THERE'S LOTS FOR YOUR FAMILY TO DO IN BOZEMAN
Dog Parks
1. Dog Park At Gallatin County Regional Park
13 acre fenced in dog park with an agility course and pond dogs can swim in on a hot day.
2. Snowfill Recreation Area
A spectacular 37-acre dog park with two miles of trails meandering through the park along with fencing, doggie drinking fountain and a vault toilet.
3. Lewis and Bark Dog Park
184-298 S Fowler Ave. Fenced areas for big and small dogs. Shaded sitting area and water.
4. Bozeman Pond
Bozeman Pond Park Dog Park in Bozeman, MT, is a fenced space for Fido to run and play. The park also features a beach, dog station, picnic tables and pavilions, a playground, trails and more.
5. Story Mill Dog Park
Lots of room to let the pups roam in the fenced in area. Nice walking track on the inside perimeter.
In Town Walking and Hiking
6. Peet’s Hill/Burke Park
The best place to watch a Bozeman sunrise or sunset, Peet’s Hill is a gentle incline to a flat trail just above town. From here, you can connect to Highland Glen Nature Preserve, enjoy time in Lindley Park, or visit the Bozeman Public Library.
7. Gallagator Trail
Constructed on the site of an old railway line that extended to Gallatin Gateway, it is now a connector between Montana State University and downtown. Access the trail from the parking lot at the base of Peet’s Hill. Along the way, you’ll find community gardens, a climbing boulder, playground, and a pollinator garden.
8. West Side Trail
On the west side of town, this trail system starts at Bozeman Pond Park Trails, then heads north through beautifully manicured greenways and neighborhoods to Oak Street. There, it connects to trails at Gallatin Regional Park.
9. Gallatin Regional Park
This lovely trail makes a figure eight around two ponds. It’s great for kids, with the Dinosaur Playground and climbing boulders. Parking is located off of Oak Avenue and next to the fire station on Durston Avenue.
10. Drinking Horse Trail
The first part of this hike is perfect for small children. Bring a snack and stop at the bright orange bridge and enjoy the creek running by. For those wanting a longer hike, continue to climb 700 vertical feet to the top of Drinking Horse Mountain, where you have gorgeous views of both Bridger Canyon and the rest of the valley.
11. Glen Lake Rotary Park
On the north side of Bozeman, the Glen Lake Rotary Park has a beautiful trail surrounding the pond, but also connects to nearby trails. The area around the park also has volleyball courts, a climbing rock, fishing and diving docks, and an outdoor patio. MAP Brewing sits alongside the pond, with outdoor dining and a great view of the Bridgers. Bring the family and after a leisurely stroll, enjoy the afternoon waterside!
12. Cherry River
Just off the Frontage Road off North 7th Ave, Cherry River is an easy hike, with plenty of places to stop and enjoy the nature surrounding you. Grassy riverfront spots, along with spectacular birdwatching among the cattails and on two ponds. These trails can expand to the East Gallatin Recreation Area trails and have benches and restrooms.
13. Story Mill Community Park
Bozeman’s newest park is spread out over 60 acres, with 4 miles of trails that meander through a nature preserve and river frontage with two fishing accesses. Watch for sandhill cranes and other birds in the preserve. Bring the kids and a lunch, there’s also an adventure playground, climbing boulder, and plenty of covered picnic areas!
14. College ‘M’ Trail
There are two options for this popular hike at the base of Bridger Canyon. To the west, the trail is longer and more gradual with gentle switchbacks leading to the top where there are benches overlooking the Gallatin Valley. You can take this trail up and back, or loop back down to the east, where the trail is steeper and more rigorous. Some people do it in reverse, taking the steep way up, and the gentle way down, and some hard-core hikers take the difficult trail both up and down!
Waterfall Trails
15. Palisade Falls
The trail is only 1 mile and is paved making it an ideal hike for strollers and little kids. The waterfall itself is more than 80 feet tall making it a pretty spectacular sight.
