Things To Do
in Missoula
Missoula is a charming city located in the western part of Montana, United States. It is known for its stunning natural beauty, surrounded by mountains and rivers, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The city is home to the University of Montana, which brings a vibrant energy to the community with cultural events and a diverse population.
Missoula also has a thriving arts and music scene, with numerous galleries, theaters, and live music venues to explore.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $100 - $250
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $40
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a bike ride along the scenic Clark Fork River. Enjoy the beautiful views and fresh air as you pedal through the city.
Visit the Missoula Art Museum to appreciate local art and exhibitions. Grab lunch at a nearby café for a taste of regional cuisine.
Attend a live performance at the Wilma Theatre. Enjoy the vibrant energy of the local arts scene before winding down with a nightcap at a local bar.
Hike the popular Rattlesnake National Recreation Area to experience stunning landscapes. Take your time to soak in the natural beauty.
Pack a picnic and relax by the Rattlesnake Creek. It's the perfect spot for enjoying your lunch amidst nature.
Return to the city and explore the local dining options for a hearty meal. Try some Montana-style steak for a true local flavor.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful natural scenery, including mountains and rivers.
- Access to outdoor recreational activities such as hiking, skiing, and fishing.
- A vibrant arts and culture scene with various festivals and events.
- Strong community spirit and friendly residents.
- Affordable cost of living compared to larger urban areas.
- Home to the University of Montana, providing educational opportunities and cultural events.
- Limited job opportunities in certain industries.
- Cold winters with significant snowfall.
- Smaller size may lead to fewer amenities and entertainment options.
- Higher crime rate compared to national average in some areas.
- Limited public transportation options.
- Potential for rapid growth leading to housing shortages.
Best Activities in Missoula
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the beautiful trails and scenic landscapes in Missoula while enjoying a day out in nature.
Experience world-class fly fishing on the Bitterroot River or the Clark Fork River, popular activities in Missoula.
Take advantage of the numerous biking trails and bike-friendly roads in and around Missoula for an exhilarating outdoor adventure.
Enjoy the thrills of whitewater rafting on the Clark Fork River, Blackfoot River, or the Alberton Gorge, all within close proximity to Missoula.
Discover the fantastic rock climbing opportunities at areas like Kootenai Canyon, Milltown, and Lolo Pass.
Tours
Uncover the best of Missoula with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Missoula
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers a panoramic view of Missoula and the surrounding mountains, and it's a popular spot for sunset photography.
Provides stunning views of the Bitterroot Valley, the Missoula Valley, and the surrounding mountains, perfect for photography enthusiasts.
Offers breathtaking views of the Lolo National Forest and the Bitterroot Valley, making it a fantastic location for nature photography.
Food in Missoula
Missoula Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A quintessential Montana dish, the bison burger showcases the lean and flavorful meat of the American bison. It's often topped with local huckleberry jam or Montana huckleberry barbecue sauce. For a memorable bison burger, head to the Iron Griz and the Montana Club.
Must-Try!
Huckleberries are a prized local ingredient, and they shine in the form of huckleberry pancakes. Find these delectable pancakes at The Shack Cafe, a beloved Missoula eatery known for its hearty and delicious breakfast offerings.
Trout from the surrounding rivers and streams is a staple in many Missoula restaurants. Look for it pan-seared or smoked for a taste of the local waters. Try the fresh trout at the Red Bird and The Depot.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Missoula better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
The Missoula Farmers' Market is a vibrant gathering of local farmers, food artisans, and craftsmen. Visitors can savor fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, baked goods, and handmade crafts. It's open on Saturdays and Tuesdays from May through October.
Downtown Missoula comes alive with a diverse array of food trucks lining Toole Avenue. From gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches to Korean BBQ tacos, these food trucks offer an eclectic range of street food to tantalize your taste buds.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Missoula, it's important to respect personal space and avoid standing too close to others, especially when engaging in conversations.
It's considered respectful to refrain from asking intrusive or overly personal questions when interacting with locals in Missoula.
Given the city's emphasis on outdoor activities, it's important to be mindful of outdoor etiquette, such as respecting nature and leaving public spaces clean.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Missoula with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Missoula
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is customary in Missoula, with the standard practice being to tip around 15-20% in restaurants, bars, and for other service providers such as taxi drivers and hairdressers.
