Discover the Best Photo Spots in Bozeman, Montana: A Travel Itinerary

Welcome to the last great place in the United States and one of the fastest-growing cities anywhere—Bozeman, Montana. Known for its stunning landscapes and vibrant community, Bozeman is a photographer’s paradise, especially in the summer.

In this itinerary, we’ll guide you through the best photo spots.

Historic Downtown Bozeman

• Begin your downtown tour at the historic Hotel Baxter. (105 W. Main Street) and work your way down four blocks to 443 W Main., where you’ll find the equally historic Western Cafe of Bozeman. Stroll along Main Street, capturing images of western and outdoor stores, bookshops, and early 1900s architecture. Most of Main Street is represented by great buildings. Zoom in for the markers and details.
  • LunchIn Bozeman, you have two sides of the culinary knife: you could go contemporary hip at restaurants like Jam on Main and Revelry, classic pizza from MacKenzie Pizza or go seriously old school and take a seat at the counter at the no reservations ever Western Cafe of Montana. The “Best of the West” special includes chicken fried steak, two eggs, a biscuit with sausage gravy and fresh cut fries.
• Rainy Day Photography
  • If it rains, seize the opportunity to photograph neon sign reflections on wet streets.
• Evening: Vintage Motel Signs at Sunset
  • Explore and photograph vintage motel signs such as the Sapphire Motel and the Lewis and Clark Motel. You don’t see signs like this anymore. Visit at dusk when the sky is a deep blue for the best shots.

Take a drive

• 360° View from Pete’s Hill
  • Head to Pete’s Hill, just a few blocks from downtown, where you can see panoramic views of Bozeman, the University of Montana, and the surrounding areas. This is a fantastic spot for sunsets, hiking and biking.
  • Drive to Bridger Bowl and hike up to the iconic “M” painted on the side of the mountain, reachable via a scenic hour-long hike.
  • Another great drive will take you to Hyalite Reservoir. Perfect for paddleboarding, kayaking, and photography, this spot offers breathtaking mountain views reflected in pristine waters.
  • Livingston: This is a charming town with a Main Street reminiscent of the past and definitely worth driving to. It’s a photographer’s dream with buildings even older than Bozeman. It’s still stepping into a Twilight Zone episode.
    

• Explore Yellowstone National Park
  • If you’re up for it, drive 90 minutes south and to explor the wonders of Yellowstone National Park. Capture geysers, hot springs, and wildlife in this natural marvel.