Local faves picked by those who know Best
A subtle southside roar can be heard across town – not from hungry bears wandering the city streets for their fall forage, but from the Bobcat faithful whose roster of student-athletes have returned to the field following a historic Championship win.
This being one of many sounds of the changing season, locals are finding time to enjoy flannel-leaning activities and autumn brilliance while quietly eyeing the mountains, wondering when and how severely the winter hammer will drop.
Prior to a stretch of gatherings among family and friends to a classic holiday soundtrack, the seasonal shift too brings an occasion to celebrate all the reasons we continue to call Southwest Montana home through every turn of the calendar.
The votes have been counted for the annual Best of Bozeman community survey, the original roundup of the area’s favorite food and beverage destinations, cultural happenings and live music, recreational pursuits and everyday services. As determined by the passionate locals who took the time to weigh in, take a closer look at Bozeman’s best.
A piquing interest for indoor entertainment is in the air as the shortened days and lower temps provide a convenient excuse to seek sheltered merriment.
Museum of the Rockies offers an easy way to combine family time with a little education. Visitors can explore the Siebel Dinosaur Complex, catch a show at Taylor Planetarium and take in rotating exhibits, including Popnology: Celebrating Pop Culture’s Impact on Science & Technology opening this month alongside an Indigenous fashion event and some spooky happenings for all age groups. MOR remains the perennial favorite for Best Place for Family Fun and Kids’ Activities.
For a hands-on creative outing, Arts on Fire lets visitors turn blank bisque pottery into something considerably more personal. Guests can choose a piece, paint it on-site and have it professionally glazed and fired. Drop-in sessions, parties, specials and events keep the Best Art or Craft Studio accessible to all ages and budgets.
After a celebrated summer run of The Music Man, The Ellen Theatre has unsurprisingly been named Best Live Theatre Venue. Montana TheatreWorks fills the historic space with productions designed to entertain, educate and inspire while keeping one of Bozeman’s landmark stages active. Coming this holiday season, the Ellen stage unwraps Irving Berlin’s White Christmas. Stay tuned for details.
Summer in Bozeman wouldn’t feel complete without Montana Shakespeare in the Parks making its annual appearance. This season began at the MSU Grove with The Merchant of Venice and Much Ado About Nothing before the troupe headed out across the 41st and neighboring states. The company continues its mission of bringing professional, free Shakespeare and other classic works to rural and underserved communities.
Bozeman Farmers Market once again edges out the competition for Best Local Event. The weekly summer gathering at Lindley Park brings together growers, artisans, food vendors, nonprofits and musicians for a family friendly evening in the park. A portion of proceeds helps support and improve Bozeman’s parks.
Claiming the trophy for Best Festival this year is Big Sky Country State Fair. The event brings classic Montana summer fun to the Fairgrounds with carnival rides, live music, food, a Biergarten, 4-H and livestock exhibits, a petting zoo and rodeo action. Blending Gallatin Valley’s agricultural roots with plenty of summer entertainment, it’s a quintessential Bozeman tradition for the whole family.
When the weather turns questionable, The ELM provides a reliable roof over the concert crowd. The indoor venue combines strong acoustics, open floor space and balcony views while bringing both touring headliners and local musicians to the stage. The Best Event and Music Venue has another busy schedule ahead, including Big Thief, Shovels & Rope, Steel Pulse, Shakey Graves and SoDown.
Fresh off their “Back 2 School” headlining show, Pinky & the Floyd have continued reason to celebrate as Best Local Band. The popular tribute’s performances recreate the sound and atmosphere of Pink Floyd with full albums, deep cuts, elaborate visuals and a large ensemble of musicians and vocalists. The group has its sights set on spring with their “Animals 50th Anniversary Tour” set for March in Missoula and Bozeman.
Of the most significant additions to the local hospitality landscape has of course been craft libations. For a town surrounded by mountains, rivers and an impressive tolerance for cold weather, it seems only logical homegrown suds and spirits would splash a little something extra on the mosaic.
