The widely shared story of why director Robert Redford chose Livingston as his setting for a Montana town in the film “A River Runs Through It” involves how he was easily able to create a 1920s look. That’s a compliment. Livingston’s downtown area is a throwback to a century ago. Yet the town on the Yellowstone River also features art galleries and other elements of modern culture and is surrounded by outdoor recreational opportunities in Montana as a gateway to Yellowstone National Park.

Livingston’s classic downtown aura makes walking along the streets both a history lesson and a modern pastime.

Mark Miller Photos/Photodisc via Getty Images Livingston, MT 59047, USA

Located 30 miles east of Bozeman on I-90, Livingston is proud of its railroad history and riverside setting.

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Dan Bailey’s Fly Shop is an iconic landmark of Livingston. Nothing could better capture the nature of the town’s setting than trout jumping off the building’s facade.

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The Yellowstone River is renowned for fly fishing opportunities, yet the beautiful setting is rewarding enough for visitors who don’t cast a line into the water.

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The Railroad Museum is a nod to Livingston’s historic roots. The museum is open from May through September.

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The Paradise Valley, just south of Livingston, is the home of the Dome Mountain Wildlife Management Area.

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Hiking is popular around Livingston, with Pine Creek Falls among the attractions. The moderate trail to the falls is a 2.5-mile round trip.

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The setting sun spices the landscape near Livingston, with views for miles. This is Big Sky Country, after all.

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Livingston may not be the first town along I-90 that jumps off the map to potential Montana visitors, but it is definitely worth a look. Livingston is one of those classic towns that’s small enough to retain its charm, yet big enough to provide plenty of hotels, restaurants, and cultural opportunities. For more information about the town, see the Livingston Area Chamber of Commerce website.

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Livingston, MT 59047, USA

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Address: Livingston, MT 59047, USA