Bozeman, Montana, is more than just a gateway to Yellowstone or a stopover for ski trips to Big Sky. With its lively arts scene, vibrant college-town energy, and stunning natural beauty, this mountain gem deserves a hotel as unique and welcoming as the town itself. Enter the Kimpton Armory Hotel. Housed in a beautifully restored armory building right in downtown, it promises much more than a place to sleep. This comprehensive travel guide breaks down every detail of our stay, providing all you need to know about what might just be the best hotel in Bozeman.
Perched in the heart of the Gallatin Valley, Bozeman is a launching pad for outdoor adventures. Whether you're more of a leisurely nature lover vs. adventure junkie, there’s so much here to keep any traveler engaged. Throughout the year, the town buzzes with local events thanks to Montana State University’s presence. Whether you’re in town for hiking, skiing, an event, or just a memorable stop en route to Yellowstone National Park, your lodging choice makes all the difference.
Bozeman, Montana is located in the southwestern part of the state, nestled in the Gallatin Valley and surrounded by the Rocky Mountains. It is approximately 90 miles north of Yellowstone National Park and 45 miles from Big Sky, making it a popular destination and gateway for travelers.
The Kimpton Armory Hotel occupies an old armory (hence the name), seamlessly blending Bozeman’s rich heritage with sleek, modern touches. Stepping outside the lobby, you’ll find yourself in the center of downtown Bozeman. This means you’re minutes from top restaurants, quirky boutiques, and friendly breweries. Plus, you’ll share the town with both locals and out-of-town adventurers, giving Bozeman its characteristic lively energy.
Because Bozeman is a college town, there’s always something exciting happening, from gallery hops to local film screenings. Winters attract crowds for skiing (Big Sky is just an hour away), while summer travelers flock here for hiking, river rafting, or day trips to Yellowstone. Choosing a Bozeman hotel that puts you in the heart of it all makes the most of your time and ensures maximum time for seeing as many places as possible!
Our room at the Kimpton Armory Hotel felt specifically tailored for travelers who appreciate details. Here’s what stood out:
Every comfort seems to have been anticipated, making for a hassle-free and welcoming stay.
Kimpton’s investment in truly guest-focused offerings shines when it comes to onsite amenities.
The rooftop saltwater pool is the perfect place to cool off during the hot Montana summer days, but in the winter it's kept at 110 degrees, making it a cozy retreat under snowy skies. The stunning views of the surrounding mountains only add to the experience, and yes, you can order drinks poolside.
Outfitted with quality equipment, the gym accommodates everyone from the casual cardio lover to those needing a more serious workout. The gym is outfitted with weights, treadmills, and even Peloton bikes.
This is where the Armory Hotel really distinguishes itself among other Bozeman hotels. Montana is made for adventure, but some of the gear isn’t exactly suitcase-friendly. Guests can borrow bear spray (essential for summertime hikers), sleds, and snowshoes in the winter. The program also covers other outdoor essentials you may not have been able to bring, ensuring your Montana experience is both safe and action-packed.
Bozeman, Montana is a very bike-friendly town with wonderful bike lanes and flat streets on an easy to navigate grid system. Kimpton Armory Hotel Bozeman makes exploring the city on two wheels a breeze by providing loaner bikes on a first come first serve basis.
Start your day off right with complimentary morning coffee and tea offered in the lobby. We found ourselves sipping on our morning coffee over a game of checkers one morning and sitting by the lobby fireplace the next. The whole lobby of the hotel has a general homey feeling about it that makes you want to curl up on the couch with a book and coffee in hand.
Each evening, guests can enjoy a complimentary wine and beer hour in the cozy hotel lobby. It’s the perfect opportunity to unwind after a day of exploring, mingle with other guests, and enjoy the warm, inviting atmosphere.
The daily mixology class at 4:30 PM at Sky Shed is an experience not to be missed. Guests can learn to craft signature cocktails under the guidance of expert bartenders, all while enjoying beautiful rooftop views.
No hotel review is complete without a shoutout to the best dining options, and Tune Up stands out for both drinks and atmosphere. Live music on certain nights keeps the bar lively, yet there’s no cover charge. It’s a fantastic place to unwind after a day outdoors or to catch up with fellow travelers and locals. We happened to catch a local musician on a Saturday night and loved sipping our whiskey cocktails while listening to live music.
