tourist attractions in missoula montana

29 Best & Fun Things To Do In Missoula (Montana)

By: Author Jerric Chong

Posted on Published: January 16, 2021  - Last updated: October 17, 2023

Missoula is the second-largest city in Montana, and also one of the most beautiful places to visit in the US .

It sits at a high altitude in the Northern Rockies and is flush with so much amazing wilderness.

It also has a remarkable arts community and lots of great places to go for food.

These are the 29 best and most fun things to do in Missoula, Montana.

Table of Contents

1. Missoula Butterfly House and Insectarium

Ondrej Prosicky / Shutterstock

For insect lovers, visiting the Missoula Butterfly House and Insectarium is indisputably one of the best things to do in Missoula.

The Insectarium teaches visitors about the wonders of the world through winged and antennaed creatures.

These are some of the best science lessons you’ll ever receive, and possibly the most fun.

Some great activities take place at the Insectarium.

If you love beer, you’ll definitely want to check out the “Bugs and Brews” program, where you can sip great regional beer and learn about different bugs.

The Bug Ambassadors are essential to making the Insectarium one of the top things to do in Missoula.

The Butterfly House and Insectarium shows quite clearly that stuff to do in Missoula is really unique.

The insects here might not all be gorgeous, but they’re all fascinating in different ways.

You might not get the creeps from insects any longer after visiting the Insectarium.

Address: 120 Hickory St, Missoula, MT 59802, United States

2. Visit a Food Truck

BluIz60 / Shutterstock

Dining is one of the most popular activities in any city, and food trucks are some of the greatest tourist attractions.

Stop by one of these for a delicious taste of Missoula.

There are various places to visit in Missoula for food trucks.

However, the best place is Caras Park, as food trucks can be seen all over at events there.

Food from around the world can be enjoyed at the food trucks.

You might crave ice cream, barbeque, or some Thai food.

All that and much more can be found at Missoula food trucks.

If you’re going to be visiting Missoula this weekend, be sure to get at least one meal at a food truck.

3. Caras Park

The food trucks is one of the top draws of Caras Park , but they’re definitely not the only draw.

This is a truly phenomenal Missoula park.

People love coming here when the sun is shining and at night.

Caras Park is like the town square, where locals and tourists come to mingle.

It hosts all kinds of awesome events and has a lovely location around the Clark Fork Riverfront Trail.

You may come to Caras Park expecting to stay there for just a little bit.

Before you know it, several hours have passed and you don’t want to be anywhere else in the entire world.

Downtown Missoula attractions start with Caras Park.

It’s a great hub for activities and community fun.

With lots of exciting and free things to do, Caras Park is this city at its best.

Address: 123 Carousel Dr, Missoula, MT 59802, United States

4. Pattee Canyon Recreation Area

Pattee Canyon Recreation Area

The Pattee Canyon Recreation Area is more than 3,000 acres of wilderness on the eastern part of Missoula.

This land is protected, but it’s also made ideal for guests.

For a chance to really feel like you’re roughing it, visit Pattee Canyon Recreation Area.

Spending time outdoors is what to do in Missoula, and Pattee Canyon Recreation Area has all you could hope for.

There’s plenty of trails, including ones for horseback riding and mountain biking.

You can get a meal going with their fire pits and picnic sections.

As if that wasn’t enough, they even have a complete disc golf course, with 18 holes.

Pattee Canyon Recreation Area is lots of fun, but you need to be willing to give yourself to nature, at least for a few hours.

There’s no electricity or running water on-site, so make sure you’re prepared with bottled water and any necessary battery-powered devices.

This region is so rich with things to see and is certainly one of the finest places to visit in Missoula.

Address: Missoula, MT 59803, United States

5. Art Galleries

Anton_Ivanov / Shutterstock

All of the fantastic things to see in and around Missoula could bring even the most disillusioned artist out of a creative slump.

Therefore, it shouldn’t come as a surprise that Missoula has some really great art galleries.

Visit any of these when you’re looking for places to go full of expression and vivid colors.

These galleries all have their own incredible character and some of the best ones are on North Higgins Ave, such as the Radius Gallery and Dana Gallery .

Don’t neglect the museums either.

