And in the blink of an eye, our summer season has gone the way of each before it, only to return with the many avian species on sabbatical in a more appealing climate. Most don’t have the same luxury of relocation when the weather turns, so we’re rotating our drawers with attire befitting of cooler days and even colder nights.
Classes are back in session with the ‘Cats already tearing up the gridiron, the leaves are putting on their annual color show, and pumpkin spice is being served hot. Soon our mountains and valleys will be draped in white with holiday gatherings on the horizon, not to mention some intense year-ending shopping.
But before we can celebrate among family and friends, it’s the time of year for recognizing all the reasons we call Southwest Montana home during every turn of the calendar.
The votes have been tallied for the annual Best of Bozeman community survey, the original canvass of the area’s preferred food and beverage destinations, cultural happenings and live music, recreational access and everyday service industries. As decided by the impassioned locals, read on for a detailed look at Bozeman’s best in 2025.
Of our many favored pastimes, indulging in the vast collective of food and drink options keeps those who don’t like to cook busy and the local economy bustling.
Find a warm morning perk during the snowy season at Wild Joe*s Coffee Spot. The established downtown space welcomes folks of every stripe for their caffeinated needs and other nourishments, taking the prizes for Best Coffee and Coffeehouse this year. Their walls are enriched by monthly art installations and there’s always room for casual conversation.
Failing to plan for rush hour congestion may see commuters running a little too behind to sip-in, with Jump Start Espresso ready to serve those on the go. Jump Start takes Best Coffee Hut this round. Get your morning fix from either location in Bozeman or Belgrade.
Born beneath the peaks that surround and inspired by our shared sense of place, Steep Mountain Tea is an alternative for less java-inclined sippers. Their leisurely space is excellent for quiet work or a moment of calm. Order a bubble tea or kombucha in-house or take some loose leaf to-go for home enjoyment. Voted Best Tea, Steep Mountain also offers an online store with easy ordering.
Another healthy option for daytime drinks comes courtesy of The Well Juicery, located in the Ferguson Farm building. Their nutrient-dense menu is complete with cold-pressed favorites, wellness shots, smoothies and bowls, among other tantalizing eats. They’re your Best Juice & Craft Beverage Bar another year running.
It’s cane o’clock somewhere. Wild Crumb packs their displays with unique spins on the sweet treat, supplementing a robust menu of artisanal breads. Whether you’re on the hunt for a loaf, homemade pies and cakes, or individual delicacies, the repeat winner for Best Bakery has something for every palate.
On the opposite side of town sits Granny’s Gourmet Donuts whose menu caters to the sweetest of Bozeman teeth. Traditional rings, daily specials and other confections have aided this mom and pop maintain its iron grip on Best Donuts, Pastries & Sweets. Drop by Friday through Sunday mornings to give Robert a howdy!
Find classic American fare at The Western Café, downtown’s longtime greasy spoon with hearty plates to rev the engine at the onset of a busy Montana day. The “Last Best Café” is known for its simplistic but tasty dishes like chicken fried steak and eggs, biscuits and gravy, and Bobcat French toast. They took Best Breakfast once again.
Come the noon hour, there are so many eateries to help bustling locals have the energy they need to finish out the day. Step into Backcountry Burger Bar for replenishment at their popular downtown spot, voted Best Lunch. A menu of eclectic patties, small plates and salads are best washed down with a craft brew on tap. Enjoy the Best Burger in Bozeman seven days a week.
Grab a cold cut or hot hoagie from Pickle Barrel whose subs reclaimed the prize for Best Sandwich this year. Order halves or wholes with chips and a drink, maybe even a decadent dessert, from the campus-adjacent shop as a lunchtime alternative. They also were named Best Inexpensive Restaurant.
Though they’ve opened a dine-in space in the University Square Shopping Center, Mo’Bowls is still your Best Food Truck in town. A deliciously zesty mac n’ cheese variety is available at their restaurant and rotating locations around the Valley. Enjoy the Best Take-Out in town at your pleasure.
Most local foodies have a predilection of sorts, and those seeking the flavorful spice of Latin America frequent Fiesta Mexicana. The area franchise serves from locations in Bozeman and Belgrade, offering a broad menu of traditional plates and bowl-style margaritas. They’re your Best Mexican once more.
Even the landlocked crave some aquatic protein from time to time with Bozemanites getting their fill at Seven Sushi. Often paired with sake or Sapporo, their various maki rolls, sashimi and nigiri helped the Cannery District restaurant take the prizes for Best Sushi and Place to Eat Seafood.
Having settled into its new home a few years back, I-Ho’s Korean Grill continues to operate in the spirit of its founder, offering a warm space for diners to enjoy her family recipes along with casual connections. We’ll keep coming back for the Best Korean and Asian Food in town as I-Ho always imagined.
A few blocks east lies Pakeezah where fans of international cuisine can indulge in Bozeman’s Best Indian Food. Begin with some flavorsome naan or a clay oven-baked dish, or select one of their many entrées featuring chicken, lamb and goat. Seafood options available as well as wine, beer and traditional Indian beverages.
Even with the close of grilling season, there’s always Bar 3 BBQ for the cookout taste when the flakes start flying. Roll up your sleeves for some delicious ribs, brisket and brats, protein-rich sandwiches and homemade sides. Voted Best BBQ, Bar 3 also offers catering services.
There’s a new winner for Best Pizza this year, a coveted prize in a town with so many fantastic options for specialty pies. Pizza Campania can be found just off Oak, offering classic Neapolitan pizzas backed in a wood-fired oven. Their patio is a major draw in the summer months to be enjoyed with a glass of wine or pint of beer.
Logan’s destination steakhouse, the Land of Magic, is an opportunity to take in the Montana scenery on the way to dinner fit for a king. Whether you’ve got eyes for a ribeye or filet, prime rib or seafood entrée, this rural escape invites parties large and small to cut into a Treasure State tradition. They take Best Steak.
Securing the most votes for Best Italian this cycle, Fresco Café reclaims the top spot for its intricate execution of time-honored fare. Their intimate space is perfect for quiet celebrations with a selection of authentic wines to get the conversation flowing. Begin with antipasto before affixing a bib for your entrée of choice.
Feast Raw Bar & Bistro remains the Best Fine Dining, a contemporary and inviting space on Kagy. Rooted in epicurean values, the restaurant features sustainable seafood and locally sourced meats and produce, with highlights like oysters and mussels, lobster and crab, as well as scallops and other hearty items.
Support the troops and grab a bite at Sidewinders American Grill, a west end dining room whose expansive space suits large parties and family meals. The Best Family Friendly Restaurant and Casual Dining experience offers classic American grub and shareable starters that also helped them secure Best Appetizer this year.
There can only ever be one Best New Restaurant with Texas Roadhouse beating out the competition in ’25. Known for its hand-cut steaks, fall-off-the-bone ribs and sides made from scratch, the Western-themed eatery is visited by locals in droves. They offer hearty meals, friendly service, and a fun dining experience.
The culinarians at Montana Ale Works give their dishes enough of a certain something to collect the prize for Best Chef year after year. Operating in a restored freight house, the popular spot offers elevated comfort food made with local ingredients, dozens of Montana craft beers on tap, and a lively atmosphere with indoor and outdoor seating. Ale Works also took Best Place for a First Date and Restaurant – Dessert.
There’s a new champ for Best Restaurant this year, with Downtown Bozeman’s Revelry taking the W in a photo finish. With a warm, modern-rustic vibe, diners visit for lunch or dinner and weekend brunch. Their menu features wood‑fired pizzas, burgers, pasta and pub‑style fare made with locally sourced ingredients. Their relaxed but stylish atmosphere and outdoor seating draws the masses.
Scoop up something sweet after dinner from Genuine Ice Cream. The small‑batch, handmade ice creamery uses premium local ingredients and house‑perfected recipes. Voted Best Ice Cream Shop, their flavor menu mixes classic staples with rotating seasonal and experimental options, including dairy‑free choices. Available at the Peach Street shop or find a trademark pink pint from area retailers.
Arguably one of the most favored additions to the service industry in the last many years is the ever-popular craft brewing industry, serving beer lovers and casual consumers weary of the bar scene.
Locking down the top prize once again is MAP Brewing, the northside Best Brewery set on Glen Lake with gorgeous views of the Bridgers – earning them Best Patio as well. They offer craft beer brewed on‑site, scratch-made eats using local ingredients, and a spacious, friendly atmosphere indoors and out. Slug down a few Midas Crush IPAs voted Best Local Beer Flavor in town, and find out why MAP is the Best Local Beer Crafter from its Tasting Room.
Find the area’s Best Beer Selection at Bozeman’s laid back, community-focused SHINE Beer Sanctuary. Featuring an unparalleled menu of craft beers on tap, as well as cider and wine options, there’s also a bottle shop for suds to-go. Or dine in with burritos, nachos, salads and more from LaPa Grill & Soup Shack with indoor, patio and rooftop seating.
There’s more adult local flavors to be had with a stop into Bozeman Spirits Distillery. They distill and bottle on site a wide range of spirits including whiskey, vodka, gin, rum and bourbons. Their tasting room has a warm, saloon‑like feel with reclaimed wood and metals, local grain sourcing, and full cocktail menu befitting of the Best Distillery.
A trusted watering hole collects a trophy four-pack this cycle, well-earned accolades for the everyman’s Korner Klub. The casual Best Bar is known for its friendly vibe, affordable pub food and big win casino. Located on one of the Four Corners, those surveyed also voted the KK Best Bar Food and Sports Pub – the perfect spot for game day. The Korner is also Best Place for Guys’ Night Out.
A little further out of town, Stacey’s Old Faithful Bar & Steakhouse invites locals and visitors to enjoy the Best Authentic Montana Ambiance. The longtime western saloon opened in Gateway back in the 1930s and has always retained its relaxed, rustic vibe. They serve hearty menu classics along with cold beer and a full bar.
Sitting next door to Stacey’s is The Westerner, a honky tonk that chipped away enough votes from The Jump to end their contest in a cowboy draw. They both win Best Place to Dance this year. Check out their live country music calendars before boot scooting to Gallopin’ Gateway for one or two rounds around the dance floor. Do-si-do!
Find another experience entirely with a return to Downtown Bozeman’s Plonk for the perennially voted Best Cocktails. They offer a global wine selection, inventive cocktails, seasonal dishes and modern atmosphere with exposed brick, comfortable seating and artful enhancements. Plonk also wins Best Happy Hour and Place for Girls’ Night Out another year running.
Our most youthful citizenry pack into the Rocking R Bar for its attention to offering the college crowd a hangout and town’s Best Nightlife. With big screens, pool tables, darts and lively DJs, the R welcomes those of any age looking to let their hair down after dusk.
Next wander over to Bar IX, voted the Best Place to Meet Singles. The high-energy space is great for happy hour conversing and moonlight fun, with a casual food menu and creekside patio suitable for a little ooh la la.
Best Karaoke goes to the American Legion this year, who host opportunities for locals to show off their vocals on Monday and Wednesday nights. Here’s your chance to let loose, sing on or off-key, and share laughs in a music-filled, judgment-free zone.
Aside from a few alternating food trucks, there’s only one place to feast after last call – Tarantino’s Pizzeria. Soak it up with their New York-style, handcrafted slices complete with fresh in-house toppings. They win Best Late Night Grub.
The pain of morning may be impossible to avoid, but Storm Castle Café has the elixir. Known for its full-plated comfort food, the café offers generous portions of classic staples and tasty specialties. The vibe is cozy and unpretentious, with a rustic interior and personable staff. Their own Hilltop 7-raised beef and pork adds to the farm-to-table touch necessary of the Best Hangover Food Cure.
Avoid the scene altogether and mix up your own concoctions with ingredients from Belgrade Liquor. Their huge, well-curated selection of liquors, wines and “ready-to-drink” options, including many Montana-made spirits, helped brown bag the award for Best Packaged Liquor Store.
Tour the viticultural regions of the world from Bozeman’s own Montana Spirits & Wine. Their more than 1,500 personally curated vinos cover a wide range of styles – from light whites and aromatic sparklings, to rich reds, dessert wines and full-bodied varietals. The Best Wine Shop is ready to assist for dinner party hosts or casual swishers.
Find your vibe at Collective Elevation, known for its living-soil grown, organic cannabis, offering a wide selection of flower, edibles, vapes and concentrates. It was once again voted Best Dispensary and can be found at two Bozeman locations.
Turning away from the food and beverage industry, Bozeman and its boroughs are supported by a bustling local economy of small businesses whose goods and services keep our days busy and homes furnished.
Adorn the walls with an artful find from Altitude Gallery. The eclectic exhibitor specializes in contemporary, affordable work by local and regional artists. A diverse collection of paintings, pottery, hand-blown glass, jewelry, photography and sculpture helped Altitude take Best Art Gallery again in ’25.
Every piece of art deserves its proper presentation, and The Frugal Frame Shop is here to ensure yours are display-ready. Their custom framing and printing are marked by friendly service, a wide selection of frame styles and affordable pricing. They collect the plaque for Best Frame Shop.
Legacy items are often passed down among generations, but anyone can add historical touches to their space with the help of Antique Barn. The spacious antique mall houses curated vendor booths featuring high‑end pieces, custom furniture and yard art, as well as locally made décor and vintage gifts. The Best Antique Store also hosts the occasional workshop.
Fall feng shui might see dwellers looking to add a home furnishing or set one free. The locally owned Used Furniture Store deals in clean, quality finds, home goods and décor with thousands of pieces available at any given time. They also buy furniture directly from locals with home estimates and pickup. It’s no surprise they took each prize for Best Furniture and Used Furniture Store.
An end table can be made whole with a delightful vaseful from Labellum, your pick for Best Florist. The modern flower boutique creates unique, seasonal floral arrangements, offers a selection of plants and gifts, and is a locally superior source for custom wedding and event designs.
Get a read on historical events or modern culture with a new title from Country Bookshelf. The independent Best Bookstore accommodates two floors of curated books across genres, with gifts and stationery, as well as regular author and book club events.
Music Villa has helped experienced and developing musicians get equipped for their performances since the ‘70s, being awarded the gramophone for Best Musical Instrument Store. Their full-line shop features guitars, amps, drums, keyboards, pro sound gear and accessories. They also offer repairs, rentals, lessons, and host in‑store events and performances.
A Bozeman marquee, Cactus Records & Gifts is the iconic indie music shop and “weirdo” novelty store with a loyal customer base and local charm. The Best Record Store stocks new and used vinyl, CDs and cassettes, gifts, oddities, apparel and souvenirs. They’re also home to ‘Record Store Day’ celebrations every year.
Heavens us, we are already on the precipice of gift giving season. Heyday shoppers needn’t fear disappointment when picking something from the Best Unique Gifts. The lifestyle boutique offers a thoughtfully curated mix of home goods, jewelry, stationery, children’s items, beauty and wellness products. With items procured locally and beyond, their selection was also voted Best Gifts for Her.
And if you’re shopping for the gentlemen in your life, Murdoch’s Ranch & Home Supply has the Best Gifts for Him. The farm and ranch retailer sells clothing and boots, tools and hardware, as well as sporting and outdoor gear inspired by the Western lifestyle.
Bozeman Vintage rises to the top this year, staking its claim on Best Clothing Store. The well‑curated shop carries high‑quality pieces from the 20th century – Western wear, denim, 70s and 80s tees, dresses, boots, leather jackets, hats and more. Items available for both men and women.
Add some sparkle to the new ‘fit with a dazzling new accessory from Alara Jewelry. The downtown gallery showcases unique, ethically sourced pieces – including Montana and Yogo sapphires – along with custom design, repair services, and in-house artisan work. Alara is the Best Place to Buy Jewelry.
Sack’s of Bozeman sees a bargain hunter blitz as Bozeman’s Best Thrift Store. A nonprofit whose proceeds support Help Center programs, they sell donated clothes, housewares, furniture, books, antiques and more — a clean, well‑organized place to shop affordably.
Two downtown retailers are dedicated to keeping Montanans comfortable in their various, movement-based activities. Schnee’s Boots & Shoes, voted Best Shoe Store, and Bozeman Running Company, named Best Running Shoe Store, go the extra mile to help outdoor enthusiasts find the perfect fit – whether for hiking, hunting, running, or everyday walks.
Take the new soles for a spin up Peets Hill, voted Best Jogging Trail, or lace up in the spring for Run to the Pub. The lively St. Paddy’s tradition sees friends gather for a fun run, festive costumes, and plenty of post-race cheer with beer and community celebration. It was again voted Best Timed Foot Race.
Daily living in Southwest Montana is a bustling affair and wonder for those who reside under its big skies. Thankfully we’ve got a solid local scene highlighted by small businesses and folks who get what it takes to keep us healthy, happy and well-fed.
Though families often opt for wholesale shopping, many choose Town & Country Foods when meal planning for the week. Known for its strong community roots, the Best Grocery Store operates multiple full‑service locations offering fresh produce, quality meats, organic and natural foods, complete with in‑store bakery and deli. Employee-owned, T&C is also the Best Store to Buy Beer.
Organics are available in bulk at the Community Food Co-op, the runaway pick for Best Eco-Friendly Products. Bozeman’s neighborhood spot for fresh, feel-good food serves from two member-owned locations, offering organic, non-GMO and locally sourced groceries, plus a scratch-made deli, bakery and juice bar. The Co-op is committed to sustainability, making it easy to shop with purpose.
Find a protein specific to your occasion with a stop into two popular establishments. Daniels Gourmet Meats & Sausages is a local butcher shop offering premium beef, poultry, wild game processing and a full grocery department. They’re a cut above the rest for Best Place to Shop for Meat. And on the opposite side of town sits Primal Meat & Fish Market, a local shop specializing in fresh seafood and quality meats, known for offering Montana’s freshest catches. They reel in Best Place to Buy Seafood.
Securing the top spot for Best Convenience Store in ’25 is Kagy Korner Store. The welcoming, community-focused market offers a variety of everyday necessities, snacks and ice cream cones & cups, all served with a friendly small-town atmosphere that keeps customers coming back.
Beyond provisions, there’s more to shop for in maintenance of hearth and home. Owenhouse prevails in another survey cycle as the area’s Best Hardware Store. Locally owned and operated, two Bozeman locations provide a broad range of tools, home improvement products and gardening supplies, backed by knowledgeable staff dedicated to helping customers find exactly what they need.
As we enjoy the spoils of fall harvest, many are already making plans for another planting season come spring. Cashman, the trusted full-service nursery and landscaping business, provides a wide variety of healthy plants, trees and garden supplies, along with professional design and installation services to help create and care for beautiful outdoor spaces. They take Best Garden Shop / Nursery.
While the Streamline bus service is a wonderful support, it can be difficult to do what needs doin’ without a set of wheels. Best Car Dealer Ressler Motors has long been the go-to for the latest ride. Known for its wide selection of new and pre-owned vehicles, including top brands, as well as reliable service, parts and flexible financing, Ressler delivers for its customers with a strong commitment to satisfaction and community values. Their Collision Center also wins Best Autobody and Automotive Repair.
Edging out the win for Best Oil Change goes to the roadrunners at Speedy Lube. The quick and dependable auto service center specializes in oil changes, fluid checks and routine maintenance. Celebrated for its friendly staff and efficient, appointment-free service, it’s the locals’ destination for keeping their vehicles running smoothly.
A pair of new categories were introduced this year, both focusing on vehicle cleanliness and care. Scrubby’s provides the tools for self-service as the Valley’s Best Car Wash, while Bozeman Car Care’s mobile services took Best Auto Detailing for those looking for the professional treatment. Cruise through the wash or schedule a detail to keep the whip in its best form.
Rev a different sort of engine at Yellowstone Motor Sports, where gearheads get equipped for Montana’s many outdoor adventures. The powersports dealership offers a wide selection of ATVs, UTVs, motorcycles and snowmobiles. With a full parts and service department, the Best ATV / Motor Sports Store provides expert support and maintenance to help enthusiasts gear up for every season.
Cap a day in the outdoors with a dip into the rejuvenating waters of Norris Hot Springs, named Best Hot “Wada” again this year. The natural mineral hot spring destination attracts with its relaxing soaks, live music, local food and unique Montana experience in a scenic setting.
Or make a trip of it to Chico Hot Springs, the favorite for Best Overnight / Weekend Getaway year after year. The historic Montana resort nestled in Paradise Valley offers natural hot spring pools, cozy lodging, fine dining and its popular saloon with live music. It’s a favorite destination for relaxation, entertainment and unwinding.
Elevate your self-care routine with a treatment from Canyon River, christened Best Day Spa and Place for a Massage. They tender a full range of luxurious treatments and therapeutic massages designed to relax and restore. With skilled professionals and a serene environment, it’s the perfect place to de-stress and enjoy personalized care for body and mind.
Evolve Hair Design bestows fresh cuts and color on its many returning clients whose pristine ‘dos awarded the local studio with Best Hair Salon another year. The contemporary salon provides expert haircuts, custom color and innovative styling. Find lookbooks for their team of skilled stylists online, each dedicated to their clients’ looking and feeling their best.
The boys maneuver to Legends Barber Club when it’s time for a trim. They offer a range of modern and classic men’s and boys’ haircuts, with experienced barbers who focus on precision and style. Voted Best Barber Shop, clients leave looking sharp whether with a manicured beard or clean shave.
East Main Ink is game for body art for first-timers or canvass enhancements. The studio specializes in custom designs, working with clients to create tattoos tailored to their ideas, style and personality. The Best Tattoo Studio artists cover a wide range of styles, from traditional and bold color to realism, fine line work and illustrative pieces.
With facilities on the west end and downtown, the Ridge Athletic Club focuses on body work of a different class. The full-service Best Gym / Fitness Center houses everything from a heated pool, courts, and group classes to certified personal trainers, wellness resources, and a welcoming atmosphere for all ages and body types.
Montana Mixed Martial Arts, Bozeman’s long-standing MMA and Jiu‑Jitsu academy, is a venue that promotes physical health and self-defense practices. The Best Martial Arts Gym focuses on developing strength, fitness, balance and confidence in a low-ego environment that supports students for both competition or general fitness.
Peace is paramount at Ekam Yoga, whose variety of classes for all skill levels is an excellent avenue for relaxation, mindfulness and physical wellness. Your Best Yoga Studio.
Movement comes with a little sonic spice at Tanya’s Dance Co. All ages and skill levels can partake in a variety of classes, including ballet, jazz, tap, hip-hop and lyrical forms at the Best Dance Studio.
It’s all about optics at Advanced Eyecare, that is, perceiving the world around us with the clearest vision possible. The Best Optical Shop offers comprehensive eye exams, contact lens fittings, dry eye treatment and advanced diagnostic services.
Banking on a prosperous future requires just the right amount of forward-thinking, something the folks at First Security enable with their many financial resources. The community Best Bank provides personal and commercial services including loans, mortgages, traditional accounts, mobile banking and full branch network across the state.
Invest a few hard-earned dollars into your most cherished companions with the knowledgeable staff at Dee-O-Gee. The pet supply retailer deals in natural foods, treats, toys, grooming and daycare services for dogs (and some cats). They emphasize holistic, high-quality products and a pet-friendly shopping experience. Dee-O-Gee gets its paws on the prizes for Best Place for Pet Supplies and Pet Groomer.
For canine healthcare needs or that of another variety, schedule a check-up with Hardaway Veterinary Hospital. The full-service animal infirmary provides comprehensive medical, surgical and dental care for pets, with a focus on compassionate, high-quality and Bozeman’s Best Veterinary services.
Prospective pet owners and those looking to add a new member to the family wag their tails for Best Nonprofit Heart of the Valley again in ’25. A welcome community resource, HOV imparts compassionate care, shelter and second chances for unhoused pets. With adoption, education and outreach programs, they connect animals with loving families and promote responsible pet ownership.
There’s plenty of space for rascally recreation at Snowfill Recreation Area, a broad open space and the Best Place to Take Your Dog. The scenic, off-leash dog park features wide trails, rolling hills and mountain views – perfect for year-round hiking, running and play with your pup. Or take them to Story Mill Community Park when closer to town, the Best City Park.
Southwest Montanans are free to include their pooches during Hiking excursions, and often do, for the regularly enjoyed Best Outdoor Activity. Although our four-legged friends may get ahead of us, a trip up The M may be just the right amount of exertion for end-of-season outings. It was voted Best Hiking Trail this year.
In preparation of like adventures, Bob Ward’s Sports & Outdoors claimed a pair of awards for their product lines and focus on our active mountainside lifestyle. The Montana-based supplier sells outdoor gear, apparel and equipment for hunting, fishing, camping and other adventures. They win Best Outdoor Gear and Sports Equipment Store.
Waders and floaters journey west for a day on the Madison River for slow-going immersions. Voted Best River, enjoy blue-ribbon trout fishing, scenic beauty and year-round outdoor recreation.
The River’s Edge Fly Shop was hook, line and sinker for Best Fly Fishing Store this survey cycle. The premier Montana outfitter offers expert gear, guided trips and local knowledge for enthusiasts and casual anglers.
Bozeman riders need only thicker tread for the winter months, just one of the many things Owenhouse Cycling can assist with. The Best Bike Shop is run by seasoned pros who help pair locals with quality bikes, gear and expert repairs to support every ride, from mountain trails to city streets.
Cottonwood Hills gets the birdie and takes Best Golf Course this year. The locals’ course features a championship 18-hole layout, family friendly 9-hole course and stunning mountain views from its space just west of Four Corners.
Though the gorgeous fall weather may suggest otherwise, it’s nearly time to carve up the slopes at Bridger Bowl. The community-owned Best Ski Area is known for its legendary powder, diverse terrain and a laid-back, local vibe. Bridger is set to open its season with anticipated ‘Community Event Series’ on Dec. 12th!
Moving into first for Best Place to Experience Nature is Yellowstone National Park, a major draw for tourists but also accessible for returning locals to see the sights. America’s first national park is famous for its geothermal wonders, abundant wildlife, and breathtaking landscapes that draw adventurers far and wide.
There’s plenty of entertainment to be enjoyed indoors, and while Montanans love the sunshine of summer, a far less welcoming new season is upon us.
Discover some educational fun with an afternoon at Museum of the Rockies whose displays and many activities give wondrous minds a chance to learn in exciting ways. Take in a show at Taylor Planetarium or wander through the famous Siebel Dinosaur Complex, with changing exhibit Becoming Jane: The Evolution of Dr. Jane Goodall opening this month. MOR is the regular favorite for Best Place for Family Fun and Kids’ Activities.
Develop some familial history with a collaborative project at Arts on Fire, a paint-your-own pottery venue voted Best Art or Craft Studio this cycle. Visitors of all ages can pick out pre-fired bisque pieces, paint them onsite, and have them glazed and fired. They offer drop-in painting, host parties and special events, and run weekly specials to make it affordable and fun. Or pick up some supplies from Hobby Lobby who again took the prize for Best Craft / Hobby Store.
With a revered summer run of Cabaret in the can, The Ellen Theatre secured the trophy for Best Live Theatre Venue once more. With productions executed by Montana TheatreWorks, they endeavor to entertain, educate and inspire through high-quality performing arts while celebrating community and preserving the historic landmark that is their stage. Next up is Dickens holiday classic A Christmas Carol, arriving in Dec. Tickets on sale now.
Bozeman’s busiest months always have to make room for Montana Shakespeare in the Parks and this sunny season was no different. With kickoff performances of As You Like It and Henry V at the MSU Grove, the troupe hit the road for a slew of al fresco performances around the Treasure State. The outreach theatre company tours free, professional performances of Shakespeare and other classics throughout rural and underserved communities in Montana and nearby states.
Bozeman Farmers Market pulled off another squeaker for Best Local Event. The weekly evening market in a summertime Lindley Park is a family friendly gathering that features local growers, artisans, food vendors, non-profits and live music. A portion of proceeds go to support and improve Bozeman’s parks.
Another marquee Gallatin Valley event has reason to celebrate. Celebrating its 48th outing in ’25, Sweet Pea Festival is a vibrant summer tradition and voted as your Best Festival after a year off. The annual three-day arts celebration features live performances, art and craft vendors, kids’ activities and food, as well as a beer and wine garden. The festival supports local arts education and community projects.
Take in a show at The ELM when the mood strikes. Bozeman’s go-to indoor music venue supports a capacity for touring acts, offers great sound, open space and balcony views, making it perfect for catching both big-name artists and local bands. The Best Event and Music Venue is set to host upcoming shows by the likes of Old Crow Medicine Show, Molly Tuttle, Kip Moore and Margo Price, among others.
It’s been a year of change for Pinky & the Floyd, the routinely prized Best Local Band whose longtime keyboardist tragically left us last summer. Dedicated to recreating the music and atmosphere of Pink Floyd, they perform full albums and deep cuts, using elaborate visuals and a large lineup including multiple vocalists and instrumentations. They’re set to bring their “Wish You Were Here” 50th anniversary tour to Bozeman on Nov. 29th.
Take a break from the national turmoil with an attention shift to Gallatin Valley happenings with KBZK whose start and end-of-day programs collect the prizes for Best TV Morning and Evening News Show. Expect local headlines, community stories, live reports and weather updates during each broadcast, reflective of the station’s commitment to serving the Bozeman community.
Get the latest with a dash of laughs courtesy of the KSKY 106.9 morning show featuring the sprightly personalities of Dave & Ally. Blending popular country music with community-focused conversation, actually enjoy the drive to work with programming from 6–10am. The duo are repeat winners for Best Radio DJs while the country catalog on their host frequency strummed up the votes for Best Radio Station.
Urbanites may scoff at those many of us who complain about traffic, but as so many social media posts suggest – we have a problem on our hands. Platted in the late 19th century, our founding fathers may have never imagined what their passion project would evolve into. Though modifications to our roadways remain constant, so does the sprawl. Once again taking the “prize” is 11th & Durston, voted Best Place for a New Traffic Solution another year. The intersection is consistently congested and an area to avoid when school is in session.
John Bozeman and his associates may not be surprised to learn of our booming popularity for the same reasons they planted a flag beneath the Bridgers, but would surely take issue with the challenges faced by hardworking locals whose lives have become more difficult in our relentless discovery.
Best Use of Taxpayers’ Money and What Could Make Bozeman Better again go to Rent Control and Affordable Housing, respectively, as simply having a roof over one’s head lost its guarantee many years ago. Laborers and servicepeople, those individuals who keep our local economy moving, should not have to beg for basic accommodation. We’ll have to see if recent tax reform and incrementally improving housing options will serve those who deserve it the most.
Access to the Great Outdoors continues to be the gift that keeps giving, once again voted your Best THING About Bozeman. There’s no denying this major perk of our locality sees many of us accepting the increasing challenges of everyday life in Southwest Montana as we enjoy the surrounding natural playground. A sweet escape into the fresh mountain air offers a certain serenity confronting our growing pains does not, but remains of the greatest reminders of why this is home. •
