22 Incredible Things to Do in Bozeman, MT You Have to Try
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Want to know the best things to do in Bozeman, MT?
I spent a lot of time in Bozeman in college and after college–some of my best friends lived there! As a result, I learned that there is a ton of things to do in Bozeman, MT when you love the outdoors. There are also some pretty amazing museums and Bozeman restaurants too which you might not expect. I highly recommend adding a few more days to your Montana road trip so you can explore it all and check out everything, including some of the best Bozeman bars and Bozeman hotels in the area.
[vc_row][vc_column][vc_cta h2=”My recommendations”]Best option for families: Museum of the Rockies
Best option for adventurers: Yellowstone National Park
Best option for hikers: Custer Gallatin National Forest
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Things to do in Bozeman, MT you don’t want to miss
You have to check out some of these amazing things to do in Bozeman, MT when you visit!
1. Fly fishing
You’ll notice while driving around Bozeman that there are tons of fly fishing shops. That’s because this fun water sport is one of the top things to do in Bozeman, MT, regardless of whether you’re visiting for a weekend or a long-time resident.
Drop by the shops to gear up for an exciting day of fishing, where shop owners gladly recommend the best places to go fishing. Stand on Cameron Bridge and cast your line into the Gallatin River or head to the Hyalite Reservoir, where the fish are always biting. In my opinion, it’s not a trip to Bozeman if you don’t enjoy the city’s favorite past time.
⭐BOOK YOUR FLY FISHING TRIP HERE⭐
2. Yellowstone National Park
Bozeman is your gateway for tours of Yellowstone National Park, the oldest national park in the system. But with age comes beauty as its scenic landscape and natural wonders continue to draw millions of people to the park every year as one of the top things to do around Bozeman, MT.
Watch in amazement as Old Faithful, the park’s most famous geyser, shoots water over 100-ft into the air on a timed schedule programmed by Mother Earth. It’s one of the many sites, along with colorful thermal pools, that show why nature remains the greatest artist. In fact, Bozeman is where I recommend flying in to when planning your Yellowstone National Park itinerary.
Explore the expansive park wilderness on foot or vehicle as you navigate valleys carved out by the Yellowstone River to see 100-ft waterfalls and herds of bison, elk, and much more! You shouldn’t miss this most-visited of the Montana national parks!
⭐BOOK YOUR TOUR OF YELLOWSTONE FROM BOZEMAN HERE⭐
[vc_row][vc_column][vc_cta h2=”Do you need help with your Yellowstone National Park trip?”]
I offer custom national park itinerary planning as a service to help you make the most of your adventures! These itineraries cover everything from where to stay, eat, what to do, and more!
⭐CHECK OUT CUSTOM NATIONAL PARK ITINERARY PACKAGES HERE⭐
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[vc_row][vc_column][vc_cta h2=”National park essentials”]You’ll need to enter: National parks pass 🎟️
Document your trip: National parks journal ✏️
Wear your national parks love: National parks shirts 👕
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3. Horseback riding
This tour takes you horseback riding in the stunning area 30 minutes away from Downtown Bozeman. As soon as you mount up, you’ll find yourself transported to the heart of the breathtaking Montana countryside. This tour offers a variety of trail options, each giving you a unique chance to immerse yourself in the vast beauty of the landscape, whether it’s the verdant valleys, the rugged mountain terrain, or the peaceful serenity of the open prairie.
But this isn’t just any ordinary trail ride. Erik’s Ranch is dedicated to providing meaningful employment opportunities for young adults with autism, so your fun-filled adventure also contributes to a wonderful cause. I recommend this ride if you’ve never ridden a horse before or you want to get out and enjoy those big skies Montana is known for.
⭐BOOK YOUR HORSEBACK RIDING TOUR OUTSIDE BOZEMAN HERE⭐
4. Kayaking
The Madison River Kayak Tour is an absolute must-do when you’re visiting Bozeman, Montana. This tour is an amazing opportunity to not just witness, but truly experience the gentle, rhythmic flow of the picturesque Madison River. Whether you’re a seasoned kayaker or a beginner, you’ll find your rhythm in no time under the helpful guidance of the experienced tour guides.
As you glide along the river, you’ll be treated to the stunning scenic backdrop of towering mountains, lush greenery, and abundant wildlife – it’s truly a nature lover’s paradise! What’s more, the tour provides all necessary equipment, making it a hassle-free and unforgettable adventure.
