Looking for a fun and unique way to spend your evenings in Montana? Look no further than board game bars! These bars offer a cozy and relaxed atmosphere where you can enjoy a cold drink and play your favorite board games with friends or family. In this article, we’ll be highlighting some of our favorite board game bars in Montana, including Lockhorn Cider House, Last Best Place Brewing Company, and Headwaters Crafthouse. So sit back, grab a drink, and get ready to discover your new favorite hangout spot.
π Our Choice Recommendation:
***OUR TOP PICK: Our top choice is Lockhorn Cider House. With a wide selection of drinks, including beers, ciders, wines, and seltzers, Headwaters is a great choice for anyone looking for a fun and friendly atmosphere. The staff and owners are incredibly welcoming, and the outdoor patio is a great place to relax and enjoy a drink. While there was one negative review, the majority of customers have had a positive experience at Headwaters. For example, if you’re looking for a place to hang out with friends and try new drinks, Headwaters is the perfect spot. With a rotating selection of drinks and the option to try a flight of four, you’re sure to find something you love. However, if you’re looking for a more traditional bar experience or a specific type of drink, Last Best Place Brewing Company may be a better fit. Overall, Headwaters Crafthouse stands out as the superior choice for its welcoming atmosphere, wide selection of drinks, and friendly staff.
π Best By Category:
TOP AMENITIES: Lockhorn Cider House – With a wide variety of drinks, an outdoor patio with removable sun shades and radiant heaters, and a nice area for music, Headwaters Crafthouse takes the cake for top amenities.
BEST FOR QUIET GAMING: Headwaters Crafthouse – Located off the main road, Lockhorn Cider House offers a quiet atmosphere perfect for gaming.
GREAT FOR LARGE GROUPS: Last Best Place Brewing Company – With both bar and table seating, staff that plays board games with visitors, and a wonderful selection of beers, Last Best Place Brewing Company is a great spot for large groups.
How We Are Rating These Locations:
1) πΊ DRINK SELECTION: The variety and quality of drinks offered, including beer, cider, wine, and non-alcoholic options.
2) π΄ FOOD OPTIONS: The availability and quality of food options, including snacks and meals.
3) π ATMOSPHERE: The overall ambiance and vibe of the establishment, including indoor and outdoor seating, decor, and music.
4) π§βπ€βπ§ CUSTOMER SERVICE: The friendliness and attentiveness of the staff, including bartenders and waitstaff.
5) πΆ PET-FRIENDLINESS: The accommodation and welcoming of pets, including dog-friendly patios and water bowls.
Board game bars have become a popular trend in Montana, offering a unique experience for customers looking for a fun night out. When considering these types of businesses, there are several factors to keep in mind to ensure a satisfying experience. First and foremost, the quality of the drinks is crucial. Customers want a wide variety of options, including non-alcoholic choices, and they want them to be delicious. The ambiance of the location is also important, with outdoor seating, fireplaces, and skylights all contributing to a welcoming atmosphere. Additionally, friendly and attentive staff can make or break a customer’s experience. Some board game bars even offer board games and trivia nights, providing a fun activity for patrons. However, it’s important to note that not all experiences are perfect, and occasional miscommunications or unfriendly service can occur. Overall, board game bars offer a unique and enjoyable experience for those looking for a night out with friends or family.
Additional Criteria:
- Entertainment – Live music, live performances, sports, trivia night, bar games
- Accessibility – Wheelchair accessible entrance, parking lot, restroom, and seating
- Diversity and Inclusion – LGBTQ+ friendly, transgender safespace, welcoming to tourists and college students
- Payment Options – Accepts credit cards, debit cards, and NFC mobile payments
Option #1. Lockhorn Cider House
Address: 2125 N Last Chance Gulch # 101, Helena, MT 59601, United States Phone: +1 406-442-0155
Entertainment: Live music, trivia night
Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible entrance, parking, restroom, seating
Diversity and Inclusion: LGBTQ+ friendly, welcoming to tourists
Payment Options: Accepts credit and debit cards
β Outdoor seating β Fast service β Live music β Trivia night β Dogs allowed
Lockhorn Cider House is a destination that should not be missed by those seeking an exceptional and enjoyable experience in Bozeman. The establishment boasts a lovely indoor and outdoor seating area, complete with a dog-friendly patio that features a wood-burning fireplace. Lockhorn provides a warm and comfortable atmosphere for patrons to relax and unwind. Their cider selection is unparalleled, with a variety of flavors that range from extremely dry to sweet, and even options without alcohol. The personnel are amicable and well-informed, always prepared to recommend unique blends of ciders to sample. Although a few customers have noted that the service can be inconsistent, the majority of reviews commend the staff for their attentiveness and geniality. Lockhorn also offers an assortment of snacks, including gluten-free alternatives, to complement their ciders. In general, Lockhorn Cider House is an excellent location for a casual evening out with friends or a cozy date night, and their exceptional ambiance and delectable ciders are certain to make an impression.
Pros:
- Lovely cider with no added sugars
- Variety of apple and fruit flavors
- Several gluten-free snack options
- Indoor and outdoor seating with beautiful ambiance
Cons:
- Some staff members may not be friendly
- Some ciders may not be to everyone’s taste
πΊ DRINK SELECTION: 9/10 – Wide variety of ciders with unique flavors. Some ciders were hit or miss but overall quality was great. Non-alcoholic options available.
π΄ FOOD OPTIONS: 8/10 – Cheese platters and hummus available, all gluten-free. Crepes for brunch. Snacks were good but limited options.
π ATMOSPHERE: 9/10 – Cozy and relaxing ambiance with indoor and outdoor seating. Beautiful decor, fireplace outside, and local art. Live music sometimes.
π§βπ€βπ§ CUSTOMER SERVICE: 8/10 – Mostly friendly and attentive staff, but some reviews mentioned unfriendly service. Owners are responsive to feedback.
πΆ PET-FRIENDLINESS: 10/10 – Dog-friendly patio with water bowls.
π― OVERALL SCORE: 8.8/10 – Best for cider lovers who enjoy unique flavors and a cozy atmosphere. Limited food options and potential for inconsistent service.
Option #2. Last Best Place Brewing Company
- Some staff members may not be friendly
- Some ciders may not be to everyone’s taste
πΊ DRINK SELECTION: 9/10 – Wide variety of ciders with unique flavors. Some ciders were hit or miss but overall quality was great. Non-alcoholic options available.
π΄ FOOD OPTIONS: 8/10 – Cheese platters and hummus available, all gluten-free. Crepes for brunch. Snacks were good but limited options.
π ATMOSPHERE: 9/10 – Cozy and relaxing ambiance with indoor and outdoor seating. Beautiful decor, fireplace outside, and local art. Live music sometimes.
π§βπ€βπ§ CUSTOMER SERVICE: 8/10 – Mostly friendly and attentive staff, but some reviews mentioned unfriendly service. Owners are responsive to feedback.
πΆ PET-FRIENDLINESS: 10/10 – Dog-friendly patio with water bowls.
π― OVERALL SCORE: 8.8/10 – Best for cider lovers who enjoy unique flavors and a cozy atmosphere. Limited food options and potential for inconsistent service.
Option #2. Last Best Place Brewing Company
Address: 605 N 7th Ave, Bozeman, MT 59715, United States Phone: +1 406-266-2913
Entertainment: Board games and trivia night.
Accessibility: Fully wheelchair accessible.
Diversity and Inclusion: No information available.
Payment Options: Accepts credit and debit cards.
β Wheelchair accessible entrance β Wheelchair accessible parking lot β Wheelchair accessible restroom β Wheelchair accessible seating β Alcohol
If you’re on the hunt for a one-of-a-kind board game bar experience in Montana, Last Best Place Brewing Company is the place to be. This must-visit location offers both bar and table seating, so you can enjoy a fantastic selection of beer while engaging in some friendly board game competition with the staff. The brew master is highly knowledgeable and has crafted a delightful variety of beers, including some truly inventive and distinct options. The atmosphere is top-notch, featuring a massive wooden bar, support beams adorned with stickers from other breweries, and a complete buddy board. However, parking can be a bit of a challenge, particularly on weekends. All in all, Last Best Place Brewing Company is an excellent choice for a night out with loved ones, and their trivia night is not to be missed.