The Montana Museum of Art & Culture has a stunning permanent collection, as does the Missoula Art Museum.

The works at these art galleries are painted, sculpted, and made with other high-quality materials.

What’s consistent, though, is the heart.

You can always find the joy of creativity in each of these galleries and in all of the pieces.

Perhaps they’ll help you better appreciate the area and want to delve further into its history as well.

6. Rattlesnake National Recreation Area

Rattlesnake National Recreation Area

Rattlesnake National Recreation Area is near Missoula in the huge expanses of the Lolo National Forest.

There’s plenty to do at this, one of the greatest Montana tourist attractions .

In the warm and the colder months, the Rattlesnake National Recreation Area is just teeming with stupendous activities.

Outdoor enthusiasts will have to figure out what to do first at Rattlesnake National Recreation Area.

You can have fun going horseback riding down the trails, fishing in one of their ponds, or just wandering around, without any particular things to see.

Winter is a great time to visit Rattlesnake National Recreation Area, as skiing is a very popular pursuit here.

Stay alert for the wildlife in the area, including black bears and mountain lions.

Rattlesnake National Recreation Area also has many birds flying about, including owls and woodpeckers.

Then, there’s the bright plant life, such as colorful orchids.

Rattlesnake National Recreation Area has many of the best things to do in Missoula, Montana.

Address: Rattlesnake Dr, Missoula, MT 59802, United States

7. A Carousel for Missoula

Brett Welcher / Shutterstock

Without context, A Carousel for Missoula might appear handsome but unremarkable.

However, when digging into the backstory of this carousel, you’ll see how lovely it is and its importance to Missoula.

The best part of this carousel is how it demonstrates the importance of banding together for a good cause.

A Carousel for Missoula was all built by volunteers.

Thousands of people came together to make this merry-go-round, and it came out so well.

Not only do all the ponies look amazing, but there are also gargoyles and chariots.

Plus, it includes the largest band organ in the United States.

For more than 25 years, A Carousel for Missoula has truly been a gift for the city.

It’s a delight for children as well as adults.

You can visit this carousel every day from 11 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. from September to May and from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. from June to August.

Admission is 75 cents for children and seniors, ages 55 and older.

Adults are charged $2.25, with or without a child.

A child and senior riding together cost $1.50.

Address: 101 Carousel Dr, Missoula, MT 59802, United States

8. Lewis and Clark Trail

Bureau of Land Management / flickr

There are many fun things to do in Missoula for aspiring explorers.

The Lewis and Clark Trail puts you in the shoes of two of the bravest and most notable figures in American history: Lewis and Clark.

While you won’t be going down their whole route, you can definitely get a good sense of all they endured.

This portion of Lewis and Clark’s journey went from Missoula to Lewistown, Idaho .

This was a very trying portion of the entire trail.

While you’ll be right by US Highway 12, your mind will likely go back more than 200 years, as the Corps of Discovery ventured through this wilderness.

Along the way, you can unwind in the Lolo Hot Springs, a great place to relax your muscles.

Lewis and Clark Trail is among the greatest points of interest in this city not just for its beauty but also for its historical value.

The world of today would not be the same without Lewis and Clark’s efforts.

This is what to see for a stunning journey through Montana and more.

9. The Montana Snowbowl

Evan Lovely / flickr

The Montana Snowbowl is a great place for fun and chilly activities near Missoula.

This is one of multiple ski resorts in Montana, but this one stands out for its affordability.

However, this doesn’t mean a low price should set you up for low expectations.

If you don’t know anything about skiing or snowboarding, the Montana Snowbowl is a great place to start.

They have very useful lessons to help you get comfortable on the slopes.

Already comfortable with this stuff?

The Montana Snowbowl should give you plenty of new achievements.

This is also one of the most awesome places to visit outside of winter.

During the summer, the Montana Snowbowl offers hiking and mountain biking.

Come to the Montana Snowbowl if you’re looking for tourist attractions that provide next-level thrills.

Address: 1700 Snow Bowl Rd, Missoula, MT 59808, United States

10. Ten Spoon Vineyard & Winery

Ten Spoon Vineyard & Winery

While wheat is the main crop in Montana, it’s not the only notable thing growing there.

Grapes are a major food source in Montana, and that means you can find some great wine there.

