Sky Resort is a winter wonderland located 45 minutes north of Yellowstone Park in Montana. At 4,000 feet, the resort offers a variety of recreational opportunities with 3,500 acres of skiable terrain, 1,200 acres of freestyle terrain, more than 100 hiking trails, five terrain parks and three chairlifts. With all there is to discover, Big Sky Resort is the ideal destination for a winter vacation.
In addition to its excellent skiing and snowboarding opportunities, Big Sky Resort also offers a variety of shops and restaurants. The resort has a variety of accommodation options ranging from hotels to condominiumsAccommodationand trailer parks.
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18. Explore the Custer Gallatin National Forest
The Custer Gallatin National Forest is a large area of southern Montana that runs north-south. With many hiking trails and campgrounds, the area is a great destination for travelers looking for outdoor adventures, especially camping. Travelers can also enjoy some of Montana's famous ski resorts in the area, either in the Bear Lodge Mountains or on the Beartooth Highway.
Custer Gallatin National Forest has a variety of terrains, from the Beartooth Plateau and Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness in the north to the Gallatin Range and Bozeman Pass in the south. With so much on offer, travelers can find a variety of activities to enjoy in the area.
What is Bozeman, MT known for?
Bozeman, Montana, Montana's third largest city, is a great place for outdoor living for students and locals alike. With its impressive mountain ranges, pristine streams and lush nature, Bozeman offers an abundance of outdoor activities such as skiing, snowboarding, hiking and fly fishing.
It is also home to Montana State University and was ranked fourth on the list of the 25 Best College Cities to Live in. The city offers many amenities, including shopping and vibrant visual and performing arts.
Is Bozeman worth a visit?
Bozeman, MT offers a variety of recreational and cultural activities for visitors and locals alike. From hiking, fishing and boating to biking, visiting museums and partying in town, there is something for everyone.
Local craft beers, delicious restaurants and the world's largest T-Rex fossil are also available in this charming town, which is just 10 minutes from the Mainline Mall. Bozeman is truly a destination that has something for everyone.
frequently asked questions
Is Bozeman a fun town?
Yes, Bozeman is definitely a fun town! From beautiful outdoor scenery to vibrant downtown, there is something for everyone in Bozeman. From outdoor skiing and kayaking to exploring the Museum of the Rocky Mountains and Palisade Falls, you won't run out of options in Bozeman. Additionally, the city has incredible restaurants and dining options to suit all tastes.
Is there much to do in Bozeman?
Yes, Bozeman is a great place to explore and experience the great outdoors. There are many activities such as skiing, kayaking, bungee jumping, mountaineering and horseback riding. If you're looking for something more educational, visit the Museum of the Rocky Mountains. You can learn about local history and even get close to the skull and femur of a real tyrannosaurus.
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FAQs
What is Bozeman Montana famous for? ›
Bozeman and its surrounding area is famous on a national scale for its pristine landscape, wild animals, and a sense of freedom that harkens back to a simpler time. It's why many celebrities like Michael Keaton, John Mayer and Jeff Bridges claimed their piece of paradise here in the nearby Paradise Valley.
What is the best month to visit Bozeman Montana? ›Shoulder Season: April to May, September to October
Fall is a great time to visit Bozeman. The crowds thin out after Labor Day, as school and Montana State University students return to class. Fall colors and crisp days make for perfect backpacking, and the national forests echo with the sounds of elk bugling.
Nestled away amid the rearing Rocky Mountains, Bozeman is surrounded by incredible natural sights, scenery, and landscapes. Located in the southwest of Montana, it is the perfect place to head to if you love the great outdoors as it boasts brilliant hiking, skiing, and wildlife watching.
Is Bozeman a fun town? ›The city of Bozeman just may be one of the most exciting small city/big towns in the country—a destination full of scenic beauty; epic outdoor adventures; an eclectic restaurant and cultural scene, and funky, welcoming vibes makes this western mountain town the perfect place to spend the night when visiting beautiful ...
Does Bozeman have grizzly bears? ›Black bears are the most commonly reported bear in the Gallatin Valley, though the occasional grizzly bear wanders in from time to time, according to Jacobsen.
Why are people leaving Bozeman MT? ›For many people, the high cost of living in Bozeman has been a deal-breaker. While Bozeman is becoming known as a hub for high-tech businesses, start-ups, and entrepreneurial activity, career opportunities in the area are still limited especially compared to larger metropolitan areas.
What is the number one attraction in Montana? ›1. Glacier National Park. Glacier National Park stands proudly as the Crown of the Continent in Northwest Montana. This outstanding scenic area comprises mountain ranges, alpine meadows, thick forests, tall waterfalls, countless sparkling lakes, and numerous glaciers.
What is the coldest month in Montana? ›The average coldest month is January with typical winter temperatures ranging from a low of 15 degrees to a high of 55 degrees. The lowest recorded temperature was -43°F in 1936. For the winter sports enthusiast, the relatively low humidity and light winds provide an ideal climate for outdoor winter activities.
