If you’re looking for a great place to visit in the US, Missoula, Montana, is a fantastic choice! This charming town offers plenty of activities, including hiking, fishing, skiing, and shopping. Here, I’ll highlight the best things to do in Missoula, whether you’re a local or just passing through.
I grew up a few hours away in Billings and visited Missoula many times as a kid. As an adult, I lived there for three years and enjoyed every minute. With its river running through the center of the old town, bike-friendly paths, proximity to the mountains, and the welcoming community, Missoula has a lot to offer.
Missoula is one of the best places to visit in Montana. The Bitterroot’s deep glacier-carved gorges provide breathtaking views of high mountains above rippling streams and lakes. There are several trails based on how challenging you want your hike to be. If you’re new to the area, consider hiring an expert guide who can provide snacks, lunch, and even a kayak for a relaxing experience on the mountain lakes.
A fun way to explore the town is through a scavenger hunt, which allows you to see a bit of everything. Digital and self-paced scavenger hunts are popular and great for families or groups of friends. You can either drive to each point or request a carless version.
Did you know there are several natural hot springs near Missoula? A Hot Springs Tour will take you to some hidden gems, offering stunning views, a soak in hot springs, and plenty of relaxation time. Popular spots like Lolo Hot Springs and Jerry Johnson hot springs can be explored on your own if you have a car.
Missoula has many options for hiking and outdoor activities. Hiring a local hiking enthusiast who is also a professional photographer is a great way to get amazing views and photos. They can guide you on hikes of varying difficulty levels and capture the beauty of the area.
Montana is renowned for its fly fishing, popularized by the movie “A River Runs Through It.” Rivers like the Clark Fork, Bitterroot, Blackfoot, and Rock Creek are excellent spots. Even if you’re new to fly fishing, there are professional guides in Missoula who can teach you and provide all the equipment.
The Wilma Theater is a world-class venue in the heart of Missoula that hosts big-name performers, live music, stand-up comedy, film festivals, and more. It’s a popular spot for entertainment with something for everyone.
The Missoula Art Museum (MAM) is located downtown and features both permanent and rotating exhibitions. One popular attraction is First Friday, where you can visit local galleries for free, enjoy wine, snacks, and art. MAM also offers various classes and workshops.
If you’re visiting in winter, downhill skiing at Snow Bowl is a great option. It’s just 30 minutes from Missoula and offers incredible views and slopes for all levels. You can rent equipment and hire an instructor if needed. Snow Bowl also provides summer activities like hiking, biking, and zip line tours.
For those who prefer cross-country skiing, explore the local trails like Pattee Canyon, Rattlesnake National Recreation Area, and Seeley Creek Nordic Ski Trails. Snowshoeing is another easy-to-pick-up activity that can be enjoyed almost anywhere.
The Clark Fork Trail is a paved trail along the river, perfect for biking, walking, running, or rollerblading. It’s great for all ages and offers a glimpse of Missoula’s nature without leaving the city.
Kayaking is another exciting activity, with the Clark Fork River providing plenty of spots to practice. Brennan’s Wave in the center of town offers a place for kayaking enthusiasts to hone their skills. You can take classes with Zootown Surfers and get all the gear and training you need.
Floating down the river on tubes is a beloved summer activity in Missoula. You can rent tubes and book shuttles from places like Clark Fork Yacht Club. Remember to pack sunscreen, hats, water, and snacks for a fun and safe float.
The Missoula Farmer’s Market runs from May to October at Caras Park and features vendors selling fresh produce, flowers, mushrooms, and artisan goods. It’s a perfect spot for a Saturday morning, complete with live music and food trucks.
If you’re looking to explore nearby areas, Flathead Lake (about an hour’s drive) and Glacier National Park (2.5 hours away) are excellent options. Both offer plenty of outdoor activities and stunning scenery.
For lodging, consider staying downtown to be close to the action, in the University District for a lively atmosphere, or in Lewis and Clark for a peaceful, family-friendly environment.
Missoula also boasts great dining options like Biga Pizza for delicious brick oven pizzas, The Notorious P.I.G. for BBQ, and The Catalyst Cafe for a hearty brunch or lunch.
Missoula is a beautiful town with plenty of activities to offer, from outdoor adventures to cultural experiences. It’s known for its open-minded community, welcoming atmosphere, and a slogan to “keep Missoula weird.” Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a longer vacation, Missoula has something for everyone. Enjoy your trip!
Enjoy exploring these activities and making the most of your visit to Missoula!
