Bozeman, Montana - Discovering Montana (2024)

Bozeman Main Attractions

There are a lot of really interesting things to see and do in Bozeman. So many, that we had to pick just a few of our favorites, or this list would go on and on.

Downtown Bozeman

Taking a walk down Main Street in downtown Bozeman is a great way to experience both the hip “young” culture and the taste of the old west that makes this community so interesting. Main street is lined with fun old buildings that make you feel like you’ve entered another place and time.

Along the street, you’ll find some of the best restaurants in Montana, great boutique shops, and many community events that bring folks from all around the Bozeman area. For the lucky, and observant, you may even catch a glimpse of one of the many Hollywood actors that call the Bozeman area home.

Museum of the Rockies

If you want to learn a lot about the natural history of the Rocky Mountains, or if you just want to see one of the best collections of dinosaur fossils in the world, the Museum of the Rockies is a sight you cannot miss.

The museum is a collaboration with Montana State University and the Smithsonian Institute. While you’ll enjoy the exhibits, behind the scenes this museum is working hard on research and features some of the most up-to-date information on the evolution of Yellowstone County and Yellowstone National Park.

American Computer and Robotics Museum

We think this is one of the most unique museums anywhere in the United States, and it’s a great nod to the tech industry that is the base of the Bozeman economy.

The American Computer and Robotics Museum details the rise of technology from the clay tablet to today’s advancements in artificial intelligence and consciousness.

The city may seem like a strange place to find such a museum, but this is a spot you shouldn’t miss. The displays are really amazing and there are some of the most important technological artifacts in the world housed here.

Don’t miss the Gutenberg Press, the Alan Turing papers or a Steve Wozniak signed Apple 1 computer.Oh, and did we mention that admission to the museum is free?

Montana Grizzle Encounter

One of the most majestic and awe-inspiring animals in North America is the Grizzly Bear. This predator calls Montana home, but most of us would rather skip the interaction with this giant animal and view it from a distance.

The Montana Grizzly Encounter gives visitors to Bozeman the opportunity to get a little closer to these amazing animals, in a safe and controlled environment.

Most of the bears that live in this rescue and bear sanctuary came from captivity and were rescued from unsuitable living conditions. The Montana Grizzly Encounter gives grizzly bears the chance to live a more normal life in their natural environment, without releasing them back into the wild.

Yellowstone National Park

Bozeman is considered the north and west gateway to Yellowstone National Park, so it makes sense that you should add this amazing place to your itinerary. In Yellowstone, you’ll find plenty of things to see including the world-famous geysers and hot springs.

Lots of people come to Yellowstone to view the wildlife and to enjoy hiking and camping. Yellowstone is an easy day trip from Bozeman and for many people a once in a lifetime place to visit.

Recreation Activities in Bozeman

Just like the community, Bozeman has diverse options for recreation. And, the activities aren’t just summertime activities. The city’s proximity to mountains, rivers, national forests, local parks, and recreation facilities allows visitors to enjoy great recreational opportunities all year round.

Skiing/Snowboarding

One of the most popular winter sports in the Bozeman area is skiing or snowboarding. You’ll find two great downhill ski areas nearby – Big Sky Resort and Bridger Bowl Ski Area. Big Sky Resort offers visitors a more traditional “resort” skiing experience, while Bridger Bowl is a smaller ski area with basic amenities.

If you’re not up for downhill skiing or snowboarding, Check out the Crosscut Mountain Center and Bohart Ranch. This spot has plenty of trails for Nordic skiing, snowshoeing, and skate skiing. Never tried Nordic skiing before? Crosscut Mountain Center has great instructors that can show you the ropes.

Water Sports

There are a variety of water sports opportunities in the Bozeman area. The Gallatin River is a favorite spot for springtime white water rafting. If you’re looking for something a little more relaxing, locals enjoy kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding on the Madison River through Bear Trap Canyon.

If you don’t have your own gear, no need to worry, there are a number of outfitters in town that can set you up with tubes, paddleboards, or even kayaks. If you don’t want to drive, you can even pick up a free shuttle to Bear Trap Canyon from downtown Bozeman.

Fly Fishing

The Gallatin River is another one of Montana’s amazing fly-fishing streams. For avid fly-fishers, the Gallatin near Bozeman is a dream come true. Parts of the movie “A River Runs Through It” was filmed near Bozeman, so for those familiar with the film many of the best fishing spots may seem familiar.

