Blake Walsh

25 Best Things to Do in Livingston, MT

  • Published 2022/08/24

In one of the fertile valleys of the Rocky Mountains lies Livingston, a charming town with an inviting community.

It’s called the Original Gateway City to the Yellowstone National Park, as it was served as a centralized point for train tracks back when the US relied heavily on locomotives.

But as highways became more prevalent, visitors no longer had to make a stop at Livingston to access the national park.

That doesn’t mean that the city has lost its charm.

Since it’s flanked by mountains and bordered by the Yellowstone River on its eastern edge, the town still has plenty of nature-related activities.

There are also manmade attractions and historical destinations where you can learn more about the community’s past.

So for your next vacation, why not make this place your top choice?

Here are the 25 best things to do in Livingston, MT:

Visit the Art Galleries Along Main Street

Main Street in Livingston

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Aside from nature and history, human talent and creativity are celebrated here in Livingston.

In fact, there are many art galleries scattered along the neighborhoods, particularly on Main Street.

Check out these attractions and bring home a beautiful artwork as a souvenir of your Livingston trip.

Livingston Center-Art Culture is one of the more well-known facilities, and they display paintings, wearable art, ceramics, and other works by regional artists.

Stores along Main Street, Livingston

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At Visions West Contemporary, you’d find modern sculptures, artworks, and other pieces that feature the life and views of the Rocky Mountains.

For those who are looking for something intriguing and whimsical, Parks Reece Gallery has parody artworks and original pieces that are as unique as the artist himself.

Main Street buildings in Livingston

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Tour the Halls of Yellowstone Gateway Museum

As mentioned, the city once served as the main access point into the Yellow Stone National Park.

This legacy is still celebrated and remembered at Yellowstone Gateway Museum, which is part of the Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail.

Here, you’d find an enormous collection from each era of Livingston.

The artifacts from native societies that lived here from 12,000 years ago are on display on the permanent exhibit.

You’ll also learn about the deeds of early settlers and how the city became a center for railroad transport in the region.

There are also outdoor exhibits with interactive buildings and structures, such as a schoolhouse, blacksmith shop, and a fleet of vehicles from bygone eras.

Don’t forget to check out the rotating exhibits that usually talk about ancient wildlife, geology, and other topics related to the area.

Shop Fresh Produce at Livingston Farmers’ Market

For those who are looking for quality veggies and fruits during your trip to the city, make sure to visit Livingston Farmers’ Market.

Open from May to September, this seasonal destination is where local farmers and gardeners drop off their fresh harvests.

And the market is located next to Yellowstone River, so you’ll be treated to wonderful views while perusing the stalls.

Shop for seasonal vegetables, various fruit cultivars, fragrant flowers, and premium root crops.

There are also baked goods, preserves, beers from local breweries, and artisanal furniture by local makers.

On occasion, there will be live music by talented performers to serenade you as you buy farm-fresh produce.

Mingle With the Community at Livingston Depot Center

Exterior of Livingston Depot Center

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The Livingston Depot Center once served as the Northern Pacific Railroad’s launching point for travel to Yellowstone National Park.

But as modernity happened, railroad transport became less favored, and highways were all the rage.

So now, the once-bustling station was evolved into a vibrant museum and theater beloved by the Livingston community.

Of course, you’re welcome to visit here too.

View of a Train at Livingston Depot Center

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The museum is seasonally open, and the exhibits showcase the railroad history of Livingston and other related topics.

At the community center, you can catch live music concerts, historical talks, card nights, and other activities that bring the city folks together.

So while here, you’ll not only learn the rich history of the location but also be able to mingle with the community and make new friends.

A Train at Livingston Depot Center

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Have a Fun Family Day at Sacajawea Park

The first outdoor destination on this list is Sacajawea Park, a scenic attraction sitting right next to Yellowstone River.

It’s an expansive park with play structures, sports facilities, and many modern amenities that will make for a convenient stay.

All these are framed with a backdrop of the distant Absaroka Range and its snowcapped mountains and lush forests.

Add Yellowstone River to the mix, and you get a postcard-perfect scenery.

It’s no wonder that many people come to stay at the park just to admire the panoramic vistas of the nearby natural features.

You can also play a few rounds of tennis or explore the trails to the park’s river banks and wooded areas.

