Tucked along the banks of the Yellowstone River with the Absaroka Mountains rising in the distance, Livingston is a town that blends small-town charm with big adventure. Whether you’re just passing through on a Yellowstone trip or planning a weekend escape, here’s how to spend a Saturday in this lively Montana hub.
Morning: Cast a Line or Float the Yellowstone
Start your day on the water. The Yellowstone River is world-renowned for its fly fishing, and early morning is prime time to wade into its riffles or float a stretch with a local outfitter. Book a guided trip with Dan Bailey’s Outdoor Company, a Livingston institution since 1938, or head out with Montana Fly Fishing Guides for a day drifting through Paradise Valley. If fishing isn’t your thing, opt for a scenic float trip to soak in the beauty of Montana’s longest free-flowing river.
Noon: Lunch Downtown & Gallery Hopping
After a morning on the water, head back into Livingston’s historic downtown for lunch. Grab a hearty sandwich at Gil’s Goods, sushi from Neptune’s Taphouse & Eatery, or comfort food with a modern twist at Campione Roman Kitchen.
Once refueled, spend some time gallery hopping along Main Street. Stop into Visions West Contemporary for modern Western art, Frame Garden for regional artists, or Plein Air Montana for landscapes that echo the scenery outside town. Livingston has long been a haven for creatives, and its galleries reflect the town’s eclectic spirit.
Afternoon: Picnic in the Park & Riverside Wandering
Pick up picnic fixings from The Gem or Katabatic Brewing’s Pretzel & Cheese plate to-go, and make your way to Sacajawea Park. With shaded lawns, colorful flowerbeds, and sweeping views of the Absaroka Range, it’s the perfect place to linger. Afterward, stretch your legs on the Yellowstone River trails, an easy wander along the banks that runs right through town.
Evening: Music & Brews
As the sun dips behind the mountains, the town comes alive. Start with happy hour at one of Livingston’s breweries: grab a crisp craft pint at Katabatic Brewing Co. Then head to The Attic, a beloved local venue where touring acts and local musicians bring the night to life.
Night: A Murray Bar Nightcap
No Saturday in Livingston is complete without a stop at the Murray Bar. This iconic watering hole, located inside the historic Murray Hotel, has been serving up cold drinks and good times for decades. Order a nightcap, soak in the storied atmosphere, and toast to a day well spent in Livingston.
From river mornings to live music nights, Livingston delivers the perfect mix of Montana adventure and small-town culture — all in one Saturday.
