How To Spend A Perfect Day in Bozeman, MT

For many travelers, Bozeman is a “pass thru town” on the way to bigger attractions such as Yellowstone or Glacier National Park. But this fun western town is really worth a stop in its own right.

Bozeman offers opportunities to hike, fish, float, or bike, as well as museums, great local restaurants, town festivals, local craft breweries, and the largest T-Rex fossil head in the world--all within a 10 minute drive of its charming Main Street filled with fun shops and restaurants. Get ready to refuel your happy tank!

If you are lucky enough to spend more than one day in Bozeman or want more ideas of what to do during your visit, see our Family Fun In Bozeman- Top Things To Do and Insider Tips!

The Best Area To Stay in Bozeman Is Downtown

For a short stay, we like to stay on or near Bozeman’s Main Street, because you can walk to all of the shops and restaurants. If you are staying longer, consider looking for a vacation rental downtown. You’ll find plenty of condos, cottages, and nice homes which are also within walking distance to downtown.

If you have a short stay, all of these hotels are terrific. They are relatively new to the downtown Bozeman lodging scene, and are very clean, modern, and attractive properties. My first choice would be the Armory Hotel (I love their rooftop lounge and pool), and my second choice would be the The Lark because my kids love the bunk beds and the location is right on Main St. Can’t be beat.

For a more detailed review of lodging options in Bozeman, see our “Guide To Hotels and Vacation Rentals In Bozeman.”

What To Do In Bozeman In 24 Hours

Breakfast

Start the day off right with a hearty breakfast in downtown Bozeman. You have excellent choices for fueling up before a morning hike to Bozeman’s iconic “M”.

We like JAM for a hearty but refined breakfast. They serve breakfast all day and offer a small lunch selection of sandwiches. 25 W. Main St. Note: Street parking only. Nova Cafe and Western Cafe are also favorites of ours for breakfast in downtown Bozeman.

Hike the M Trail

The “M” Trail is a very popular hike with views and wildflowers during the summer. Bozeman’s landmark “M” was created by Montana State University students in 1915. There are two routes to the M from the trailhead. For a steep and direct ascent, go right at the first trail junction near the beginning. Be aware that is incredibly steep!

For an easier and bit longer hike to the M, go left at the trail junction. If you are visiting here from a lower elevation, the route choices would be considered steep and steeper! This trail is rated “easy” but it is a a bit of a lung burner even on the less steep route.

We usually go left and return the same way for just shy of 3 miles round trip.

Remember to “hike kind.” Don’t pick the wildflowers and stay on the trail.

Directions: Follow Rouse Ave. north (becomes Bridger Canyon Rd.). You’ll see a sign and parking area on the left or you can park across the street in the Drinking Horse Mountain parking lot if the M lot is full.

Lunch At Map Brewing

After your hike, stop at MAP Brewing for a tasty lunch, cold beer, and fantastic views of the Bridgers. Overlooking “Bozeman Beach”, MAP Brewing is a scenic place to enjoy nice views and a cold beer. Indoor and outdoor seating is available but try to sit outside if weather permits. Kids menu is also available. 510 Manley Dr. Open 12-8 daily.

Afternoon- Visit the Museum of the Rockies

For your afternoon, be sure to check out Bozeman’s Museum of the Rockies. It is one of the best places in the world for dinosaur fossils, and this museum houses the largest T-Rex skull ever discovered. It is a wonderful museum for the whole family, especially if you have dinosaur lovers.

Simply Awesome Tip: If your child can’t read yet, consider the 1 hour tour led by a docent. 

In addition to the paleontology exhibition, you'll find other permanent exhibits about the life of Native Americans and the history of the Northern Rocky Mountain Region. Make sure you check out the Taylor Planetarium show, and the outdoor Living History Farm which demonstrates life in a turn-of-the-century home. All are very worthwhile.

Expect to spend at least 1 hour here if just visiting the dinosaur exhibit and two hours to view all this wonderful museum offers. Simply Awesome Tip: Your ticket is good for admission on the day you purchase it and the next day. Open daily 8am-6pm; $14.50 adults; $9.50 children. 600 W Kagy Blvd.

Afternoon- Stroll and Shop Bozeman’s Historic Main Street

After visiting the Museum of the Rockies, return to Bozeman’s charming Main Street to explore a variety of shops and restaurants on your way to dinner. You’ll find plenty more interesting shops along the way, but we’ve listed a few of the shops we like to visit. All are located within a 1/2 mile of our favorite restaurant, Montana Ale Works, located at 611 E. Main St.

Rocky Mountain Toy Company
A great selection of toys, games, and puzzles. Sundays. 111 E. Main St.

Country Bookshelf
This is a terrific independent book store with staff recommendations and an excellent children’s section. Tip: This is a great place to find a good children’s book on the Lewis and Clark expedition, Yellowstone, and more. 28 W. Main St.

Chalet Sports
Find your Main Street to Mountains Trail Map and your Bozeman Area Outdoor Recreation trail map ($12) here. These are a good purchase if you plan on hiking during your visit. Talk with the helpful staff about trail conditions and their personal recommendations. 108 W. Main St.

Montana Gift Coral and The Montana Scene will have plenty of souvenirs or gifts for you to bring home. I like the quality of t-shirts at the Montana Scene, and Montana Gift Coral has a bit of everything whether you’re looking for jewelry, clothing, knickknacks, Christmas ornaments, etc.

Hey Day is another fun store to browse for home accessories or the perfect gift, while Evrgreen Clothing is the women’s boutique not to miss.

Dinner-Montana Ale Works

Montana Ale Works is our favorite restaurant hands down! Kid-friendly, great food, and an excellent beer selection. Offering daily specials and a good kids menu too. The meatloaf, elk burger, and steak are always excellent.

Tip: Arrive early--it gets crowded. Expect a wait if you arrive after 6pm. Note: You can park behind the restaurant.

For more dining options, see Visit Bozeman’s website where you can search by breweries, breakfast places, casual or fine dining, and more! Or check out our Family Fun In Bozeman- Top Things To Do and Insider Tips! for more recommendations.

Evening- Watch the Sunset on Peets Hill

After dinner, walk over to nearby Peets Hill for an amazing sunset. It’s popular among locals as the best spot in town to get a panoramic view of the city and surrounding mountains. You’ll see people jogging, dog walking, and enjoying the views. If you happen to be here on July 4, it’s a terrific spot to view the fireworks.

If driving, park at the greenway parking lot at the end of E. Story Street and its intersection with Church Avenue or park in the public library’s large parking lot.

It’s a short 50 yard walk up to the top of Peets Hill where you’ll veer right to see the best view of the sunset. It will be one of the highlights of your trip.

Bring a jacket--it gets cold as the sun begins to set.

You can also access the Main Street to Mountains Trail from the Bozeman Library (which is across the street from Montana Ale Works) and walk 10 minutes along the paved path to Peets Hill. This is a nice stroll and passes through the Gallatin Art Crossing Sculpture Park.

Happy Trails! You’ll love your day in Bozeman, and I guarantee you’ll want to spend more time in this fantastic town on your next trip!

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