Set Up a Camp at Mayor’s Landing

Mayor’s Landing is another scenic attraction located upriver from Sacajawea Park, and it has similar beautiful sceneries.

The main difference is that this location also serves as a launching point for watercraft into Yellowstone River.

So you can bring kayaks, rafts, canoes, and other small boats to get into the rushing body of water.

In addition, there are campsites here that can accommodate both RVs and traditional tents, making Mayor’s Landing an excellent base for your adventures in Livingston.

You’re also welcome to bring your pooches to the dog park section, but remember to keep them on a leash!

Bring them along as you explore the vast walking trails that bring you to the riverbanks, wide grassy areas, and wooded corners.

Brave the Currents of Yellowstone River

Daytime view of Yellowstone River

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Yellowstone River is as historic as it is beautiful, and it’s one of the most economically important resources in the area.

From Mayor’s Landing and other launches along the easter borders of Livingston, you can access it via kayaks, boats, and other watercraft.

Brave the turbulent waters as you explore downriver, which brings you nearer the mountain ranges that flank both sides of the city.

The waters of Yellowstone River

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It’s a fun and exhilarating way to see all the beautiful sights awaiting.

But if you want to test your angling skills, you can simply try fly fishing along with the seasoned fishermen of the town.

This practice is a specialty here, so ready yourself for a wet and wild experience that will have you waist-deep in the waters of Yellowstone River.

Purchase Quality Angling Supplies at Dan Bailey’s Fly Shop

As mentioned, fly fishing is something of a specialty in Livingston.

And one of the chief contributors to the development of this technique is Dan Bailey, a notable figure who innovated new fly patterns.

He established Dan Bailey’s Fly Shop, which manufactured mail-order fly patterns and outfitted the visiting fishermen.

During the 1980s, his company became the largest manufacturer of artificial flies in the whole country, producing upwards of 750,000 items annually.

The shop is still operating today, and you’re welcome to visit it and check out some of the best products they have in store.

You can also join the fishing trips they offer to some of the best spots in Yellowstone River, where you’ll learn fly fishing techniques and strategies.

Trek the Trail to Pine Creek Lake

Set in the Absaroka Range, Pine Creek Lake is an oasis surrounded by towering mountains and pine forests.

The trail is a bit difficult—a 5-mile route that brings you to the hidden wonders of the range, which are often overshadowed by the more popular Yellowstone National Park.

The route follows Pine Creek and eventually ends at Pine Creek Lake.

Along the way, you’d see heavily forested areas with mountains looming in the background, patches of wildflowers, and the majestic Pine Creek Falls with its cascading waters.

After a few hours of strenuous hiking, you’d reach the peaceful, pristine, and magnificent high-elevation attraction that is Pine Creek Lake.

Fishing, camping, and backpacking are just some of the favorite activities to do here.

You’re also welcome to try landscape photography to capture the fantastic vistas.

Be sure to visit between July and September, as the route proves too treacherous during other months for regular hikers.

Watch a Concert at Music Ranch Montana

Another scenic attraction within the Livingston borders is Music Ranch Montana, a well-loved local events venue.

It’s located south of the city proper in Paradise Valley and is much nearer the Pine Creek Trail.

So it’s an isolated little haven with marvelous views of the nearby mountain ranges.

The only mark of civilization here is the huge barn and roads; the rest are just sweeping plains of verdant grass framed by snowcapped mountains.

These views are to die for, so it’s no wonder this place is a favorite destination for weddings, parties, special events, and other celebrations.

But the highlights here are the live concerts held right on the terraced theater of the barn.

It’s actually been acoustically engineered so the sounds and music won’t get scattered out into the vast plains, creating a great entertainment experience.

Reach the Summit of Livingston Peak

View of Livingston Peak from the road

Montanabw, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

One of the mountains you’d see while on the aforementioned parks is named after the town itself.

It’s one of the nearby summits accessible from the opposite bank of the Yellowstone River.

So if you’re feeling adventurous, then definitely make the trek to the peak of this majestic mountain.

Rising to more than 9200 feet above sea level, Livingston Peak can be quite the challenge for amateurs.

But all skill levels can trek the steep and often snowy route, which begins at the Livingston Peak Trailhead.

The views at the top and along the way are absolutely worth every slip and fall or sore muscle.

