Livingston, Montana: 10 Unforgettable Things To Do Nearby

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10 Awesome Things To Do Near Livingston, Montana (Park County Travel Guide)

If you’re dreaming about big skies, mountain views, and a laid-back Western town, Livingston, Montana should be on your list. Tucked along the Yellowstone River in Park County, this small town is a perfect base for outdoor adventures, road trips, and a taste of real Montana life. Whether you’re planning a summer vacation, a fall road trip, or just passing through on your way to Yellowstone National Park, here are 10 great things to do in and around Livingston, MT.

1. Stroll Historic Downtown Livingston

Downtown Livingston looks like the set of an old Western movie, but people actually live, work, and hang out here. You’ll find:
  • Colorful brick buildings from the late 1800s and early 1900s
  • Cozy coffee shops and bakeries
  • Local art galleries and Western-style boutiques
  • Fun bars and restaurants with live music, especially in summer
Take your time walking along Main Street and Park Street. Pop into a bookstore, grab an ice cream, and just soak in the views of the Absaroka Mountains rising at the edge of town. If you enjoy photography, early morning or just before sunset is perfect. The soft light on the old brick fronts and neon signs gives downtown Livingston a really special feel.

2. Fly Fish the Legendary Yellowstone River

Livingston is one of the best places in the USA for fly fishing, especially on the famous Yellowstone River. Even if you’ve never held a fly rod before, this is a great place to try. The Yellowstone flows right past town, and you’ll see plenty of anglers wading in the water or floating by in drift boats. Common catches include:
  • Rainbow trout
  • Brown trout
  • Cutthroat trout
You can:
  • Hire a local fly fishing guide for a half-day or full-day trip
  • Rent gear from an outfitter if you already know the basics
  • Sit by the river and just enjoy the scene if fishing isn’t your thing
If you’ve ever watched a fly fishing scene in a movie and thought, “That looks peaceful,” this is where you can live it for real.

3. Drive the Scenic Route to Yellowstone National Park

One of the biggest perks of staying in Livingston is how close you are to Yellowstone National Park. Livingston sits about 50 miles north of the North Entrance at Gardiner. The drive down Highway 89 along the Yellowstone River is gorgeous:
  • Rolling ranch land with big, open views
  • Snowy peaks in the distance
  • Chance to see deer, pronghorn, and eagles along the road
You can make Livingston your quieter “home base” and take day trips into Yellowstone for:
  • Old Faithful and the geysers
  • Mammoth Hot Springs
  • Lamar Valley for wildlife watching (bison, elk, sometimes wolves and bears)
If you’re visiting in summer, leave early in the morning to beat the traffic and enjoy cooler temps.

4. Soak in Nearby Hot Springs

After a long hike, float, or day in Yellowstone, nothing feels better than slipping into warm mineral water under the open sky. Within easy driving distance of Livingston you’ll find classic Montana hot springs resorts. Most offer:
  • Soaking pools with natural mineral water
  • Changing rooms and showers
  • On-site food and sometimes live music
Even in winter, soaking in hot water while snowflakes fall around you is a bucket-list kind of experience. Just be sure to bring:
  • Swimsuit
  • Flip-flops or sandals
  • A warm robe or big towel if you’re visiting in colder months
Hot springs are one of the most relaxing things to do near Livingston, and they’re great for couples, families, or solo travelers.

5. Hike in the Absaroka and Crazy Mountains

If you love hiking, you’re in luck. Livingston is surrounded by mountain ranges, including the Absaroka Mountains to the south and the Crazy Mountains to the north. Within about 30–60 minutes of town, you can find trails for all levels:
  • Easy walks: Riverfront paths and short forest trails
  • Moderate hikes: 3–6 mile routes to lakes and overlooks
  • Challenging climbs: Longer hikes to high ridges and peaks
Pack the basics:
  • Water (at least 1–2 liters per person on a warm day)
  • Snacks or a simple picnic lunch
  • Layers, since mountain weather can change fast
  • Bear spray, which is common to carry in this part of Montana
There’s something special about hiking near Livingston. You get those wide-open “Big Sky” views, but you can still find quiet, uncrowded trails where you may not see another person for hours.