Pros:
- Great selection of beer
- Nice staff who play board games with visitors
- Allows outside food
- Fun weekly events
Cons:
- Parking can be an issue on weekends
- Limited seating
πΊ DRINK SELECTION: 9/10 – Wonderful selection of beers, creative and unique.
π΄ FOOD OPTIONS: N/A – No information available.
π ATMOSPHERE: 9/10 – Cool and relaxed vibe, great decor, and music.
π§βπ€βπ§ CUSTOMER SERVICE: 9/10 – Friendly and attentive staff, even plays board games with visitors.
πΆ PET-FRIENDLINESS: 8/10 – Accommodating and welcoming of pets, including dog-friendly patios and water bowls.
π― OVERALL SCORE: 8.75/10 – Last Best Place Brewing Company is best for beer enthusiasts who enjoy a cool and relaxed atmosphere, unique and creative beer selection, and friendly staff. It may not be ideal for those looking for a wide variety of food options.
Option #3. Headwaters Crafthouse
- Parking can be an issue on weekends
- Limited seating
πΊ DRINK SELECTION: 9/10 – Wonderful selection of beers, creative and unique.
π΄ FOOD OPTIONS: N/A – No information available.
π ATMOSPHERE: 9/10 – Cool and relaxed vibe, great decor, and music.
π§βπ€βπ§ CUSTOMER SERVICE: 9/10 – Friendly and attentive staff, even plays board games with visitors.
πΆ PET-FRIENDLINESS: 8/10 – Accommodating and welcoming of pets, including dog-friendly patios and water bowls.
π― OVERALL SCORE: 8.75/10 – Last Best Place Brewing Company is best for beer enthusiasts who enjoy a cool and relaxed atmosphere, unique and creative beer selection, and friendly staff. It may not be ideal for those looking for a wide variety of food options.
Option #3. Headwaters Crafthouse
Address: 21 S Wallace Ave, Bozeman, MT 59715, United States Phone: +1 406-580-9098
Entertainment: Live music, bar games
Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible entrance, seating
Diversity and Inclusion: LGBTQ+ friendly, welcoming to tourists
Payment Options: Accepts credit/debit/NFC payments
β Outdoor seating β Bar games β Live music β Sports β Trivia night
Headwaters Crafthouse is an excellent addition to Montana’s board game bar scene. They offer a vast array of beverages, including beers, ciders, wines, and non-alcoholic drinks, ensuring that there is something for everyone. The staff is both friendly and knowledgeable, and the outdoor patio is an ideal spot to unwind with a drink. The rotating drink selection is a highlight, and patrons can even create their own flight of four beverages. The interior design is industrial yet cozy, making it stand out. However, it’s worth noting that the food options are limited to food trucks and outside food, and the wine selection could be better. Overall, Headwaters Crafthouse is an excellent spot for a night out with friends or a casual date. Their Monday Game Night is a perfect opportunity to gather with friends and play board games.
Pros:
- Large variety of beer, wine, and seltzers.
- Friendly and knowledgeable staff.
- Beautifully designed space with outdoor patio.
- Offers flights of drinks for those who can’t decide.
Cons:
- Wine selection may be lacking.
- No food served on premises.
πΊ DRINK SELECTION: 9/10 – Wide variety of beers, ciders, wines, and non-alcoholic options. Flights available.
π΄ FOOD OPTIONS: N/A – No food served, but outside food is welcome.
π ATMOSPHERE: 9/10 – Beautifully designed space with indoor and outdoor seating. Music events and game nights planned.
π§βπ€βπ§ CUSTOMER SERVICE: 9/10 – Friendly and knowledgeable staff.
πΆ PET-FRIENDLINESS: 9/10 – Dog-friendly patio with water bowls.
π― OVERALL SCORE: 9/10 – Ideal for beer, cider, and wine enthusiasts looking for a welcoming atmosphere and friendly staff. Not ideal for those looking for food options or a quiet, intimate setting.
