23 Best Free Things to do in Bozeman You Will Love in 2023

Bozeman, Montana is known for its endless outdoor activities and excursions you can embark on near and around the city.

Bozeman has incredible shops, restaurants, and entertainment you can check out.

As frequent travelers, we know that Bozeman stands out as a great city to explore in Montana.

Be sure to continue reading this article to discover the best free things to do in Bozeman that are sure to make your time in the city more memorable!

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The Best Free Things to do in Bozeman

1. Walk in Downtown Bozeman

Downtown Bozeman has something to offer for everyone! Whether you are interested in popping by one of the local art galleries, shopping at one of the outdoor retailers, or grabbing a quick bite to eat, the options in downtown Bozeman are endless. 

For those looking to save some money, walking in downtown Bozeman is a great option to experience the local life and take in the views of this bustling city, all without spending a dime. 

2. Listen to Bands at Music on Main

A fun and free activity to do during the summer months is to head down to the Historic Downtown Bozeman area and catch live music on Thursday’s from 6:30 PM to 8:30 PM from early July to mid August. 

Music on Main is an awesome way to experience the local atmosphere and listen to bands that are both local and visiting the area.

3. Visit Palisade Falls

Nothing screams summer in Montana quite like Palisade Falls. This is a beautiful waterfall near Bozeman and a great way to spend some time outdoors admiring the gorgeous Montana landscape. 

The hike to Palisade Falls is roughly 1 mile out and back making it a perfect hike for individuals, couples, and families to enjoy! 

4. Go to the Bozeman Farmers Market and Shop Locally

One of the best free things to do in Bozeman is to stroll around the Bozeman Farmers Market.

This is an excellent opportunity to meet locals, admire handcrafted artwork, check out locally grown produce and so much more. 

5. Float Down the Gallatin River

One of our favorite things to do during the warmer months is to go kayaking! Of course, this requires you to have your own kayak in order for the activity to be considered “free.” 

However, if you are visiting the area for the first time and don’t have your own ride, floating down the Gallatin River is a fairly inexpensive option that just requires you to rent a kayak for the day! 

6. Be Entertained at Shakespeare in the Parks

For those looking to brush up on their Shakespeare, this is a great opportunity to head outside and enjoy some entertainment.

Not only is this an awesome educational experience but it’s also a great way to enjoy time outdoors with friends and loved ones.

7. Take a Day Trip

Taking a day trip from Bozeman is one of the best ways to explore the state of Montana and discover some of the hidden gems that the state has to offer!

There are countless options to choose from but some of our favorite places to visit within a short drive are Big Sky, Yellowstone National Park, and Livingston!

8. Take in the Views of Gallatin Canyon

Whether you want to take in the view of Gallatin Canyon from your car on a road trip or you would rather pull over and take on one of the many hikes in the area, the Gallatin Canyon has to be on your free things to do in Bozeman bucket list. 

9. Read a Book at the Bozeman Public Library

Another fantastic option for free things to do in Bozeman is to stop by the Bozeman Public Library!

This is an awesome option for those looking to read a great novel and spend some time diving into a new book. 

10. Go Camping 

We are a big camping family and love going camping all year round… what better place to go camping than the beautiful state of Montana? 

Not only is this a great option to get outside and spend some quality time with friends and family but it is also a free option for those that already have camping gear and equipment. 

So pack your favorite tent for hot weather camping, your go-to folding camping table, your best-loved camping fan, and any other camping essentials you need and head out to one of the many breathtaking camping spots near Bozeman. 

11. Take a Hike on the Grotto Falls Trail

Hiking the Grotto Falls Trail is a great option for those looking to spend some time in the great outdoors and to get a little sweat on while doing so!

This hike is about 2 and a half miles out and back and is a great easy hike for families with kids.

12. Learn More at the Emerson Cultural Center

The Emerson Cultural Center is an excellent place to visit for those looking to learn more about art and culture.

Whether you are looking to take a class and learn a new skill or you want to explore one of their many excellent exhibits, the Emerson Cultural Center has something to offer for everyone and is a great place to visit for those looking to acquire new knowledge. 

13. Go Trekking on the Middle Cottonwood Trailhead

The Middle Cottonwood Trail is a great hike for those looking for a bit more of a challenge but that is still only about 2 miles in length out and back. 

We recommend bringing along your favorite hiking socks to prevent blisters as well as your favorite energy bars for hiking so that you have the most optimal experience while out exploring the Montana wilderness. 