Visit the Ten Spoon Vineyard & Winery for a marvelous trip through the Missoula country.

The grapes grown here are chemical-free, leading to wine that tastes absolutely sublime.

They’ve definitely earned their plaudits, and the tasting room creates a very comforting atmosphere.

You can feel like you’re in paradise with a cloudless sky, toe-tapping live music, and a good wine to sip on.

Going to Ten Spoon Vineyard & Winery is definitely what to do in Missoula if you love drinking wine and want to learn more about how it’s made.

Visit their shop to take home some wines you really love.

These can also be excellent gifts for holidays or birthdays.

Address: 4175 Rattlesnake Dr, Missoula, MT 59802, United States

Visiting other parts of Montana? Why not check out some of the things to do in Bozeman, MT ?

11. Go Fishing

Rocksweeper / Shutterstock

Three rivers come together in Missoula.

These are the Bitterroot, Blackfoot, and Clark Fork.

Lots of water means lots of opportunities to go fishing, which is one of the most popular activities in Missoula.

You can fish in these rivers from land or venture out onto the waters, with help of a guide.

The most-common catch is trout, but there’s also bass, whitefish, and perch lurking in these rivers.

Your greatest goal shouldn’t be to catch the right kind of fish.

It should be to have as much fun as possible.

Thankfully, fishing in Missoula, Montana is constantly fun.

Try to see all three of the rivers if you can.

For a top experience, come equipped with a strong rod and plenty of bait.

12. The Historical Museum at Fort Missoula

Forest Service Northern Region / flickr

Missoula has lots of great modern buildings and tourist attractions.

However, they haven’t shunned their past to make way for the present.

The Historical Museum at Fort Missoula invites you to see what Missoula was like when it was first settled.

History buffs should find this to be one of Missoula’s biggest points of interest.

There are more than 20 historical buildings kept in great condition here.

You can also see many vintage items here and attend great events, like their Fourth of July festival.

If you’re curious about great points of interest for learning about Missoula, visit the Historical Museum at Fort Missoula.

Their operating hours are from Mondays through Saturdays from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. and on Sundays from 12 p.m. until 4 p.m.

Entry costs $4 for adults, $3 for seniors, $2 for students, and up to $10 for families.

Address: 3400 Captain Rawn Way, Missoula, MT 59804, United States

13. Missoula Art Museum

Missoula Art Museum

Although it was brought up earlier, the Missoula Art Museum deserves its own spot on this list.

Visiting it is one of the most eye-opening and fun things to do in Missoula.

Focused on artists from the American West, particularly those from Montana, the Art Museum of Missoula hosts lots of moving and amusing pieces.

Along with the permanent collection, the Missoula Art Museum has great temporary exhibits.

These can feature work from the other side of the world.

They also have a section devoted to Montana’s indigenous peoples.

The Missoula Art Museum is definitely one of the neatest Missoula attractions.

They have free admission and tour guides to teach you more about the museum and the various pieces.

This museum is open every day except Mondays and Sundays, from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m.

Address: 335 N Pattee St, Missoula, MT 59802, United States

14. Montana Natural History Center

Montana Natural History Center

Natural history is one of the best methods for learning about an area.

Missoula and the rest of Montana have such an important natural history, one of majestic beings, whether animals or plants.

Visit the Montana Natural History Center for a great exposé into this region and its amazing natural world.

The interactive exhibits and plant garden at the Montana Natural History Center can give you a major sense of discovery and glee.

Your kids can explore the Nature Adventure Garden.

This is one time when you should encourage your kids to get dirty.

The Montana Natural History Center could be one of your favorite places to visit for natural history education.

They’re open between Mondays and Fridays from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m., as well as Saturdays from noon to 4 p.m.

Admission is $4 for adults, $3 for seniors, and $1 for children, from ages four to 18.

Address: 120 Hickory St A, Missoula, MT 59801, United States

15. Adult Art Classes

Dmytro Vietrov / Shutterstock

Remember how much fun art class was in school?

You got to be creative and even get a little messy.

At an adult art class, you can get yourself back into that youthful mindset, producing some great works and enjoy the company of new friends.

These take place at the Zootown Arts Community Center .

At ZACC, the staff is rich with enthusiasm for both art and teaching.