16. Grotto Falls and Hyalite Creek Trail
The trail to Grotto is great for a quick hike to a nice waterfall. Only 2.4 miles roundtrip and the trail is also stroller/wheelchair friendly. Grotto Falls is a picturesque waterfall with lush greenery on one side and easy to get down to the bottom so you can feel the spray from the water. The other trail from this trailhead is Hyalite Creek Trail and it is a must-do for any waterfall lover. It's just over five miles to Hyalite Lake and in those miles, you will see eleven waterfalls.
17. Pine Creek Falls
Pine Creek Falls is an easy one-mile hike on a well-maintained trail. You'll go through a forested area, passing over streams and then a short steep climb to the falls. Early in the season this waterfall is pretty spectacular crashing down and throwing off a cool mist.
18. Passage Falls
This is an easy hike at slightly over 4 miles out and back with little elevation gain during the hike. The size of this waterfall is what makes it quite a sight, especially in the springtime when the water is really flowing.
19. Ousel Falls
The canyon and Big Sky are other great hiking spots, especially for waterfalls. Ousel is a very popular one, it's basically the Palisade Falls of the Big Sky area. It is lush and surrounded by cliff walls making the waterfall quite dramatic, especially in the spring during run-off.
20. Pioneer Falls
The Spanish Peaks Trail is on Ted Turner's property in the Gallatin Canyon and is the starting point for a few different trails, one being to Pioneer Falls.The hike to the falls is around 4 miles, but there is not a big elevation gain so is doable for all levels. The trail takes you through meadows, past streams and gives some of the best mountain views as a backdrop.
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Winter
21. Soak in a Local Hot Spring
There is nothing quite like enjoying a natural hot spring during the winter.Discovered by early settlers, the geothermally heated waters have been enjoyed for over 100 years by locals and travelers alike. Take a drive east down to Chico Hot Springs, or Yellowstone Hot Springs, or west to Norris Hot Springs. If you want to stay in town, Bozeman Hot Springs has beautiful outdoor pools and live music.
22. Go Snowshoeing
Inquire at the local ski shops about renting snowshoes for the day, pick a snowshoe trail, and head out on your way.
23. Visit a Museum
The Museum of the Rockies houses an extensive collection of fossils and some of the only dinosaur nests and eggs known to exist.
Venture into the Gallatin History Museum and learn about the hardships that early settlers faced carving a life into Gallatin County. Zip over to the American Computer and Robotics Museum and delve into a world of ancient time-keeping devices, antique office supplies, old-school video game systems, and computers that fill an entire room. And for the youngest explorers, jump into the hands-on, fully interactive displays at the Montana Science Center.
24. See a Show
Bozeman's list of venues for music and performing arts is growing, and there's something to see nearly every night of the week (even in the winter!). See your favorite musician at The ELM, a comedian at Last Best Comedy Club, a foreign film at the Ellen Theatre, or a symphony performance at the Willson Auditorium.
25. Visit Local Breweries and Distilleries
Looking for a heart-warming porter or stout in the dead of winter? Then you'll find yourself at home at one of Bozeman's breweries. Need something a little stronger to warm you from the inside out? Check out one of Bozeman's distilleries for local whisky, huckleberry vodka and botanical-forward gin.
26. Grab a Bite
In what other landlocked towns can you find fresh sushi, bison, and trout tacos cohabitating on one dinner plate?
27. Shopping
Shopping in Bozeman ranges from the historic Main Street lined with boutiques, restaurants, and coffee shops, to the Gallatin Valley Mall and national retailers like Athleta and lululemon.
28. Art Galleries
Browse through local, handcrafted goods, or check out some of the amazing works of art in one of Bozeman's many galleries.
29. Go to a Montana State University Game
Cheering on the Montana State University Bobcats is a great way to have fun in the winter. As one of the leading schools in the Big Sky Conference, a lot of talented athletes compete for MSU. Keep an eye on basketball, track and field, skiing, and volleyball.
