Compiled by ExploreBigSky.com editors and staff
Locals and visitors from afar logged on to ExploreBigSky.com or filled out surveys by hand, weighing in on their favorites in Big Sky. This survey was conducted in a “write-in” format. Those filling out surveys had the chance to nominate anyone or any business they chose.
Thanks to all the voters for helping us dig up the best of the best, including top restaurant, après ski joint, and outdoor shop around. And congrats to the winners! We all appreciate your hard work.
Best Outdoor Shop: 
1st – Grizzly Outfitters
2nd – Gallatin Alpine Sports
3rd – Lone Mountain Sports
Marc Lang, bootfitter extraordinaire at Grizzly Outfitters, straps up a sale. Grizzly topped the Best Outdoor Shop category, boasting a full-service ski repair shop, rental center and specialty bootfitters. Visit grizzlyoutfitters.com, or call (406) 995-2939.
Best Pizza: 
1st – Blue Moon Bakery
2nd – Ousel and Spur
3rd – Milkies
Blue Moon Bakery led the Best Pizza in Big Sky category, with toppings out the wazoo and mouth-watering crust. Try the Orion, a pie built for a hunter, or the Northern Lights, complete with Feta cheese, artichokes, roasted red peppers, garlic, spinach, basil and sundried tomatoes. Visit bigskybluemoonbakery.com or call (406) 995-2305.
Best Burger: 
1st – Choppers Grub and Pub
2nd – The Corral
3rd – Lone Peak Brewery
Choppers Grub and Pub, located in Town Center, won Best Burger, and it’s no wonder. The Juevos Rancheros burger, with a fried egg, ranchero sauce, pepperjack and cheddar will curb your appetite. If not, get the Hog, a full pound of meat with three slices of bacon and your choice of cheeses. Visit choppersgrubandpub.com or call (406) 995-3830.
Event of the Year: 
1st – PBR (Professional Bull Riders) Rodeo
2nd – Summer Concert Series
3rd – Dirtbag Competition
Victory! The PBR (Professional Bull Riders) rodeo won Event of the Year. With big bad bulls, live music, mutton bustin’ and a multitude of additional festivities, last year’s event included the “best eight seconds of your life,” the seeming-eternity that a cowboy had to stay atop their bull. This year’s two-day event is scheduled for July 31 and Aug. 1. Visit explorebigsky.com/bigskypbr or call (406) 995-2055.
