Bozeman Travel Guide

Bozeman Montana needs no introduction. If you are hoping to travel west this winter, see below some of my favorite picks for a wonderful weekend. This western town is a not your Aspen, so lean a little bit more cowboy and welcome to some of the most beautiful views out west.

My absolute favorite way to start the day is a coffee and cinnamon bun at The Coffee Pot. Located just outside Bozeman, and on the way to Big Sky, these are some of the most delicious treats you can find (and worth it!). They also have frozen homemade meals that are perfect when renting a home with a group of friends- delicious and easy to heat up, so that you can enjoy your evening and your friends rather than over heating in the kitchen.

Don't ignore the beautiful ceramics throughout the coffee shop made locally by the owner; perfect items to peruse while you wait for your order.

Shopping in Bozeman is not to be missed. First stop head to the Lucchese store for timeless cowboy boots and other western clothing. I recently found the coat of my dreams in there. Sadly I hemmed and hawed and now it has sold out, don't let this happen to you!

You can't leave town without a new hat. While there are a few options in town, I suggest you swing by Meshika Hats on Main Street. They are beautiful works of art.

The local art galleries sell extraordinary pieces that even if they are out of your budget, strolling through these welcoming doors can take up your entire day. Everyone is warm and friendly so don't feel intimidated.

Need a bouquet for your hosts or just because everyone loves flowers? Poppy & August is a local florist who creates these natural, happy arrangements. You can see her arrangements in all the Montana tablescapes I have shared.

Finally for the ultimate treat if you are renting a home with a larger group I can not recommend more, one of my favorite people, Georgiana, known as Plant Mama. She will come to your home and cook the coziest, most delicious soul warming meals. She believes good food can be transformative and healing. I'm available for that!

For my fellow athletes and those seeking some exercise: In the winter you can ski in Big Sky (approximately 1 hours drive) or the locals stay close and ski Bridger Bowl. Excellent powder and smaller crowds.

If you are there in the spring, summer or fall you can hike and fly fish. Since I wouldn't dare share my favorite fishing hole, I must mention that the beautiful fishing scene in a River Runs Through It was filmed just outside Bozeman. Head towards Big Sky and find the rock, Brad Pitt not included.

One of my favorite hikes is to Lava Lake. Approximately 6 miles and a moderate incline, you end your hike at a gorgeous alpine lake. Don't hesitate to join fellow hikers jumping off the rocks into the lake to cool off, you might just spot me and Duke! PSA: Do not forget to bring bear spray, Montana is big bear country.

For dinner choose either Blackbird for some of the best pizza you will ever have. Hip, fun, young and delicious!

Or my other favorite is Shan, founded by husband and wife duo pulling on decades of living and cooking throughout Asia. They were recently nominated for Best New Restaurant by the James Beard Foundation.

End your day with drinks at the Kimpton Armory Hotel in downtown Bozeman. The views are fantastic and you have earned it!