Blog, History, & Montana Travel

With rolling grassy hills, breathtaking mountain views, unforgettable people, and unending adventure, Montana is one of those places that can’t be categorized easily. Many have tried. From Steinbeck to Doig, to Lewis and Clark, Montana has filled many hearts with it’s expansive beauty.

The views are big and the sky stretches out even further. When my kids were little, we’d look at the sunrise and gasp at the masterpiece that was painted for us each morning. Just like our human perspectives, no two Montana views are the same.

Rich history lines the roads and trails in Montana, Wyoming, and Colorado from the highways to the backcountry hiking trails. From stories of John Bozeman and the Bozeman Trail to bears and horses, and historically really good food, there are so many incredible offerings in this Treasure State. Montana Described:

John Steinbeck wrote to his wife while traveling through Montana and told her that his progress was slower going. He traveled slower so that he could gawk at Montana views. My favorite shirt in the world quotes Steinbeck's conclusion, “With Montana, it is love”.

I’ve read that Ivan Doig was said to have advised that in Montana, it’s a good idea to keep your hat on so the wind doesn’t blow your hair off. 

In This House of Sky, he wrote,

"We came up over the crest and were walled to a stop. The western skyline before us was filled high with a steel-blue army of mountains, drawn in

battalions of peaks and reefs and gorges and crags as far along the entire rim of the earth as could be seen. Summit after summit bladed up

thousands of feet as if charging into the air to strike first at storm and

lightning, valleys and clefts chasmed wide as if split and hollowed by thunderblast upon thunderblast." Ivan Doig, This House of Sky

Montana has been described as bitter and unforgiving. It freezes over every winter and catches fire every summer. While somewhat accurate, this generalization leaves out every moment of beauty, wonder, weather, and grandeur that encompasses Montana in between.

The last best place, akin to Eden, big, grand, epic, wild, extravagant. All said and done, I call it home. Montana is in my heart and soul.

We love Montana and know you will, too. We want you to see Montana with the same awe that we do while you have a place to rest like you would at home. That’s why we do what we do at Fox Hollow Inn, Bozeman. Come visit Montana see it all for yourself!

By Jessica Hunter

With so many incredible restaurants, cafes and grills in the Gallatin Valley, here are some of our favorites! You can plan ahead and never miss a meal while you visit Bozeman.

Morning

Mukai Coffeehouse: With classic drinks, comforting food, and seasonal option, this locally owned stop will fill your cup in every way! Experience community at Mukai coffeehouse.

Cafe M: A quick stop on the way to the BZN international airport, you'll find convenient locally roasted coffee, a quick bite, and easy breakfast to fuel you in your day.

Rise and Shine Cafe and Bakery: Farm to table eggs, friendly welcoming environment. Grab a sandwich on their homemade bread before you make the drive to Big Sky. (Closed Sunday and Monday).

Lone Peak Provisions: Donuts fried in 100% beef tallow? Yes please! Supporting local with quality and commitment to greatness... you couldn't ask for better! Try breakfast and lunch options and support these dedicated and talented entrepreneurs. Open 7-3 Monday-Saturday. 

Noon

Revelry: "Wholesome and savory neighborhood eatery" we love the environment, the service, and the beautifully delicious food. You can call ahead to inquire about reservations!

Sidewinders American Grill: For larger hungry parties, this restaurant in Bozeman has something for everyone. A classic American menu, a supportive vibe, and excellent service. Whenever we head out to Sidewinders Grill we rarely have the foresight to plan ahead. That's always ok because it's in a beautiful area to take a walk while we wait, we can warm up inside in their comfortable waiting area, and the kids adore the fireplace and decor! Sidewinders has always provided a great all around experience, almost as great as Montana Ale Works! (Which is one of our very favorites.

Dinner Time

Stacey's Bar and Steakhouse: A piece of Montana History you won't want to miss. Local Beef, great portions, and walk-in welcomes. (Closed Monday).

J.W Heist Steakhouse: For a culinary experience, one for the books, make a reservation at this epic Bozeman American Steakhouse.

Montana Ale Works: If we had to choose one Bozeman favorite, this one might be it. Our whole family enjoys the food and ambiance. For dining-in our take-out, their menu has it all. And as a "Bozeman Voted Best" 2024 we aren't the only ones who think so

Tell us what you think! We love hearing about where you ate, what you enjoyed, and experiences you would recommend. So email us your thoughts at [email protected] or post in the comments below!