The city of Bozeman is growing and thriving, and its sister city, Belgrade, is not far behind. Located minutes from Bozeman Yellowstone Airport, Belgrade boasts a charming downtown, quality dining, easy access to Montana attractions, plus a slightly slower pace than the “big city” of Bozeman. As the Gallatin Valley continues to attract new residents and visitors, Belgrade is experiencing its own growth, becoming a place where many locals make their homes and build their businesses. If you’re planning a trip to the area, it’s definitely worth a visit.
All About Belgrade
Belgrade is a community of a little over 11,000 people in the Gallatin Valley, just a few miles west of Bozeman. Named after the capital of Serbia (yes, really!), the town was established when the Northern Pacific Railroad came through in 1883. Known as “the Princess of the Prairie,” the Belgrade area is growing just about as quickly as Bozeman, but it has maintained its small-town feel and family-friendly atmosphere.
Mackenzie River Pizza
Classic Food Favorites
The Belgrade restaurant scene offers several outposts of Bozemanite favorites, including Cosmic Pizza, Mackenzie River Pizza, Rice, and Fiesta Mexicana. Belgrade also has one of the best authentic Indian restaurants in the area, Curry Express. Although it’s changed hands a few times over the years, The Mint is a staple of the regional dining scene and a place that even Bozemanites will drive to for a Montana-style dinner. A New Day Bakery is another Gallatin Valley favorite, with some of the best (and most creative) donuts and pastries in the area. Cafe Havana, a Belgrade institution for years, is a beloved coffee shop with killer Cuban coffee (get it just the way they make it) plus some delicious breakfast and lunch options, too. Finally, Madison River Brewing Company offers a diverse selection of beer, free popcorn, and a friendly, welcoming vibe.
The Local
New On The Scene
Belgrade has also welcomed several new eateries:
Cugino’s Pizzeria and Italian Restaurant: With East Coast roots and a history that goes back to 1981, Cugino’s (which means “cousins” in Italians) offers Italian classics, hoagies, and a great selection of pies.
The Local American Saloon: Better known as “The Local,” this new addition is a great place to head for a family-friendly atmosphere or to hit up later for some fun nightlife.
Bone Broth Noodles: A classic pho joint, Bone Broth Noodles also serves up excellent spring rolls, ramen, and other Vietnamese favorites.
Out and About
Lewis & Clark Park is a small but lovely park right in the middle of downtown. In the summer, cool off in the splash park for kids and families and visit the happening weekly farmer’s market. In fall and winter, it’s a nice place for a stroll with a warm coffee or hot chocolate. In Belgrade, you can also find laser tag, an escape room, and a small but thriving downtown worth exploring.
Gateway to the West
Like many other cities in the Gallatin Valley, Belgrade offers quick access to some of Montana’s most popular destinations, including Yellowstone National Park (2 hours), Big Sky (1 hour), Livingston, Montana (20 minutes), White Sulfur Springs (1.5 hours), Lewis & Clark Caverns (45 minutes) and of course, Bozeman (10 minutes). It’s also a hub for skiing, hiking, fly fishing, and any other outdoor activities you might want to experience while visiting Montana.
If you’re taking a trip to the Gallatin Valley, consider spending an afternoon in Belgrade for its small-town vibe, great dining, and easy access to all Montana has to offer. The crowds are smaller, the waits are shorter, and the mountains are just as beautiful in Belgrade.
If you enjoyed this blog, take a look at some of our other related articles:
- The Best Breweries in Bozeman
- 10 Things to Do During Mud Season
- Spring Wildlife Watching in Yellowstone
In our never-ending quest to keep up with all things new in Bozeman, we have been producing content for years and can't possibly update every blog when new businesses open or existing businesses close. Please reference the publish date and do your own due diligence when making plans.