Favorite spots for wade fishing include the canyon section between Big Sky and Four Corners. There are some great fly shops in Bozeman that can help you pick the right flies or hire a guide to take you to the best spots.

Rock Climbing

There are some pretty amazing spots around Bozeman for rock climbing, ice climbing, and mountaineering. Locals will tell you that the best spot for ice climbing is in Hyalite Canyon, while those looking to scale rock walls will enjoy Gallatin Canyon.

If you’re new to these activities, there are a number of local businesses that will help you gear up and show you the ropes.

Hiking

Of course, hiking is the most accessible activity in the Bozeman area, and it doesn’t require any special gear. One of the most popular hikes is the M-Trail. You’ll be hard-pressed to miss the giant “M” on the side of the mountain above Bozeman.

It’s not just a stamp of pride for Montana State University students, it’s also a great place to hike to. For more scenic hikes, head to Hyalite Canyon where you’ll find a number of great hiking trails. You’ll also find Hyalite Challenge, an accessible recreation area with wide boardwalks, fishing piers and other amenities that make enjoying the area easy for those with physical challenges.

Other favorite hikes in the area include Palisade Falls and Drinking Horses Mountain, both of which offer great views and easy hikes that are family-friendly.

What Is The Cost of Living in Bozeman?

Bozeman has general, day-to-day living costs much higher than the national average. On top of that, Bozeman housing prices are not only high for Montana, but they also consistently rank among the most expensive in America!

The Springhill and Legends neighborhoods are considered among the most exclusive and expensive in Bozeman, while on the other end of the spectrum comparatively is the Baxter Meadows area.

Is Bozeman Safe?

Looking at crime rates, it’s possible to see that Bozeman does quite well both locally and nationally at 33 on the crime index (with the best being 100). This means some form of crime affects three per thousand people in the town every year.

With the total number of annual crimes recorded being under 1,000, the main problem seems to be property crime at close to 800. The number of crimes considered violent was somewhat lower and recorded at 160, so in al Bozeman is not too much of a dangerous place.

What is Bozeman Known For?

Aside from the surrounding Rocky Mountains, Bozeman is largely known as something of a college town, mainly due to its prominent numbers of student-aged residents.

This is in turn reflected in the local Bozeman lifestyle and culture, which comprises a large proportion of artists and other creative types.

A lot of the major events, for instance, are closely linked to the academic calendar, and the Museum of the Rockies is a major attraction in the area, as are the Gallatin History Museum and the local Hot Springs.

Outdoor recreation is plentiful, especially on the local M Trail and the nearby Bridger Bowl Ski Area as well as in the surrounding regions of the Custer-Gallatin National Forest.

Accommodations

When you visit Bozeman, you’ll want to make sure you have a great place to recover after a day of activities. There are plenty of lodging options in the area, including vacation homes, local hotels, chain hotels, and bed and breakfasts.

• RSVP Hotel
• SpringHill Suites by Marriott
• The Lark
• Comfort Inn and Suites – Airport/University
• Element Bozeman
• Holiday Inn and Suites Bozeman West
• Mountainview Lodge and Suites
• La Quinta by Wyndham

Best Time to Visit Bozeman

Bozeman, like all other cities, has distinct seasons for tourism and different popular activities depending on the time of year. Because Montana’s seasons are so distinct – hot, humid summers bookended by long, frozen winters – seasonality can certainly impact your travel plans.

If you’re unsure what’s the best time of year to visit Bozeman, here’s a brief rundown of the various tourist seasons, monthly weather, and a calendar of major events.

Best Time to Book a Hotel in Bozeman

Bozeman has somewhat curious travel seasons, but you’ll typically find hotel rooms, cabins, and resorts at their lowest occupancies and prices in November, and from January through March.

In town, hotels are generally open year-round, but properties around Bozeman are only open in the winter (like ski resorts that don’t offer summer activities) while others close completely from the first snowfall until thespring thaw.

Best Time for Sightseeing in Bozeman

Summer offers the best weather for a sightseeing stroll, but the crowds in July might deter you somewhat. Thankfully the end of June and mush of August have similar weather with markedly fewer tourists.

Best Time for Shopping in Bozeman

Beginning the day after Thanksgiving with Black Friday, the holiday season is the best time for shopping in Montana.