You’d see colorful wildflowers, endless expanses of pine forests, and the city of Livingston glistening with the waters of the Yellowstone River.

Avoid climbing during the winter, as unexpected blizzards and heavy snowing can pose hazards even to the most experienced hikers.

Play a Few Rounds at Livingston Golf & Country Club

Whether you’re an amateur or a professional, you’ll have a great time playing at the scenic Livingston Golf & Country Club.

Golfing here is quite the experience, as you’d be treated with views of the Absaroka Range in the background.

The nine-hole course is fairly gentle, with an undulating terrain that’s made easy by the well-planned layout, verdant greens and fairways, and the occasional hazard.

But don’t get too overconfident, as some holes offer quite the challenge for the uninitiated.

Otherwise, this course is ideal for all skill levels and ages.

Don’t forget to visit the well-stocked pro shop if you need equipment like clubs, balls, and even golfing apparel.

Catch a Show at Blue Slipper Theatre

Blue Slipper Theatre is the center for performance art in Livingston, and it has been that way for more than 50 years.

Located in the historic downtown district of the city, this attraction holds five full productions each season.

The lineup includes comedic and dramatic plays, which are guaranteed to entertain both locals and visitors.

What’s remarkable about these productions is that they are all funded by past ticket sales since the theater is a nonprofit.

The fact that they’ve kept going for decades is a testament to how well-loved they are by the community.

So if you want to catch one of their stunning shows, check out their calendar and schedule your itinerary to your preferred dates.

Stay Awhile at Osens RV Park & Campground

While the grounds of Mayor’s Landing can serve as adequate accommodations for your trip, Osens RV Park & Campground is the most recommended location for camping.

It’s an expansive, quiet, and convenient destination sitting beside a road that offers easy access to Livingston’s attractions.

This campground specializes in RVs, with electricity and water hookups as well as cable and Wi-Fi connections—it’s almost like you never left home!

Aside from that, the whole place is generally serene and completely safe, so you won’t have to worry about anything while staying here.

Not to mention the beautiful trees, verdant grounds, and mountain views that elevate your whole stay.

Sip a Cold Drink at Whiskey Creek Saloon & Liquor

To cap off your Livingston trip, make a stopover at Whiskey Creek Saloon & Liquor.

Nothing beats a mug of cold beer after a whole day’s worth of adventuring, after all.

This facility is a well-loved destination by both locals and tourists because of the Wild West ambiance, beautiful buildings, and refreshing beverages.

So visit the location to see the nightlife of Livingston, mingle with a few locals, and try some of their alcoholic drinks!

Explore and Purchase Artwork at Parks Reece Gallery

Parks Reece Gallery is a must-visit tourist spot in Livingston, Montana’s city center.

Get unique paintings by Parks Reece is the Parks Reece Gallery, founded in 1992.

Parks Reece is an incredibly talented artist whose creative paintings, lithographs, and engravings express a full style and a good sense of humor.

If you stop by the fine art gallery, there’s a possibility you could see Parks Reece working on his most recent project.

Discover the many collections and exhibitions at places like the Museum of the Rockies, Lewistown Art Center, Sheridan Gallery, Northwest Gallery, and many more!

Order a Cold Drink at Neptune’s Brewery

The little mountain hamlet of Livingston, Montana, is home to the charming Neptune’s Brewery, a sea-themed refuge.

The Roman sea deity Neptune inspired the name of Neptune’s Brewery.

The god’s name is a combination of various phrases that refer to the union of land and sky and might be translated into current parlance as “the best of both worlds.”

They provide a selection of locally made, handcrafted beers.

They have a variety of beers to choose from, including River Nymph Golden Ale, Pine Creek Pale Ale, Wee Heavy Scottish, and more!

Utilize the Amenities of the Historic Murray Hotel

Exterior of Murray Hotel

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In the picturesque tourist location of Livingston, Montana, the Historic Murray Hotel is a classic western hotel with modernized facilities.

The Murray Hotel’s guest list read much like a who’s who of heritage and Hollywood since its official debut in 1904.

What was formerly the beautiful train hotel has welcomed celebrities like Buffalo Bill and Calamity Jane.

The lobby of Murray Hotel

Montanabw, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

The grandest apartment in the building, originally constructed for an heir to the Burlington railroad fortune, was recently rented by compelling characters, including film director Sam Peckinpah.