30. Have a Spa Day
One thing Bozemanites really know how to do is relax, and what better way than to spend the day having someone else pamper you from head to toe? Soothe your soul in a hot mineral soak, breathe deeply, and feel the worries of the world lift with a mint-julep facial. Unwind at one of Bozeman's spas and enjoy complete relaxation during the winter season.
31. Ice Skating
Originating over 4,000 years ago in Finland, ice skating has been a favored winter pastime for anyone daring enough to strap blades to the bottom of their boots and glide over a giant sheet of ice. Bundle everyone up and head to one of Bozeman's ice rinks for a fun day on the ice.
32. Ax Throwing
Ever thrown an axe before? Here's your chance at Lookout Throwing Co. An axe coach will teach you how to throw with the proper technique, then assign you a lane so you can start aiming and throwing at the targets. Walk in or book lanes online for larger groups and start bringing out your inner lumberjack!
33. Karaoke
Downtown Bozeman is the perfect place to practice your performance skills to your favorite song
34. Bowling
Bowling is timeless entertainment. If you haven't done it in a while, here's your chance at the local Bozeman Bowl. It's a no-frills staple in town where the kiddos love the bumper lanes and the adults love the cheap drinks.
35. Paint-your-own-pottery
For the budding artists in the family, this paint-your-own-pottery studio is a favorite. The Arts on Fire studio provides pre-glazed ceramic pieces that you paint, and they fire! Wednesdays are Kid's Day; the paint and firing fee is waived!
36. See a Movie
Movies are great for rainy days, but they are also an excellent way to beat the scorchers! Watch their website for updates on what's showing. Take advantage of the month pass offered by Regal, and get the most out of your movie experience.
37. Trampoline parks
Trampoline parks are the ultimate in wearing out active little bodies, and this one has more than just trampolines. Try your hand at Extreme Dodgeball or navigate the Ninja Warrior Course. There's a slam dunk basketball hoop, and the Storm Castle Tower has two high platforms to jump off. Test your balance on the Battle Beam or Slack Line. There's even a toddler zone! Jump Time Bozeman has hours of fun for you, whether you're five or twenty-five.
38. Nordic Skiing
Cross Country skiing is a great way toget some excersise and be out in nature
39. Downhill Skiing
Bridger Bowl is our local ski hill. As a nonprofit ski area, Bridger Bowl is proud to offer a genuine community-driven experience. Check out their park and ride program for a free ride to the mountain.
40. Snowmobile
Check in at any winter rental shop for maps and information.
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Local Festivals
41. Sweet Pea Festival
The Sweet Pea Festival is a three-day festival of the arts held in Bozeman, Montana. The fun in Lindley Park starts Friday afternoon continues all weekend with a parade, flower show, and lots of family-friendly activities. Help the 1st weekend in August .
42. Music on Main Street
Music on Main will be located on Main Street from Rouse to Black Ave. The fun begins at 6:30 PM until 8:30 PM on Thursday evenings from July 3rd to August 7th. This event is hosted by the Downtown Bozeman Association and is free and open to the public.
43. Christmas Stroll
Be a part of Downtown Bozeman's greatest holiday tradition - the Christmas Stroll. Always on the first Saturday in December, the holiday season kicks-off with the Stroll! Starting at 4:30 PM, Santa Claus will work his way down Main Street, singing Christmas carols and lighting the downtown holidays lights with festive friends in tow. Bring the whole family down to enjoy merry activities and traditional holiday treats until 7:30 PM.
44. Slam
Come to the SLAM summer festival and enjoy a celebration of Montana made art, music, theater, dance, food, beverages, and oh, so much more!
This event is free to attend and family friendly. SUPPORT LOCAL ARTISTS AND MUSICIANS, held the 1st weekend in August.
45. Alpenglow Festival
All country lineup to be announced!
Montana Made Village with 50+ local vendors and organizations
Brewfest featuring your favorite craft breweries
+ more fun for all ages!
