Summer Like a Local; Living it up in Livingston, Montana!
Tap into Montana Brewfest, Photo by Montana Brewery Shop
Livingston is one of Yellowstone Country's most endearing destinations. A former railroad town and the main gateway to Yellowstone National Park, this mountain town is now brimming with art, food, live music, bookstores, museums, and some incredible outdoor recreation. Biking, hiking, fishing, floating, rock climbing, and camping are world-class and just a stone's throw from downtown. Those who live here rarely visit the Park during the summer, opting instead to get off the beaten path, gathering with family and friends at the end of the day to enjoy long, lingering evenings. Read on for travel ideas and upcoming events, and plan to summer like a local!
Where to go Camping, Hiking, Biking, Rock Climbing
Livingston has 43 hiking trailheads, 16 campgrounds, 15 parks, and 24 fishing access sites. That's a lot of lands to cover. These maps, articles, and trail resources will help you discern the best route for your abilities. Rock climbers love the Allenspur and Mill Creek areas; mountain bikers enjoy Trespass Creek Trail for a challenging ride and Cottonwood Trail 268 for a more gentle experience. Check the Forest Service closures before heading out, and if you're biking, check that the mountain bike trails are open.
Photo by Kris King
Dining in Livingston, Montana
Livingston was a favorite stop of the late Anthony Bourdain, who loved the area for the food, art, people, land, and the Murray Hotel and Bar. From classics like the Livingston Bar and Grill to a wide variety of ethnic food, there's no lousy meal in town. Choose from Fiesta En Jalisco, Neptune's Eatery, Ferdinand's Tapas, and Rice Thai downtown, or try Big Sky Thai or Los Pinos at 102 Rogers Lane near exit 333. Other ideas to get out and enjoy the fresh air; grab lunch from the new Stella's Lunch Counter, Open Tuesday - Friday from 12 pm - 2 pm at 215 W. Park Street, and relax in the Depot Park across the Street. Or, pick up gourmet picnic supplies from the Gourmet Cellar 208 West Park and a picnic basket from The Kitchen Shop 105 South Main to enjoy an alfresco dinner on the banks of the Yellowstone River.
Be sure to stop by the Livingston Farmers Market every Wednesday from 4:30-7:30, June 1- Sept. 14, 2022, at the Miles Park Band Station. In addition to fresh, local food, you'll find live music and diverse offerings from local vendors.
Where to Take the Kids
When the little ones need to expend some energy and cool off, take them to the Livingston City Swimming Pool or Rotary Splash Park. Or catch a matinee at the Empire Twin Theatre. The McNair Gravity Skatepark is a favorite for boarders, and painting ceramics at Fireflies Pottery and Art Studio satisfies the artistic side. All kids love meeting the grizzly bears at Grizzly Encounter on Bozeman Pass.
Enjoy Live Music
The music scene in Livingston is exploding with live music most evenings in large and small venues. The Attic is an intimate venue downtown featuring local and regional artists. Enjoy country music, dancing, and a hearty steak dinner at Music Ranch Montana, live shows and brunch serenades at Pine Creek Lodge, and some boot-stomping tunes at The Old Saloon. The Shane Center Summer Outdoor Concert Series are free, family-friendly concerts each Thursday from 5- 8 pm on the outdoor stage!
Photo by Kris King
Upcoming Events
Weekends are busy in Livingston, with entertainment for all ages!
- First Friday Art Walks kick off this Friday, June 24, with a dozen galleries, plus most businesses, bars, and restaurants downtown are staying open late!
- Christine Carbo, a Montana suspense author, has a book signing Friday, June 24, at Wheatgrass Books from 5-8 pm, 120 N Main Street, with the opening of the "Divine Feminine" art show upstairs at the Green Door Gallery.
- "Inside Heaven's Gate: Behind the Scenes with Susan Bridges" Exhibit at The Depot runs through the summer.
- Free Family Day at the Yellowstone Gateway Museum, Saturday, June 25, 10:00 am - 12:00 pm, 118 W Chinook Street.
- Tap Into Montana Brewfest, Saturday, June 25, 3:00 - 8:00 pm, 229 River Drive
- Midway West Amusement Carnival, June 23-26. Carnival rides, comfort food, and a variety of carnival games. Thurs. 6/23 & Fri. 6/24 – 5pm-11pm Sat. 6/25 & Sun. 6/26 – 2pm-11pm.
For more updates and itineraries, go to ExploreLivingston.com.