In Missoula, United States, cash, credit/debit cards, and mobile payment methods are widely accepted for transactions. It is common to pay for goods and services using contactless payment methods, especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Missoula.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is a great time to visit Missoula as the weather begins to warm up and the surrounding landscapes come to life with blooming wildflowers. Outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and fishing are popular during this season.
Summer is peak tourist season in Missoula, with warm weather perfect for outdoor activities including rafting the Clark Fork River and attending outdoor events and festivals. It's also a great time for wildlife watching.
Fall in Missoula is known for its stunning foliage as the surrounding forests and mountains turn vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow. Visitors can enjoy hiking, bird-watching, and attending fall festivals.
Winter in Missoula offers opportunities for skiing, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling in the nearby mountains. The city also hosts winter events and has a cozy atmosphere with its cafes and arts scene.
Missoula at Night
Hiking in Missoula
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular hiking destination with a trail that offers stunning views of Missoula and the surrounding areas. The hike is moderate and is about 3 miles round-trip.
A vast area with multiple trails ranging in difficulty. The Rattlesnake Trail leads to beautiful lake views and is great for a full day of hiking.
A large forest area with various hiking trails that cater to different skill levels. It offers scenic views, diverse wildlife, and tranquil forests.
Features several trails that offer beautiful views of the Bitterroot Valley. The trails range from easy to moderate and are perfect for family hikes.
Includes multiple trailheads and scenic routes in the Bitterroot Valley, ideal for hiking, walking, and exploring nature.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Missoula through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Missoula by plane.
Located in Seattle, Washington, approximately 290 miles from Missoula, SEA is the primary airport serving the Seattle metropolitan area and offers numerous international flights.
Situated in Portland, Oregon, about 420 miles from Missoula, PDX is the largest airport in Oregon and serves both domestic and international routes.
Located in Salt Lake City, Utah, roughly 500 miles from Missoula, SLC is a major hub for Delta Air Lines and offers numerous international connections.
Denver International Airport, approximately 600 miles southeast of Missoula, is one of the largest and busiest airports in the United States, providing diverse domestic and international flights.
Located in Calgary, Alberta, Canada, about 600 miles north of Missoula, YYC offers international flights primarily to destinations in North America and beyond.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest racial demographic group in Missoula, comprising a significant majority of the population.
Representing a growing segment of the population, individuals of Hispanic or Latino descent contribute to the cultural diversity of the area.
A notable demographic group in Missoula, reflecting the legacy and heritage of Indigenous peoples in the region.
This group includes individuals of various Asian descents, contributing to the multicultural fabric of Missoula.
A smaller yet important demographic that adds to the diversity of the community.
Individuals identifying with more than one race, reflecting the increasing diversity in racial identities.
Includes various other racial and ethnic groups, presenting a rich tapestry of community identities.
The Soul of Missoula
Discover the essence of Missoula through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is a popular sport in Missoula, with local high schools and the University of Montana teams drawing significant crowds and community support.
Basketball enjoys popularity at various levels in Missoula, including youth leagues and collegiate competitions, especially with the Grizzlies' successful program.
Soccer has a growing presence in Missoula, with numerous youth leagues and adult recreational teams, reflecting the sport's increase in popularity nationwide.
While not a traditional sport, hiking is an extremely popular outdoor activity in Missoula, thanks to the surrounding mountains and trails offering beautiful nature experiences.
Cycling is a favored activity in Missoula, with many residents participating in both road biking and mountain biking, taking advantage of the area's diverse terrain.
Running is a widely practiced sport in Missoula, with various events held throughout the year, including marathons and fun runs that attract local runners.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Missoula.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Missoula's dining scene is accommodating to vegetarians and vegans, with many restaurants offering plant-based fare alongside their regular menus. The Green Source, an entirely vegan restaurant, and Burns St. Bistro are excellent options for those seeking vegetarian and vegan dishes.
For gluten-free dining, Missoula has numerous cafes and restaurants that cater to this dietary need. The Tamarack Brewing Company and Market on Front offer a variety of delicious gluten-free options, ensuring that those with gluten sensitivities can dine with peace of mind.