Whether you’re visiting for the weekend or lucky enough to call Bozeman home, finding fun that suits the whole family—and doesn’t break the bank—can be a challenge. Fortunately, Bozeman offers a wide range of affordable (and often free!) activities that combine outdoor adventure, creative play, and hands-on learning. From local hikes to interactive museums, here are seven go-to experiences that kids and adults alike will love.

If you’re looking for some inexpensive, family-friendly adventures to get you and your kids out of the house or hotel room, look no further; I’ve outlined seven options so that you can find the perfect activity for your family.

The Bozeman Public Library
Perfect for visitors of any age, the Bozeman Public Library provides consistent access to completely free services, products, and events. Many locals know the library for its broad selection of books and video products, which are sure to provide something entertaining and informative for patrons young and old. These resources are a great way to enrich the minds of your children outside of school, as are the variety of events the library offers throughout the summer. The Bozeman Public Library hosts diverse functions for children multiple times a week, where you’re sure to find something interesting in their extensive catalogue of options. Weekly meetings of the LEGO Club, Tween Art Studio, STEAM learning opportunities, and even Baby Storytimes are only a few examples of what the library has to offer. Additionally, there’s plenty of teen and adult-geared activities taking place throughout the summer months. If these events aren’t quite what you’re looking for, don’t forget to check out the newly opened Belgrade Public Library location as well. Help support this renovated establishment by attending their inventive activities like yoga classes, line dancing, and much more. For more information on specific events, times, and programs, visit www.bozemanlibrary.org or www.belgrademt.gov/157/library. 

Madison River Tubing
For a classic Montana summer experience, few things beat floating the Madison River. Locals have their tubes at the ready. If you’re a visitor looking for an easy float experience, check out Madison River Tubing. Based in Bozeman, they offer tube rentals, life jackets, floating coolers, and shuttle service, so all you need to bring is sunscreen and snacks. The float typically lasts between two to three hours, with calm waters in July and August, perfect for beginners and families with older kids (though it’s best suited for ages five and up). Prices start around $25–$30 per person for a full setup, and group packages are available. It’s a refreshing way to spend a hot summer afternoon and take in Montana’s scenic beauty from the water—whether you’re a local or just passing through. Check the weather before heading out to avoid lightning!

Music on Main
On every Thursday evening for six weeks, Downtown Bozeman will be hosting the 25th annual Music on Main concert series. Between July 3rd and August 7th, bands such as Yam Haus and NOT.GREENDAY will be taking the stage to entertain the Bozeman community. The music starts and 7:00 p.m. and lasts until around 8:30 p.m. With six concert options, you’re able to find the perfect event for your family’s unique musical tastes. While most of these performances promise fun for the whole family, there is an additional opportunity for some kid-focused entertainment at the venue. From 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. there is a designated “Kids’ Zone” available, with plenty of fun activities. Besides the music and activities, the events will be catered by rotating local vendors, and some businesses may even stay open a bit later to accommodate the late-night foot traffic. Be sure to take this opportunity to support local Bozeman businesses while you and your family enjoy the incredible music of Music on Main’s diverse artists.

Local Parks
Locals and tourists alike adore Montana for its natural playgrounds. The state boasts stunning features like mountains, waterfalls, and everything in between. Besides these native areas, Bozeman boasts incredible man-made parks that promise an interactive experience for both children and their guardians. One of the most beloved parks in town is the Story Mill Community Park. Story Mill has something for children of every age: a large play structure features slides, climbing equipment, swings, and much more. While your children play, enjoy the beautiful trails looping through this sixty-acre space. Adults, kids, and dogs alike are guaranteed to enjoy this lovely local park, an excellent spot for some free family fun in the summer weather.

There are plenty more park options around town if Story Mill isn’t quite what you’re looking for. Bogert Park, a popular location with a playground, sports equipment, walking and biking, hosts the annual (and free) SLAM Festival of the arts. Glen Lake Rotary Park is well-known for the ‘Bozeman Beach,’ which is a great place to enjoy the cool waters of a four-acre lake in the summer’s warmer months. There are dozens of parks available to the public around the Bozeman area, so you’re sure to find the perfect one for you and your family to enjoy.

Museum of the Rockies
For a reasonable fee, the local Museum of the Rockies provides a unique learning experience you can’t find anywhere else. Perfect for satisfying the curiosity of children and adults alike, the rotating exhibits at this esteemed establishment mean that there is always something new to explore. Opening this summer, the Cretaceous Crossroads exhibit will take patrons back in time to learn about the fascinating extinction of the dinosaurs and other species that once roamed the Earth. Never miss an opportunity to head upstairs to the Martin’s Children’s Discovery Area, which provides kids and adults with an interactive Yellowstone National Park learning experience. The Taylor Planetarium displays a variety of incredible shows every day, which bring the audience straight into the depths of the cosmos. The Living History Farm on site is a free interactive outdoor experience where actors exhibit the life of Montana farmers between 1890 and 1910 in a farmhouse with its surroundings. With so many options for activities, the Museum of the Rockies is a must-visit location at least once this summer.

If you love to learn and need an indoor activity, check out one of Bozeman’s other museums: the Gallatin History Museum, the American Computer & Robotics Museum, and Little Bear Schoolhouse.

Hyalite Reservoir
Similarly to hiking, many Bozeman natives and tourists love to enjoy the great outdoors at Montana’s magnificent lakes and rivers. These locations are great, inexpensive places to build some quality family time into your schedule. One of the most accessible bodies of water near Bozeman is the Hyalite Reservoir, which you can drive right up to on a regularly maintained road. Once you arrive, the options for activities are endless. The calm lake is perfect for water-based activities like swimming, paddleboarding, boating, and fishing, tables for picnics are abundant, and several gorgeous trails wind through the area. There isn’t enough time in a day to squeeze in every opportunity for exploration, so many families spend the night camping or staying in RVs to keep the fun going for several days. No matter what you decide to do, the Hyalite Reservoir is sure to keep you and your family coming back for more.

Local Hot Springs
After a day of hiking, paddling, or exploring, there’s nothing quite like soaking in a Montana hot spring. Luckily, the Bozeman area offers several wallet-friendly options for families to unwind. The newly remodeled Bozeman Hot Springs is the most luxe and most affordable considering distance, with day passes starting around $12 for kids and $20 for adults. A bit farther out, Norris Hot Springs offers a more rustic experience with occasional live music on weekends for about $10–$12 per person (kids under two soak for free). Chico Hot Springs, between Livingston and Yellowstone National Park, adds historic charm and a resort-style setting, with pool access starting at $10 for kids and $15 for adults—plus on-site dining and poolside drinks if you want to make it a full outing. Finally, Yellowstone Hot Springs, just outside Gardiner, delivers peaceful views and a newer facility, with rates around $18 for adults and $10 for children. Whether you’re looking for budget-friendly or a little more luxe, each spring offers its own kind of Montana magic—and a perfect way to relax together.

Bozeman’s charm doesn’t have to come with a big price tag. Whether you’re hiking to a scenic overlook, enjoying a free concert downtown, or learning something new at the museum, there are countless ways to create meaningful family memories without overspending. These activities offer a little something for everyone—adventure, education, and community—all wrapped up in the natural beauty of southwest Montana.