Only In Bozeman

Montana is romantic, with landscapes so picturesque they serve as movie backdrops, along with big skies, wide-open spaces, and a laid-back vibe. It doesn’t get much better as a wedding destination, especially for those who love a mountain vacation.

A short getaway can do wonders for the soul. Sharing it with the one you love makes it even better. For couples seeking a long weekend, Bozeman is an ideal destination, with the combination of outdoor recreation and urban sophistication that makes for a perfect blend of R&R.

Undoubtedly, Bozeman's natural beauty is what draws people. More than one vacationer has found themselves changing their life course after visiting Bozeman and deciding to relocate to the mountains. No matter which direction you arrive, the views are awe-inspiring. Here, our air is clean, the water is fresh, and we enjoy an endless outdoor playground. We have a lot to be grateful for.

Some may think of Montana as a meat and potatoes kind of state, but that’s not all we’ve got cookin’; vegetarians will be thrilled with the chefs’ culinary prowess in Bozeman. For a small city tucked up in the mountains, the variety and quality of food rivals many urban cities. The rich soil in the Gallatin Valley has long produced a wide variety of vegetables and herbs, and many restaurants work with growers to source their ingredients. Not only are the dishes delicious, but they are also dense in nutrients and easy on the environment. This list is by no means exhaustive, but we’ve amassed ten of our favorites. Bon appétit!

Après-ski is a ritual. After a day of ripping it up on the slopes, there is nothing better than a cold beer and some tasty noshes with friends at the pub. Or enjoying a hot beverage, sitting around a fireplace, warming your cold fingers and toes. It's a way to commune, to swap stories, and to hold on to that last bit of camaraderie. So, what happens in a year where public gatherings are off-limits? You get creative! We'll gather again soon enough, but in the meantime, we've outlined some of our favorite pandemic-style, physically distanced entertainment to get you through this season. Hopefully, by next winter, we'll be back at the pub, toasting the powder gods and telling stories.

Maybe because ski season ended early last year, or perhaps because they are nervous about spending too much time indoors this winter, but many people are already chomping at the bit for ski season to start! Social media feeds fill with shots of powder, and countdowns, until the lifts start turning, have begun. Our local ski areas are working diligently, putting measures in place to open safely.

While winter is indeed beautiful in Bozeman, and the outdoor opportunities are plentiful, the short days and colder temperatures have a real effect on our bodies. The limited sunshine, which regulates our circadian rhythms, creates metabolic changes; serotonin, the feel-good neurotransmitter, is decreased, and melatonin, which makes us sleepier and more prone to sadness, is increased. During winter (and a pandemic), we tend to be less social, spending more time indoors and less time with other people. This time of year, in Bozeman, the sun is setting around 4:30 p.m., which makes the days seem incredibly short!

The Gallatin Valley is dynamic. Rich, fertile soils with fresh waters running through keep our rich agricultural legacy going strong. Yet, the mountains surrounding these open areas are what define Bozeman. A rugged playground for adventurers of all ages and abilities — a place of respite from modern world rigors. Visitors come from around the globe to explore these mountains, taking home unforgettable memories of challenging terrain, spectacular vistas, and the sense of wonder and accomplishment that comes with each adventure.

Bozeman is quaint on an average day, but the level goes up a substantial notch when the holidays roll around. And when it snows? Hallmark material. It gets dark early this time of year, perfect for perusing the holiday lights. There are several places to explore throughout Gallatin Valley, so don't feel you need to do it all in one night--take your time and enjoy this holiday tradition throughout the month.