Things to Do in Bozeman with Kids in Winter

Where to Stay

Bozeman has several kid-friendly places to stay, but few favorites are the Lewis and Clark Motel, C'Mon Inn and the Kimpton Armory Hotel.

Lewis and Clark Motel

The classic architecture, Main Street location, and fantastic indoor pool make this a family favorite. (They also have a eucalyptus steam room, an infrared sauna and their signature homemade candied pecans available in the afternoon though the evening - need we say more?)

C’Mon Inn Hotel and Suites

The C'Mon Inn resembles a big lodge. Inside, you'll find an indoor pool, a baby pool, and five hot tubs! It's one of the larger hotels with plenty of room for little ones to romp and roam about. It’s located just off of I-90 and close to shopping, including Costco and Target.

Kimpton Armory Hotel

The Kimpton Armory Hotel, located downtown, boasts a rooftop pool with spectacular open views year-round. Inside the hotel, guests can enjoy a restaurant, two bars, and a music hall. It is just a few steps away from the dining and entertainment downtown.

Day One:
Skating + Sledding

Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport has non-stop flights to over 20 destinations across the country, often allowing visitors to arrive early in the day and giving you a nice chunk of time to get out and start exploring! We suggest grabbing lunch from the iconic Pickle Barrel Sandwich Shop (they just celebrated their 50th anniversary!). Or try Ted's Montana Grill - they have a great selection of sandwiches, salads, burgers, and steaks!

Go ice skating

Ice skating is big around Bozeman! Gallatin Ice at Haynes Pavilion offers public skating times, (be sure to check their calendar for the latest schedule) skate rentals, and private lessons. The City of Bozeman also maintains ice rinks at Beall, Bogert, and Southside Parks if you prefer to bring your own skates.

Sledding at a local park

Another favorite pastime for residents is sledding on Peet's Hill or Dinosaur Park. Owenhouse Ace Hardware carries inexpensive sleds, and kids love the thrill of racing down the sledding hills.

Warm up with a sweet treat

Warm up with hot cocoa or coffee at Mukai Coffeehouse. This family-owned establishment serves tasty snacks, comfortable and spacious areas for conversation, and a fantastic kids' play area.

Family-friendly dinner

If the kids are itching to get in the pool, a little swim or hot tub is a great way to work up an appetite before dinner at Fiesta Mexicana. A long-time favorite, they have a lively atmosphere, plenty of room, and margaritas for the grown-ups!

Day Two:
Skiing

A trip to Bozeman in the winter would only be complete with a ski day! Families can choose between downhill skiing at Bridger Bowl, just 16 miles from downtown Bozeman, or Nordic skiing at Crosscut Mountain Sports Center, just up the road.

Fuel up With a Good Breakfast

Grab a breakfast sandwich, burrito, or smoothie from Freshies Café (they even have a drive-thru!), then head to the beautiful Bridger Canyon. If you prefer a sit-down breakfast, Main Street Overeasy has a variety of dishes ranging from classic to contemporary. (Get there early if you want one of their famous cinnamon rolls—they sell out fast!)

Hit the Slopes

Both Bridger Bowl and Crosscut have beginner terrain and offer lessons and rentals. In recent years, Bridger Bowl has expanded its family experience with more beginner terrain, warming huts, and a magic carpet. Plus, if your kids are six and under, their lift ticket is free if purchased online.

Pizza and a Movie

Dinner at Audrey's Pizza and Freefall Brewery will satisfy the family after an energetic day, and their arcade room is a winner for all ages. If the family still has energy, Regal Gallatin Valley brings the latest in movies. It's located next to the Gallatin Valley Mall, which has a killer arcade and lots of new shopping for those seeking retail therapy!

Day Three:
Museums + Hot Springs

After the bustle of the past couple of days, enjoy a leisurely morning and brunch at Tanglewood. Their menu includes breakfast items along with sandwiches, salads, and fresh juices. While at The Market, wander down to the Cat Show Cat Café, where you can meet and play with cats looking for their forever home.

Explore History

The Museum of the Rockies, a Smithsonian affiliate, is a family favorite. Its rotating exhibits come from around the world, and the Siebel Dinosaur Complex contains one of the largest collections of North American dinosaurs in the world. The museum also has a planetarium, a living history farm, and a children's discovery area that explores Yellowstone National Park.

The American Computer and Robotics Museum is just down the road and is well worth a stop. Its displays span 4,000 years of human history. Gallatin History Museum, located in what was once the jail and still complete with the hanging gallows, gives you a glimpse into the history of Bozeman.

Soak in a Hot Springs

Top off your afternoon with a visit to Bozeman Hot Springs, which has twelve pools of varying temperatures, some inside and some outside. There is also a steam sauna, dry sauna, cold plunge, and fitness facility.

Family Dinner

End the day with dinner at Sidewinders American Grill. This lively establishment has a varied menu that will please even the pickiest of little eaters.