⭐BOOK YOUR MADISON RIVER KAYAK TOUR HERE⭐
5. Visit a llama and alpaca farm
If you’re an animal enthusiast, your visit to Bozeman, Montana wouldn’t be complete without the Alpaca and Llama Farm Tour. This adorable adventure offers a one-of-a-kind chance to meet and interact with these charming, wooly creatures in their beautiful, mountainous home. During the tour, you’ll learn all about alpacas and llamas, their unique characteristics, and their important roles in sustainable farming practices.
The friendly staff at the farm are just as passionate about their furry charges as they are knowledgeable, ensuring an informative and heartwarming experience. Whether you’re traveling solo or with your family, this tour is sure to leave you with a smile on your face and memories to last a lifetime.
⭐BOOK YOUR LLAMA AND ALPACA FARM VISIT HERE⭐
6. Museum of the Rockies
6. 600 W Kagy Blvd
+1 406 994 2251
Step back in time with a walk through the Museum of the Rockies. A life-sized fossil recreation of a t-rex out front welcomes visitors to one of the top Bozeman, MT things to do. This Smithsonian affiliate museum holds an impressive collection of genuine fossils of your favorite dinosaurs.
You can easily spend a few hours browsing the exhibitions that cover everything from the history of Bozeman to the giants who trekked the region long before humans existed. Rotating exhibits always give something new to explore.
Be sure to check out both floors of the museum, as you’ll find a designated children’s area upstairs to keep them entertained during the visit.
7. Big Sky Resort
50 Big Sky Resort Rd
+1 800 548 4486
Curious about what is there to do in Bozeman, Montana after fresh snowfall? Discover why Big Sky Resort is recognized as the “biggest skiing in America.” During the winter, Bozeman becomes a haven for ski-enthusiasts who can enjoy ripping the snow-packed slopes of the nearby Wasatch Range.
The snow-topped cabins of the Big Sky Resort are just steps away from an advanced lift that expedites you to the summit of Lone Peak. Take in the views of the snowy mountains and infinite big sky above before skiing down the over 4,000-ft vertical.
Big Sky Resort is one of the top things to do in Bozeman, offering ski slopes for everyone from beginners to experts across its world-class ski runs. You can also get your gear delivered to you with this service, so you don’t have to worry about standing in long lines and being outfitted!
8. Custer Gallatin National Forest
8. Custer Gallatin National ForestOutdoor adventure awaits in the Custer Gallatin National Forest, a favorite for recreation Bozeman things to do. And with over three million acres of wilderness to explore stretched between Montana and South Dakota, it gives tons of fun things to do in Bozeman to explore the outdoors from your campground near Bozeman.
Headquartered in Bozeman, it’s an excellent starting point before venturing into the vast forest landscape. There are 100 designated hikes near Bozeman that traverse through valleys immersed in towering pine trees that offer breathtaking views of mountains, lakes, and other landscape features.
Take the Elbow Lake or Specimen Creek hike or set off on your own path through the forest’s backcountry—just be sure to have your bear spray!
9. Glen Lake Rotary Park
9. Glen Lake Rotary ParkHop on I-90 for the short drive up to the Glen Lake Rotary Park to see why this recreational park is well-deserving of its conservation award. This former gravel pit-turned-lake is one of the best things to do in Bozeman, MT, to get out and enjoy the outdoors.
Glen Lake Rotary Park centers around a four-acre lake, providing plenty of space for recreation for the locals and visitors that frequent it. Check out Bozeman Beach to splash around in the lake or practice your volleyball spike on the golden sands on hot days.
When you’re finished, treat yourself to a picnic beneath the Rotary Centennial Pavilion.
10. Bozeman Hot Springs
81123 Gallatin Rd
+ 1 406 586 6492
Dip your toe in the dozen pools of the Bozeman Hot Springs to find one that’s not too cold, not too hot, but just right, before fully submerging your body for a relaxing, rejuvenating experience. These naturally heated pools provide an indoor and outdoor spa experience for weary travelers returning to Bozeman after a day in Yellowstone.
Bozeman Hot Springs is one of the favorite things to do in Bozeman, Montana, on your day off from outdoor adventures. Spend the day lounging in the pools ranging from 60-110°F or stick around till the nighttime to see them illuminated with colorful lights.
11. Palisade Falls
11. Palisade FallsBozeman’s mountainous landscape is never short of natural attractions, but the scenic Palisade Falls continues to be one of the best things to do in Bozeman, MT. If you’re up for a hike during your visit, this is one trek that won’t disappoint.
Start your trek at the Hyalite Creek East Fork, where you’ll have a 1.1-mile hike on a paved trail en route to the falls. This moderate hike welcomes families to enjoy the trip through the Gallatin Range as you approach the famous falls.