Not only will you find some of the best sales of the year at the big, national chains, but local, independent retailers tend to be very active in December.

In addition, you’ll find special holiday-themed markets and pop-ups that specialize in local, handmade, and artisan goods.

Best Time for Festivals & Events in Bozeman

Summer hosts the most festivals and events of the year: the warm weather makes it much more comfortable to hold events outdoors, and schools aren’t in session so more folks can attend.

Offerings range from live music to rodeos, to art fairs, to farmer’s markets. There’s generally something unique to do every weekend, often for free.

Bozeman Travel Seasons

Bozeman has somewhat curious travel seasons. While they, like many other locales, have a high season in the summer, they also have a brief resort season that draws thousands of tourists. These are interspersed with low and shoulder seasons.

The high season is typically the summer – mainly July and August – though Bozeman has a sliver of a resort season during the holidays, from Thanksgiving to the very beginning of January. These are the times of the year when flights and accommodation will be the most expensive and have the fewest vacancies for last-minute travelers.

A lot of this winter tourism is because of Bozeman’s prime position near both an international airport and one of the only entrances to Yellowstone that’s open year-round. Bozeman is the premier jumping-off point for Christmas and New Year trips to Yellowstone.

Just beyond the entrance at Gardiner are Yellowstone’s winter lodges, but keep in mind that holiday reservations are made up to a year in advance.

The low season is typically November and January through April. These are the months with the least tourists and lowest prices, though vacancies can seem high if you’re visiting a nearby ski resort. In general, in-town visits are easy to plan last minute this time of year.

The shoulder season is May, June, September, and October. These are the months when you’ll find the best balance of available rooms at modest prices and the most comfortable weather.

June in particular is legendary for having long, sunny days without the stiff competition for accommodation you’ll find in July.

Bozeman Weather by Month

January

Average High: 35º |Average Low: 14º

January in Bozeman is typically snowy and cold. The fluctuating temperature can cause snow accumulation to melt during the day and refreeze at night, so you’ll have to take extra care to avoid slick, icy roads. If you don’t have much experience driving on black ice, be sure to take extra precautions, especially at night.

You’ll need to be sure to pack a whole complement of winter gear: parka, gloves, thick socks, a hat, and boots if you want to ensure your comfort.

February

Average High: 38º |Average Low: 17º

While the snowpack in town is beginning to subside somewhat, there’s still a significant chance to find snow on the ground in Bozeman in February. While major interstates and in-town roads will be plowed, be careful on any backcountry or access roads, as they could be snowy, icy, or closed.

Adequate gear for cold weather is still required this time of year, even if you don’t plan on spending that much time outside.

March

Average High: 47º |Average Low: 24º

It’s not unusual to see snow in Bozeman in March, but it’s also common to see rain. This can be a soggy time of year in the city, though nearby ski areas will still have plenty of snow.

Rain gear and waterproof boots or shoes will keep you a lot more comfortable during your trip. Overnight temperatures can still get well below freezing, so gear for wintery weather is still more than appropriate.

April

Average High: 56º |Average Low: 30º

In April, precipitation increases somewhat, with a mix of rainy days and snowy nights. Though large accumulations of snow are rare this time of year, roads can still be quite icy, especially first thing in the morning having frozen overnight.

Rain gear and proper winter layers are still recommended in April in Bozeman, though you may find yourself occasionally leaving the accouterments – like a hat, gloves, and a scarf – back at the hotel room, especially toward the end of the month.

May

Average High: 65º |Average Low: 38º

The last snow flurries of the year usually occur in May, leaving most of the month completely free of snow in Bozeman. However, this is the rainiest month of the year, so be sure to be prepared with waterproof rain gear and footwear.

June

Average High: 73º |Average Low: 44º

The spring rains begin to slow, and the temperature gets considerably warmer in June. This is the first month where you might consider wearing a pair of shorts or a sundress, just be sure to bring a coat if you’ll be out past nightfall.

July

Average High: 83º |Average Low: 50º

Largely considered the best month of the year for weather in Bozeman, July temperatures range between balmy and outright hot, with very little rain and few days with overcast skies. This is the time for spending time outdoors and wild swimming.

Nights can still be chilly, so be sure to bring a jacket. While driving conditions are generally ideal, you may find the occasional road that’s muddy from rainwater.

