Local Events

A Little Taste of the City Life Now and Again

Yellowstone National Park, although being quite out in the "middle of nowhere" is still within a few hours drive from a few lively cities and towns. The live music venues, museums, theatres and and downtown areas of these cities host all kind of exciting events throughout the year. The Employee Recreation Program often plans van trips to these destinations. Below are links, listed by city or town, that provide local information and events calendars.

Bozeman, Montana

Population: 28,000
76 mile drive from Yellowstone's North Entrance

Bozeman is home to Montana State University, The Museum of the Rockies, numerous night clubs and live music venues. It is the largest city within a 2 hour drive from the park.

Cody, Wyoming

Population: 9,000
54 mile drive from Yellowstone's East Entrance

Cody, Wyoming, named after Buffalo Bill Cody, hosts night rodeos throughout summer and is also home of the Buffalo Bill Historic Center.

Jackson, Wyoming

Population: 8,700
58 mile drive from Yellowstone's South Entrance

Jackson is a large tourist / resort town just south of Grand Teton National Park. Both the Snow King Resort and the Mangy Moose Saloon at the Jackson Hole resort host live music regularly throughout the year.

Livingston, Montana

Population: 7,200
53 Mile Drive from Yellowstone's North Entrance

Livingston has true Montana character which seems less affected by tourism. The drive to Livingston as you exit the park via the North Entrance follows the Yellowstone River through scenic Paradise Valley. The historic Chico Hot Springs Resort, which provides hot spring pools, fine dining, a day spa, and live music, is located along this drive.

West Yellowstone, Montana

Population: 1,200
Just outside Yellowstone's West Entrance

West Yellowstone is a gateway tourist town where Yellowstone visitors from the west funnel through. It is considered the "Snowmobile Capital of the World."

Gardiner, Montana

Population: 800
Just outside of Yellowstone's North Entrance

Gardiner is the original and only year-round entrance to Yellowstone. Founded in 1880, it is the most historic of Yellowstone's gateway towns. Today Gardiner is headquarters for most park administration, as well as concessioners, guide companies, and educational organizations that operate in Yellowstone. The Yellowstone River flows right through the middle of town, and as a result numerous whitewater raft and fishing guide companies thrive here during summer. Gardiner is home to the Gardiner Rodeo, the Gardiner Brewfest, and the Yellowstone Music Festival.