You can learn about cool and specific forms of art, such as printmaking.

There’s no age too old to have fun.

Adult art classes at Zootown Arts Community Center are a wild good time.

Look at the calendar tonight and see about any cool classes coming up.

Address: 216 W Main St, Missoula, MT 59802, United States

16. Lolo National Forest

David Taylor / flickr

Lolo National Forest is 8,000 square kilometers of unspoiled land.

To give you a better idea of just how big that is, Rhode Island isn’t even 3,000 square kilometers.

Come to the Lolo National Forest for a hike this weekend.

In 1906, the Lolo National Forest was declared, and it’s been rightfully respected and protected.

There’s a vast array of trails and lots of great animals to observe.

You might initially come to see the Rattlesnake Wilderness, but that spectacular section is the start of Lolo National Forest greatness.

If you’re seeking out free things to do in Missoula that show you nature at its most magnificent, come to Lolo National Forest.

You could only see one percent of it and still come out of the experience awestruck.

The Lolo National Forest demonstrates why nature is a top source of entertainment and introspection.

Address: Huson, MT 59846, United States

17. Brewery Tours

Maryam Fadaei / Shutterstock

Missoula’s got a lot of great breweries producing beers with influence from different regions and nations.

While you can enjoy these in a nice bar or restaurant, the best way to experience beer is through a brewery tour.

These tours take you through great breweries via the Montana Adventure Shuttle .

A great tour is the “Best in the West” brewery tour.

This one takes you to Big Sky Brewing, the biggest brewery in the state, then to Missoula Brewing Co., also known as “Highlander” before ending the tour with a trip to Imagine Nation Brewing Company.

Other tours are the downtown-exploring “Beer Central” tour and the “Head South” tour.

Regardless of which tour you choose, you’re sure to taste some great beer and have tons of fun.

These breweries are among the most enjoyable places to visit in Missoula.

Hopefully, you’ll have the time and budget to experience them.

18. Elk Country Visitor Center

Elk Country Visitor Center

Elk are some of the most visually striking species of animals on this planet.

Their rich coats of different hues, dark eyes, and fierce antlers all make for a distinctly impressive being.

The Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation’s existence isn’t just nice.

It’s absolutely mandatory.

Through the RMEF, elk, one of the greatest Missoula attractions, have been able to keep their lands and lives free from danger.

When you come here, you can see lots of great exhibits on elks and the need for conservation.

The Elk Country Visitor Center is what to see for a thorough elk education.

Hopefully, you’ll join in the effort to help these hooved wonders as best as you can.

Explore the Elk Country Visitor Center this weekend.

Address: 5705 Grant Creek Rd, Missoula, MT 59808, United States

19. Missoula Symphony Orchestra and Chorale

Stokkete / Shutterstock

What do you get when you cross an 80-person orchestra with a 100-person chorale?

In the case of the Missoula Symphony Orchestra and Chorale , you get an incredible addition to a city’s arts community.

Both organizations have five concerts per season, with two performances of each show.

They also hold a free downtown concert in August.

For more than 50 years, these performers have been renowned throughout the state and have even performed in different countries.

The performers may change, but the quality also stays high.

The Missoula Symphony Orchestra and Chorale provides entertainment with real meaning.

Get tickets for one of their performances before you visit this city.

The craft and passion emanating onstage is just unreal.

20. Spa Town

The Resort at Paws Up

Seeing all the fun Missoula attractions can be a little exhausting.

That’s why you need to schedule a message.

Spa Town , located at The Resort at Paws Up in Greenough, Montana, has incredible massage therapists, ready to work your body to its very essence.

When you’re all done, you may feel like a whole new, refreshed person.

“Spa Town” is its own special community.

It’s kind of like a joint indoor and outdoor experience, as massages take place in white tents.

The sounds of nature lull you into a relaxed state, and the heated tables help soothe you into an amazingly blissful state.

Study their spa menu closely, and see what other offerings you might like.

If you think you might need a massage, get one.

Going to Spa Town is what to do when you’ve been putting your needs aside for too long.

Journey 30 minutes outside of Missoula for a chance at one of these awesome, semi-outdoor massages.

