Unique Things to Do in Bozeman: An Off-the-Beaten-Path Weekend Guide

Where to Stay

Bozeman offers a variety of accommodations you won’t find elsewhere. From charming mountain lodges to glamping in tipis to stylish downtown boutique hotels, you'll find the perfect base for your adventure that matches your travel style.

Gallatin River Lodge

This rustic lodge is located 20 minutes west of Downtown Bozeman, away from all the hustle and bustle of the city. Enjoy amenities like a quiet casting pond, miles of gorgeous scenery, and a delicious restaurant serving up creative dishes along with world-class wines, innovative cocktails, and local microbrews.

Bodhi Farms

Stay in a glamping tipi at Bodhi Farms (open from May to September), just 20 minutes south of Downtown Bozeman. With comfy beds, fans, electric blankets, and space heaters, you’ll still get to enjoy the great outdoors without sacrificing modern comforts. Keep an eye on the events calendar – from farm parties to brunch with live music, there’s plenty to keep you busy. When you get hungry, head to the onsite restaurant. Choose from a variety of dishes made from local ingredients, some of which are grown directly on the farm!

RSVP Hotel Bozeman

Located on 7th Street and just a few minutes from downtown, this boutique hotel in Bozeman is truly one of a kind. You won’t forget the bright pink and teal accents, pool featuring fun floaties, and adorable restaurant called The Farmers Daughters.

Treasure State Hostel

This budget hostel is located in the middle of downtown, and is perfect for solo travelers looking to connect with other visitors. Enjoy complimentary breakfast and walking distance to all that downtown has to offer, including shops, restaurants, and activities.

Day One:
Alpacas, Three Forks, and Country Dancing

Grab breakfast in town

Stop at The Farmers Daughters for brunch, made with whole, health-conscious ingredients. Or, grab coffee and a sandwich or pastry from Ghost Town Coffee Roasters. With three locations to choose from — two located on opposite sides of downtown, and one off of Bridger Canyon Road — you’re bound to find one that’s convenient for you!

Tour Alpacas of Montana

Sign up for a farm tour to meet over 100 friendly alpacas about a 15-minute drive from downtown. During the tour, you’ll get to learn, feed, pet, and walk some of the alpacas and llamas. If you visit in May or June, there’s a high chance you’ll see baby alpacas – and maybe even witness a birth! Afterwards, browse the on-site store for luxurious alpaca products.

Visit & eat dinner in Three Forks

Next, head to Three Forks, a small town just 30 minutes northwest of Bozeman. Walk around Missouri Headwaters State Park, which is open all year round. You’ll learn about Montana’s history, see old artifacts, and witness the confluence of three rivers — the Madison, Jefferson, and Gallatin — marking the beginning of the Missouri River.

Gallatin Sporting Clays is worth a stop If it’s open (non-member shooters are welcome May to September). You’ll get to try out clay target shooting against the backdrop of the gorgeous Gallatin Range.

History buffs will love the Headwaters Heritage Museum, which contains numerous artifacts from the area. The museum is open daily from the beginning of June through the end of September, although you can contact staff to set up an appointment during the off-season.

After your day of adventuring, grab an early dinner at Pompey’s Grill inside the historic Sacajawea Hotel. The upscale steakhouse features both classic and creative dishes, along with an array of cocktails and spirits.

End your night at The Jump

For one of the most unique things to do in Bozeman, head to The Jump for food, live music, and dancing every night starting at 4:00 p.m. On Thursdays, they host legendary high-energy bingo nights from 7:00 to 10:00 p.m. to a crowd that ranges from college students to longtime locals.

On Wednesday evenings, enjoy country dancing lessons taught by Country Renegades. Choose from beginner and/or intermediate classes, with open dance starting at 9:00 p.m.

Day 2:
Biking, Grizzlies, and Shopping

Dine in for brunch

The Western Cafe is beloved by locals, from its iconic cinnamon rolls to the funky, Montana-inspired decor. This diner offers classic comfort food with a twist – it’s truly a must-visit location with an authentic Montana vibe. Be prepared to wait, especially on weekends!

If you’re looking for something to go, grab a latte and eggwich or panini sandwich from Mavens Market.

Hop on a bike tour

For a truly unique way to see the city, take a guided ride through historic neighborhoods and Bozeman’s downtown area with Bozeman Bike Tours. Your knowledgeable tour guide will answer questions and teach you about local history at each stop!

Choose between the standard public “Experience Bozeman Tour” or customizable private tours. Each tour starts and ends Owenhouse Cycling, where your guide will set you up with a bike, helmet, and water. You’ll also likely stop at a bakery en route, and can pick something up to go if you’re hungry!

See rescued grizzly bears

Contrary to popular belief, you don’t have to go all the way to Yellowstone to see grizzlies — The Montana Grizzly Encounter gives visitors a chance to see rescued bears just minutes from Downtown Bozeman. The sanctuary offers a responsible wildlife experience, where guides will also teach you about conservation and safety. It’s one of our favorite activities to suggest to visitors looking for unique things to do in Bozeman.

Shop for local products

Bozeman is full of quirky stores you’ve just gotta check out! Head to Biome Slow Craft Collective for locally-made items, with everything from posters to jewelry to pottery. Cactus Records is a funky record store that also sells an assortment of gifts and souvenirs.

Go downtown to shop at Rare Bird Vintage, an aptly named vintage clothing store, which has a selection of curated items you won’t find anywhere else. Pick up a pair of cowboy boots and a hat from Head West, or a book from Country Bookshelf.

Enjoy a one of a kind dinner

If you’re looking for unique restaurants in Bozeman, you’re in luck! Make a reservation at Izakaya Three Fish, one of Bozeman’s hidden gems. Every evening, the chef whips up an unforgettable Omakase meal featuring creative creations from the sea. Located just 20 minutes south of Downtown Bozeman, Bodhi Farms offers a farm-to-table dining experience in a quiet setting. 1864 Noir Bar offers a speakeasy-style dining experience, which pays homage to the historical red light district and old two story brothel behind the building (which, of course, is no longer in operation).

End your weekend with drinks

Bozeman's nightlife extends far beyond typical bars! Head to Devil's Toboggan for craft cocktails in a cozy, intimate setting that feels like a local secret, or listen to live music inside Tune Up, a basement bar under the historic Armory Hotel. Ponderosa Social Club features bowling lanes and billiards, while the Haufbrau House is a dive bar featuring live music and comedy most nights.