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Bozeman Brews: Exploring the Best Local Breweries in Montana’s Mountain Haven

Bozeman Brews: Exploring the Best Local Breweries in Montana’s Mountain Haven

  • Smoak Real Estate Group
  • 06/9/25

Bozeman, Montana, is renowned for its breathtaking mountain vistas and vibrant outdoor lifestyle. Complementing this natural beauty is a thriving craft beer scene that has blossomed over the past two decades. With a diverse array of breweries offering everything from traditional ales to innovative experimental brews, Bozeman has become a haven for beer enthusiasts.

Mountains Walking Brewery

Located in Bozeman’s historic Brewery District, Mountains Walking Brewery stands out as a pioneering force in Montana’s craft beer renaissance. Known for pushing the boundaries of traditional brewing, this brewery artfully blends old-world techniques with modern experimentation. Visitors can enjoy signature creations like the Yamabiko Japanese Rice Lager, which offers a crisp, clean taste inspired by Japanese brewing culture, and the Daruma West Coast IPA, a bold and hop-forward beer with notes of citrus and pine.

But it’s not just about the beer—Mountains Walking also excels as a culinary destination. The full-service kitchen specializes in wood-fired pizzas with locally sourced ingredients, shareable appetizers, and hearty entrées, making it a go-to for both dinner outings and casual meetups.

The brewery's inviting taproom is filled with natural light and community-focused design, often hosting events, beer releases, and rotating art installations. Whether you're a beer connoisseur or simply looking for a cozy place to unwind, Mountains Walking delivers a complete experience rooted in creativity and flavor.

MAP Brewing Company

MAP Brewing Company offers a sensory experience that’s as much about the setting as the beer. Situated along the scenic shores of Glen Lake, this brewery boasts one of the most picturesque backdrops in Bozeman—with panoramic views of the Bridger Mountain Range that captivate year-round. Since opening its doors in 2015, MAP has gained a loyal following for its combination of top-tier brewing, sustainable practices, and inviting ambiance.

Beer lovers flock to try iconic offerings like the Midas Crush IPA, a citrusy and refreshing ale that has become a fan favorite, and the Steep Terrain Double IPA, which packs a bold, hoppy punch with a smooth finish. The brewery regularly rotates its seasonal and specialty beers, keeping the menu fresh and appealing to a wide variety of palates.

Inside, the spacious taproom features rustic-modern décor and large windows that frame Bozeman’s natural beauty. Outside, the lakeside patio is a magnet for locals, visitors, and even dog owners during warmer months. MAP’s commitment to local ingredients, community engagement, and environmental stewardship has cemented its place as a must-visit stop on any Bozeman brewery tour.

Bozeman Brewing Company

Established in 2001, Bozeman Brewing Company—fondly referred to as "The Bozone"—is the oldest operating brewery in Bozeman and a true institution in Montana’s craft beer history. Nestled in a red-brick warehouse on the city’s north side, this brewery exudes character, charm, and a deep respect for brewing traditions.

Their Bozone Amber Ale remains one of the region’s most beloved beers, known for its smooth malt character and balanced hop finish. In addition to its flagship lineup, Bozeman Brewing consistently produces inventive small-batch brews through its specialty “Taproom Series,” allowing patrons to explore new styles like Belgian saisons, barrel-aged stouts, and tart Berliner Weisses.

The tasting room maintains a cozy, laid-back vibe with community tables and knowledgeable bartenders who are always happy to chat about the latest releases. It’s not uncommon to see locals gathering here after a hike, ski trip, or float down the Gallatin. As a brewery with deep roots in the Bozeman community, Bozeman Brewing also supports local events, music festivals, and nonprofit initiatives.

Bridger Brewing

Just steps from the Montana State University campus, Bridger Brewing is a staple for students, alumni, and craft beer lovers alike. The brewery is known not only for its solid beer lineup but also for its artisan pizzas, which are handcrafted with high-quality ingredients and inventive flavor combinations.

Flagship beers like the Vigilante IPA—a bold, hoppy ale named after Montana’s storied past—and the Ghost Town Coffee Stout, brewed with locally roasted coffee beans, are perennial favorites. Bridger Brewing also frequently experiments with new styles and seasonal ingredients, keeping things fresh for regular patrons.

The brewery’s central location and expansive seating make it a hub for socializing, especially during MSU sporting events or Friday night happy hours. With live music performances, trivia nights, and a strong commitment to local causes, Bridger Brewing plays a vital role in fostering Bozeman’s lively and inclusive community spirit.

Bunkhouse Brewery

A true neighborhood gem, Bunkhouse Brewery is a small-batch, independently owned operation situated just off the MSU campus. What it lacks in size, it makes up for in personality and quality. Bunkhouse specializes in crafting beers that reflect both the traditions and innovation of the craft brewing movement.

