The Top 5 Reasons to Visit Bozeman, Montana Now
WRITTEN BY 5 REASONS TO VISIT® EDITORIAL STAFF
PUBLISHED AUGUST 2022 • 4 min read
Bozeman is the western mountain town that’s got it all. Hundreds of miles of trails and even more untouched backcountry with views too incredible to be real. But this mountain town is anything but sleepy. Stroll along Bozeman’s downtown Main Street to find a foodie’s paradise and discover an unforgettable experience in the heart Montana.
Image courtesy of Visit Bozeman
1. THE SHOPPING
Bozeman is filled with fantastic shopping, especially when it comes to local boutiques. In Bozeman, there's a major focus on keeping things local, so you're likely to find stores and items here that can't be found anywhere else. Whether you're looking for quality outdoor gear, local gifts, or a chic outfit to wear for a night out—Bozeman has it all.
You’ll find a wide variety of shops to explore downtown. Make a day of exploring Main Street and do some shopping while you're at it. For a larger, enclosed shopping destination, head over to Gallatin Valley Mall—Southwest Montana's exclusive shopping destination. Anchor stores include Macy’s and well-known clothiers like Eddie Bauer and Apricot Lane.
2. THE ART
Located in the historic northeast neighborhood of Bozeman, Eli Ridgway Gallery is a contemporary art gallery that produces a rotating exhibit of stunning art exhibitions. Altitude Gallery is an eclectic, contemporary art gallery that seeks out artists who create unique, beautiful, and attainable work.
Eli Ridgway Gallery in Bozeman, Montana
Over on Main Street, the Bozeman Art Museum is becoming the brightest beacon of art and arts education, known throughout the American West. The museum maintains three major exhibition themes; high art, Western art and contemporary art—while maintaining a ‘conversation’ with one another in the exhibitions.
Murals capture the essence of Bozeman, Montana. Peek around downtown Bozeman and you’ll discover numerous displays of wildly creative public art. The mountain town is being filled with beautiful murals that span whole walls and new innovative sculptures that are truly making the area a premiere art destination.
3. THE COCKTAILS & CUISINE
Thoughtful ingredients, creative cocktails and elevated experiences—all in the heart of downtown Bozeman. That’s Brigade. For your artisanal cocktail fix, we recommend trying the Word to Herb—concocted with lavender-infused Elijah Craig bourbon, chamomile honey ginger syrup, local egg white, fresh-squeezed lemon, and plum bitters.
Brigade serves inspired, ingredient driven and adventurous cuisine utilizing the best of Montana’s offerings while creating memorable and craveable dining experiences. Specializing in dishes that are both simple and bold, while utilizing locally-sourced ingredients—favorites include Heirloom Tomato & Burrata with crispy garlic, basil oil, sour cream, and fermented garlic-infused honey, Beet Salad with roasted beets, arugula, mint, yogurt, spiced pumpkin seeds, grapefruit, and cardamom, Fresh Oysters on the Half Shell served with house-made hot sauce and black pepper mignonette, as well as Fried Half Chicken with crispy locally sourced chicken, truffle whipped Yukon gold mashed potatoes, sweet garlic pickles, and chili ginger hot sauce.
Take the time to indulge your sweet tooth and enjoy one of their homemade desserts such as Margarita Tartlet with key lime, sweetened whipped cream, blackberry preserves, tequila-lime sauce, and sea salt. Hungry yet?
4. THE HIKING
Nestled amidst craggy mountains, winding rivers, and sprawling valleys, the town of Bozeman is an outdoor lover’s paradise. The mountain town lives and breathes outdoor recreation. Hikers have it particularly well in Bozeman, with a wide number of incredibly scenic options to explore.
Image courtesy of Visit Bozeman
Only ten minutes from downtown Bozeman, Drinking Horse Mountain Trail is located across from the popular M Trail, and is one of Bozeman’s newer trails, popular with local hikers and runners. The 2.2-mile loop trail offers stunning views of the Gallatin Valley. It climbs a mere 583 feet and is rated as moderate, but many inexperienced hikers will find it very attainable with a relaxed pace. Dogs can use the trail, and it is a popular choice for families with smaller children as well.
5. THE ARCHITECTURE
Situated in the Bon Ton Historic District, The Story Mansion was built in 1910 for T. Byron Story. The renowned architect, known for his work on the Montana state capitol, drew from many architectural styles, including Queen Anne, Shingle, and Tudor Revival. The mansion’s steeply pitched roofs, inviting porch, a semicircular tower, and a covered carriage entrance create a distinctive silhouette.
The Story Mansion in Bozeman, Montana
One of three Montana mansions occupying an entire block, the 9,000 square foot, 22-room home used diverse building materials to add visual interest: stone from Bridger Canyon lines the foundation and brick from Hebron, North Dakota defines the first story. Shingles and false half-timbering decorate the upper stories. Financial setbacks following World War I caused T. Byron to sell the property in 1922 to the Sigma Alpha Epsilon fraternity, owners of the property until 2003. The Story Mansion is now open for guided tours.
WHERE TO STAY IN BOZEMAN, MONTANA
The Kimpton Armory Hotel is a historic destination in the heart of the American West, and Bozeman’s first and only 4-star hotel. Seamlessly merging past and present, the hotel honors the rich heritage of the landmark Armory building and brings a relaxed, contemporary refinement and energetic spirit to vibrant downtown Bozeman. The hotel features an array of distinctive social gathering places and luxe amenities all with the purpose of encouraging you to unwind, explore and indulge during your stay. With this in mind, locals and travelers, outdoor adventurers and après skiers alike are invited to experience a uniquely modern vision of Montana hospitality.