46. Bozeman Ice Festival
The Bozeman Ice Climbing Festival is the signature event of the Montana Mountaineering Association (MMA). Our mission is to support the Montana community with education and mentorship regardless of economic background, previous experience, gender, age, sexual orientation, race, or ethnicity. As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, we fulfill our mission by offering a variety of instructional experiences and educational programs focused on alpine endeavors. We are excited to elevate our mission and continue championing the ice climbing community in Montana—and beyond.SAVE THE DATE: DEC. 10-14, 2025
47. Bozeman Renaissance Festival
Artists vendors and shows revolving around the renaissance Era
48. Montana Shakespeare in the Park
Audiences will discover the magic of Shakespear in a fun and inclusive manner. Through stories that stretch beyond time and space.
49. Gallatin Valley Farmer’s Market, Gallatin County Fairgrounds
The Gallatin Valley Farmers Market (GVFM) is every Saturday from the 3rd week in June through the 2nd week in September and runs from 9-noon. Featuring local vendors of homemade food, handmade crafts and locally grown produce, the GVFM strives to support home-based businesses as a program of Career Transitions.
50. Bogert Farmers Market
Join us every for Bozeman Farmers Market Tuesday from 5:00pm-8:00pm, from June through the 2nd week in September. Vendors from around the area bring vegetables, arts, crafts, music, food and much more! Shop and gather in support of a fun-filled family environment!
51. Bozeman Art Walk – Art Gallery Walk
Bozeman Art Walks occur on the second Friday of the months June through September, from 6:00pm to 8:00pm at art galleries and businesses displaying artwork located along Main Street, Bozeman and at the Emerson Center for Arts and Culture. The galleries feature artists’ openings and receptions and often provide refreshments and hors d’oeuvres.
52. Lewis and Clark Challenge Course
This interactive series of stations offers visitors a chance for a hands-on experience of the Lewis & Clark adventure. Climb aboard a keelboat, out-run a grizzly bear, and see if you can lift a cradle-board like the one Sacajawea carried. Enjoy these activities plus geography, botany, Native American culture, and much more.
53. Bozeman Lunch on the Lawn
Wednesdays, July through August. Scheduled Bands are TBD. Located at 111 South Grand Avenue, The Emerson Center for Arts and Culture’s summer Lunch on the Lawn series returns for its 7th year. This year’s LOL will be better than ever with a great lineup of local and regional musical acts to entertain during your lunch hour.
54. Run To The Pub
Bozeman’s St. Patrick’s Day, Run to the Pub the second-best half marathon in the United States! Bozeman’s Pub 317 started Bozeman’s annual St. Patrick’s Day running event in 2007, offering half marathon and 10k races. The half marathon begins at 9:00 AM and the 10k begins at 9:45 AM. By finishing one of the races, you qualify to win a trip to Dublin, Ireland to compete in the Dublin Marathon.
55. MSU Bozeman Spring Rodeo
The MSU Spring Rodeo, hosted by MSU, is held inside the Brick Breeden Fieldhouse. Cowboys and cowgirls from the Big Sky Region will be competing for the honor of going to the college finals in Casper, Wyoming. Seven schools will be on hand for the event.
56. American Indian Council of MSU Pow-Wow
Pow-wows are an important contemporary expression of American Indian heritage. A pow-wow is a Native American festival featuring traditional dancing, drumming and singing and traditional foods and arts and crafts. Various kinds of honor ceremonies and other spiritual ceremonies also form a part of this festival.
57. Bozeman Watershed Festival
The Montana Outdoor Science School will be hosting the Annual Watershed Festival, The Year of the Trout, at the Bozeman Fish Technology Center. Offered free to the public, the Community Watershed Festival is made possible by business sponsors, volunteers, and other private donations.
58. Ellen Theatre
Providing Arts, Education, Entertainment through live music, film, comedy, plays. Encouraging community participation, showcasing renowned professionals, promoting youth education.
