Destination weddings are an excellent excuse for a getaway, and Bozeman is a prime location. Known for its outdoor recreation, festivals and live entertainment, and western flare, Bozeman deserves more than just a quick weekend trip, so consider adding a few days to make the most of your visit.
Bozeman is also just a stone's throw from Yellowstone National Park, and its close proximity to the mountains ensures you can adventure by day and be back to relax by evening.
If you’re visiting for a wedding this summer or fall, use this itinerary to maximize your time in this magical mountain town.
Hotels in Bozeman are varied and plentiful. For boutique charm, RSVP Hotel has quaint decor, champagne on the welcome, a lovely pool, and bikes you can use to get downtown. The Lark is known for its artistic vibe; the Lewis and Clark Motel has the best spa offerings, with a 60-foot heated indoor pool, hot tub, eucalyptus steam room, infrared wellness saunas, and sparkling water on tap!
If your party prefers home comforts, Residence Inn Bozeman Downtown has one-bedroom, two-bedroom, and studio suites and is still within walking distance of downtown. Element by Westin, AC Hotel, and the Kimpton Armory Hotel are modern options for a super walkable locale.
Once you've dropped your bags and had a chance to relax, this is a great time to start exploring Bozeman. Downtown Bozeman has boutiques, galleries, western shops, and sporting goods. The Gallatin Valley Mall is undergoing an exciting redevelopment to combine public gathering spaces with a broad mix of retailers. It has excellent shopping options like J.Crew, Macy, Victoria's Secret, and several locally owned boutiques. It also has a lovely Whole Foods Market in case you need to stock up on snacks!
Once you've finished a bit of retail therapy, enjoy one of Bozeman's enticing happy hours! If you're at the mall, the newly renovated Bay Bar and Grill is a local favorite with craft cocktails and tasty appetizers. If you're downtown, Brigade offers $3 martinis, beer, and oysters on the half shell! Plus, they have a variety of seating, from cozy couches to large booths for bigger parties.
With a full day to go adventuring, guests can go horseback riding with Jake's Horses, enjoy a guided fly fishing adventure with one of our local guides, or get out on one of Bozeman's fantastic trails. The College M and Drinking Horse Trails are just minutes from town and offer shorter hikes with route options for different abilities. For a longer hike, try Triple Tree Trail.
For a locally sourced, farm-to-table dinner, Bodhi Farms is a great evening spot. You'll need to make reservations well in advance, but the planning is worth it. Head over in the late afternoon to enjoy creekside yoga, a sauna, or a massage, then stay for a seasonally focused dinner in their Nordic tipi.
Day 3 likely includes the wedding, which makes for a great day to pamper and prepare. Breakfast is a big deal in Bozeman, and you have many options. Main Street Overeasy and The Western Cafe' are two of the longstanding favorites. The building the Western is in is one of Bozeman's oldest, and the restaurant is the longest-running restaurant in town! If it's a weekend, Ponderosa Social Club has a lovely brunch, and The Farmer's Daughters Cafe, a part of RSVP Hotel, is great for mimosas and a light meal.
If you're looking for a massage or facial, Restful Touch Wellness Collective has a lovely menu of services, including couple's massage. You may even want a yoga class before the festivities commence!
The big day may bring enough celebrating, but if you're looking for a quiet nightcap, Devil's Toboggan, 1864 Noir Bar, and the Tune Up Bar, all have moody atmospheres and great cocktails.
If you’re able to stay an extra day in Bozeman, you’re in luck.
If you're looking for a low-key day, Bozeman Hot Springs has twelve heated pools, both indoor and outdoor, each with varying temperatures. They also have a cold plunge and wet and dry saunas.
For a day on the river, Madison River Tubing rents float tubes and stand up paddle boards that make for a mellow float down the nearby Madison or Jefferson Rivers. (Check out our guide on floating the Madison River here.)They offer shuttles or guided trips to and from the Madison River, a favorite float of residents, or take your SUP to Hyalite Reservoir just outside Bozeman.
Hardcore adventurers may want to go whitewater rafting. Montana Whitewater and Zip Lines does a fantastic job, running trips down the scenic Gallatin River all summer.
For a delicious but casual dinner, try Montana Ale Works or Montana's Rib and Chop House. Both are locally owned and local favorites. Ale Works offers a variety of menu items, while the Rib and Chop House serves classic steakhouse fare.
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