Do you need bear spray in Bozeman? ›If you are intending on going off the beaten path anywhere in Grizzly Country, it is highly recommended that all party members carry bear spray and know how to use it. For the protection of humans, bears, and the environment please consider rental Bear spray and IGBC approved food storage containers.
Is Bozeman a party town? ›Despite its small-town feel, Bozeman has a hopping nightlife scene, with streets lined with bars and restaurants.
Why do people go to Bozeman? ›
With some of the biggest skiing in America just an hour away, some of the best fly fishing in the world, hundreds of thousands of acres of public land within a short drive, and some of the best ice climbing destinations in America – it's easy to see why Bozeman is an outdoor enthusiasts dream.
What is the crime rate in Bozeman? ›...
Bozeman MT Crime Rate 2004-2018.
| City Name | Population | Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Belgrade | 8,724 | 229.25 |
| Laurel | 6,800 | 220.59 |
| Bozeman | 48,101 | 216.21 |
| Glendive | 5,132 | 214.34 |
The old western culture in southwest Montana is undeniable. Driving through town, you'll still see plenty of cowboy hats, western boots, and ample horses and cows. While the times may be changing, there's still a comforting nostalgia in celebrating Bozeman's wild west heritage.
Are there wolves in Bozeman Montana? ›Our teams also verified 134 packs and 34 breeding pairs. In northwest Montana we counted 338 wolves. In western Montana, we counted 94 wolves.
Are there mountain lions in Bozeman Montana? ›While highly adaptable to different environments, mountain lions can live just about everywhere in Montana. In 2013, mountain-lion sightings were reported several times on the outskirts of Bozeman and Butte—one bold cat even entered a home in Wilsall.
Do you need bear spray in Big Sky? ›If you are heading into Big Sky's backyard, you need to carry bear spray. Big Sky is part of the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem, which means it's grizzly country. In the event of a bear encounter, you're going to want bear spray.
Does Bozeman have a homeless problem? ›Amid high home prices and a tight rental market, the number of people experiencing homelessness in Bozeman has risen. As people have sought out shelter in RVs and vehicles on city streets, the city's policies and practices concerning unhoused people have been front and center.
What celebrity owns property in Montana? ›- Huey Lewis. Getty Images. Huey Lewis. ...
- Tom Brokaw. Getty Images. Tom Brokaw. ...
- John Lithgow. Getty Images. John Lithgow. ...
- Bill Pullman. Getty Images. Bill Pullman. ...
- Glenn Close. Getty Images. Glenn Close. ...
- David Letterman. Getty Images. David Letterman. ...
- Michael Keaton. Getty Images. Michael Keaton. ...
- Jeff Bridges. Getty Images. Jeff Bridges.
1. Family - The biggest reason for people leaving Montana is listed as family - Montana has a relatively small population for such a large state, and it makes sense that families moved away from each other would someday want to reunite. 2.
What is the most eaten food in Montana? ›The state of Montana is widely known for its game meat, especially elk, and juicy elk burgers made with tender, dark-red meat are among the most popular local dishes.
What is the coolest thing in Montana? ›
- Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument. 1,899. ...
- Grinnell Glacier. 675. ...
- Lake McDonald. 912. ...
- Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center. 888. ...
- Gates of the Mountains. 644. ...
- Avalanche Lake. 842. Bodies of Water • Hiking Trails. ...
- Hidden Lake. 733. Bodies of Water. ...
- Yellowstone River. 735. Bodies of Water.
...
These 10 Towns In Montana Have The Most Breathtaking Scenery In The State
- Bozeman. ...
- Whitefish. ...
- Fort Benton. ...
- Big Sky. ...
- Anaconda. ...
- Choteau. ...
- Lewistown. Enjoy Lewistown Montana Facebook. ...
- Stevensville.
The rainy period of the year lasts for 7.0 months, from March 25 to October 26, with a sliding 31-day rainfall of at least 0.5 inches. The month with the most rain in Montana City is June, with an average rainfall of 2.1 inches.
What month gets the most snow in Montana? ›The heaviest snowfall occurs between November and March, but heavy snowstorms can occur as early as mid-September or as late as early May in the higher southwestern part of the state. In the spring and early summer months when the snow in the mountains begins to melt Montana's river's swell with run-off.
What month does it start snowing in Montana? ›Great Falls, Montana is in the Northern and Western hemispheres, receiving all four seasons of Spring, Summer, Fall and Winter! It is normal for Great Falls, Montana to see snow from September to May, however, most snow falls November through April.
Is bear spray necessary? ›Firearms are not a substitute for proper bear avoidance practices and knowing how to properly handle a bear encounter. Bear spray is the recommended tool for self defense against a bear. Bear spray is easy to use without much experience, and it's a highly effective tool for stopping or deterring attacks.
Can you get altitude sickness in Bozeman? ›For instance, spend a night in Bozeman before heading to Big Sky. Drinking enough water is essential because the Rockies are arid and dehydration can contribute to altitude sickness. Even if you live here full time, staying hydrated is challenging.
