Montana's Mountain Gem Of An Airport Is A Gateway To Outdoor Wonders With Tons Of Nonstop Flights

The benefits of flying out from a regional airport over a big, international hub are shorter wait times, less congestion and chaos, and a special community feel. Some regional airports in particular really lean into their community and surroundings. At California's Santa Barbara Municipal Airport, for example, there's a local history museum and beautiful Spanish Colonial-inspired architecture that reflects the city's culture. In Hawaii, the Kahului Airport is a mellow entry to the islands with an open-air design that showcases Maui's nature. One of Montana's regional airports is embracing its scenic setting in its own way. Bordered by the Rocky Mountains, Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport's unique design is such that you'll feel more like you're in a mountainside lodge than an airport.

Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport, which sees the most passengers of Montana's airports thanks to its many nonstop flights and offers easy access to Yellowstone National Park, has a cozy cabin feel, fostered by its wood and stone design. It features an art collection with works that capture the nature of southern Montana, as well as displays on local history and an assortment of rocks, gems, and even dinosaur fossils. The airport's been around since the 1940s, and the current terminal blends modern upgrades with its original, small-town charm. The airport is punctuated by fireplaces and wooden beams, with sprawling windows that all have a special view. Yelp reviewer Hayley H. said, "Our group of nine flew in and out of this airport for a ski trip and I was in awe of the jaw dropping mountain views from their waiting areas."

Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport is in Belgrade, Montana, about a 15-minute drive from downtown Bozeman, often considered Montana's best college town. The airport is conveniently near two entrances to Yellowstone National Park: The North Entrance is about a 1.5-hour drive from the airport, and the West Entrance is around an hour and 45 minutes away. Despite its local and rustic feel, the airport is hardly isolated. It has nonstop flights to many major cities across the country year-round, including Chicago, Los Angeles, and Atlanta. It also offers seasonal flights to some cities like New York, Boston, and Houston.

With over 2 million passengers coming through the airport each year, there can be lines and some longer waits for baggage. Still, the hub has ample seating space, and reviewers have noted that plenty of signs around the terminal make it easy to navigate. There are several dining options that have a focus on Montana flavors. The Copper Horse Bistro is the only option before you pass security screening, with sandwiches, soups, and a cocktail bar. Inside the concourse, the Ross Peak Grill is a highlight. It's a spacious, open-layout restaurant with panoramic views of the mountains, serving stone-fired pizzas alongside a fully stocked bar. Shoppers have a couple of gift store options selling guides and souvenirs related to Montana and Yellowstone National Park.