MAP Brewing once again claims Best Brewery, with its Glen Lake location providing one of the better places in town to enjoy both a pint and mountain view. The northside brewery makes its beer on-site, serves scarfable grub and offers plenty of room to spread out. Best Patio comes along for the ride, while Midas Crush IPA earns Best Local Beer Flavor. The brewery’s Tasting Room also features favorite and rotating Best Local Beer Crafter concoctions.
For sheer variety, SHINE Beer Sanctuary remains the place to browse the Best Beer Selection when choosing what to have poured. The community-minded hotspot offers a deep selection of craft beer on tap, along with cider and wine, while the bottle shop allows customers to continue the experience at home. LaPa Grill & Soup Shack handles the food side of things with tacos, loaded chips, salads and more.
Mountains Walking Brewery pairs its locally crafted beers with a full food menu that deserves plenty of attention of its own. Dishes are made from scratch, with wood-fired pizza, burgers, wings, sandwiches and seasonal specials coming out of the kitchen. The family owned brewery is a go-to for a relaxed meal of the area’s Best Bar Food and a good pint.
WildRye Distilling brings a distinctly Montana twist to craft spirits, producing small-batch bourbon, rye, gin, vodka and rum from locally grown ingredients. Located in Bozeman’s Cannery District, its tasting room offers handcrafted cocktails, flights and bottles to take home. Voted Best Distillery, sip on pure bliss with a relaxed, distinctly Bozeman vibe.
Few things keep a community moving quite like food and drink, and Bozeman has developed a formidable array of places to eat, sip and indulge. Fortunately for those of us who consider cooking an optional hobby, there’s no shortage of alternatives.
Locally roasted specialty coffee and a strong sense of community kicks off a new day at Ghost Town Coffee Roasters, your pick for Best Coffee. Their cafés offer expertly crafted drinks alongside treats sweet and savory. With several locations around town, Ghost Town has become a go-to for quality coffee, a quick bite or comfortable place to hang.
When the morning air gets a little too crisp for comfort, Wild Joe*s Coffee Spot provides a reliable downtown refuge. The longtime favorite serves up caffeine and sustenance in a welcoming setting where anyone can find a seat and reason to linger. Their monthly art installations add some color to the walls, while the easygoing atmosphere makes conversation as organic as the ground beans. They take home Best Coffeehouse this year.
For commuters whose morning schedule leaves no time to chat, Jump Start Espresso has the drive-through solution. Named Best Coffee Hut, Jump Start keeps the caffeine flowing for travelers in both Bozeman and Belgrade. It’s the sort of place that understands some mornings require coffee first and questions later.
For those whose relationship with coffee is complicated, Steep Mountain Tea provides a calmer alternative. Inspired by the landscape surrounding us, the local tea shop offers a relaxed environment suited to quiet work or discussion. Bubble tea and kombucha are available by the cup, while loose-leaf selections can make their way home with you. Voted Best Tea, Steep Mountain also makes ordering online easy.
For a different kind of daytime pick-me-up, head to Nekter Juice Bar whose made-to-order juices, smoothies and colorful açaí bowls squeeze the win for Best Juice & Craft Beverage Bar. They also offer cleanses, wellness shots and customizable options, making it an easy stop for a nutritious breakfast, post-workout boost or much needed afternoon invigoration.
Eventually, even the healthiest among us must confront the pastry case. Wild Crumb forces the issue with an assortment of imaginative sweets alongside its lineup of handcrafted artisan breads. Whether the mission calls for a loaf of bread, homemade pie, cake or a single treat that suddenly becomes three, the returning Best Bakery winner has the goods.
On the other side of town, Granny’s Gourmet Donuts continues its campaign for the sweet tooth. Traditional glazed rings, rotating specials and other sugary temptations have helped this mom-and-pop operation hold onto Best Donuts, Pastries & Sweets. Stop by Friday through Sunday for your fix.
For a breakfast that doesn’t require an Instagram filter, The Western Café remains a downtown institution with thanks to its Authentic Montana Ambiance. The downtown greasy spoon serves up the sort of substantial American fare designed to fuel a full day of Montana activity. Chicken fried steak and eggs, biscuits and gravy, and Bobcat French toast remain among the draws at the “Last Best Café,” which once again claims Best Breakfast.