How do you avoid bears in Montana? ›Best practices for safely exploring the outdoors
Travel in a group and keep members together (especially kids). Make noise whenever possible to avoid surprising a bear, especially where visibility or hearing is limited. Carry bear spray close at hand and know how to use it. Avoid traveling at night, dawn or dusk.
Yes. You are permitted to sleep overnight in your vehicle while at a Montana Rest Area. The state has no rules against sleeping in your vehicle while parked at a Montana rest area.
Why are Californians moving to Bozeman? ›Real estate agents in Bozeman say the Bozeman-Yellowstone International Airport is a driver behind why so many Californians are relocating. The airport's direct flights to San Francisco, Los Angeles, and Long Beach contributed to the ease of California residents moving to the greater Bozeman area.
What is someone from Bozeman called? ›
Country star Keith Urban rocks Bozeman crowd
Urban Cowboys?? 6 yrs Report. Erin Bradford. Bozemanians or Bozemanites.
Getting around the Bozeman area is no problem, whether you choose to go by foot, bike, bus or car! Paths and bike lanes connect campus to downtown and the 60 mile Main Street to the Mountains trail system links the city to the nearby mountains.
Do you need a car to get around Bozeman? ›Walk or Scooter. Once you're in town, getting around Bozeman proper is simple. If you're staying in the downtown area, most everything is walkable. Or, for the more adventurous in the group, Blink Rides electric scooters are located all around town and offer a quick and fun way to get from one destination to another.
Is Bozeman a walkable city? ›Bozeman is utterly walkable: when strolling down Main Street, everything you need is right there along the sidewalk. So put on your walking shoes and get ready to explore. Here are the must-stop spots you should add to your walking tour of Bozeman.
What is the safest area in Montana? ›Kalispell and Bozeman share the honor of Montana's safest city (within the population parameters), each earning a -0.17 Safety Index score. Of the two cities, the larger city of Bozeman looks more impressive on paper, with a 2.78 per 1,000 violent crime rate that is below state and national averages in the category.
Is Bozeman a safe place? ›- The National Council for Home Safety and Security has rated Bozeman as having the second-lowest crime rate in Montana. Kalispell was ranked as the safest city with the lowest number of crimes overall, but when you look closer at the statistics, Bozeman has the least amount of crimes committed per 1,000 people.
How much does it cost to live in Bozeman? ›The average monthly rent in Bozeman is $2,136, while home prices circle around $578,626.
What is the friendliest town in Montana? ›If you are looking to find the friendliest city in America, you'll find it in Montana. The city that took top honors of the friendliest city in the United States was Whitefish, Montana, which Expedia travelers ranked. The town is the gateway to Glacier National Park, so the town is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.
What is the least expensive town in Montana? ›Butte. The most affordable city in Montana is full of small-town charm with big-city energy. Located in the Rocky Mountains, Butte is your gateway to hiking trails and mountain views that span across the miles.
What does the M stand for in Bozeman? ›Bozeman has more than one hillside letter, but its most prominent is a large "M" created to represent Montana State University. The letter, created in 1915, is easily seen from Interstate 90 and across Bozeman.
What is the most cowboy town in Montana? ›
Miles City, Montana
Located in the heart of the Big Sky Country, Miles City, Montana is a living homage to cowboy heritage. Soaked in Western history, Miles City remains a true Western town. Vast stretches of plains and badlands branch out in all directions.
The company designated Bozeman, Montana, as its principal executive office because it's required by the SEC to have one and that's where CEO Frank Slootman and CFO Mike Scarpelli are based.
What is the most luxurious place to live in Montana? ›Great Point Lodge, Big Sky, Montana
According to BusinessInsider.com, the most luxurious property in Montana is a 16,000-square-foot home called Great Point Lodge.
1. Glacier National Park – one of the most stunning places to visit in Montana. What is this? Aptly called the “Crown of the Continent”, the Glacier National Park is home to more than one million acres of beautiful and unspoiled terrain.
What is the main industry in Bozeman Montana? ›Learn More. Bozeman's economy is one of the strongest in the State of Montana with tourism and the high-tech industry making a big splash in the area. One in every 10 new businesses formed in Montana come from Gallatin County, making us first in business growth in the state.
How cold does it get in Bozeman? ›Bozeman has characteristically mild winters. The average coldest month is January with typical winter temperatures ranging from a low of 15 degrees to a high of 55 degrees. The lowest recorded temperature was -43°F in 1936.
Who is the largest employer in Bozeman Montana? ›As for employers, Bozeman Health is the largest employer, with nearly 2,600 employees and growing. Montana State University is Bozeman's second largest employer.
What are people from Bozeman called? ›| Bozeman | |
|---|---|
| • Demonym | Bozemanite |
| Time zone | UTC−7 (MST) |
| • Summer (DST) | UTC−6 (MDT) |
| ZIP codes | 59715, 59717-59719, 59771-59772 |
Mining and agriculture lured settlers to Montana during the latter half of the 1800s, and agriculture remains the state's number one industry. One out of every six Montana workers is employed in an agriculture-related field.