August

Average High: 82º |Average Low: 48º

Still well within the high season, August weather is some of the best, with the least rain of the whole year. Long, hot days can still be followed by somewhat chilly nights, so be sure to pack appropriate clothing if you’ll be out in the evening.

Driving conditions are ideal in August, and all roads are open barring those closed for maintenance or construction.

September

Average High: 72º |Average Low: 40º

The fall chill starts to set in around the middle of September, but days are generally still balmy and sunny. Though it may not be ideal for swimming, there are still those who don’t mind taking a dip in the lake despite the colder weather.

Nights, in particular toward the end of the month, can get downright cold, so be prepared with a coat.

October

Average High: 58º |Average Low: 32º

In October you’ll see the full effects of Fall in Bozeman, with blustery winds and the occasional snow flurry. Though it’s unlikely to see snow accumulate in the city this time of year if you’re traveling over a nearby pass you may encounter a legitimate snowfall.

While you might fare okay during the day with a jacket and a couple of layers, you will likely need a proper coat in the evenings.

November

Average High: 43º |Average Low: 21º

Though not yet technically winter, November in Bozeman can feel decidedly wintery. This is when you’ll see the first few snowfalls in town, and many businesses revert to their winter hours.

Nights can get well below freezing which demands a full complement of winter clothing. Driving around Bozeman is generally fine on major streets and the Interstate, though some nearby roads may already be closed for the season.

December

Average High: 33º |Average Low: 12º

Generally the coldest month of the year, you’ll have to make considerable preparations to visit Bozeman in December. Roads can be slick and icy when left unsalted, so snow tires can be helpful, especially during the day.

If you plan on spending any considerable amount of time outside, you’ll be the most comfortable with plenty of layers and all the winter gear – including a hat, gloves, and a scarf to keep you toasty.

Events and Festivals

Summer

• Big Sky Country State Fair Held annually at the end of July, the Big Sky Country State Fair at the Gallatin County Fairgrounds draws folks from around the entire region. With a rodeo, a petting zoo, live music, and plenty of classic fair food, Montana’s best version of an old-fashioned country fair will not disappoint.
• Sweet Pea Festival: This three-day arts festival held annually during the first weekend in August features crafts, live music, and other performances all in honor of the humble Montana staple, the sweet pea.Theater troops perform Shakespearean classics and a children’s parade ambles down Main Street, while a beer tent serves up some of Montana’s best local brews.
• Summer Slam Festival: This summer arts festival gathers hundreds of artists and other creatives to showcase their work alongside live music, talks, and other performances. Vendors span a wide variety and include photographers, furniture designers, and even writers and poets.
• Cruisin’ on Main Car Show 2021:Every year in mid-August, this classic car show takes over Downtown Bozeman. Lay people and auto professionals are equally invited to register their cars to showcase, so you’ll find a good mix of cars to admire. If you have a classic car of your own you’d like to show off, they have same-day registration available.
• Gallatin Valley Farmers Market: This summer farmers market is held every Saturday morning from mid-July to early September except during the Big Sky State Fair. Originally started in 1971, it has, through its several iterations, become an integral part of Bozeman’s community. Here you’ll find farm-fresh produce, cheeses, preserves, and several booths selling local, artisan crafts.
• Bozeman Farmers Market: This farmers market is held every Tuesday evening from mid-June until early September. With over 50 different vendors, there’s a wide variety to peruse: you’ll find fresh produce, meats, and cheeses alongside handmade housewares and beauty products. It’s very conveniently located, right on Main Street at Lindley Park.
• Music On Main: This annual Thursday night concert series runs from the end of July until mid-August and features an incredible selection of local and touring bands. These live shows are held right on Main Street, with an entire block shut down to accommodate the stage and crowds. In addition to the music program, there are food trucks and other pop-up vendors, and lots of local businesses stay open late to accommodate the extra foot traffic.
• Downtown Art Walks: On the second Friday of July, August, and September, the Downtown Bozeman Association and the Emerson Center for the Arts and Culture host an evening art walk. All of the galleries, studios and other art-adjacent retailers participate in the event, often debuting new work and shows on this night. Officially the event goes from 4-8 pm, though some retailers and galleries are known to stay open late.

