If you love a little vintage flair, collectible charm, and Montana-made design, you’re about to spark a new obsession. Matchbook collecting in Bozeman is having its moment! These pocket-sized souvenirs are the perfect way to remember your favorite bars, restaurants, and adventures across Big Sky Country.
Whether you’re striking up conversation over a cocktail or decorating your coffee table with a bowl of bold designs, matchbooks are the ultimate mix of function and aesthetic. And if you’re wondering where to start your collection? Right here at Intrigue Ink. We’ve got some of the hottest matchbooks in town. So many options to choose from, featuring our very own designs.
Shop Matches
Don’t know what to do with them once you’ve stocked up? Display them in a bowl, frame your favorites, use them (safely!), or gift a few to your most design-obsessed friends. And if you frame or style your matchbooks, take a pic and tag us! We live for seeing how you bring your finds to life.
But if you’re a true collector like us, we’ve got some good news. Matchbook hunting, especially while traveling, is one of the most fun (and affordable) ways to snag a keepsake from your trip. We did the digging and found all the local Bozeman spots handing out or selling matchbooks worth lighting up your collection. From cozy bars to vintage boutiques, here’s your official guide to matchbook collecting in Bozeman and beyond.
Gunner's Tips 🔥
Our striking babe! We wanted to pick his brain about the resurgence of Matchbook Collecting!
Q: So, why are people suddenly obsessed with matchbooks again?
A: It's simple! People love a trinket! They love a memory! They love a treasure hunt! It's like searching for gold! When I find one at a place that I create a memory at if feels like a tiny little time capsule every time I see it.
Q: Where should I start if I’m new to collecting?
A: Right here, obviously. Intrigue Ink has original matchbooks you won’t find anywhere else. Then hit local spots! Plonk has some of the funnest variations and Sky Shed has matches with blue tips!
Q: How should I display them?
A: I personally have mine in several bowls! My friend framed theirs in a shadow box!
Q: Any collector etiquette tips?
A: If they’re out for the taking, take one. If they’re behind the bar or at the host stand, ask politely. And if you’re traveling, never be shy about asking if the place has matchbooks with their name. Half the fun is the hunt.
Where You Can Get Your Hands on Some Complimentary Ones in Bozeman
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Cactus Records & Gifts, 2742 W. Main St. — has matches with its name (more than one variety and color)
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J.W. Heist Steakhouse, 27 E. Main St. — has matches with its name
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Plonk Wine Bar, 29 E. Main St. — has matches with its name (more than one variety)
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Sapphire Motel, 310 N. 7th Ave. — has matches with its name
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Sky Shed, 24 W. Mendenhall St. — has matches with its name (and killer views)
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Tune Up Basement Bar, 24 W. Mendenhall St. — has matches with its name
Just Outside of Bozeman in Belgrade
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Belgrade Liquor, 7007 Jackrabbit Ln. — has matches with its name
Where You Can Buy Fun + Unique Ones
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Intrigue Ink, 12 E. Main St. — screen printed apparel, matchbooks in multiple designs (and yes, they’re adorable).
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Heyday, 7 W. Main St. — no branded matches, but loads of novelty and aesthetic ones to add to your display.
Traveling Around Montana? Add These to Your Itinerary
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Crow Agency – Custer Battlefield Trading Post, 347 Rt. 212 — has matches with its name
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Missoula – Betty’s Divine Vintage Clothing, 509 S. Higgins Ave. — has matches with its name
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Missoula – Plonk Wine Bar, 322 N. Higgins Ave. — has matches with its name (more than one variation)
Did We Miss a Spot?
Got a favorite Montana bar, motel, or café that hands out matchbooks? Tell us! Drop us a DM or comment on our post! We’ll love you foreverrrr.
If you’re looking to get started in your matchbook-collecting era, we found a friend online who keeps a running list of spots across the country: matchbooktraveler.com. They rely on collectors like us to keep things updated, so don’t sweat it if you head somewhere that’s out of stock... it’s all part of the adventure.
Keep It Lit 🔥
From Bozeman to Missoula, Montana’s matchbook scene is stacked with small treasures waiting to be found. Start your collection with Intrigue Ink, make it personal with local finds, and let every strike tell your story.
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