Montana State University - Local Atmosphere

College Prowler Take

Bozeman is the type of town that tries to hang on to old traditions while bringing in new ones. Bozeman actually pulls it off and maintains some of its cowboy identity, while still having a great organic grocery store and bakery. Skiing is one thing nearly everyone living in the town or attending the University has in common. With the Bridger Mountains and ski slopes less than a half-hour drive away, and the world-class Big Sky resort just 45 minutes away, everyone loves to ski. Cross-country skiing is also fairly popular, and Lindley Park is groomed every winter for that purpose. There is also Bohart Ranch located in the Bridgers, a very nice, though slightly expensive, place to try out Nordic skiing. For those who either cannot afford or do not care for skiing, downtown Bozeman has a surprisingly large amount to offer for a town of approximately 35,000 friendly residents. Coffeeshops, bookstores, restaurants, and festivals are always available for entertainment. A perfect day in Bozeman might go something like this: wake up early, have some banana bread French toast at the Cateye Café, go to Bridger for a half day of skiing or a hike, head back downtown and stop by a few of the more eclectic shops (check out Cactus Records or Miss Zula’s), then have a delicious dinner at the Naked Noodle or La Parilla before walking over to The Leaf & Bean for a cup of tea and live music. In spending a day like this, you’ll discover the essence of Bozeman: outdoor country living with a splash of art and culture.

Free Profile Tools

Do I Stand A Chance?

Calculate YOUR chances of admission at every school CP covers!

__%

Personality Match

Calculate YOUR personality match with every school CP covers!

__%

What'll It Cost Me?

Estimate your out-of-pocket costs at every school CP covers!

$__,___

Students Speak Out

Anonymous says:

Bozeman is a college town in the... Bozeman is a college town in the middle of more mountain ranges than one could possibly have time to play in and go to school, which is highly frustrating in an awesome way. Make sure to go on as many trails as possible, grab something to eat at the Cateye and Montana Ale Works, but stay away from Wal-Mart. 12345 Local Atmosphere Report

Anonymous says:

The atmosphere of the town can be... The atmosphere of the town can be described fairly accurately by the term ‘college town.’ Even though there is only one university here, there is always something happening: art shows, live bands, and concerts. The atmosphere is dynamic, and this town is growing so fast that you can feel the changes as they happen. I don’t know anything here that a person should consciously avoid, with the exception of the frat parties. The Museum of the Rockies is awesome, and anyone who visits Bozeman should go check it out. The mountains are everywhere, and doing things outside is a must here. 12345 Local Atmosphere Report

Anonymous says:

The town is wonderful—very... The town is wonderful—very laid-back and friendly. Bozeman is a very young, energetic town with lots of activities geared toward college-age people. There are no other universities here. Everyone should definitely visit Bridger Bowl and take at least one walk up and down Main Street while they’re here. 12345 Local Atmosphere Report

Anonymous says:

Bozeman is a great place to live... Bozeman is a great place to live right now. The town itself is small enough to never overwhelm anyone, but its true beauty lies in its proximity to so many amazing natural playgrounds. 12345 Local Atmosphere Report

Anonymous says:

The atmosphere in Bozeman is very... The atmosphere in Bozeman is very much that of a college town. It’s very easy to find your way around after living there for only a short time, and the people are incredibly friendly. The outdoors are a particular favorite of most of the locals, and it seems as though there is always something going on in the outdoor community. 12345 Local Atmosphere Report

Facts

Did You Know?

Five Fun Facts about Bozeman:
• Bozeman’s HatcH Audiovisual Arts Festival features 10 student films selected from several different countries. The event lasts about one week and draws major celebrities to the town.
• Every August, Bozeman’s Lindley Park is transformed into the home of the Sweet Pea Festival of the Arts where musicians, photographers, painters, and sculptors come together from all over the country to share their talents. Bozeman’s Shakespeare in the Park is also featured at this time.
• The movie A River Runs Through It was filmed in the area in and around Bozeman. One scene was even shot in the Leigh Lounge on the MSU campus.

SKI Magazine always lists Bozeman among the top 18 ski towns in the country. Most recently, it was named the fourth best ski town overall.
• The Bozeman area is full of celebrities—Glenn Close even owned The Leaf & Bean coffeeshop until just a few years ago.

Famous People from Bozeman:
Actor Gary Cooper grew up here, and many celebrities including Michael Keaton now reside in and around the town or have second, third, or fourth homes here.

Local Slang:
Crick – A Montanan’s version of creek
Eh – Think Fargo
Californian – An excuse for anyone who does something unintelligent

Write for Us!

College Prowler is actively seeking talented students to be "Contributing Authors," and assist with updating the College Prowler guide to their school. This is a great opportunity for a student to gain internship experience, be a part of a nationally recognized company, gain tremendous exposure, utilize new media techniques, and share advice with high school students about what life is really like at your college. Read more >