Livingston continues to draw a consistent flow of authors, singers, and movie stars. ​

Watch an Event at Shane Lalani Center for the Arts

Shane Lalani Center for the Arts is situated in the center of Livingston, Montana.

It is committed to promoting creativity and establishing a sense of unity via various arts programming, workshops, and events.

A vibrant theatrical group is found at the Shane Lalani Center for the Arts, which hosts courses, education and awareness programs for local schools, and the Young Actors’ Workshop every August.

The Shane Center furthermore provides access to several short-term and long-term rental areas for some artistic enterprises and community events.

The Dulcie Theatre, a 165-seat theater, a ballroom with an adjacent catering area, the Mike and Eve Art Rehearsal Hall and the Movement Room are all located in the center and are accessible to the general public.

Relax and Grab a Snack at Gil’s Goods

Signage of Gil's Goods

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Gil’s Goods is an American cafe serving hand-tossed, wood-fired pizza, Italian-style coffee, homemade pastries, and delicious burgers.

It is a laid-back restaurant that serves breakfast and a wide variety of meals.

Every day, the Cafe is filled with the scent of freshly made bread.

Gil’s Goods offers bottles of house-infused beer, cocktails, and margaritas for takeout.

Come get some of the best burgers, pizzas, sweets, beverages, and draft beer!

Unleash Your Inner Cowboy at Livingston Roundup Rodeo

An Independence Day celebration in Livingston isn’t complete without a rodeo.

A visit to the Livingston Roundup Rodeo is the best way to get a taste of the area’s authentic cowboy culture.

Montana’s best and biggest rodeo gathers thousands of visitors each year.

A variety of equestrian events, such as bull riding and barrel racing, are included.

Attend a performance or stroll through the Vendor Village.

Every evening there is a spectacular fireworks display.

Experience an authentic taste of the American West and its cowboy culture.

Cruise the Paradise Valley Scenic Loop

Driving along the Paradise Valley Scenic Loop is a must if you want to experience some of Montana’s most spectacular beauty from the comfort of your car.

A paved “loop drive” of 62 miles, the Paradise Valley Scenic Loop takes you to Montana’s breathtaking Paradise Valley.

The Paradise Valley, located south of Livingston, is one of Montana’s most beautiful valleys because of its setting between the towering peaks of the Absaroka Range to the east and the Gallatin Range to the west.

The Paradise Valley is an excellent place to visit for its own sake, thanks to the Yellowstone River running right through the heart of it.

The Paradise Valley Scenic Loop is a great area to escape the city and take in some of Montana’s breathtaking scenery.

Capture the world on film, and get out there!

Immerse Yourself in Local Art at Livingston Art Walk

If you want to get a feel for the art scene in Livingston, you don’t have to set foot inside a gallery.

Early mornings or late afternoons are the perfect time to do your walking tour of the city and spot various large-scale paintings and sculptures.

You may also attend the Livingston Gallery Association Art Walk, held on Fridays throughout the summer (and once during the holidays).

Livingston throws open the doors of its many excellent art galleries for the Association’s Art Walk, making for a pleasant promenade around the town’s charming center.

An art walk is a fantastic way to know a city’s culture through the arts.

Play Bowling at Treasure Lanes

The fact that Treasure Lanes is the only bowling alley in Livingston is not a problem.

The same family has run it for almost 30 years.

Families with young children are welcome.

Any bowler, novice to pro, will find what they need at this center.

Each lane features a unique Big Lebowski painting.

There’s also an arcade for the kids and a party area in the back for special occasions.

Stop by to learn more about the leagues you may participate in here.

Enjoy the Local Music Scene at The Attic

The Attic is one of the best places in Livingston to enjoy music and chill.

Keeping some aspects from the nineteenth century and adding others from the present day results in a space that is both aesthetically pleasing and, more significantly, has good acoustics.

It aspires to furnish a setting that allows one to enjoy musical pieces as they should be.

Listen to live music as you sip your drink.

The venue is also available for weddings, parties, and other special occasions.

Final Thoughts

Flanked by mountains and irrigated by a river, Livingston is a picturesque destination that also boasts a rich history and vibrant art scene.

There’s something for everyone, whether you’re a mountaineer, fly fisher, art aficionado, or history buff.

So reference this list if you want to include all the top spots in your itinerary.

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