Palisade Falls plunges 80-ft into the Hyalite Canyon that’s picturesque in any season.
[vc_row][vc_column][vc_cta h2=”Hiking essentials”]Recommended hiking boots: Salomon Quest 4 Gore-tex 🥾
Recommended jacket: The North Face Antora Jacket 🧥
Recommended hiking poles: Black Diamond Trail Cork Trekking Poles 🌲
Recommended day pack: Osprey Daylite Pack 🎒
Hike like a pro: Get an AllTrails Pro membership! 🗺
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12. American Computer and Robotics Museum
12. 2023 Stadium Dr #1A
+1 406 582 1288
The unassuming building housing the American Computer and Robotics Museum (ACRM) will unexpectedly become one of your favorite Bozeman attractions. But even if you aren’t as captivated with the world of computers as the museum’s founder George Keremedjiev, his massive collection will soon change your mind.
ACRM makes excellent use of its quaint size by providing a motherload of information about computers and technology, covering a span of over 2000 years. From the ancient Babylonian tablets to modern developing technologies like Artificial Intelligence, the exhibitions cover an entire spectrum of knowledge.
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13. Bridger Bowl Ski Area
13. 15795 Bridger Canyon Rd
+1 406 587 2111
Lift tickets for the Bridger Bowl Ski Area are always in high demand as the new ski season rolls around every year. And with 75 runs ranging from beginner to expert, it’s the perfect place for recreation if you’re wondering what to do in Bozeman, MT, during the winter.
Thanks to eight lifts that take you up to the mountain summit, there’s never a wait to hit the slopes at Bridger Bowl Ski Area. It’s hard to say whether the panoramic views of the Rockies or thin air at an 8,700-ft elevation that takes your breath away, but it’s undoubtedly worth a moment of appreciation before shredding down the 2,600-ft vertical drop.
14. Hike to the M
14. Hike to the MYou can’t help but notice the blatant “M” staring at you from high up in the mountains nearly anywhere you go in Bozeman. And if you’re like other curious travelers, a hike to the M is always on the list as one of the top things to do in Bozeman, MT, to see what it’s all about.
A spoiler alert, this 250-ft “M” is made from white rocks created in the early 1900s by students from Montana State University. The hike to the top is approximately 1.9-miles up Baldy Mountain, where you’ll get great views overlooking Gallatin Valley.
15. Bozeman Symphony
402 E Main St Suite 202
+1 406 585 9774
You’re in for an evening of amazing music anytime you attend the world-class performances at the Bozeman Symphony. It’s home to the Bozeman Symphony Orchestra and Symphonic Choir that delight audiences every season with spectacular symphony and choral music performances as one of the top cultural activities in Bozeman.
With orchestra sizes of well over 100 members, you’ll get a full array of sounds from talented violinists, cellists, percussionists, and more under the direction of seasoned directors that put on quite a show.
Seasonal shows are always a favorite for visitors during holiday times, or grab tickets to hear classics like the Tchaikovsky Symphony No. 4 performed live.
16. Burke Park
16. Burke ParkYou don’t have to venture too far outside of town to enjoy the lush natural landscapes of Bozeman. In fact, a simple trip downtown will take you to one of the best things to do in Bozeman, MT—Burke Park.
Burke Park is a serene slice of greenery with trails starting at Main Street and winding through 41-acres of untouched land. Go for a leisure morning jog or visit during the evening to watch the golden sunsets over Gallatin Valley.
Take the Wortman Spur Trail to trek through the park’s wooded areas, or opt for the trail leading to the summit of Peets Hill for panoramic views overlooking Bozeman.
17. Montana Grizzly Encounter
80 W Bozeman Hill Rd
+1 406 586 8893
Sightseeing wildlife is one of the top Bozeman, Montana things to do, but wilderness encounters might cause more fear than excitement. Luckily, you have the alternative to check out the Montana Grizzly Encounter, which has quickly become one of the top things to do in Bozeman, MT, since opening in 2004.
The Montana Grizzly Encounter lets you safely enjoy watching the grizzly bears in a close-to-natural environment. But more than just a place for entertainment, this attraction is a sanctuary for rescued grizzly bears. Hearing the stories of their former conditions are a major contrast to seeing the beasts happily frolicking through the protected grounds.
18. Gallatin History Museum
317 W Main St
+1 406 522 8122
Learning about the local history is one of the best things to do in Bozeman that gives a better appreciation of what you see today. And thankfully, you can close out your Wikipedia tabs and head to the Gallatin History Museum to learn everything you need to know about Bozeman and the history of Gallatin County.
