Bozeman Guide

Why you should visit Bozeman

Bozeman’s tranquil natural beauty complements its youthful and entrepreneurial spirit. This bustling Montana city is known to be one of the fastest growing small cities in the country, an up and coming hub for technology start-ups and small businesses. In addition, Bozeman, home to the University of Montana, boasts a flourishing entertainment and art scene filled with galleries and concert venues.

Bozeman is a magnet for skiers with several of Montana’s top ski resorts located a short drive from downtown and cross-country skiing only minutes away from the city. And thanks to the city’s location near Yellowstone National Park and Gallatin Canyon, Bozeman makes for a great outdoor getaway no matter the season.

Ski Resorts Near Bozeman

• # Big Sky
• # Bridger Bowl

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What to do in Bozeman

From river tubing to cross-country skiing, Bozeman entertains travelers with a sundry of activity.

Spend a day in the great outdoors with Montana Alpine Guides , which offers trips, rock and ice climbing excursions, and back-country skiing in the Hyalite and Gallatin canyons. River tube down the Madison River and cool off on a sizzling summers day with Madison River Tubing . For an organized visit to Yellowstone National Park, take a private tour with Buffalo Roam Tours . For a more laid-back outing, choose between the many rivers within Montana to fly-fish for trout with Gallatin River Guides .

Bohart Ranch Cross-Country Ski Center is the place to go if you are looking to go cross-country skiing. Bohart is located only 15 minutes from the main drag of Bozeman, sitting on a wide piece of ranch land made up of numerous smooth and extensive trails. The ranch is also a great place to visit during the summertime as it provides horseback riding and mountain biking.

In the heart of Downtown Bozeman, spend an evening enjoying the various performances and events – including film screenings, live music and stand-up comedy – held at the historic Ellen Theatre . Catch a flick or shop the major retail stores at the Gallatin Valley Mall , only a 10 minute drive from downtown Bozeman.

Spend an afternoon exploring the school spirit at Montana State University. Throw on some blue and gold and cheer along at a university football game.

Where to stay in Bozeman

With a great deal of budget-friendly hotels to choose from, Bozeman is a convenient home base for skiers who don’t want to break the bank paying for resort prices. The C’mon Inn is an example of this with their low rates, warm and newly renovated ambiance, and convenient location, only a 30 minute drive from the Bridger Ski Area.

Howlers Inn is Bozeman’s B&B of solitude and serenity, an escape from the action of downtown Bozeman located 15 miles from the main drag. This rustic sanctuary conveys a true taste of Montana with pastoral views and western themed rooms.

For something more upscale, treat yourself to a stay at the Gallatin River Lounge , a luxury boutique hotel tucked away just west of Bozeman.

The LARK is a hip boutique hotel located in the heart of downtown Bozeman. The LARK has 10 in-house travel guides that work to making your stay in Bozeman more convenient, booking ski lift tickets and scheduling fun activities for you in the city.

Where to eat in Bozeman

The Feed Cafe is known for its breakfast dishes like white cheddar scallion biscuits and homemade jam, as is JAM! on Main , which serves cinnamon roll pancakes and Elvis-style crepes (peanut butter and banana). If you are taking the day to explore Montana State University, stop by Granny’s Gourmet Donuts and grab a freshly baked doughnut for the road.

For a romantic dinner, Emerson Grill supplies warm lighting and home-style Italian cuisine. Montana Ale Works is the spot for a hearty meal in a casual, lively setting. Choose from 40 various beers on tap while they cook up bison burgers and fish tacos. Or make yourself at home at The Roost Fried Chicken , a local favorite frying up passed down recipes of southern-style fried chicken and okra. Then end the night at Genuine Ice Cream Co with some creamy ice cream and frozen yogurt.

Family-friendly activities in Bozeman

Bozeman has a range of indoor and outdoor activities that are bound to please everyone in your family.

Dance in the rain (well, the water feature) at Belgrade’s Lewis and Clark Splash Park , and as an added bonus, you can enjoy it, for free. Relish in a refreshing swim at Bogert Pool and then when you are hungry, grab a bite at the Bogert Farmers’ Market . Reach new heights rock climbing and bouldering at Spire Climbing Center . The center also provides yoga classes and a fitness center for those in the family that aren’t looking to climb.

If you encounter a rainy day or simply need an indoor day, get creative with the kiddos while you shape and create your very own pottery masterpiece at Arts on Fire . Stay cool indoors and visit the Museum of the Rockies as you marvel at a large collection of dinosaur fossils found in and around Montana.

Bozeman has the perfect place for the science geek, the American Computer and Robotics Museum . Here, you will learn the history of artificial intelligence, computing, and communications. The Montana Science Center is also a fun place for kids to learn more about science with its hands-on and engaging exhibits. If you go on the second Friday of every month your admission to the center is free.