Address: 40060 Paws Up Rd, Greenough, MT 59823, United States

21. Clark Fork Riverfront Trail

The original uploader was Sooter at English Wikipedia. , CC BY-SA 3.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

You can cover a lot of ground in Missoula by going down the Clark Fork Riverfront Trail .

This is a path that not only gives you a gorgeous glimpse at the region, but it also shows you how well laid-out the whole city is.

At Clark Fork Riverfront Trail, you’ll have access to many cool places to visit in this amazing city.

This trail cuts through the heart of Missoula.

You can start downtown and see places like the Milwaukee Road Depot and Caras Park along the way.

It also reaches the University of Montana, great to know if you want to see a dazzling campus.

Taking a walk is always a good way to clear your head.

The Clark Fork Riverfront Trail has such elegance and things to see along the way.

Get a good pair of shoes on and perhaps a bike to ride as you get ready to go down this great trail.

22. The Roxy Theater

The Roxy Theater

The top way to see a movie is by going to the theater.

However, the theater also needs to be special.

With multiplexes having huge screens but little soul, it can feel like all the heart and charm is leaving movie theaters.

However, places like The Roxy Theater show that doesn’t have to be the case.

The Roxy Theater has been one of downtown Missoula’s premier attractions since it opened in 1937.

They show films new and old, including some of your likely favorites.

They also host live theater performances.

Seeing a movie at the Roxy Theater is a blissful experience.

You can jointly enjoy watching the movie or other performance and the immaculate space of the theater.

If you can, give a donation to help keep this non-profit theater thriving.

Address: 718 S Higgins Ave, Missoula, MT 59801, United States

23. Hub Family Entertainment Center

Hub Family Entertainment Center

Trying to figure out what to do with your family can be tough, as there are so many things worth doing.

However, you can’t go wrong with a trip to the Hub Family Entertainment Center .

The fun never stops nor lets up when you’re there.

The Hub’s greatest feature is its go-kart track.

They have karts that go as fast as 32 miles an hour.

Sure, it might not seem like much but it can feel really fast.

There’s also laser tag, an arcade, and plenty of hearty food to munch on.

The Hub truly is a hub for excitement.

It’s great to visit even if you don’t have any kids.

They’re open from 11 a.m. until 9 p.m. from Mondays to Saturdays and from noon to 6 p.m. on Sundays.

Address: 5055 Expressway, Missoula, MT 59808, United States

24. Mount Sentinel

David Gilder / Shutterstock

Mount Sentinel could be called “Mount Sentimental” because being up here can conjure some very strong emotions.

This peak is 1,958 feet high, and it’s a powerful lookout above the city.

Once known as “Mount Woody,” this mountain is loved among the city’s residents.

There’s a giant “M” on Mount Sentinel’s face.

Local university students put that there.

There are many hiking trails available on this peak, including more challenging ones that bring you over to the “M.”

Hiking Mount Sentinel is another of the great free things to do that feel so invaluable.

The trek up the mountain is amazing, as is standing atop it all and even going back down.

Check it out for an inspiring experience every step of the way.

25. Garnet Ghost Town

Nagel Photography / Shutterstock

An hour outside of the city is Garnet Ghost Town , located in what’s today the town of Drummond.

This was a mining town that was thriving with gold at the turn of the 20th century.

However, a loss of fortunes meant a loss of residents.

Since the 1940s, Garnet has been completely abandoned.

Despite all this, Garnet has expert preservation.

Many of its buildings have been kept in shape.

They might not look brand-new, but that’s the point.

Visiting Garnet Ghost Town is like traveling through an actual western mining town.

The area also has plenty of places for hiking, camping, fishing, hunting, biking, and other awesome activities.

The Garnet Mountains make for a beautiful backdrop.

While Garnet Ghost Town isn’t especially near Missoula, the trip is worth the effort.

Explore the many attractions of this Montana spot.

Think as well about all of the history in this beautiful region.

Address: Drummond, MT 59832, United States

26. Missoula Community Theatre

Patronize the local drama community by seeing a performance from the Missoula Community Theatre .

Over one million people have seen MCT shows since starting in 1998.

Besides their great shows, they do a great job of giving back, as the majority of their budget is spent within the city.

MCT performances are vibrant and constantly engaging, with great work from everyone on stage.

They also have sensory-friendly performances of certain productions.

Under the same umbrella is the Children’s Theatre in Missoula, which is awesome for teaching kids about the thrill of live theater.

Visit the Missoula Community Theatre to witness dramatic excellence from a great community.

You can come here for a date or a wonderful family outing.

There’s so much excitement and joy at these shows.

Address: 200 N Adams St, Missoula, MT 59802, United States

27. Hip Strip

When you’re looking for funky shops and charming restaurants, check out the “Hip Strip.”

This is a very cool section of town, great to visit early in the day and at night.

Get your money ready, as you’ll have lots of reasons to spend here.

Some of the hippest shops on this strip are Ear Candy Music, Shakespeare & Co., and Bathing Beauties Beads.

The food also deserves plenty of raves.

Among the finest eateries on the Hip Strip are Taco Sano and Hob Knob, a fantastic breakest spot.

You don’t need to spend money when you’re on the Hip Strip, either.

For great free things to do in Missoula, just wander around, seeing what you can, and talking to the business proprietors and other customers.

Address: 501 S Higgins Ave, Missoula, MT 59801, United States

28. Southgate Mall

Caldorwards4 , CC BY-SA 4.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

Another ultimate shopping destination in Missoula is the Southgate Mall .

This is the biggest mall in the western part of the state.

You’ll have more than 100 shops and other businesses to explore.

A day at the Southgate Mall is a day of true therapy, retail or otherwise.

Explore the Southgate Mall’s boutiques and give your wardrobe a boost.

You can also get some great new electronics, and relax at their spa and salon.

When you need some fuel, their food comes through.

You’ll have pizza, ice cream, sandwiches, and more to select from.

The Southgate Mall delivers on what a mall should be.

Try to spend at least a few hours there, so you can really get the full experience.

You don’t have to spend hundreds of dollars here, either.

Focus on finding the right things for you or perhaps a loved one.

Address: 2901 Brooks St, Missoula, MT 59801, United States

29. Farmers’ Markets

stellamc / Shutterstock

One great farmers’ market would be worth talking about.

However, this city boasts three.

Try to see at least one of these during your trip, and make room for all three if you can.

These are all open between May and October.

They’re also within walkable distance of one another.

You can see visit the first Missoula Farmer’s Market , The Missoula Saturday Market, and the latest, the Clark Fork River Market .

They all form a trio of local goods and pure community heart.

Going to a farmers’ market means really bringing yourself into a community.

Don’t just see it like a quick stop to the store.

All three of these markets are absolutely remarkable, and a fourth one and beyond would be totally welcomed.

Start Planning Your Trip To Missoula

Missoula has beauty, fun, and great people throughout its acres.

There’s art to be found all over, human and nature-made.

Come to this great city to see how incredible Montana and the western United States both are.

Happy travels!

THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Missoula

Things to do in missoula.

• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Budget-friendly
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Good for Kids
• Good for Couples
• Good for Big Groups
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Adventurous
• Hidden Gems
• Honeymoon spot
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Garnet Ghost Town

2. Aerial Fire Depot and Smokejumper Center

3. Rattlesnake National Recreation Area

4. Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation

5. A Carousel for Missoula

6. Fort Missoula Museum

7. Missoula Farmer's Market

8. University of Montana

9. Caras Park

10. Big Sky Brewing

11. Dragon Hollow Play Area

12. Imagine Nation Brewing Co

13. St. Francis Xavier Church

14. Missoula Art Museum

15. Splash Montana

16. Bayern Brewery

17. Boone and Crockett Club

18. Pattee Canyon

19. Historic Ninemile Remount Depot Visitor Center

20. Blue Mountain Recreational Area

21. Montgomery Distillery

22. Missoula Butterfly House & Insectarium

23. Montana Snowbowl

24. Mount Jumbo North Peak Trail

25. Ten Spoon Vineyard and Winery

26. 4 Ravens Gallery

27. Montana Natural History Center

28. Dana Gallery

29. The Roxy Theater

30. Jacobs Island Bark Park

What travellers are saying.

THE 10 BEST Things to Do in Missoula

Things to do in missoula.

• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Budget-friendly
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Good for Kids
• Good for Couples
• Good for Big Groups
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Adventurous
• Hidden Gems
• Honeymoon spot
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Garnet Ghost Town

2. Aerial Fire Depot and Smokejumper Center

3. Rattlesnake National Recreation Area

4. Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation

5. A Carousel for Missoula

6. Fort Missoula Museum

7. Missoula Farmer's Market

8. University of Montana

9. Caras Park

10. Big Sky Brewing

11. Dragon Hollow Play Area

12. Imagine Nation Brewing Co

13. St. Francis Xavier Church

14. Missoula Art Museum

15. Splash Montana

16. Bayern Brewery

17. Boone and Crockett Club

18. Pattee Canyon

19. Historic Ninemile Remount Depot Visitor Center

20. Blue Mountain Recreational Area

21. Montgomery Distillery

22. Missoula Butterfly House & Insectarium

23. Montana Snowbowl

24. Mount Jumbo North Peak Trail

25. Ten Spoon Vineyard and Winery

26. 4 Ravens Gallery

27. Montana Natural History Center

28. Dana Gallery

29. The Roxy Theater

30. Jacobs Island Bark Park

What travellers are saying.

The 10 Best Things to do in Missoula, Montana

By Kurt Norris

Missoula is a city situated in Western Montana, known as “the hub of five valleys” since five high mountain ranges surround it.

Missoula covers an area of 34.66 sq. miles, making it the second-largest city in Montana, US. It is also called the River City because one of the most popular rivers, the Clark Fork River , runs through the heart of Missoula.

Moreover, it is a popular tourist attraction since it is located near two famous national parks; Yellowstone National Park and Glacier National Park .

Because of this characteristic of Missoula, a large number of people from around the world visit it annually. However, before planning a trip to this exciting place, it is essential to learn about all that it offers.

So, if you are planning a trip to this beautiful city in Montana but are confused about where to go and what to do, then we are here for you!

Following is a list of the best things to do in Missoula to ensure you have the most rewarding stay possible.

The Top Things to Do in Missoula, Montana

Missoula is the ideal vacation destination for outdoor adventurers. This gorgeous city is not only famous for being rich in culture and having an exquisite rugged landscape but also happens to have numerous recreational activities for its residents as well as tourists.

Table of Contents

1. Go For a Hike

There is an abundance of hiking trails in Missoula. So, if you are interested in hiking, lace up your shoes and go on an adventurous hike in this city. The city offers exceptional views, and there is no better way to explore these than by going on a hike.

The Mount Sentinel Hike or the “M” hike is one of the most popular hiking trails in Missoula. It is dog-friendly as well, so you can always take your dog to accompany you.

The “M” trail is 3.1 miles long and is an out & back trail type. It also offers an elevation gain of up to 620 feet. You can admire the scenic landscape as the top of Mount Sentinel provides an aerial view of the city of Missoula.

Other than that, Kim William Nature Trail is a 9.8 miles long hiking trail that is quite popular among hikers. This trail runs alongside the Clark Fork River and provides gorgeous views to all the hikers. This out & back trail starts as asphalt and after a mile, turns into gravel and dirt. Furthermore, the trail allows dogs and is suitable for all skill levels.

Besides these, Missoula features several other hiking trails such as McFly Flat Nature Trail, “L” Hike, Waterworks Hill, and many others. If you like to get the runner’s high or love long peaceful strolls while admiring the view, then Missoula is undoubtedly the place for you!

2. Admire the Art

The exquisite landscape of Missoula is enough to inspire anyone to create art, and maybe that is why there are a fair amount of art galleries present in this lovely city. Many tourists visiting Missoula make their way to all the art galleries that the city offers and admire the art showcased there.

The Missoula Art Museum is the home to regional art and provides good insight into the history of Missoula. The permanent collection here consists of over 2300 objects.

This art museum also features paintings from Native American artists like Gail Tremblay, George Longfish, and Corwin Clairmont. This Native American art collection is one of a kind. It does not compare to anything else exhibited in the States as it is considered to be the most extensive Native American art collection in the US.

Centrally located in the historic downtown of Missoula, Radius Gallery has a collection of a massive variety of regional contemporary fine art. Walk-in visitors are always welcome in this open year-round art gallery.

