Bozeman, Montana, is less than two hours from Yellowstone National Park.
However, a mere fraction of those visitors will enjoy the bestBozemanhas to offer.
confirm youre one of them, as this vibrant community is a destination in its own right.
Credit:Jordan Siemens/Getty Images
No, its not exactly the sprawling hub that earned it the tongue-in-cheek nickname, “Boze Angeles.”
Thats just the locals having fun something theyre prone to do.
But for a city of under 60,000 year-round residents, this place punches well above its weight class.
Courtesy of Kimpton Armory Hotel Bozeman
In fact, you could spend a full week here with nary a dull moment in sight.
Rooms are spacious and feature decor designed to evoke local outdoor recreation.
The outdoor patio complete with a wood-burning stove is a noteworthy highlight.
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Its an ideal platform from which to watch street life stroll by, craft brew in hand.
The rooms are big, plus there’s indoor swimming and a 24-hour fitness center.
Aesthetically, its exactly what many travelers expect from this part of the country.
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Today, it’s perhaps the most charming boutique overnight in all of Bozeman.
Overnight in one of 22 stand-alone cabins, with nothing but mellifluous river flow as the soundtrack.
Come in the summer and navigate Big Sky by horseback.
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Or, explore in the winter for world-class skiing and tours on horse-drawn sleigh.
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Best Things to Do in Bozeman
Go for a hike.
The city of Bozeman maintains more than80 miles worth of trails.
“you could get to these trailheads from the heart of Bozeman in about 10 minutes or so.
And it takes just a few steps from the car to be completely encompassed by nature.”
Family-friendly hikes can be found throughout Hyalite Canyon, a recreation area just south of town.
The Palisades and Grotto Falls are two great examples.
Check out the farmers market.
“As an independent artist, I have to stump for thefarmers marketand art walks,” says Garcia.
“They run on most Saturdays, Tuesdays, and Fridays during the summer.
Its also where you really get a sense of our close-knit our community.
For a decade, my next door neighbor at the farmers market was my kindergarten librarian.”
Explore the Museum of the Rockies.
History buffs, rejoice.
It also holds a planetarium, making it a worthwhile stop for aspiring archaeologists and astronomers, alike.
It’s open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. seven days a week.
Stop and smell the flowers.
“You cannot leave Bozeman withouthavingthe cinnamon roll atThe Coffee Pot.
The family-owned place is conveniently located on the way down to Big Sky.
I stop there every time Im headed up or down the canyon.
Its also wonderful in the winter super cozy with a gigantic fireplace.
I know many families who never miss a Saturday morning there.
Not to mention, its a perfect spot to carb up before snowshoeing up Hyalite Canyon.
Fink’s
Thisfamily-owned deliin the Historic District is a favorite lunch stop for locals.
“Im getting hungry just talking about it.”
Its my favorite spot after a day of skiing.
They’re also big contributors to the community in many different ways from donations to support.”
The best time to visit depends on which set of activities are of greater interest.
If its the former, plan your trip from January through April.
If you prefer the latter, consider early June through late September.
Its a midsize regional airport, so navigating the terminals is a breeze.
It also services plenty of routes across the continental U.S., with as many as 30 flights per day.
How to Get Around Bozeman
The easiest answer is rental car.
A full schedule of service can be foundhere.