The Gallatin History Museum is a walk through history as you explore fascinating exhibits arranged in a historic jailhouse. Displays provide information about Native Americans, pioneers, and cowboys that once roamed these lands. Artifacts include clothing and other objects found throughout the county. Be sure to check out the photo archive to see how Bozeman evolved from past to present.
19. Downtown Bozeman
19. Downtown BozemanWhen you’re not out exploring Yellowstone National Park or skiing in Big Sky, Downtown Bozeman is the place to be! It’s a place where the local heritage comes to life in a district famous for shopping, dining, and entertainment.
If you’re craving a meal or drink, head to Main Street to try a Bison Patty Melt from Montana Ale Works or one of the many brews on tap at the Bozeman Taproom and Spirits. Ellen Theater is a cultural hub for live music and film festivals. Also, stop by a gallery to check out the western-inspired artwork. If you want to be a part of the action, this is also where you’re going to want to look for Bozeman hotels.
20. Bozeman Sculpture Park
20. Bozeman Sculpture Park626 E Main St
In an effort to beautify Bozeman, years of planning finally came into fruition with the Bozeman Sculpture Park. As a result, art is now more accessible than ever to visitors of Bozeman, who will have tons of fun checking out one of the favorite Bozeman, Montana points of interest with public art installations nestled between the Bozeman Public Library and Burke Park.
A paved trail winds alongside the library, where you’ll find various sculptures. Some sculptures you’ll instantly recognize, like the Humpty Dumpty statue, crow, and artistic renditions of animals found in Yellowstone National Park. But there are several other abstract pieces worth a moment of pause as you try to interpret their artistic beauty.
21. Montana Science Center
2744 W Main St
+1 406 522 9087
Stimulate your mind with a visit to the Montana Science Center, which successfully blurs the line between fun and education. If you’re wondering what to do in Bozeman with kids, this is one of the best attractions open to kids of all ages.
The Montana Science Center is a venue full of hands-on exhibitions that encourages you to interact with them and let your imagination run wild. Head into the lab to explore the inner electronics of common household items or learn about physics that affect us every day.
From the micro world of insects to the macro world of the universe, the Montana Science Center has something fun for everyone.
22. Bozeman Spirits Distillery
121 W Main St
+1 406 577 2155
Finding the best brewery in Bozeman can be as challenging as selecting a movie on Netflix, so to make it easy, add the Bozeman Spirits Distillery to your itinerary. Conveniently located downtown on Main Street, it’s one of the top places to visit in Bozeman for drinks.
Bozeman Spirits Distillery creates a fun atmosphere with its rustic décor and live music on select nights. But the main reasons to visit are the award-winning spirits made from local ingredients.
Expert bartenders know exactly what you need to unwind after a long day exploring town and might mix up a Huckleberry Vodka cocktail or Arrestado Mule. Enjoy drinks on the outdoor patio, and don’t forget to purchase a bottle or two to take home!
Where to stay in Bozeman, MT
There are so great places to stay if you plan on making a stop in Bozeman on your Montana adventure! I recommend staying downtown so you have easy access to all the activities in the area, but also great Bozeman restaurants! Here are some of my recommendations for Bozeman hotels.
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⭐BEST FOR BUDGET TRAVELERS: DAYS INN AND SUITES BOZEMAN⭐
⭐BEST FOR COUPLES: THE LARK⭐
⭐BEST FOR FAMILIES: COUNTRY INN & SUITES BY RADISSON BOZEMAN⭐
⭐BEST FOR INSTAGRAM: BODHI FARMS⭐
⭐BEST FOR ADVENTURERS: LEWIS AND CLARK MOTEL⭐
⭐BEST AIRBNB: DOWNTOWN BOZEMAN BUNGALOW⭐
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Conclusion: best things to do in Bozeman, Montana
This charming town serves up a perfect blend of nature, adventure, and heart, leaving every visitor with memories that last a lifetime. Whatever your pace or passion, you’ll find a wealth of experiences here that resonate with your adventurous spirit. So, lace up your hiking boots, grab your cowboy hat, or ready your kayak paddle, and dive into the bounty that Bozeman has to offer. Remember, in Bozeman, every trail leads to an unforgettable adventure.
Have you ever tried any of these things to do in Bozeman, MT? Let me know your experience in the comments!
[vc_row][vc_column][vc_cta h2=”Want more info on Bozeman?”]Hotels I recommend: Check out this list! 🏨
RVs I recommend: Check out this list! 🚙
Camping spots I recommend: Check out this list! 🏕️[/vc_cta][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]
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