Bozeman is a picturesque city located in Gallatin County and bordered on three sides by the Bridger, Gallatin and Tobacco Root Mountain ranges. These three mountain ranges make up the northern Rocky Mountains in south central Montana. At an elevation of 4,795 feet, there are many outdoor recreation opportunities, especially with Yellowstone National Park being just 90 miles away. Bozeman is the fifth largest city in the state (with a population of about 28,000 at the 2000 census) and the fastest-growing county in the state. Bozeman's close proximity to the mountains and forest lands, combined with its climate, make it a great place to experience outdoor activities year-round. The Gallatin, Madison, and Yellowstone rivers are all within 30 miles of town and offer rafting and fishing. See wildflowers and wildlife, hike or bike on the trails, or enjoy winter activities such as skiing, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing.
Bozeman is home to Montana State University and was ranked #5 of the 40 Best College Towns in the USA by Outside Magazine in 2003. Bozeman is also an All-American City (awarded in 2001) and the #1 Small Business Market among cities of comparable population sizes (awarded in 2005) by the American Cities Business Journal.
See the dinosaurs at the Museum of the Rockies, learn by doing hands-on activities at the Children's Museum of Bozeman, see threatened fish species, such as the pallid sturgeons at the Fish Technology Center, and visit the Pioneer Museum to find out the history of Bozeman and the Gallatin Valley. The first weekend in August is the annual Sweet Pea Festival with a parade, music, dance, theater, comedy, food, and art exhibitions.
The Gallatin Field Airport is located 10 miles east of Bozeman, with the Billings and Helena Airports located within 150 miles.
There are three exits from Interstate 90. The furthest from downtown is the N. 19th exit, which includes chain stores and strip development. The N. 7th exit is closer to downtown and has a wider selection of restaurants and hotels, but these are not pedestrian-friendly. Many independent motels are on E. Main Street within walking distance of downtown and you'll find a wide array of shopping and dining.