By lunchtime, Bozeman’s dining scene has plenty of options for keeping the workday wheels turning. Revelry takes over Best Lunch this year. Its warm, modern-rustic surroundings provide the backdrop for a social or working meal, with wood-fired pizzas, burgers, pasta and pub-inspired dishes filling out the menu. In and outdoor seating available. Revelry is also your pick for Best Fine Dining.
Fink’s Delicatessen subs in for Best Sandwich this cycle, building on their thoughtfully crafted sandwiches, soups and salads. From classic pastrami and Cubanos to creative vegetarian options, the northside deli also offers a tempting selection of specialty cheeses and charcuterie. It’s an easy stop for a quality lunch, takeout or picnic provisions.
Another sammy shop, Pickle Barrel, stacks up cold cuts and hot hoagies in halves or wholes, with chips, drinks and dessert available for those unwilling to leave lunch at merely one course. Their wallet-friendly menu earns them Best Inexpensive Restaurant.
Backcountry Burger Bar operates with a downtown menu built around creative burgers, small plates and salads. Add something cold from the craft beer selection and you’ve got a respectable midday recharge. They retain the title of Best Burger, with the kitchen serving up its offerings seven days a week.
Cholms Burger keeps things simple with seriously satisfying smash burgers served from its Best Food Truck on N 7th. Made with Montana beef and cooked with crisp, seared edges, the burgers come in classic and spicy variations, with beef-tallow fries and fry sauce rounding out the menu. It’s casual, no-frills Bozeman burger fare that hits the spot.
Mo’Bowls boxes up your next dash n’ dine with Best Take-Out. Their menu keeps the mac n’ cheese game strong, including a zesty variety that has earned plenty of fans. They sling orders from their brick-and-mortar space in University Square and a mobile unit that pops up at various locations around town.
For a taste of south-of-the-border favorites, Plaza Azteca brings a lively taste to the Cannery District. They serve up your Best Mexican in the form of traditional plates alongside specialties like birria tacos, ramen, carne asada and fresh tableside guacamole. A full cocktail menu, including margaritas and creative drinks, makes it an easy choice for casual meetings of the mind.
Even though Montana is about as landlocked as it gets, that hasn’t stopped Bozeman from developing an appetite for seafood. Seven Sushi satisfies the craving with a selection of maki, sashimi and nigiri, often accompanied by sake or Sapporo. The northside restaurant earns both Best Sushi and Place to Eat Seafood.
Comfortable in its new home, I-Ho’s Korean Grill continues the family centered tradition established by its founder. Diners can settle in for recipes rooted in generations of cooking while enjoying the casual, welcoming atmosphere. The result once again earns votes for Best Korean – a fitting continuation of I-Ho’s original vision.
Best Asian goes to Shan this year for their marriage of Thai and Chinese flavors using local ingredients. The cozy, dinner-focused spot specializes in flavorful small plates, noodles, curries and barbecue, with area beef, lamb and bison featured throughout the menu. A James Beard finalist a few years back, Shan offers a lively, shareable dining experience with plenty of bold flavors and a distinctly Montana twist.
Pakeezah remains the neighborhood favorite for Best Indian. Their menu ranges from flavorful naan and clay-oven specialties to entrées featuring chicken, lamb and goat, with seafood also available. Pair the meal with wine, beer or a traditional Indian beverage and settle in for deliciousness.
Fresco Café is back atop the Best Italian category, serving classic dishes with plenty of attention to detail. The intimate downtown setting lends itself nicely to celebrations, date nights or treating dinner as a much more sophisticated affair than the usual weeknight routine. Start with antipasto, select an entrée and leave the bib to its duty.
Sidewinders American Grill continues to be a gathering place for groups, families and anyone looking for straightforward American comfort food. The west end restaurant’s roomy setting makes it especially suited to larger parties, while shareable starters help explain its Best Appetizer win. It also collects Best Family Friendly Restaurant and, as always, supports our brave many service members.