6. Explore Local Art, Museums, and Western Culture

Livingston may be small, but it has a surprisingly strong arts and culture scene. You’ll find:
  • Art galleries featuring paintings, photography, and sculpture inspired by Montana landscapes
  • Western and railroad history exhibits, telling the story of how Livingston grew as a Northern Pacific Railroad town
  • Seasonal events and festivals that bring locals and visitors together
Step into a gallery or small museum on a hot afternoon or a chilly day. It’s a nice change of pace from outdoor activities and gives you a feel for the stories behind this place. Many visitors are surprised by how creative and artistic Livingston feels. Ranchers, writers, anglers, and artists all seem to cross paths here.

7. Take a Scenic Drive Through Paradise Valley

Just south of Livingston, the Yellowstone River winds through a beautiful stretch known as Paradise Valley—and the name fits. A leisurely drive through this valley offers:
  • Huge ranches framed by rugged peaks
  • Pullouts and river access points where you can stop to take photos
  • Spots for picnicking by the water
If you have a half day, you can:
  • Drive from Livingston toward Gardiner and back
  • Stop at river access sites to skip rocks and let kids explore
  • Watch for wildlife in the early morning or evening
It’s one of the simplest yet most rewarding things to do near Livingston: just roll down the windows, turn on some music, and enjoy the ride.

8. Enjoy Local Food, Breweries, and Cowboy-Style Nights Out

After a long day outside, you’ll want good food—and Livingston delivers. For a small town, it has a surprisingly good mix of restaurants, cafes, and bars. You can find:
  • Montana steaks and burgers in old-school Western saloons
  • Farm-to-table style spots using local ingredients
  • Craft beer from regional breweries
  • Casual diners and breakfast joints that open early
On some nights you might catch:
  • Live country, bluegrass, or rock music
  • Locals two-stepping next to visitors in hiking boots
If you like to “travel through your taste buds,” a night out in Livingston is a fun way to experience Montana culture.

9. Go Rafting, Kayaking, or Floating the Yellowstone

On a warm summer day, locals and visitors head for the water. The Yellowstone River near Livingston offers a mix of mellow sections and splashy riffles, depending on where you go. Popular options include:
  • Guided rafting trips with experienced river guides
  • Scenic floats that focus more on views and wildlife than big waves
  • Kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding for people with some experience
You’ll see rocky cliffs, cottonwood trees, and maybe osprey or eagles flying overhead. On certain stretches you might even spot deer or elk along the banks. Always check with a local outfitter about which section of the river matches your comfort level. River conditions change with the seasons and snowmelt.

10. Experience a Real Montana Rodeo or Local Event

If your timing is right, you might be able to catch a Montana rodeo or local fair in or near Livingston. These events are full of energy and give you an up-close look at ranching and Western traditions. At a typical rodeo you might see:
  • Bronc riding and bull riding
  • Barrel racing
  • Roping events
  • Kids’ events and family activities
Even if you’ve never been to a rodeo before, it’s worth going once. The mix of dust, cheering, and cowboy hats under the stadium lights is something you won’t forget. Check local event calendars and visitor centers in Livingston or Park County to see what’s happening during your stay.

Planning Your Trip to Livingston, Montana

Here are a few quick tips to help you plan:
  • Best time to visit: Late spring through early fall for hiking, fishing, and river activities. Winter brings snow, quiet streets, and a cozy vibe.
  • What to pack: Layers, a light jacket even in summer evenings, comfortable walking shoes, sunblock, and a hat. If you plan to hike, bring a small daypack and bear spray.
  • Where to stay: Livingston has a mix of motels, small hotels, vacation rentals, and nearby lodges.
Livingston is also an easy stop on a bigger Montana road trip that might include Bozeman, Big Sky, and Yellowstone National Park.

Share Your Livingston, Montana Experience

Have you been to Livingston, MT or anywhere else in Park County? Did you have a favorite hike, fishing spot, hot spring, or restaurant? Share your story in the comments below—your experience might help someone else plan their own Montana adventure. If you found this guide helpful, please share it with friends or family who are thinking about a trip to Montana or Yellowstone National Park. The more people discover places like Livingston, the more they understand why so many of us fall in love with Big Sky Country.
Location: Georgetown, IN, USA

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