Fall

• Halloween at the Montana Science Center: If you have kids in tow, you can attend Montana Science Center’s annual Halloween event. They have hands-on science activities specifically curated for Halloween, a costume contest, and plenty of treats for kids.
• Montana Fresh Hop Festival: To honor the prolific cultivation of hops in the Pacific Northwest, Bozeman hosts the annual Fresh Hop Festival featuring a variety of fresh-hopped beers. Your admission grants you a souvenir tasting glass and unlimited samples of this seasonal brew, all made by different local breweries. There are also several food trucks and plenty of live music.
• Bozeman MADE fair: Held annually at the Gallatin County Fairgrounds by HandMADE Montana, this arts and crafts exhibition is part craft sale and part art show. Here you’ll find a mix of both useful and decorative items for your home, body, garden, and more, though all of them have been completely handmade in Montana.
• Lighting of the Teepees: For ten days surrounding Indigenous People’s Day, several teepees are erected and illuminated at night on the bluff that overlooks Bozeman. This display, spearheaded by the Rocky Mountain Tribal Leaders Council and the City of Bozeman coincides with several events for the holiday including a land acknowledgment, a blessing, and a Round Dance.

Winter

• Winter Crazy Days: Like a reverse Black Friday, every February over Presidents Day weekend, several local businesses band together to offer deeply discounted merchandise. This is the perfect opportunity to pick up souvenirs and winter gear.
• Christmas Stroll: On the first Saturday in December, Bozeman kicks off the holiday season with its annual Christmas Stroll. Many different businesses and government buildings dress up for the occasion in holiday lights, and after dusk is the tree lighting ceremony. There is also caroling and an appearance by Santa Claus himself.
• Winter Art Walk: A special holiday edition of Bozeman’s monthly summer art walks, the Winter Art Walk showcases new work by several different artists spread out between Bozeman’s many downtown galleries and businesses as well as the Emerson Center for Arts and Culture. Gallerists are known to offer food, drinks, and even the occasional musician.
• Ski Areas Open for the Season While opening dates for ski areas in Montana are generally predictable, they can be delayed a couple of days from the anticipated day. Although this is rare, keep this in mind when planning your trip to coincide with the opening day at a mountain resort.
  • Bridger Bowl: A favorite among students from Montana State University, Bridger Bowl opens in the beginning of December.
  • Big Sky: Replete with an entire mountain village and a fully-equipped, well-appointed resort, Big Sky usually opens around the end of November.

Spring

• Run To The Pub: This annual half-marathon and 10k run is hosted by and ends at Pub 317 on East Main Street. Over 3,000 runners participate each year, but registration is capped to prevent overcrowding. Sign up early if you’d like to join.
• MSU Bozeman Spring Rodeo: Held annually at the Gallatin County Fairgrounds at the beginning of April, the Spring Rodeo, hosted by Montana State University, has several classic rodeo events spread over one long weekend. You can watch slack rope, short go, and other rodeo exhibition performances by local cowgirls and boys.
• American Indian Council of MSU Powwow: This annual powwow is an ecumenical event for a myriad of local indigenous communities and allies. Centered around social, ceremonial, and competitive dancing, this is one of the largest annual powwows in the state and offers an incredible opportunity to learn more about local indigenous culture.

Activities Near Bozeman

Recreation Activities

• Bozeman Hot Springs
• Big Sky Resort
• Bridger Bowl Ski Area
• Crosscut Mountain Sport Center
• Palisade Falls
• Gallatin Canyon
• Grotto Falls Trail
• Gallatin County Regional Park
• Middle Cottonwood Trail
• Emerald Lake
• Fairy Lake
• Reservoir Loop Trail
• Bridger Creek Golf Course
• Riverside Country Club
• Valley View Golf Course

National Parks and Forests

• Yellowstone National Park
• Custer-Gallatin National Forest
• Helena National Forest

State Parks

• Lewis and Clark Caverns State Park
• Missouri Headwaters State Park
• Madison Buffalo Jump State Park

City and County Parks

• Bishop Park
• Glen Lake Rotary Park
• Beall City Park
• Bogert City Park
• Dinosaur Playground
• Lindley Park
• Southside City Park
• Tuckerman Park
• Bozeman Pond

Museums

• Museum of the Rockies
• American Computer and Robotics Museum
• Emmerson Center for Arts and Culture
• Bozeman Sculpture Park
• Montana Arboretum and Gardens
• Gallatin History Museum
• Montana Science Center
• Bozeman Art Museum

Performing Arts

• Mansfield Center for the Performing Arts

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