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Big Sky, Montana
Big Sky has plenty of space for outdoor adventure—and no shortage of elegant resorts and fine dining surrounded by some of the world’s most stunning scenery. Pack your bags as local business owners Natalie van Dusen and Deejay Newell offer tips for lodging, dining, and places to explore.
Montana's Big Sky country has miles of unspoiled wilderness, crowned with a cloud-streaked blue firmament. Close to both bustling Bozeman and majestic Yellowstone National Park, Big Sky has modern and historic hotel properties; fine dining and artisanal foods of every description—and plenty of wide open outdoor space for fly fishing, mountain biking and beyond.
We’ve recruited two local hosts: Natalie Van Dusen and Deejay Newell, founder and bean ambassador, respectively, for Bozeman-based Treeline Coffee, to provide a curated itinerary to the area. Van Dusen and Newell embody Treeline’s mission—that coffee should fuel you to do the things you love, and they want to make sure your experience in Big Sky encompasses all the beauty and adventure that the destination has to offer.
As you plan your trip, remember that eligible Capital One cardholders can use Capital One Travel to get their best prices on flights, hotels, and rental cars. So, set a price alert, and Capital One Travel will notify you when flight prices drop. Whether you're flying to Bozeman, renting a car to head to Big Sky, or finding your ideal place to stay, innovative features like price match guarantee help you book with confidence.
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WHERE TO EAT & DRINK
Treeline Coffee Roasters
624 N. Wallace Avenue, BozemanNatalie and Deejay's popular spot for creatively-brewed caffeination prioritizes traceability of the coffee it sells to the farmer that grew it, sustainability in growing practices, social responsibility, and, of course, a quality pour.
Horn & Cantle
750 Lone Mountain Ranch Road, Big SkyA "fancy campout," one diner said of this rustic but refined outpost, devoted to serving up hearty fare that reflects the wild and rugged land around it: bison tenderloin, venison chop, smoked whitefish and a cornucopia of fresh farm-to-table vegetables.
Blue Buddha Sushi
99 Town Center, Big SkyThis sister location to a Lake Powell, Ari., hotspot prepares traditional sushi, sashimi, maki and rolls—with a contemporary creative twist—in an eclectic and relaxed environment. For the adventurous, try the multi-course, chef's-choice omakase service.
Ousel + Spur Pizza Co.
50 Ousel Falls Road, Big SkyThis family-friendly pizza and pasta spot serves handmade, hand-tossed pies topped with fresh veggies from local growers. Small plates and salads—with a creative cocktail list of Italy-inspired potables—round out the menu.
Steele Pressed Juice + Java
245 Town Center Avenue, Big SkyThe baristas are ace here, and the burritos are, too. Slinging artisanal coffee drinks and freshly-pressed fruit juice and smoothie concoctions, this hip hangout is the perfect antidote for your mid-afternoon slump.
WHERE TO STAY
Montage Big Sky
995 Settlement Trail, Big SkySurrounded by the Spanish Peaks range, and less than an hour from Yellowstone, this property's modern architecture and wood-and-stone design take breathtaking inspiration from the sweeping scenery that surrounds it.
The Lodge at Whitefish Lake
380 Wisconsin Avenue, WhitefishWith Whitefish Lake on one side and Viking Creek Wetland Preserve on the other, this lodge and its connected condominiums offer family-friendly fun in a sprawling environment inspired by the classic wilderness properties of the past.
The LARK
122 W. Main St., BozemanA vintage 1960s motel got a 21st-century makeover, and the LARK was born. This hip, industrial hotel sits in the heart of Bozeman’s walkable downtown. Guests get to experience Bozeman like residents do, with complimentary access to a local gym and enthusiastic assistance from hotel staff in finding the perfect restaurant, food truck, or other attraction.
Kimpton Armory
24 W. Mendenhall Street, BozemanDating back to the early 1940s, when it was built as headquarters for the National Guard, this Bozeman hotel now offers boutique accommodations and an array of amenities. A rooftop pool offers sweeping mountain views and the Armory Music Hall hosts local and national acts.
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WHERE TO EXPLORE
Big Sky Resort Bike Park
50 Big Sky Resort Road, Big SkyOffering the region's only lift service for mountain bikers—via a fast six-person chairlift—this park gives access to more than 50 miles of rough and tumble trails winding through scenic peaks. Elsewhere in the region, there's plenty of other trail options for bikers of all skill levels. For more rides, check out the directory at MTBProject.com.
Gallatin River Guides
47430 Gallatin Road, Big SkyAn array of customized tours—complete with gear, guides, tackle, flies and more—gives anglers of all skill levels access to some of the most pristine waters and exciting fishing experiences available in the world. There are more than five rivers to choose from and tours are offered in all four seasons.
The Independent
50 Ousel Falls Road, Big SkyMusic, movies and other special events make this multimedia hotspot a center of Big Sky's social life. Reopened in early 2022 after two years of being shuttered, the theater is now four conjoined venues—screening blockbuster films, indie flicks and live performances, with a restaurant and bar serving craft beer and cocktails.
Bozeman Hot Springs
81123 Gallatin Road, BozemanWith a dozen pools ranging in temperature from 57° to 106°, these springs—which date back to the late 19th Century (when the waters were touted as “remarkably soft, pure and delightfully refreshing")—offer an excellent means of relaxation and rejuvenation. The spa also offers swimming, fitness facilities, personal training and more.
Click here to explore more destinations through the eyes of an in-the-know local.
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