Fielding's is the signature restaurant located within the Kimpton Armory Hotel in Bozeman, offering a modern yet inviting atmosphere. The menu showcases seasonal ingredients making it a go-to spot for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. From hearty Montana-inspired dishes to lighter fare, Fielding's caters to a variety of tastes, all served with impeccable attention to detail. It’s an excellent option for both guests and locals looking for an elevated dining experience.
Sky Shed is a trendy rooftop bar located atop the Kimpton Armory Hotel, offering stunning panoramic views of Bozeman and the surrounding mountains. Known for its vibrant atmosphere, craft cocktails, and cozy fire pits, it’s a hotspot for both visitors and locals alike. It’s incredibly popular, and we discovered just how in-demand it is when we couldn’t secure a spot on a Saturday night without a reservation. (Note: Sky Shed reservations can be made 45 days in advance.)
Few things beat sipping a drink in a steaming rooftop pool while surrounded by mountain peaks. The hotel’s poolside bar keeps you refreshed with creative cocktails and a well-selected list of local beers and wines.
On our Yellowstone day trip, we ordered lunch to-go right from Fielding's. This was a smart move, ensuring we didn’t have to gamble on park food while waiting for Old Faithful to erupt. The order was ready right on time, packaged for travel, and just as delicious as the dine-in meals. (Note: If you're visiting Yellowstone in the off-season late fall, winter, and early spring) you'll definitely want to bring snacks and/or meals with you since in-park concessions will be closed.)
For those searching for the best hotel in Bozeman, securing an excellent rate is part of the game. We highly recommend booking directly through the Kimpton Armory Hotel’s own website. Not only do they offer regular promotions, but direct booking also gives you more flexibility if travel plans change last minute. (If these past few years taught us anything, it’s that flexibility is key!)
Check Official Hotel Rates Here
If you’re absolutely certain your plans are locked in, you may find deals on third-party travel websites. However, be aware that these come with stricter cancellation and change policies. Based on our experience, booking directly with the hotel is almost always the safer and smarter bet, especially for longer stays or if you want to get in on their best promotional deals.
Check Rates with the Best Third Party Sites:
Expedia.com | Booking.com | Hotels.com
The Kimpton Armory Hotel blends old-school Montana charm with every modern convenience a traveler could crave. Its location in downtown Bozeman means you’re never far from adventure, whether that’s a sunrise hike, a Main Street art crawl, or a night of live music.
From the pillow menu to the poolside cocktails, every aspect of this hotel has been curated for comfort and convenience. Extra touches like the gear loaner program and in-room Peloton bikes set it apart from typical accommodations. The staff consistently goes above and beyond, making sure your stay feels personal, seamless, and memorable.
A trip to Bozeman opens the door to some of Montana’s (and the West’s) biggest adventures, but picking the right place to stay can elevate your whole experience. If you’re looking for the best hotel in Bozeman, it’s hard to top the Kimpton Armory Hotel’s mix of location, amenities, and Montana hospitality.
Next steps for savvy travelers:
Looking for even more travel tips, destination reviews, or Montana adventure inspiration? Check out our other guides and start planning your trip to Big Sky Country.
Yes, the Kimpton Armory Hotel Bozeman is dog friendly. They welcome pets of all sizes with no additional fees, and even offer pet-friendly amenities to ensure your furry friend has a comfortable stay.
Yes, the Kimpton Armory Hotel Bozeman is handicap accessible. The hotel provides ADA-compliant rooms and facilities to ensure a comfortable stay for all guests.
The Kimpton Armory Hotel Bozeman is approximately 90 miles from Yellowstone National Park, making it a convenient base for exploring the park.
The Kimpton Armory Hotel Bozeman is approximately 45 miles from Big Sky, Montana, offering easy access to this popular destination.
Yes, room service is available at the Kimpton Armory Hotel Bozeman, allowing guests to enjoy meals in the comfort of their rooms.
Yes, Kimpton Armory Hotel Bozeman offers 10% off for AAA members and seniors (ages 62+).
Valet parking is parking is available the Armory Hotel in Bozeman, but self-parking is not. If guests would prefer self-parking their vehicle, street parking and garages are available nearby but guests should pay close attention to parking signage, hours, and fees.
