The gray clouds have dispersed, the sun is hot, snow has melted, and you look up at the beautiful Bridger range framed by a blue sky. Summertime is amazing, and is made even better by being surrounded by the beautiful scenery we have here in Montana. If you find yourself wondering what to do amidst all the beauty, here are our top ten suggestions for what to do when visiting Bozeman!

Get Out on the Water
Looking for a way to beat the heat on a hot Montana day? Bozeman Beach (AKA Glen Lake Rotary Park, located directly across from MAP Brewing Co.), is a small beach equipped with a diving dock, volleyball courts, and a sandy beach. As far as water quality, Bozeman Beach can have some algae issues depending on the year, so know before you go. A clean (and cold) water option near town is Hyalite Reservoir—Bozeman’s water source is a fun place to play in the water from the rocky beach, or to paddleboard, kayak or canoe on. Don’t forget your PFD (required) to stay safe in the deep water. Locals know that a Madison River float is a great way to cool off while basking in the summer sun. Be prepared for a few hours on the water, and remember to bring your sunscreen!

Soak in the Bozeman Hot Springs
If you’re ever looking for a relaxing dip or a chance to soak up some heat in a steam room after a long day on the trails, check out Bozeman Hot Springs. After a year of renovations, Bozeman Hot Springs is opening its doors with plenty of new amenities for customers to enjoy. Upgrades include new locker rooms, pools, and plenty more. As always, you can find a sauna, steam room, and pools ranging from icy cold to toasty warm.

Hike to the ‘M’
Whether you are flying or driving into town, you will surely see the ‘M’ as you enter the Gallatin Valley. The giant letter was created in 1915 by Montana State University students, and a moderate trail meanders its way right up to the collegiate symbol. Take Bridger Canyon Road to the trailhead; a parking lot is located on the left side of the road. The trail winds for 1.7 miles through fields of wildflowers before reaching the ‘M.’ Dogs are welcome on this trail, and kids can manage the hike without difficulty. The views of Bozeman and the surrounding valley are breathtaking.

Take a Trail Run
If you visit Montana, it is easy to see that people here like to hike, but another fun way to enjoy the trails is to run them! There are numerous trails in Bozeman that welcome a variety of ability levels, and will deliver some breathtaking views along the way. So, if you’re a runner who typically finds safety on the pavement, you should definitely check out the trails here and expand your horizons!

Visit the Museum of the Rockies
The Museum of the Rockies is the pride of Bozeman. The dinosaur exhibit, overseen until June 30, 2016 by Dr. Jack Horner of Jurassic Park fame, is unmatched. An enormous T-Rex skeleton currently dominates the exhibit, but visitors can see the fossilized bones of several species, many of which were found in Montana. Kids love the Discovery Center, modeled after Yellowstone National Park, on the top floor. Admission to the historic Tinsley House is free all summer, and here you will find dedicated volunteers demonstrating what the homesteading lifestyle looked like in Montana. While you’re at MOR, don’t forget the Planetarium.

Eat Out!
When it comes to the food scene, Bozeman has it all! From Asian cuisine to Wild West fare, there are so many dining options in this town that it might send your head spinning. Along with old favorites, there is an assortment of new restaurants to try, but it is hard to come across a bad meal here. In terms of drinks, there are plenty of local bars and breweries in Bozeman including Bridger Brewing, Outlaw Brewing, and Bozeman Brewing Company.

Dance Down Main Street
On Thursdays throughout July and August, Bozeman shuts down most of Main Street for dancing and socializing at Music on Main. This is a great opportunity to grab your friends and head downtown for some great music. If you’re feeling hungry or thirsty, the streets are lined with local vendors and great food options for the whole family. This kid-friendly street party has something for everyone and goes from around 6:30-8:30 PM. For a complete schedule, visit downtownbozeman.org.

Visit a Gallery
Bozeman, Montana is home to some extremely talented artists who are represented around town in local galleries. If you are looking for a new piece for your home, look no further than one of the many galleries around town. For example, Altitude Gallery on E. Main Street (Bozeman’s Choice gallery for nine years!) is a great location to buy prints from artists like Rachel Pohl and Mimi Matsuda. Bozeman’s newest galleries include Oxbow and Moreno Galleries, which also offer original art work, along with local art from jewelry makers, ceramicists, and much more.

Shop the Farmer’s Markets
Bozeman has two farmer’s markets: one on Tuesday evenings in Lindley Park, and one on Saturday mornings at the Gallatin Valley Fairgrounds. Both feature a variety of goods including organic foods from local farms such as goat cheese, honey, and jellies, as well as fresh flowers. Both markets are a great place to purchase art prints and handmade goods such as earrings, bracelets, rings, original paintings, etc. from local artists. Food trucks are also always at these markets, providing tasty food to enjoy as you browse the vendors’ tables.

Get Your Fly Wet
It would be a crime to leave Bozeman without wetting a line in one of the many nearby blue-ribbon trout streams. Along with supplying the materials to fly fish including your fishing license Bozeman Fly Supply also hosts educational opportunities. For example, every Thursday from 6-9pm you can attend a fly tying night for free, where you can learn the skill. If you are interested in more of their events head on over to their website!

Bozeman is packed full of things to do — the hardest part is deciding! So whether you’re vacationing in Bozeman or make your home here, everyone should check out these local attractions. The summer months don’t last long, so make your way outside soon and try something new.