There’s a new name on the Best New Restaurant plaque, with Preshift Café & Pizzeria taking the title in 2026. They bring New York-style pizza downtown, serving whole pies and rotating slices alongside breakfast burritos, smashburgers, sandwiches and salads. House-made dough, quality ingredients and creative specialty Best Pizza – including the Proper Pepperoni with hot honey and burrata – make it a versatile stop from lunch hour through late-night slices.
Montana Ale Works continues its reign in the Best Chef category, thanks to a kitchen that knows how to give familiar comfort food a little extra horsepower. Housed in a restored freight house, the popular gathering place for Casual Dining combines locally sourced ingredients with a substantial Montana craft beer list and lively indoor and outdoor seating. The restaurant also earns Best Place for a First Date and Restaurant – Dessert.
Texas Roadhouse wrangles the trophy buckle for Best Restaurant in this year’s survey. The Western-themed chain has built its following around hand-cut steaks, fall-apart ribs, scratch-made sides and an energetic atmosphere. Judging by the crowds, plenty of Bozeman diners were willing to saddle up. The Roadhouse also claimed the top spot for Best BBQ and Steak.
There’s always room for dessert, especially when Genuine Ice Cream is involved. The small-batch creamery makes its ice cream by hand using premium local ingredients and recipes developed in-house. Classic flavors share the case with seasonal experiments and dairy-free selections, earning another Best Ice Cream Shop victory. Pick up a scoop at the Peach St shop or hunt down one of those recognizable pink pints around town.
An oldie but a goodie – The Crystal is your Best Bar. The bona fide Bozeman institution opened its doors in 1933 and has held on to the unpolished character of a classic downtown dive. Known for cheap drinks, quirky décor, strong pours and a lively local atmosphere, the Crystal also features a seasonal rooftop garden that’s a popular summer hangout.
Also downtown, Plonk continues to attract votes for Best Cocktails. The stylish spot pairs an expansive international wine list with creative cocktails, seasonal food and mood enhanced by the space’s exposed brick and comfortable seating with plenty of visual appeal. Best Place for Girls’ Night Out adds another honor to the tally.
Alternatively, Hide-A-Way Lounge is a laid-back watering hole offering cold drinks, friendly service and a classic neighborhood bar for your next Guys’ Night Out. It’s a low-key spot to kick back, grab a drink and let the evening unfold.
Brigade brings a little downtown polish to the after-work game, with creative cocktails, good food and a lively Main Street setting. The daily Best Happy Hour serves up martinis and draft beers at a discount alongside oysters, starters and shareable plates. It’s the kind of place that makes “just one drink” and a quick bite a dangerous promise.
Spectators Sports Bar & Grill is our longtime game-day headquarters, especially for Bobcats fans. With dozens of screens, major sports packages and a menu loaded with wings, burgers, pizza, nachos and other classic bar fare, it’s built for settling in and watching the action. The Best Sports Bar attracts with daily food and drink specials, full bar and a guaranteed camaraderie for those looking to catch the game with a crowd.
The Jump in Gallatin Gateway is the local destination for country dancing, live music and a healthy dose of Montana tomfoolery. With a spacious floor as the Best Place to Dance with regular country bands and DJs, it’s the place to pull on the boots, grab a partner and two-step the night away.
Bar IX takes a more specific prize as Best Place to Meet Singles. The high-energy downtown bar provides plenty of opportunity for conversation, happy hour mingling and whatever happens after the sun goes down. Add a casual food menu and creekside patio, and the stage is set for a little nighttime socializing. Voters have also settled on Bar IX for Best Nightlife.
If singing in public – regardless of any actual ability – is on the agenda, the American Legion has you covered. Guided mic nights give aspiring vocalists a microphone and everyone else an opportunity to cheer them on. Best Karaoke belongs to the Legion this year.
When last night got a little more ambitious than planned, Bagel Works is ready with the Best Hangover Cure. Fresh-baked bagels piled with hearty breakfast fillings, sandwiches and plenty of coffee make this standby a reliable destination for shaking off a late one. Put down a bagel and some caffeine before slowly returning to civilization.
For those choosing to responsibly stock their own home bar, Belgrade Liquor offers a massive selection of spirits, wine and ready-to-drink options, including plenty of Montana-made choices. Their carefully assembled inventory earns Best Liquor Store.
