Unlike its much larger counterpart, Manhattan oozes the warmth and comforts of small-town Montana living.
Located just northwest of Bozeman and bordered by the Horseshoe Hills, this tiny mountain town was originally named Hamilton (1865) and Moreland (1883) before receiving its current name, Manhattan.
Why Manhattan? As close-knit Dutch families moved to the area to grow barley, Manhattan was named after a well-known malt company as an obvious manifestation of the growing barley empire.
And while Manhattan may not be a bustling city, it’s surrounded by Big Sky Country, alpacas (yes, alpacas!), and – true to its origins – multiple breweries.
Read on to learn more about what to do in this beautiful central Montana community, “the heart of the Gallatin Valley.”
The Best Hotels For Manhattan
Main Attractions
Sentinel Ranch Alpacas
Let’s start by visiting an alpaca farm! Open year-round, this ranch immerses you in a true alpaca experience – free to families and individuals.
Sentinel Ranch Alpacas hosts farm events throughout the year, including farm-to-table dinners and artistic classes. But, if you came to interact with alpacas on your trip through Manhattan, the kind folks at this ranch will have you hand-feeding and petting these quirky animals in no time.
And let’s be honest: who doesn’t want an alpaca selfie? Feel free to pack a lunch and enjoy the ranch all afternoon! As you leave the peaceful pasture, be sure to visit the AlpacaLand shop for alpaca fiber sweaters, scarves, gloves, home decor, alpaca meat, and more.
If you didn’t pack a lunch, head over to the local mainstay Sir. Scott’s Oasis Steakhouse & Lounge for an assortment of Montana steaks. And, speaking of meat and potatoes…
Potato Festival
You’re probably wondering: why potatoes? Potatoes have been one of Manhattan’s most important crops since the 1950’s seed potato farming, so this large celebration lifts the town’s agricultural icon to King status.
Every August, the Manhattan community gathers for a fireman’s breakfast, parade, 5K, car show, live music, arts & crafts, and more.
There’s face painting and french fries for the kids, and specialty drinks for the adults. You can join in on the spudtastic celebration in mid-August, but visit the quaint Garden Cafe for a burger and homemade hand cut fries at any other time of year for a taste of the season.
Madison Buffalo Jump State Park
Nearby Three Forks, MT is home to the gorgeous Madison Buffalo Jump State Park. What’s a buffalo jump, you ask? Ancient Native Americans lured herds of buffalo to jump off the park’s steep cliffs, then used the buffalo for food, clothing, shelter, and more.
Once horses entered the area in the late 1700s, this unique hunting style became obsolete, but the ru