The brewery’s lineup often features classics like kolsch, ESB, and pale ale, alongside more experimental releases such as fruited saisons and hazy IPAs. Their tap list changes frequently, allowing guests to enjoy something new with every visit.

The space itself is intimate and friendly, designed to foster conversation and connection. With its community-focused ethos and approachable vibe, Bunkhouse Brewery has become a favorite for students, faculty, and locals looking for a genuine Bozeman experience.

Outlaw Brewing

Outlaw Brewing embraces Bozeman’s wild western roots with a fun and unpretentious atmosphere. Located in the city’s north end, this brewery is known for its laid-back taproom, rotating food truck partnerships, and large outdoor patio that’s perfect for sunny afternoons and cool Montana evenings.

What sets Outlaw apart is its ever-evolving beer selection. Brewing up to 45 unique beers each year, Outlaw always ensures something new to explore—whether you prefer crisp pilsners, bold stouts, or inventive sours. Some popular staples include the Summit Pale Ale and Outlaw IPA, both showcasing balanced flavors that appeal to a wide range of drinkers.

Outlaw Brewing also hosts regular community events, including live music and charity nights, making it a vibrant part of Bozeman’s social landscape. It’s a go-to spot for casual hangouts, dog-friendly gatherings, and laid-back fun.

Freefall Brewery

Among Bozeman’s newer entrants, Freefall Brewery has quickly carved out a name for itself with its relaxed vibe and creative brewing style. Located in a modern industrial space, Freefall combines clean design with an unpretentious, welcoming atmosphere that draws both locals and visitors.

The brewery is known for experimenting with bold flavors—think chili-infused porters, juicy double IPAs, and herbaceous pale ales. But there’s also a respect for the classics, and traditionalists will find lagers and red ales that are perfectly balanced and easy to drink.

In addition to its diverse beer menu, Freefall is committed to community engagement. The brewery frequently features local food trucks, art shows, and fundraising events, helping to strengthen Bozeman’s already tight-knit creative scene. It’s an ideal destination for anyone seeking a more contemporary brewery experience without losing that warm Montana hospitality.

Experience Bozeman's Brewery Scene

Bozeman's breweries are more than just places to enjoy a pint; they're community hubs that reflect the city's spirit and creativity. Whether you're a longtime resident or considering making Bozeman your home, exploring these local breweries offers a taste of the city's vibrant culture.

Partner with Smoak Real Estate Group

If you're captivated by Bozeman's dynamic brewery scene and the lifestyle it represents, consider making this vibrant city your home. Smoak Real Estate Group specializes in Bozeman's luxury real estate market, offering personalized services to help you find the perfect property.

Whether you're looking for a home near the bustling downtown area or a serene retreat with mountain views, our team is here to guide you every step of the way. Contact Smoak Real Estate Group today to begin your journey to living the Bozeman lifestyle.



Kelly Broling Smoak

Kelly Broling Smoak

Realtor®

About the Author

Kelly Broiling has been called “The Listings Queen” by business gurus in the know. In 2019 she came on board at Coldwell Banker in Bozeman, Montana; not an easy decision to leave her former company, but she was ready to grow. A common thread in her history in the Real Estate industry. Kelly Broiling has always strived to create success for herself and others in life and business. A well-grounded individual that truly believes that integrity, honor, and transparency are the keys to creating lasting relationships in her personal and business connections. She prides herself in balancing her life wherever she goes. She is the same person at home, at the market, and the office. And that person is a warm, generous, and kind person who also likes to have fun.

Kelly Broiling has been a Realtor® for more than a decade in Montana. In that time, she has helped numerous families find forever homes and 2nd homes. She has also excelled in business finding business investment properties and land for clients to build upon. She even has the notoriety of Global Luxury Certification to add to her achievements. Her main goal is to find exactly the property to suit your desire. 

She chose the Real Estate industry because family is so important to her. Having the flexibility to continue to raise her four girls and still earn a living was of the utmost importance. She wanted to be able to be there for their recitals and sporting events, but still, put food on the table and give them a solid home to grow up in. She has always worked hard to be successful and gives that same attention to detail to her Real Estate clients. Her father has been her biggest inspiration in life. He did whatever it took to be successful and instilled those same values in Kelly. He helped her by encouraging her to complete goals and work hard while staying genuine. She knew initially it would take 3 to 5 years to get her business up and running and stayed dedicated to achieving that goal. Selling homes has never been a side job for Kelly Broiling; it’s a career that she has devoted her life and soul to, achieving that accomplishment. Having a solid foundation is her road to success. She sets goals but knows how to ask for help when she needs it. That groundwork has been the path she has traveled, and she continues every day to keep her momentum going. 

Whether it’s at home or the office, when Kelly sets her mind to completing a project, she will get there. If it’s a perfect home on a large parcel with unencumbered views or a quaint downtown flat that you want in a particular location; Kelly will help make that dream a reality. 
 

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