Montana Spirits & Wine offers a different kind of tour – one that requires considerably less travel. With an extensive selection of vino spanning everything from crisp whites and sparkling varieties to robust reds and dessert wines, the shop has an answer for every occasion. Whether you’re planning dinner for a crowd or simply looking for something interesting to uncork, this Best Wine Shop has you covered.
Cannabis shoppers can find their own version of the local experience at Collective Elevation. The dispensary focuses on organic, living-soil-grown cannabis and offers flower, edibles, vapes and concentrates. Two Bozeman locations help make it convenient, while another Best Dispensary win confirms that the operation remains a local favorite.
Of course, food, drink and nightlife are only part of what keeps Bozeman moving. Beyond the restaurants and bars is an extensive network of local businesses providing everything from home furnishings and clothing to services that keep residents looking and functioning well.
For something worthy of the wall, Altitude Gallery offers an eclectic collection of contemporary work from Montana and beyond. Paintings, pottery, blown glass, jewelry, photography and sculpture fill the gallery, with an emphasis on making original art accessible. The selection earns another Best Art Gallery title.
Old Main Gallery & Framing does more than showcase fine Western and contemporary art – it also helps make sure your own treasures look their best. Their custom framing services offer a wide range of styles, materials and finishes, with expert guidance to create a finished piece worthy of the wall. Best Frame Shop returns to this local fave.
For treasures with a little more history attached, Antique Barn provides plenty of places to dig. Its spacious mall is filled with vendor booths featuring antiques, vintage gifts, custom furniture, yard art and locally made décor. Sales and special events occasionally add to the offerings, while the sheer variety helps it retain Best Antique Store.
Sometimes the best furnishing for a room is the one somebody else has already owned. Used Furniture Store specializes in clean, quality secondhand pieces, home goods and décor, with thousands of items moving through the store. They also purchase furniture from locals and offer estimates and pickup, earning both Best Furniture and Used Furniture Store.
A bare table can always use a little life, and Labellum is happy to provide it. The modern floral boutique creates seasonal arrangements, carries plants and gifts, and specializes in custom wedding and events. Their work once again earns Best Florist.
For those who prefer their entertainment in paperback, Country Bookshelf remains the place to browse. The independent bookstore fills two floors with carefully selected titles spanning a wide range of genres, alongside stationery, gifts and regular author and book-club events. Another Best Bookstore win keeps the pages turning.
Musicians have been turning to Music Villa since the 70s, and the tradition continues with another Best Instrument Store award. The full-service shop carries guitars, amps, drums, keyboards, professional sound equipment and accessories, while repairs, rentals, lessons and in-store performances round out the operation.
Few Bozeman businesses have developed the local cult following of Cactus Records & Gifts. Part record store, part novelty emporium and part reliable source of wonderfully weird stuff, the downtown institution stocks new and used vinyl, CDs, cassettes, apparel, gifts and assorted oddities. It remains Best Record Store and continues to be a fixture of local Record Store Day festivities.
Somehow, gift-giving season is already knocking on the door, which means Heyday shoppers have a head start on finding something that doesn’t scream “I bought this at the last minute.” The lifestyle boutique curates home goods, jewelry, stationery, children’s items as well as beauty and wellness products, with locally sourced selections mixed among finds from farther afield. Best Unique Gifts and Gifts for Her both go to Heyday.
For the menfolk, Murdoch’s Ranch & Home Supply continues to be the place to roam. The Western-oriented retailer covers clothing and boots, tools, hardware, sporting goods and outdoor equipment, making Best Gifts for Him a natural fit. Murdoch’s has also been voted Best Shoe Store this year with soles for the whole family.
Reclaiming the crown for Best Clothing Store is EVRGREEN Clothing for their fresh, contemporary edge in Downtown Bozeman’s shopping scene. They offer thoughtfully selected apparel, footwear and accessories with an emphasis on everyday style. The fashion-forward needn’t look further to add a little personality to the wardrobe without sacrificing Montana practicality.
