LIVE BOZEMAN STYLE

Bozeman just keeps getting better. What started as an agriculture, mountaineering and college town, has now blossomed into one of the most sought-after scenes in the Rocky Mountains. New developments are bringing restaurants, retail and entertainment to every corner of town. For residents and visitors alike, the energy is not only palpable, it’s flat out fun!

First of all, it’s easier to get here than ever before. Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport now has 17 non-stop flights to major cities across the United States. Most recently, Jet Blue Airways began service to Long Beach, California. 

Midtown Bozeman is seeing an insurgence of new businesses. Spearheaded by the Midtown Urban Renewal District, the North 7th corridor is an opportunity investors are jumping on. The plan centers around housing and retail, and focuses on urban density and infill. Sidewalks and bike lines are being expanded making it easier to get around. The RSVP Motel, formerly a 1960’s era motor inn, has been redesigned into a boutique hotel with rave reviews. Adjacent to the hotel a 1,700 person capacity music venue is under construction. The 2-story concert venue will also double as an event space. And a long-time favorite, Audrey’s Pizza, is adding a second location which includes a brewery! 

In 1912, Bozeman produced 75% of the nation’s peas and in 1918, the Bozeman Canning Company opened, canning peas, carrots and beans. Today, the Cannery District, located on Rouse and Oak Streets continues to incorporate the historic, agrarian architecture of the existing buildings with functional, modern day versions. The development is home to over 40 wide-ranging businesses including several restaurants, a Kombucha bar, a bike shop, fitness studio, hair salons and specialty retailers. 

The Market at Ferguson Farm, located off of Huffine Lane, is slated to be home to restaurants, artisans and specialty shops. The three newest establishments, Tanglewood, Foxtrot restaurants and Nordic Brew Works are already garnering a buzz around town. The second phase calls for a mixed use neighborhood with dense residential, hotels and walking trails. And, a local grocer has purchased land to add another location.

The Barn District, also located off of Huffine Lane, is Bozeman’s newest commercial district. Adjacent to west end housing developments, the district has two historic barns currently being renovated into hip restaurants and local watering holes. Two newer buildings are on deck bringing even more amenities to the area. 

East Main Street is also seeing a surge. Plans have been submitted for a 93,000 square foot hotel, Bozeman Residence Inn Hotel. Another project recently submitted for review is an expansion of Bozeman Commons. This 45,000 square foot, mixed-use space for commercial or retail is a nice addition to the east end of town. Heebs Fresh Market, a local icon, recently located to a larger space. The only grocer on this side of town, residents now have even more access to fresh food! 

The old National Armory Building, designed in the 1940’s by one of Bozeman’s most notable architects, Fred Willson, is under construction to become a boutique hotel operated by Kimpton Hotels and Restaurants. The hotel will include a restaurant and bar bringing live music and entertainment, along with an 8,000 square foot meeting and event center. 

Speaking of food, the restaurant and entertainment in Bozeman rivals progressive urban areas. The newly remodeled Rialto, and historic Ellen Theatre located on Main Street are bringing in a continuous stream of live music and theater. Foodies have 9 local breweries to choose from, along with a cider house, 3 distilleries and numerous bars and restaurants serving local food and craft cocktails. New restaurants are popping up daily, bringing diverse cuisine to the area. 

On the residential side, housing developments are stretching across the valley, and the city limits are seeing infill with new condominium projects being built close to the center of town. 

Bozeman’s growth doesn’t look to be slowing, in 2018, the U.S. Census Bureau released it’s population estimates, ranking Bozeman area the fastest-growing of its size in the nation. The population is expected to reach 50,000 by the year 2020, and to double by 2040. 

While outdoor recreation is still the pinnacle of the area, the vibrant architecture and culture is rounding out the lifestyle in Bozeman. No longer a secret, this mountain town is something to behold!