14. Go for a Brisk Walk at Gallatin County Regional Park

Walking is one of our favorite things to do year round, it is a great way to get outside and enjoy the sunshine and it keeps your mind and body in shape! 

The Gallatin County Regional Park is a great place to visit for those looking to go on a nice scenic walk near Bozeman. 

15. Go Fly Fishing

One of the most popular sports and outdoor recreational activities in the state of Montana is fly fishing!

Be sure to bring your favorite tackle box and long sleeve fishing shirt so that you come prepared to spend hours catching some of the best fish while visiting the Bozeman area. 

For those visiting the area that did not bring their own equipment, consider spending some extra money and going on a fly fishing tour!

This is a great way to experience fly fishing, learn from local guides, and create memories that are sure to last a lifetime. 

16. Go Kayaking on Glen Lake Rotary Park

Kayaking on Glen Lake Rotary Park is another phenomenal option for free things to do in Bozeman.

Not only is this a great way to get outside and enjoy some fresh air but it is an awesome opportunity to do a little exercise as well. 

17. Walk Around the Gallatin Valley Mall

The Gallatin Valley Mall is a great place to visit in the Bozeman area and is an awesome option for those that are looking for free things to do in the area.

Walking around the mall is a great option for those that love to window shop and will keep you entertained for hours!

18. Go for a Picnic

Picnics are one of the most underrated activities to do during the spring, summer, and fall months.

This is an awesome opportunity to pack up some supplies and ingredients that you already have at home or in your rental and head outdoors to enjoy a meal. 

19. Take in the Local Art at Mountain Arts Pottery

For those looking to take in the sight of some truly beautiful handcrafted pottery, head over to Mountain Arts Pottery where you can look at countless household, kitchen, and dining options that are so intricate and beautiful. 

20. Visit One of Montana’s Free Hidden Gems

Montana has countless hidden gems for visitors and locals alike to explore!

Be sure to check out this post on the best hidden gems in Montana so that you can discover some sights that are less touristy and trafficked than some of the main attractions that Bozeman and the state of Montana has to offer. 

21. Soak in the Sun at Bozeman Beach

Bozeman Beach is located at Gallatin County Regional Park and is a great place to visit for those looking to hang out with the locals.

Be sure to pack your favorite towel, sunscreen, sandals, and bathing suit and go for a swim or relax by the water and take in the Montana sun!

22. Visit the Last Wind-Up 

The Last Wind-Up is a shop in the Bozeman area known for their new and vintage watches.

This is a great place to visit for those interested in watches and for those just looking to stop by and take in the countless watches on display throughout the store. 

23. Go Mountain Biking

Another extremely popular activity to enjoy in the state of Montana is mountain biking!

This is a great opportunity to go on a thrilling ride and take in the mountainous landscape throughout the state.

Where to Stay in Bozeman:

There are countless great places to stay in the Bozeman area! Check out our personal recommendations below.

Budget-friendly Option: MountainView Lodge and Suites – It’s important to note that Bozeman is not a super budget friendly city when it comes to accommodations. However, this is a great “budget friendly” option for those looking to save a little bit of money, compared to other hotels in the area. Plus, it has an indoor pool and hot tub for guests to enjoy!

Mid-range Option: Hilton Garden Inn Bozeman – This hotel is an excellent mid-range option for those looking for a great price, an indoor pool, and simplicity.

Luxury Option: Kimpton Armory Hotel Bozeman – We love this hotel for its beautiful aesthetic and incredible amenities including a rooftop pool and awesome fitness center. Additionally, it’s location is phenomenal right near Main Street and endless restaurants, bars, and shopping.

For more accommodations in the area, check out the map below!

FAQs About Free Things to do in Bozeman

What is Bozeman Montana most known for?

Bozeman is known for outdoor activities, excellent fly fishing, delicious restaurants, and western vibe. 

Is Bozeman a walkable city?

Downtown Bozeman is very walkable! You can walk to countless hotels, restaurants, bars, and shops in the area.

However, we recommend renting a car so that you can explore all that Montana has to offer by participating in outdoor recreational activities, going on day trips, and even visiting the mountains nearby. 

Why do people love Bozeman?

People love Bozeman because of the endless activities that you can do in the city and in the nearby areas.

Some of these activities include fly fishing, skiing and snowboarding, hiking, and so much more. 

How many days do you need in Bozeman?

We recommend spending at least 2-3 days in the Bozeman area, however, the longer the better so that you can truly take in all that Bozeman has to offer!

We hope you enjoyed this article on the best free things to do in Bozeman!

For similar posts, be sure to check out Montana in October. Happy Exploring!