For jewelry with a little 406 sparkle, Alara Jewelry brings together distinctive pieces and ethically sourced materials, including Montana and Yogo sapphires. The downtown gallery also offers custom design, repairs and work produced by its in-house artisans. Best Place to Buy Jewelry goes to Alara.
Best Thrift Store Do Overs makes the hunt for secondhand treasures part of the fun. The local shop offers a constantly changing mix of clothing, home goods, furniture and other finds, giving savvy shoppers plenty of reasons to browse, dig and see what turns up. It’s affordable, sustainable shopping with a little treasure-hunt energy thrown in.
Bozeman Running Company helps locals gear up for miles of Montana adventure, from neighborhood runs to steep mountain trails. The shop carries a carefully selected range of running shoes, apparel and gear, with knowledgeable staff ready to dial in the right fit for whatever terrain you’re tackling. They’re the Best Running Shoe Store.
Once the new footwear is broken in, put it to work on Peets Hill, winner of Best Jogging Trail. And when spring rolls around, dust off the green gear and join the annual Run to the Pub, where runners, costumes, St. Paddy’s spirit and post-race beer converge for one of Bozeman’s livelier traditions. It once again earns Best Timed Foot Race.
Living in Southwest Montana comes with both reward and complication. As luck would have it, a strong network of local businesses is here to help keep residents supplied, healthy, groomed, entertained and otherwise prepared for whatever the next season throws at us.
For the weekly grocery haul, Town & Country Foods stays in the top spot. The employee-owned grocer operates multiple full-service stores stocked with fresh produce, meats, organic and natural foods, plus bakery and deli departments. Their local roots help earn Best Grocery Store, while the brew selection brings home Best Store to Buy Beer.
The Community Food Co-op continues to make shopping with a conscience a little easier. Its two member-owned locations offer organic, non-GMO and locally sourced groceries, along with a scratch-made deli, bakery and juice bar. Their bulk offerings and sustainability-minded approach help secure Best Eco-Friendly Products.
For serious meat procurement, Daniels Gourmet Meats & Sausages remains a cut above. Premium beef, poultry, wild-game processing and a full grocery department make it a one-stop shop for carnivores, earning Best Place to Shop for Meat.
When it’s only the basics you need without committing to a full grocery expedition, Kagy Korner Store has the handiness covered. The neighborhood market stocks everyday essentials, snacks and plenty of ice cream, all delivered with a small-town feel. Best Convenience Store is theirs once more.
Keeping the house and yard in working order requires a different kind of shopping list, and Owenhouse Ace remains the local hardware heavyweight. Its two Bozeman locations carry tools, home improvement supplies, gardening products and plenty of items for those projects that seemed like a good idea at the time. Helpful staff and local ownership earn another Best Hardware Store title.
Fall harvest may be winding down, but gardeners are already thinking ahead to spring. Cashman Nursery & Landscaping helps make those future plans possible with plants, trees and garden supplies, along with professional landscaping design and installation. Their healthy selection and full-service approach earn Best Garden Shop / Nursery.
Getting around Bozeman without a vehicle can be done (and might be safer), but the Montucky lifestyle often demands four wheels. Ressler Motors continues to be the choice Best Car Dealer for new and pre-owned vehicles, along with service, parts and financing. Their Collision Center also earns Best Autobody and Automotive Repair, making Ressler a one-stop operation when the vehicle needs more than a tank of gas.
Whether you’re commuting around town or piling into the rig for a road trip, Jiffy Lube keeps things gliding without issue. Quick oil changes, tire services, fluid checks and routine maintenance make it easy to handle the little things before they become bigger problems. No appointment, no lengthy wait bring home Best Oil Change.
A pair of categories put the spotlight on keeping those vehicles presentable. Scrubby’s takes Best Car Wash for its self-service setup, while Swissdetail Inc delivers the meticulous cabin refresh, earning Best Auto Detailing. Whether the truck needs a rinse or the family wagon needs the full spa treatment, both have it covered.
For transportation of the more recreational variety, Summit Motor Sports has the toys. ATVs, UTVs, motorcycles and snowmobiles fill the lineup, supported by parts and service departments equipped to keep them running. Best ATV / Motor Sports Store belongs to the powersports specialists.