59. Bike Swap: first Saturday of May is Swap and Friday prior is bike drop off
Bozeman’s Bike Swap has been an outstanding success in the community for the past 44 years. Community members are welcome to sell bikes or bike-related items for a $1 commission fee per item, plus 15% of the item’s price, which goes to benefit the bike club. Bozeman’s annual Bike Swap is open to the public.
60. Bozeman Celebration Fireworks
Bozeman’s Fourth of July Celebration is one of Montana’s largest fireworks display beginning at dusk. Admission with button. Buttons can be purchased from local merchants in Bozeman, or at the gate.
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61. Bozeman Trail Gun Show
Over 300 booths of firearms and related items, cowboy and Indian memorabilia, bits, spurs and saddles, six shooters and old rifles, western and wildlife art, furniture, vintage clothing and jewelry, knives, books, prints and photos. This show is smoke free and family orientated.
62. Bozeman Wine Classic
The Wine Classic is an event that blends the sophistication of wine tasting with the approachable, casual, adventure of the West. The Museum of the Rockies will be hosting its annual Wine Classic from 7:00pm to 11:00pm. Guests will enjoy exquisite food and wine on the museum grounds as they celebrate local cuisine.
63. Gallatin County Fair
We would love to have you come and join us for a great time at this year’s Gallatin County Fair! Enjoy the carnival and the Open Class or 4-H exhibits which include arts and crafts, gardening, floral, foods, needlework, photography, poultry and other livestock. Have fun shopping at the indoor and outdoor markets.
64. Headwaters Relay – A Run to the Source
The Headwaters Relay is a 3-day, 232 mile team relay race through the mountains and valleys of Southwest Montana. The route is 98% on dirt and two-track roads revisiting Lewis and Clark’s trek from Three Forks to Beaverhead Rock. The Relay ends at Hellroaring Creek, the ultimate source of the Mississippi River.
65. Bite Of Bozeman
The annual Bite Of Bozeman is the ultimate outdoor dining experience. Stroll along the entire length of Bozeman’s historic Main Street and celebrate the culinary arts of its local restaurants by sampling foods from a number of different vendors.
66. Little Bear School House Museum Antique Show
This annual event includes three buildings with over 75 dealers setting up booths of merchandise ranging from furniture, glassware, linens, to collectibles. Our admission fee is $4.00 and covers all three days. This antique show is a fund raiser for the support of Little Bear School House Museum.
67. The Ridge Run
Survive Bozeman’s Bridger Ridge Run, a brutal 20 mile mountain trail run, possibly the most rugged, technical 20 mile trail race in existence, across Bozeman’s Bridger Mountains south from Fairy Lake to “The M.”
68. Montana Cowboy Mounted Shooting Competition
Part exhibition, part Wild West show, part competition. Authentic cowboys and cowgirls dressed in 1800’s period clothing compete on horseback in a timed shooting event with 45-caliber single-action pistols for real Old West entertainment. Concessions, seating and parking is available.
69. Bozeman’s Bridger Raptor Festival
The Bridger Raptor Festival is an annual event held in and around Bozeman Montana. The festival, which is free to the public, centers around an annual count each Fall of the largest known golden eagle migration in the United States. The Bridger Raptor Festival takes place at the Bridger Bowl ski area.
70. Bridger Ski Foundation Annual Bozeman Ski Swap
Bring your Consignments on Friday, November 4 between 10am and 7pm. There is a cost for each item consigned.
Opens to Club Members Only for first hour, Saturday, Nov 5, 9am-10am.
Opens to General Public, Saturday, Nov 5, 10am-5pm – Open to Everyone. Admission $2.00 for non-BSF members.
Open to General Public, Sunday, Nov 6, 10am-2pm – Open for and Free Admission for everyone.
71. Huffing For Stuffing
This 5k and 10K running race, held every Thanksgiving in Bozeman, MT, gives its proceeds to the Gallatin Valley Food Bank, a division of Bozeman’s Human Resource Development Council (HRDC).
Here you will put some details of something to do in your area! You want these things to be fun, exciting things that will attract people. They don't have to be expensive or crazy things, just fun things for families in the area.
Free Activities
72.
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