The Best College Town In Montana
The community of Bozeman holds a special place in Montana’s story. Not only did “BozAngeles” (so named for its rapid population growth) play a key role in the region’s economic development, it was also to become an academic powerhouse when Montana State University opened its doors at the end of the 19th century. Today, Bozeman isn’t just recognized as the very best college town in Montana; it also consistently ranks among the top places to study and live in the entire United States.
Bozeman's Evolution Over The Years
Visit Bozeman today and you’ll find yourself wondering just how this now bustling town of 57,000 could once have simply been a crossroads on the westward route taken by settlers and prospectors. One of the first of these intrepid souls was John Bozeman, a young adventurer from Georgia who blazed a trail through the region in the mid-1800s, guiding travelers toward the goldfields of Virginia City 66 miles to the west. That route became known as the Bozeman Trail and played a significant role in the country’s successful development of the West.
As time passed, Bozeman transformed from a frontier outpost to a major center for agriculture and commerce, with evidence of this early significance still evident in the surviving architecture from this period. But it was the arrival of the university at the turn of the 20th century that sealed the deal on Bozeman’s path to becoming the best college town in this beautiful region of the United States.
Montana State University: History and Highlights
Montana State University (MSU) can trace its origins back to 1893 when the state legislature approved the creation of the Agricultural College of the State of Montana. Bozeman was chosen as the location of this new academic institution for its agricultural focus, its geographic accessibility, and the dedicated support of prominent community leaders like Nelson Story, a local entrepreneur who donated the land and resources needed.
While the initial student body was modest in size (records suggest only eight students attended on the first day), the university founders had high hopes for the future. The college evolved relatively rapidly over the years, changing its name several times to better reflect its ever-expanding academic programs until finally settling on Montana State University in 1965.
Fast forward to today and MSU has garnered a solid reputation as a research and teaching institution, ranking well in areas such as engineering, agriculture, architecture, and the sciences. Its engineering department, for instance, has cultivated a reputation for research in the fields of environmental engineering and high-tech instrumentation, while the College of Agriculture continues its legacy of exploring innovations and improvements in farming and ranching techniques.
The success of MSU alumni is also an indicator of the university’s success. Notable graduates include Steve Daines, currently serving as a U.S. Senator, and Sarah Vowell, an author and social commentator who gained national attention for her witty explorations of American history. And in sports, Jan Stenerud, a former Norwegian exchange student, became a Pro Football Hall of Famer in the NFL.
The University’s Impact On Bozeman
Located just a mile south of the downtown core, MSU certainly feels like an integral part of Bozeman’s commercial and residential neighborhoods. Not only does this proximity allow for frequent interaction between students and locals at shops and community events, from the very get-go it ensured a strong kinship between “Town and Gown” that has deepened over time.
From that first handful of students to the record 17,000 who enrolled in 2024, each new wave of undergraduates brings new ideas and an infectious youthful energy to Bozeman. Their increased numbers also expand the town’s economic, cultural, and social horizons, impacting everything from local restaurants and coffee shops to bookstores and retail outlets, all of which have flourished with the steady increase in foot traffic.
Studies estimate that Montana State University not only contributes upwards of a billion dollars to the state’s economy but has also generated upwards of 13,500 jobs. Housing, retail sales, and the service industry all see healthy boosts because of MSU’s presence, ensuring steady revenues for locals offering rentals and a myriad of other services.
MSU’s impact on the cultural scene in Bozeman shouldn’t be overlooked, either. Student clubs host public events, science fairs draw families, and campus-based performances of music and theater showcase emerging talent. Then there’s sports. One especially popular fixture is the annual “Gold Rush” football game, a season opener at Bobcat Stadium where fans fill the stands wearing gold shirts in support of their team.
Attractions On The MSU Campus
One of the most popular campus attractions is the Museum of the Rockies. Home to the largest collection of dinosaur fossils in the country (most of them found in Montana), highlights include the world’s largest T-Rex skull and an impressive collection of fossilized Triceratops bones. Interactive exhibits about the human and geological history of the Rockies are also interesting, and regular education programs are also featured.
Another popular campus landmark is the American Computer & Robotics Museum. Situated just a short distance from the main academic buildings, it lays claim to being the oldest museum of its kind and provides a fascinating look at the evolution of computing from ancient devices to modern robots. And don’t miss the MSU Library which not only houses a comprehensive academic collection but often hosts art displays, author talks, and community forums.
For sports fans, a walk around Bobcat Stadium is worthwhile, especially if you happen to visit during a game day. The infectious energy and school spirit fill the surrounding neighborhoods, giving visitors a sense of MSU’s proud athletic heritage.
Things To Do in Bozeman
Affectionately known as “The Bozone” by students and locals, Bozeman itself offers plenty of fun things to do. Main Street is always a good place to start exploring and is lined with shops selling everything from unique handcrafted souvenirs to rare and secondhand books. Other downtown sights include the Emerson Center for the Arts and Culture, housed in a converted school building featuring regular art displays and concerts; and the Gallatin History Museum with its Native American exhibits, battlefield artifacts, and historic photo archives (admission is free on select days each month).
Prefer your fun outdoors? Then exploring the Gallatin Valley is a must for its extensive network of trails suitable for hiking, biking, and, when the snow flies, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. Speaking of winter sports, ski buffs will want to spend time at the Bridger Bowl Ski Area and the nearby Big Sky Resort. Fisherfolk should venture to the Gallatin and Madison Rivers for superlative fishing experiences. It’s also worth noting that Bozeman also makes a great base from which to explore Yellowstone National Park, roughly an hour and a half drive away.
When it comes to lodging and dining, there are several great options within walking distance of campus. The Element Bozeman is located near Main Street, making it easy to get to the university, while the Kimpton Armory Hotel Bozeman offers an upscale experience within walking distance of some of the town’s best eateries. Speaking of which, Nova Café and Plonk are popular spots for a meal and are both located just around the corner from the hotels. For something with a student vibe, hit the Cat’s Paw for its pub-style food and lively atmosphere.
The Final Word
Montana State University stands as a cornerstone of Bozeman, influencing everything from the local economy to the community’s shared traditions. What began with just a handful of students in 1893 has grown into a major institution fueling research, championing innovation, and inspiring generations of graduates who continue to make their mark in Montana… and beyond. Bozeman’s evolution into the best college town in the state can definitely be traced directly to the enduring partnership between the university and those who call this beautiful area of Montana home.