When the outdoor adventure is over, Bozeman Hot Springs provides a warm way to call it a day. The natural mineral springs combine soaking with live music from an outdoor stage and a complement of eats from a distinctly Gallatin Valley locale. Best Hot “Wada” goes to the popular local venue complete with full gym services.
Canyon River offers another route to relaxation, this one involving a more hands-on approach. Their spa provides massages and a variety of treatments aimed at easing away the accumulated wear and tear of modern life. Revitalize in their eucalyptus steam room or dry Finnish sauna at the Best Day Spa and Place for a Massage.
When it’s time for a new cut, fresh color or a complete hair reset, Evolve Hair Design continues to earn the local vote. The contemporary salon offers cuts, custom color and styling from a team of experienced professionals whose work keeps clients coming back. Best Hair Salon trims the competition yet again.
For the gentlemen in need of some maintenance, Legends Barber Club handles the cleanup. The shop offers classic and contemporary cuts for men and boys, along with beard work and clean shaves. Precision and style earn Legends another Best Barber Shop award.
Those looking to permanently decorate the canvas can turn to The Loyal Sparrow, a new winner for Best Tattoo Studio. The full-service tattoo, piercing and body modification shop has become known for its artists’ intricate, otherworldly designs and bold traditional work with custom pieces built around a client’s own story. The studio with locations in Bozeman and Belgrade emphasizes clean linework, creativity and a welcoming experience.
Body is top of mind at the Ridge Athletic Club offers plenty of ways to put the muscles to work. With locations downtown and on the west end, their expanded facilities include a heated pool, courts, group classes, personal training, recovery amenities and wellness resources. It once again earns Best Gym / Fitness Center.
Montana Mixed Martial Arts brings the discipline of MMA and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu to the fitness equation. Town’s trusted academy emphasizes strength, conditioning, balance and confidence while maintaining a low-ego environment. Students can train for competition or drop in to get stronger and fitter, earning another Best Martial Arts Gym title.
For those seeking a quieter form of movement, Ekam Yoga offers classes for a range of abilities and experience levels. The studio provides a space to work on flexibility, mindfulness and physical wellness while dialing down the noise of everyday life. Check out the upcoming class schedule at your Best Yoga Studio.
Tanya’s Dance Co. gets the body moving with a little more rhythm. Students of all ages and skill levels can take part in ballet, jazz, tap, hip-hop and lyrical classes. Their broad programming earns another Best Dance Studio win.
20Twenty Eyecare takes a modern approach to keeping Bozeman’s vision in focus, combining comprehensive eye care with a curated selection of eyewear. The Best Optical Shop offers routine exams and contact lenses, stylish frames and personalized services. The practice focuses on making healthy eyes and great-looking glasses a natural pairing.
Planning for the future takes more than a crystal ball, and First Security offers the financial tools to help customers do it. The Best Bank provides personal and commercial banking, loans, mortgages, traditional accounts and mobile services through its statewide branch network.
Pets have plenty of local advocates, too. Dee-O-Gee offers food, treats, toys, grooming and daycare, with an emphasis on natural and high-quality products for dogs and cats. Their combination of pet supplies and grooming services earns Best Pet Groomer and Place for Pet Supplies.
When four-legged family members need more serious attention, Hardaway Veterinary Hospital is ready for the call. The full-service practice provides medical, surgical and dental care with an emphasis on compassionate treatment. Bozeman voters once again name Hardaway Best Veterinary.
For those considering adding a new furry friend to the household, Heart of the Valley remains a crucial community resource. The nonprofit provides shelter, care and second chances for displaced pets while connecting animals with adoptive families. Education and outreach programs round out the mission, earning another Best Nonprofit title.
Dogs have plenty of room to run at Snowfill Recreation Area, where broad trails, open hills and mountain views make it an ideal off-leash destination. The year-round space earns Best Place to Take Your Dog. For a more centrally located outing, Story Mill Community Park once again takes Best City Park.
