Just to the northwest of Bozeman in Gallatin County, Belgrade is one of Montana’s most up-and-coming cities.
A quiet town tucked away in the heart of the Gallatin Valley, Belgrade is home to more than 10,000 people and boasts a welcoming atmosphere rich in community spirit.
Belgrade was founded in 1882, and many of the businesses thriving in the town today can trace their heritage back to its humble beginnings.
With opportunities for mountain biking, hiking, river rafting, and horseback riding, it’s a gem for visitors seeking outdoor recreation, and there are numerous guides and outfitters operating in the town that run tours of the local backcountry.
Many visitors base themselves in Belgrade and embark on day trips to explore the highlights of the region. Yellow Stone National Park and Big Sky Ski and Summer Resort, among other tourist destinations, are within close driving range.
With a small-town feel, a diverse dining scene, and several popular attractions at your fingertips, Belgrade is an ideal Montana destination. It’s also got a surprisingly flourishing nightlife scene for a town of its size.
Read on for our selection of the best bars in Belgrade, Montana!
Travel Tips for Drinking in Belgrade
- For those visiting Belgrade, the days tend to be filled with visiting major nearby attractions and enjoying the great outdoors. And the nights are usually spent exploring the local nightlife scene, which often means settling down at a local bar.
- There’s a handful of bars in Belgrade to check out, but if you find one you like, don’t feel that you have to bar-hop through them all. Many offer a similar welcoming vibe and lively atmosphere.
- It’s important to be mindful of the local drinking age, which is 21. Travelers under 21 years old will not be able to be served in any bar or pub in Belgrade. That said, drinking is permitted for those under 21 at home so long as the drinking doesn’t lead to intoxication.
- Many of the bars in Belgrade also double as liquor stores, so another option for a fun night, if you’re staying with friends in town, is to grab some drinks to go.
The 7 Best Bars in Belgrade
Belgrade may be a small town, but it is blessed with a variety of friendly bars where all visitors are welcomed with the hospitality that is so typical of Montana.
The bars in town normally feature live music, TV screens, gaming machines, and delicious bar snacks, making them super popular among locals and travelers.
Check out our pick for the best drinking venues and bars in Belgrade, Montana.
- Mint Café & Bar
- Rhino Lounge Liquor & Casino
- JR’s Lounge & Casino
- American Legion Club #30
- Bar3 BBQ
- The Friendly Tavern
- Madison River Brewing Company
1. Mint Café & Bar – Belgrade – $$-$$$
The Mint is Belgrade’s premium steakhouse and gathering place.
Although not a bar, strictly speaking, the establishment has an impressive drinks list complete with wine, beer, and cocktails, along with a diverse menu of dinner dishes and desserts.
Located on East Main Street, the Mint is a popular establishment to visit after a day spent in Belgrade’s downtown area. It’s also a family-friendly venue, with a kid’s menu featuring classics like chicken fingers and macaroni and cheese.
The Mint is open daily from 4:30 p.m. Sunday through Thursday, the venue stays open until 9:30 p.m., while on Fridays and Saturdays, it closes at 10 p.m.
2. Rhino Lounge Liquor & Casino – Belgrade -$-$$
The Rhino Lounge is situated on West Main Street and is open all day, serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Home to one of the town’s most popular gaming areas, the venue often runs discounts and specials that make it a super affordable place to pass an afternoon or night.
During the year, the lounge hosts special events, such as craft cocktail tasting. It’s also a fully credited liquor store, where you can purchase drinks for parties and gatherings at home in Belgrade.
The Rhino Lounge is open daily from 8 a.m. to 2 a.m.
3. JR’s Lounge & Casino – Belgrade – $-$$
A full-service bar and casino, JR’s is located on West Madison Avenue.
Locals and visitors love the venue for its friendly staff, knowledgeable bartenders, quality food menu, and many televisions. This is also a great place to kick back with a drink and catch the game with a few friends!
JR’s is not just a lounge and casino but is also one of Belgrade’s best live music venues. The stage is graced by local bands and those touring, giving patrons the chance to hear a wide range of music every weekend.
They also host karaoke competitions where everyone is made to feel like a rock star.
JR’s Lounge & Casino is open every day, 12 p.m. through 2 a.m. Monday through Friday, and 11 a.m. through 2 a.m. Saturday and Sunday.
4. American Legion Club #30 – Belgrade – $-$$
American Legion Club #30 is a bar and grill found on Belgrade’s popular West Main Street. A local favorite, the establishment is home to TV screens, gaming machines, and most importantly, a fully stocked bar.
Patrons also rave about the tasty selection of bar food, including burgers and wings.
The venue is spacious and has outdoor seating, offering a relaxing vibe that attracts patrons from all walks of life. There are also special festivities at the bar to celebrate annual holidays, such as St. Patrick’s Day.
American Legion Club #30 is open seven days a week from 10 a.m. to 2 a.m.
5. Bar3 BBQ – Belgrade – $$-$$$
One of Belgrade’s most adored eateries, Bar3 BBQ is a haven for carnivores and beer enthusiasts.
There is a long list of quality beers on tap, including scotch ale and imperial red ale. The venue also runs a happy hour Monday through Friday between 4-6 p.m. and 8-9 p.m.
The star attraction of Bar3 BBQ is undoubtedly the dining menu, which contains an array of barbecue joint staples. Diners feast on generous meat and rib platters, family meals, starters, sandwiches, salads, and fresh homemade sides.
The restaurant is located on East Main Street in Belgrade and is open Monday through Saturday, from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.
6. The Friendly Tavern – Belgrade – $-$$
The Friendly Tavern is a full bar, liquor store, and casino located on Jackrabbit Lane in Belgrade. Serving wine, beer, and spirits, the venue boasts a casual and friendly environment where all patrons are welcome.
Praised for its cheap drinks, approachable bartenders, and fun atmosphere, the Friendly Tavern also hosts live music performances during the week, as well as karaoke. There is outdoor and indoor seating as well as a casino area.
The Friendly Tavern is open every day from 8 a.m. to 2 a.m.
7. Madison River Brewing Company – Belgrade – $$-$$$
The Madison River Brewing Company specializes in seasonal and year-round beers.
You can taste their brews at numerous locations across Montana, Idaho, Wyoming, and North Dakota, but the best place to sample these beers is at the company’s taproom in Belgrade.
The cozy taproom is located on Frontage Road. Inside, guests are offered free popcorn and live music in an intimate yet casual setting.
The taproom also has its own gift store where you can buy souvenirs like t-shirts, caps, pint glasses, and stickers.
The Madison River Brewing Company is open every day from 2 p.m. to 8 p.m.