Hello everyone! Bozeman, Montana is a wonderful little city (more like a big town!) and one that I look forward to visiting every year. Bozeman is college town, home to Montana State University, and it’s located about 45 minutes from Big Sky – a popular ski resort. I love spending time in Bozeman, it reminds me a lot of Burlington, Vermont and it is so cute and quaint. While Bozeman may be small, there is a ton to do and see! Keep reading for my recommendations and guide to the best things to do in Bozeman, Montana.
To note: This post will focus solely on activities within Bozeman. For more information on activities throughout Yellowstone Country check out my other Montana posts + guides.
Fun Things to do in Bozeman, Montana
Shop in Downtown Bozeman
When is Bozeman, you’ll likely spend a lot of time in the downtown area. On Main Street you’ll find tons of adorable shops, and they’re a great place to shop for gifts and souvenirs! My favorite store in Bozeman is Heyday, an adorable boutique that sells tons of eco-friendly and sustainable products.
Also in downtown Bozeman you’ll find a wide selection of outdoorsy stores, that specialize in hiking and ski gear. These are great places to check out before doing any fishing trips, hikes, or heading to Big Sky to ski.
Lastly, I always love checking out the bookstores in town.
Visit the Museum of the Rockies
This small but very interesting museum shares the history of Montana and the Rocky Mountain region. There are tons of different exhibits, ranging from dinosaur fossils (and a full T-Rex), to displays and information on Native American history. They have a huge collection of dinosaur bones (the largest in the USA), and this is definitely the spot to visit if you’re interested in paleontology.
Additionally, the museum also houses a planetarium, that has frequent shows throughout the day. I would recommend this museum for all ages! It’s pretty small, so it’s definitely doable with kids. Click here for a list of current exhibits! Admission to the museum is $12.50 for adults, and $7.50 for kids.
Check out Montana State University
Montana State University has a pretty campus, and it’s a nice place to take a walk! I’ve only ever visited in the summer, when there aren’t many students on campus, and it’s usually pretty quiet and empty. The University is only about a five minute drive from downtown Bozeman.
Visit Bozeman Hot Springs
The Bozeman Hot Springs are a great place to go to relax and rewind. There are twelve hot springs that vary in temperature (from 59-106 degrees), and there are also saunas available for guest use. At the hot springs you’ll find both indoor and outdoor pools, and they are all naturally heated. This is a great place for the whole family! For more information about the hot springs, and for prices, click here!
Fly Fishing on the Gallatin River
I went fly fishing for the first time during my 2017 trip to Montana. While I’m not super into fishing, it was definitely a fun time! My boyfriend, Marco, and his family love fly fishing, and they always book day-long trips with Brian Kimmel as a guide. My day-long fly fishing experience was great, and I even caught a few fish! I give Brian all the credit for my fishing success, as I never would have been able to catch anything alone. He taught me how to properly use the fly rod and even told me when to yank the fish out of the water.
I would say this activity is best for those who really love fly fishing, as it is a full day. However, it’s also great for those who are new to fishing and looking to learn more and gain skills, and there are half-day options!
day long fly fishing trip
The Best Places to Eat in Bozeman
Jam
Jam is one of my favorite breakfast + brunch spots! They have a huge menu with tons of breakfast and lunch items, and there is really something for everyone. They serve delicious traditional breakfast items like crepes, pancakes and eggs + bacon, as well as specialties like vegetarian beet hash. When visiting Bozeman Jam should definitely be on your restaurant list!
Shine Beer Sanctuary + Lapa Grill
Lapa Grill is a casual spot that serves delicious burritos and tacos – think Chipotle style. They have a large outdoor patio, so this is the perfect summer lunch location.
Connected to Lapa Grill, is Shine Beer Sanctuary and Bottle Shop. You can try one of their many varieties of beer during lunch, and also take some to-go! The bottle shop has beer from all over the world, so there are tons of options to choose from.
Montana Ale Works
Montana Ale Works, located in downtown Bozeman, is a great place for food and beer! The restaurant partners with local farmers and uses sustainably grown and farmed meats, produce and cheeses. I love the farm to table focus – their menu has tons of options and there is definitely something for everyone (including vegetarians like me!)
Genuine Ice Cream
This adorable ice cream truck is located at The Lark Hotel and serves yummy homemade ice cream! This is my favorite ice cream shop in Bozeman, and I highly recommend getting a few scoops.
Sweet Peaks is another highly rated ice cream shop in town, but personally, I did not love their ice cream.
La Châtelaine Chocolat Co.
This chocolate shop makes tons of beautiful, unique and delicious chocolates. All of the chocolates are handmade in Montana, and they have flavors ranging from Lemon Lavender to Port Wine. It’s so fun to try them all! These chocolate are definitely a perfect treat for yourself, or a lovely gift!
La Châtelaine Chocolat Co. has two locations in Bozeman. I visited the small shop in the lobby of the Baxter Hotel, and they had a great selection of chocolates.
Hotels in Bozeman
The LARK
The Lark is one of my favorite hotels I’ve ever stayed in; not because it’s the fanciest, but because it’s just fun! The Lark is modern, clean and perfectly located right downtown – walking distance to tons of shops and restaurants. All of the guest rooms at The Lark are unique, and I love the colors and decor. Additionally, they have an ice cream truck on-site that serves delicious homemade ice cream! The Lark is really the perfect place to stay in Bozeman, and it’s great for friends, couples and families! For the most up to date rates and to book, click here!
Other great hotel options:
- RSVP Motel – so, so cute! ($$)
- Bodhi Farms Glamping – $$
- Lewis & Clark Motel – $$
- Element Bozeman – $$$
- Kimpton Armory Hotel – $$$$
I hope you enjoyed my guide and recommendations for the best things to do in Bozeman, Montana! Bozeman is such a fun place, and you’re sure to have a great time. If you have any questions, please let me know in the comments below! Also, follow + DM us on Instagram, @twosistersabroad. Lastly, we appreciate all shares on social media!
If you’re looking for more fun things to do around Bozeman, check out our recommendations for the best day trips in the area!
♡Kate
Note: This post includes affiliate links. Read our disclosure here.
I have been hearing more about Bozeman so this helps me plan a trip there!
Random, but I love the fact that you included fishing in this post. I’m an avid traveler, but I’m also into hunting/fishing. Which I have never seen a travel blogger write about!
Bozeman looks so cozy. I can’t wait to travel again, I’d love to go there.
Bozman has always been on my travel bucket list, this post is extremely helpful!