The short answer
Commencement, Bobcat football Saturdays and move-in week bring whole families to Bozeman at once, and parking around campus gets tight. One van collects everyone at BZN, drops the group close to the fieldhouse or stadium, and turns the visit into a Montana trip with a day in Yellowstone or Big Sky.
Why a van
Why groups like yours choose a van
One vehicle on a busy campus
Graduation and game days fill the lots around MSU. One van needs one space.
Airport to campus together
Campus is about 20 minutes from BZN, so relatives on the same flight ride in together.
Door-side drop-off
Let grandparents out near Brick Breeden Fieldhouse or Bobcat Stadium before you park.
Move-in cargo room
The 11-passenger van’s back row is removed for boxes, bedding and duffels.
Game-day carpool
One designated driver gets the whole tailgate crew there and back.
Make it a Montana trip
Add a day in Yellowstone, Big Sky or a hot spring while the family is in town.
Planning
Planning tips
- Book lodging and the van months ahead for commencement and the Cat-Griz game; Bozeman fills up.
- Check MSU’s commencement and game-day pages for current parking, shuttle and drop-off details.
- Drop passengers first, then park, and expect a walk from outer lots.
- Van drivers must be 25 or older, so plan on a parent or relative driving rather than a student.
- Late-fall games can mean winter driving. Check 511mt.net before you leave.
- For away games in Missoula, plan about 200 miles and three hours each way on I-90.
Trip ideas
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
Can MSU students rent a van?
Journey requires van drivers to be 25 or older, so most undergraduates cannot rent or drive one. A parent or another adult 25 or older who is listed on the rental can.
When should I book a van for MSU graduation?
MSU holds commencement ceremonies in May and December, and hotels and vehicles in Bozeman book up early for both. Reserve as soon as the ceremony date is confirmed.
Where do we park a van on game day?
Parking near Bobcat Stadium is limited and much of it is reserved. Check MSU Athletics for current public lots and shuttles, drop passengers near the gates first, then park.
How far is Bozeman airport from MSU?
About 20 minutes. Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport (BZN) is in Belgrade, northwest of town, and campus sits just south of downtown Bozeman.
What size van do we need for a graduation weekend?
A minivan fits up to seven with modest luggage. The 11-passenger van fits 8 to 11 people and their bags, and the 15-passenger van seats the largest families.
Can we drive the van to the Cat-Griz game in Missoula?
The rivalry game alternates between Bozeman and Missoula each year. Missoula is about 200 miles and three hours from Bozeman on I-90; check your rental agreement for any mileage terms before you go.