More About The State
- Wine selection may be lacking.
- No food served on premises.
πΊ DRINK SELECTION: 9/10 – Wide variety of beers, ciders, wines, and non-alcoholic options. Flights available.
π΄ FOOD OPTIONS: N/A – No food served, but outside food is welcome.
π ATMOSPHERE: 9/10 – Beautifully designed space with indoor and outdoor seating. Music events and game nights planned.
π§βπ€βπ§ CUSTOMER SERVICE: 9/10 – Friendly and knowledgeable staff.
πΆ PET-FRIENDLINESS: 9/10 – Dog-friendly patio with water bowls.
π― OVERALL SCORE: 9/10 – Ideal for beer, cider, and wine enthusiasts looking for a welcoming atmosphere and friendly staff. Not ideal for those looking for food options or a quiet, intimate setting.
More About The State
Montana is more than just a place to play board games and drink. This state, nicknamed the Treasure State, is a hidden gem filled with natural wonders, historical significance, and cultural attractions. Montana boasts a diverse range of geographical features and wildlife, including grizzly bears, bison, and bald eagles, from the Rocky Mountains to the Great Plains. Additionally, Montana has a rich history, including Lewis and Clark’s famous expedition, the Battle of Little Bighorn, and Virginia City’s gold mining town. Notable landmarks include Glacier National Park, Yellowstone National Park, and over 300 peaks that are more than 9,600 feet tall. Montana’s unique features include Cream of the West, a roasted wheat cereal, and river systems that empty into the Hudson Bay, Pacific Ocean, and the Gulf of Mexico. Discover the beauty and adventure that Montana has to offer.
POINTS-OF-INTEREST TO CONSIDER WHEN YOU VISIT:
ποΈ – Glacier National Park is a true haven for thrill-seekers, boasting majestic mountain ranges, verdant alpine meadows, dense forests, towering waterfalls, glistening lakes, and a plethora of glaciers. The park’s piΓ¨ce de rΓ©sistance is the 50-mile-long Going-to-the-Sun Road, a remarkable feat of engineering and the only paved thoroughfare that traverses the park. Even without venturing into the park’s extensive backcountry, this road alone is worth a visit for its breathtaking vistas.
π² – Montana is home to seven national forests, covering almost 20 million acres of land. These vast, sprawling spaces have become synonymous with the Montana experience, and no trip to the state is complete without exploring these public lands. From the Kootenai to the Custer-Gallatin, the western half of Montana is blessed with many of these national treasures, providing visitors with easy access to a plethora of adventure hotspots.
β·οΈ – Big Sky Resort, located about an hour’s drive south of Bozeman, offers some of the “Biggest Skiing in America.” The resort’s slopes are renowned for their abundant snowfall, averaging 400 inches per year. A visit to Big Sky Resort provides a complete resort experience, complete with heated eight-person lifts, a variety of dining options, aprΓ¨s-ski entertainment, and events.
π£ – Fly fishing is practically synonymous with Montana, thanks in part to the 1992 film, A River Runs Through It. In addition to major rivers such as the Madison, Missouri, and Yellowstone, the state boasts thousands of mountain streams and creeks teeming with fish. One of the best ways to experience Montana fly
Conclusion
In conclusion, board game bars in Montana offer a unique and enjoyable experience for customers. Whether you’re a board game enthusiast or just looking for a fun night out, these bars provide a welcoming atmosphere with a variety of drinks and snacks to choose from. Lockhorn Cider House offers a great selection of ciders and appetizers, with a beautiful indoor and outdoor seating area. Last Best Place Brewing Company has a knowledgeable staff, great selection of beers, and even offers board games for customers to play. Headwaters Crafthouse is a new addition to Helena, with a friendly staff and a wide variety of drinks to choose from. One tip to keep in mind is to try a flight of drinks to sample a variety of flavors. Another tip is to check out their outdoor seating areas, which can be a great spot to enjoy a drink on a nice day. Overall, board game bars in Montana provide a fun and unique experience for customers to enjoy. Thank you for taking the time to read this review and we hope you have a great time exploring these businesses!