When it comes to getting outside, Hiking remains the obvious crowd pick for Best Outdoor Activity. Southwest Montana offers enough trails to keep even the most ambitious outdoor enthusiast occupied, and dogs are frequently part of the expedition. Lava Lake provides a manageable challenge – for those who can find parking – when the seasons begin to turn and earns Best Hiking Trail this year.
REI Co-op is a one-stop shop for outdoor enthusiasts with Best Outdoor Gear offerings of clothing and equipment for hiking, camping, climbing, cycling, snow sports and more. Best Sports Equipment goes to Play It Again Sports, a budget friendly stop for athletes of all ages, buying and selling quality new and used items from skis and snowboards to bikes, fitness gear and team-sport needs.
For a slower-moving outdoor experience, head toward the Madison River. Blue-ribbon trout fishing, spectacular scenery and year-round recreation make it one of the area’s defining natural assets. Voters once again name it Best River.
Local anglers are hooked on Yellow Dog Flyfishing whose extensive selection of flies, rods, reels, waders, boots and tying supplies helped collect Best Fly Fishing Shop. Located in Four Corners, the shop also offers local fishing knowledge, licenses and guided trips on legendary area waters.
Owenhouse Cycling gets Bozeman riders ready for everything from pavement to singletrack. Seasonal tire changes, repairs, equipment and knowledgeable advice keep bikes in motion, while their selection of bikes and gear earns another Best Bike Shop award.
Golfers have plenty of reasons to make their way west, with Cottonwood Hills earning Best Golf Course. The facility offers a championship 18-hole layout, a family friendly nine-hole course and mountain views that can make even a bad score feel slightly less embarrassing.
The calendar may insist that fall is still happening, but skiers know what comes next. Bridger Bowl will soon be calling, bringing powder, varied terrain and the community-owned Best Ski Area’s famously relaxed atmosphere back to the slopes. The season is expected to kick off December 11th with the “Community Event Series” returning in the new year. Pray to the snow gods and think positive!
For Best Place to Experience Nature, the votes once again head to Yellowstone National Park. Though visitors arrive from around the globe, locals have the advantage of being close enough to return again and again. Geothermal features, wildlife and enormous landscapes continue to make America’s first national park one of Montana’s most remarkable nearby destinations. YNP is also your Best Overnight / Weekend Getaway.
When the national news cycle becomes a little too much to stomach, there’s always the option of paying attention to what’s happening a little closer to home. KBZK remains the local source for morning and evening television news, earning both Best TV Morning and Evening News Show. Viewers can expect local headlines, community stories, live reports and weather updates with a Southwest Montana focus.
For a morning commute accompanied by country music and a few laughs, KSKY 106.9’s Dave Wooten is the man with the mic. His morning show mixes music with local conversation and community happenings, earning him another Best Radio DJ win. The station itself also takes Best Radio Station.
Anyone who thinks Bozeman traffic is merely a figment of local imagination has apparently not tried driving through town lately. A street grid designed more than a century ago was never built with today’s population, development or now unavoidable congestion in mind. The 11th & Durston intersection once again earns the dubious distinction of Best Place for a New Traffic Solution, remaining a reliable trouble spot – particularly when school is in session.
The Fathers of Bozeman might not be surprised that people keep finding their way here, but wrapping their heads around how that popularity has reshaped the cost of living and pace of everyday life is another matter. Growth has brought new opportunities and plenty of energy, but it has also made keeping up a bit more complicated for the OGs.
Best Use of Taxpayers’ Money goes to Rent Control, while Affordable Housing takes What Could Make Bozeman Better? The message from voters is difficult to miss: housing costs have become a central concern in a community where many of the workers who keep the local economy running struggle to afford a spot. Whether recent tax changes and gradually expanding housing options will meaningfully address the problem remains to be seen.
And then there’s the one thing that keeps pulling us back outside: Access to the Great Outdoors, once again voted Best THING About Bozeman. For all the headaches that accompany life in a rapidly changing Southwest Montana, the surrounding mountains, rivers, trails and open spaces remain an extraordinary escape hatch. A few hours breathing mountain air can put plenty of our growing pains back into perspective – and serves as perhaps the simplest reminder of why, through all the change, we’re still home. •
