What to do in Bozeman
When you Can’t or Won’t do the Outdoor Thing
Written by: Elizabeth D’Amico
Did you break your leg? Too cold outside? Need a break from the outdoors? No need to fret, whether you’re a local or a newbie, we got you covered! Here is a list of places you can visit around Bozeman, Montana that aren’t the outdoors.
Arts On Fire (All ages)
This paint-your-own pottery studio is meant for all ages. They offer a variety of items to decorate and take care of the firing! They’ve got all sorts of deals throughout the week, making it super easy to drop in and have fun. It’s the perfect spot to visit year-round, no matter the season!
Emerson Center for the Arts & Culture (All ages)
Want to make pottery, weld metal, sketch, or paint with oils and watercolors? Or maybe just get inspired by other creatives? The Emerson has all things artsy! They have classes, lectures, film and music festivals, even dance events. Plus, they’ve got exhibits you can tour. So, whether you want to make art or just soak it in, it’s worth a visit.
Rooks Games and More (8 years and older)
A game lover’s paradise. Whether you’re into board games or card games, this place has it all. Want to keep it chill? Drop in for a laid-back game night and try something new. Feeling competitive? Join a tournament and test your skills. With endless games and plenty of chances to meet fellow players, you’ll never run out of things to do (or people to battle).
Museum of the Rockies (All ages)
You’ve probably heard of it but hear me out. This place is always switching things up with new exhibits, so even if you’ve been before, there’s always something fresh to check out. Dinosaurs? Obviously. A planetarium that makes you feel like you’re floating among the stars? Check. Cool history? Plenty of it. Randomly fascinating things you didn’t even know you cared about? That too. If you visit in the warmer months, don’t miss the Living History Farm, where you step into the daily life of Montana homesteaders from the late 1800s. You might watch a blacksmith at work, see fresh bread baking in a wood-fired stove, or churn butter. Whether you’re into science, history, or just love discovering something new, this museum makes learning an adventure.
Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (50 years and older)
Who says we stop exploring? Bozeman’s Lifelong Learning program is packed with some cool opportunities including courses, clubs, speaker series, and even trips to historic spots around Montana. Want to dive into local history, geek out over geology, or explore Ancient Egypt? They’ve got travel programs that take learning way beyond the classroom. Whether it’s a lecture, a hands-on workshop, or a deep dive into opera (yes, opera!), there’s something for everyone — but you’ve got to be part of the 50+ club to join the fun!
Bozeman Public Library (All ages)
Oh my gosh, a library!? But not just any library — Bozeman’s is seriously awesome. Not only do they have an enormous collection of books, magazines, movies, tapes, games, and newspapers on any topic you could imagine, but they also have activities and events for all ages. Some of those include lectures, book clubs, yoga classes, learning to laser cut and 3D print, getting help on a sewing project, study rooms, crafts, game nights, cooking classes, even reading with a therapy dog (yes, really!) With so many opportunities for learning and community engagement, the library is far more than just a place to check out books.
Lookout Throwing Co. (5 years and older)
Discover the exhilarating world of axe throwing, where precision meets excitement. Perfect for adventurers and thrill-seekers alike, axe throwing combines skill and competition in a safe and controlled environment. Learn the art of throwing, then test your aim in friendly competitions or casual practice sessions. Whether you’re looking for a new hobby or a memorable group outing, axe throwing promises an unforgettable, adrenaline-filled experience!
The Bozeman Bowl (All ages)
Whether you’re here for nostalgia, the cosmic bowling vibes, or just to see if you can break 100, it’s always a good time. The Bozeman Bowl even offers leagues to join. Grab some friends, lace up those oh- so-stylish rental shoes, eat some yummy food, and let the good times roll!
Jump Time Bozeman (All ages)
A giant trampoline?! Yes, that’s right — a place to have so much fun and get a workout all at once! Whether you’re flipping, bouncing, or just seeing how high you can go. You can test your dodgeball skills in an extreme game or attempt a Ninja Warrior course (and immediately regret it), it’s an absolute blast. They also host parties and group events — imagine a team-building exercise but with jumping. Who wouldn’t want to bond midair with a work bestie?
American Computer & Robotics Museum (All ages)
Step into the future by exploring the past! The American Computer & Robotics Museum is where history meets innovation. From ancient cuneiform tablets (the earliest known system of writing) to the Space Race, AI, and quantum computing, this world-renowned museum takes you on a journey through 4,000 years of technology. Whether you’re a history buff, a science lover, or just curious, you’ll find hands-on exhibits, special events, and even summer camps that will spark your imagination.
The Gallatin History Museum (All ages)
History with a little mystery. Housed in the former Gallatin County Jail (you read that right), the Gallatin History Museum is packed with stories of daring escapes, an old-school hanging, and plenty of local legends. Built in 1911 and designed by a Bozeman-born architect, Fred Fielding Wilson, the building preserves and shares the stories of Gallatin County through artifacts, photographs, and exhibits that highlight the area’s past.
Bozeman Hot springs (All ages)
Hot springs with 12 pools? Um, yes please. Whether you’re soaking under the sun or chilling under the stars, this place is the definition of relaxation. Warm, mineral-rich water, peaceful vibes, and plenty of space to find your perfect spot. Go solo, bring the family, friends or a good book...just sit back, soak, and forget about everything for a while.
Bozeman isn’t just about outdoor adventures — it’s a place where creativity, history, and community come together in unique and exciting ways. No matter your age or interest, Bozeman offers countless ways to connect, explore, and have fun, proving that there’s always something new to discover just around the corner.