Livingston, Montana

Livingston was the original entrance to Yellowstone National Park. Livingston had its beginning in 1882, when the railroad arrived. The branch line south to Yellowstone Park carried countless tourists to Gardiner where they boarded a stagecoach into the nation's first national park. Farming and mining were the economic mainstays in the early days; today's industries include fly-tying, limber manufacturing and locomotive repair.

The dominating theme of downtown Livingston is railroading. The historic Northern Pacific depot, with its curved colonnade and terra cotta ornament, has been restored to its original grandeur to accommodate exhibitions of history and art of the region. Subjects include Western history, railroad history and art by national, international and regional artists. The imposing brick structure resembles an Italian villa with its curved colonnade and rich terr-cotta ornament along the track side. The original interior was lavishly decorated with mosaic trim, terrazzo floor and wrought-iron ticket windows. Livingston Chamber of Commerce is located in the depot complex.

Main street, with rows of uninterrupted period buildings, railroad workshops and yard works remains in a downtown area rich with history.

The Firehouse 5 Playhouse presents live theater year-round. Summer schedule includes classic modern-day vaudeville in a cabaret-style setting. Winter schedule includes major musicals, concerts, comedy clubs. The theater itself is decorated with fire memorabilia and is complete with movie-style concessions.

Livingston is also a vacation paradise offering outdoor activities as well as a historic district, museums, art galleries and theater amidst the pristine beauty of five surrounding mountain ranges.

COAM Member Listings in Livingston: