48 Hours in Bozeman, MT: Fun Things to Do
The once-sleepy cowboy town of Bozeman is now a hip, artsy spot with top notch-restaurants, cool bars, great shopping, wonderful museums, and proximity to world-renowned outdoor recreation.
We spoke with two long-time Bozeman residents about their favorite places to eat, shop, and get outdoors.
Here’s a locals’ guide for fun things to do in Bozeman, Montana!
Getting to Bozeman & Where to Stay
Book your flight to BZN, Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport. Pick up your rental car at the counters, or your RV rental from Blacksford to start your adventure.
Bozeman Campgrounds
For RVers, the popular Bozeman Hot Springs puts you 8 miles from downtown with full hookups, has a sizable campground, plus indoor and outdoor hot springs to soak in after a day of hiking or shopping in Bozeman. Sites book quickly in summer, so reserve early.
Closer to downtown is the Bozeman Trail RV Park (about 5 minutes from Main Street), which has smaller campsites but it’s only minutes from dining and shopping.
Want more options? See Our Favorite Camping Spots Near Bozeman, Montana.
Bozeman Hotels
Bozeman has many hotels at many price points. Summer prices can be shockingly high due to strong demand in the peak season.
Downtown favorites are: The LARK, AC Hotel, Element, and the Kimpton Armory Hotel. Staying downtown makes it easy to eat, shop and dine within walking distance.
When to visit: This itinerary works best May–October. Winter visitors should check the M trail conditions and expect some restaurants to have reduced hours.
Bozeman Day 1
Grab a pastry and take a hike. Get up early to beat the crowds and head to Wild Crumb on Bozeman’s North Side (600 N Wallace Ave) for a huckleberry scone (or any other delicious option) and coffee or tea.
Then drive 7 minutes to the College M Trailhead and Picnic Area. Enjoy your breakfast and hike the easier 2-ish mile trail (not the steep route) to the top for gorgeous views of the valley.
Other great Bozeman bakeries: Aurore (west side) and Granny's Donuts (on MSU’s campus)
Stop for lunch and learn about dinosaurs. Drive back to town and get lunch at Feed Cafe (open until 2pm). Don’t miss their excellent gift shop next door.
Then head to the Museum of the Rockies, one of the country’s best dinosaur fossil collections and Smithsonian Affiliate, a living history exhibit, and rotating galleries. The parking lot can accommodate RVs if you drive yours into town
Relax at your campground or hotel and before heading out for the evening.
Explore Bozeman & Yellowstone in a Blacksford RV
Enjoy dinner and drinks downtown. Get the house-made burrata appetizer and mostarda pizza at Blackbird, then stroll a few blocks to Sky Shed (in the Armory Hotel) for drinks and fantastic panoramic views.
Other great downtown dinner spots: Tutti Bene, Copper Bar and Grill, and Urban Kitchen
Other great downtown cocktails: Open Range, Brigade, PLONK
Return to your hotel or campground for the evening.
Bozeman Day 2
Rise for a cowboy breakfast at the classic Western Cafe before heading out for fun local shopping, all on Main Street (tea lovers: stop at Steep Mountain Tea for an excellent selection of loose-leaf options).
Other great breakfast spots: JAM!, The Nova Cafe, Cateye Cafe
Shop local downtown. Buy Montana gifts at Heyday, Montana Gift Corral, and The Montana Scene.
Shop for clothing at Jonah & Sage, Meridian, and REVOLVR Menswear.
And get all your outdoor gear at Schnee’s and Chalet Sports.
Order Bozeman’s favorite burger. Saddle up for a shake and a burger at Burger Bob’s (in the back of The Spur Saloon) then finish shopping or relax at your hotel.
Billiards or bowling. Drive to the Ponderosa Social Club for a game of pool or bowling. Browse their menu for delicious appetizers, drinks, and full meals.
Stroll Story Mill Park. Fun for kids and adults alike, head to the 60-acre Story Mill Park for a wonderful playground, spaces to relax, and trails to explore natural wetlands.
Dine in The Cannery District. Get to your reservation at Shan and order the dan-dan noodles (and basically anything else on the menu). After dinner, walk to nearby Devil's Toboggan for creative cocktails in a big city setting.
Save room for dessert. Grab a cup or a cone at Genuine Ice Cream before heading back to your hotel or campground.
Staying longer?
Most visitors use Bozeman as a jumping-off point for their trip to nearby national parks. Before you leave town, stock up on groceries at Town & Country Foods (20 min from Bozeman Hot Springs), Rosauers or Whole Foods.
Check out these guides for planning the rest of your trip:
Start Your Bozeman Trip in a Blacksford RV
Bozeman is a great place to spend a day or two before heading out to Yellowstone, Grand Teton or Glacier National Parks.
You’ll love its blend of history, shopping, dining, and proximity to fun outdoor activities make it a wonderful stop on any Montana road trip—especially those in a premium RV rental from Blacksford!