Are you heading to Montana soon and wondering what are the best things to do in Bozeman? You’ve come to the right place!
Bozeman is one of the best small cities to visit in the USA and there are plenty of things to do.
It’s an excellent place to spend a day or two before heading down to Yellowstone (or elsewhere).
In this article, you’ll find a selection of cool things to do in Bozeman Montana.
Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning I get a commission if you decide to make a purchase through my links, at no extra cost for you!
1. Roam around downtown
While Bozeman is considered a city, it truly has that ‘small town America’ feel and it’s very pleasant to walk up and down the main street.
You’ll find loads of cute restaurants, bars and shops. There are many local clothing brand shops as well as some vintage shops.
It’s a great place to get a souvenir or some unique items.
If you are into photography, you’ll also love it because there are many photo opps.
2. Hike the College ‘M’ Trail
If you want to get fantastic views of the Bozeman area, look no further! The College ‘M’ trail is the best hike in Bozeman.
While there are loads of cool hikes in the area, this is by far the most impressive in Bozeman itself.
It only takes 10 minutes by car to get to the parking lot and you can start the hike.
PRO TIP: Get there early because the parking lot is very small.
There are two routes to the top, an easy and a hard one. The most ideal way to do it is to take the hard route to the top and make your way down via the longer but easier route but if you don’t fancy the challenge, you can simply take the easy route there and back.
It takes about an hour to get to the actual “M” sign (which stands for Montana) and from there, you’ll discover absolutely stunning views of Bozeman and the valley.
It’s truly breathtaking!
All together, you should plan 2 to 3 hours to complete the hike.
PRO TIP: Don’t forget to take your bear spray.
3. Try local beers at MAP Brewing Company
This was one of my favourite places for drinks and food in Bozeman. It’s located by the Glen Lake Rotary Park which means you can enjoy the views on the lake and try some local drinks.
The MAP Brewing Company brews their own beers, right here in Bozeman and they are absolutely delicious.
I highly recommend taking a taster platter so you can try 4 different beers (their seasonal ones are the best!).
The food is also delicious and reasonably priced.
The area inside is very nice but if you are visiting on a nice and sunny day, you’ll enjoy the outdoor area even more.
4. Visit Gallatin History Museum
Located on Main Street, the Gallatin History Museum is a nice place to visit if you want to learn more about the history of Gallatin county.
It’s very interesting because you’ll find loads of historical items and information on how people used to live around here.
The museum is open 5 days per week and there is a $10 admission fee.
5. Get a drink at the Crystal bar
Located on the main street in Downtown Bozeman, the Crystal Bar is a throwback bar that makes for the perfect spot to end your day.
They have all the classic drinks and a very good happy hour. It’s a great place to relax, watch sports on TV, have a chat and just enjoy the American vibes.
6. Visit the Museum of the Rockies
Located in the southern part of Bozeman, the Museum of the Rockies is a natural history museum that offers an immersive experience.
It’s a great place to visit for adults and kids. You’ll find a lot of dinosaur skeletons and loads of interesting information about palaeontology.
7. Visit the American Computer & Robotics Museum
This is a cool one for people looking for unique activities in Bozeman. Founded in 1990, the American Computer & Robotics Museum is all about the history of computing and AI.
You’ll even find robots there!
It’s open everyday except on Mondays and is a lot of fun!
8. Tubing on the Madison River
The Madison River is one of the most famous fishing rivers in the world but it’s also a great place to go tubing.
Since the water is quite calm and the valley is very scenic, you can be sure to have a good time!
You can book this activity here. You’ll meet up with your guide in Bozeman and then go to the Madison River, get the equipment and enjoy a scenic tubing experience on the Madison River.
9. Go to the Alpacas of Montana Farm
If you love alpacas and llamas, then Bozeman is the perfect place for you! The Alpacas of Montana Farm offers tours and walks with alpacas.
It’s very close to downtown Bozeman and you can visit, halter them for a walk, cuddle and more!
10. Kayaking on the Madison River
Since the Madison River is quite calm, it’s also a great place to go kayaking.
If that’s something you’d like to do, you can book this guided tour which includes the kayaks and of course, the guide.
It’s a great thing to do especially if you want to see the wildlife since the guide will be able to spot a lot more animals than you would (well – at least for most people).
11. Horseback Riding in the Paradise Valley
Montana is one of the best places in the USA to go horseback riding and Bozeman is no exception!
If that’s something you’d like to try then this ride through the Blue Flower Trail in the paradise valley is ideal.
It’s technically located in Livingston but it’s only 40 minutes drive from Bozeman so you can easily go there for half a day.
12. Fairy Lake Trail
If you want to escape the city and discover a beautiful lake, head to Fairy Lake. It takes about 50 minutes to get there from Bozeman and it’s absolutely stunning!
The trail is a 1.2 mile long loop which takes about 40 minutes to complete. You will also find some kayak rentals there if you fancy adding a bit more adventure to your day trip.
13. Go to the Palisade Falls
Located 50 minutes drive from Bozeman, the Palisade Falls are 80-feet tall and one of the most impressive falls in Montana.
It’s a great place to visit if you want a bit of an outdoorsy break. The hike there is 1.2 mile long (there and back) and takes about 45 minutes to complete.
Map of the best things to do in Bozeman
Now that you know everything about Bozeman, it’s time to go out and explore!
You may also be interested in:
