48 Hours in Bozeman MT

We visited booming Bozeman in winter of 2022. With pandemic relocations to remote areas for work from home folks, we found a town growing quickly and struggling to find or house the workers needed to keep things running smoothly. Luckily, this challenging economy didn’t affect our recent visit prior to our Natural Habitat tour of Yellowstone in winter to see wildlife. (see our report here)

We arrived to settle into the Kimpton Armory Hotel, an historic boutique property now owned by the IHG group, just a block from the main street. We enjoyed prowling the shops and cafes along the main road. The number of outdoor gear outfitters and art galleries was a testament to the two major activities people are coming to Bozeman for these days; as a jumping off point for the great outdoors and Yellowstone National Park and to feather their newly built or remodeled second homes.

One day we made our way to the Museum of the Rockies, an interesting museum featuring exhibits about the history, geology, native culture and paleontology of the area. We decided to walk via the popular “Main St to the Mountains” rail trail, called the Gallagator, after the rail line that once existed there. Along the trial are several sculpture parks and other urban parks to explore. The rail trail will take you to the MOR and Montana State College.

Of particular interest at the Museum of the Rockies is the large collection of fossils that have been found in the area. Some of the best perserved fossils in the world are displayed at the MOR, including a T Rex.

In addition to exploring the Main Street, we had the opportunity to try some local specialties (bison burgers, and locally made pastry, ice cream and caramels) at a variety of restaurants and shops. Be sure to check out Wild Crumb, a bit off the beaten path for amazing baked goods, and pick up some locally made Bequet Caramels at the Coop. For dining, Urban Kitchen, and Copper Whiskey Bar and Grill provided memorable meals in distinctive settings!