Radius Gallery is popular in Missoula because, along with paintings, sculptures, and other art pieces, it also promotes ceramics art which is guaranteed to grab your attention.

Another art gallery promoting local fine arts is the Dana Gallery. A diverse range of art styles is available here, including conceptual, abstract, landscape, and traditional Western.

All these places play a huge role in promoting regional artists and helping visitors learn more about the local artwork.

3. Give Fly-Fishing a Try

Fly-fishing is done using a lightweight bait, also known as an artificial fly. It is a common activity in Missoula as Blackfoot River , Bitterroot River , Rock Creek, and Clark Fork River are home to many game fish.

Also, Missoula is one of the top ten trout fishing towns in North America. Besides trout, some other species in these river streams include perch, whitefish, northern pike, and bass.

If river fishing is not something you are interested in, Missoula also offers many opportunities for lake fishing. Lake fishing is permitted on Flathead Lake , Georgetown Lake , Seeley Lake , and a few other locations.

The species found in these lakes include Cutthroat Trout, Lake Trout, Kokanee, Largemouth Bass, Rainbow Trout, Yellow Perch, and others. However, please keep in mind that a fishing license is required if you want to partake in this hobby.

Fishing is usually done as a sport or a hobby during the Springs in Missoula. So, if you happen to be there during that time, take your fishing equipment with you and go to the nearest fishing spot to get one of the best fly-fishing experiences ever!

If you want to enjoy this hobby to the fullest, do take the help of one of Missoula’s local guides, as they are more than happy to help you out and give you the most beneficial fishing tips.

4. Try Bird-Watching

Because of its natural beauty, Missoula is, no doubt, a sight for sore eyes. If you are an avid bird-watcher, trust us, Missoula will serve as the perfect vacation spot for you.

The city of Missoula is home to a diverse variety of bird species, so it’s a dream come true for all the bird enthusiasts out there!

There are numerous bird-watching spots in Missoula, and it just depends on what kind of bird you are trying to find. If you are interested in catching a glimpse of Black-backed and Three-toed Woodpeckers, you should visit the verdurous forests of Blue Mountain.

If the names Killdeer, Warbler, Willow Flycatcher, Spotted Sandpiper, or Merganser grab your attention, then don’t think twice before making your way to the Clark Fork River. To watch some Lewis Woodpeckers or Great Blue Herons, you can take a trip to the Cottonwoods of Kelly Island.

You can also go to Greenough Park to see some American Redstarts, Lazuli Buntings, and Western Screech Owls. Waterworks Hill has Western Meadowlarks, Bluebirds, Savannah Sparrows, and Vesper Sparrows.

And lastly, if you are someone who is only fascinated by hawks and would like to catch sight of Bald Eagles, Osprey, Cooper’s Hawks, or Red-Tailed Hawks, then we would suggest taking a hike down Kim Williams Trail or Council Grove State Park.

5. Go Skiing

Skiing is another recreational activity that attracts tourists to Missoula. The city has many options to carry out this hobby as there are many skiing sites in this area. The Great Divide Ski Area is a popular choice among families that are visiting Missoula.

This Park offers more than 140 skiing trails with three mountain lifts. This skiing facility also offers night skiing on Fridays. Lost Mountain Skiing Area is built on Lost Trail Powder Mountain .

This area usually has up to 300 inches of snowfall annually, and that is why it serves as a great skiing location. It is situated in the Bitterroot Range, in the region where Montana and Idaho meet, and is an affordable skiing option.

The Montana Snowbowl is a common choice amongst tourists as it is one of the most popular skiing resorts in the area. It also has one of the steepest trails in the States, with a vertical drop of 2600 feet. Other than that, it also has some great skiing trails available for people that have just started exploring this hobby and are at a beginner level.

The Lookout Pass, Blacktail Mountain, Discovery Ski Area, and Whitefish Mountain Resorts are some other skiing sites. So, gear up, and enjoy a unique skiing experience in Missoula.

6. Take a Dip at the Local Hot Springs

Located near the Montana-Idaho border to the southeast of Missoula, the Lolo Hot Springs is a popular destination among tourists and locals seeking the revitalizing powers of the naturally heated pools.

First recorded by western explorers when the famous Lewis and Clark Expedition passed through in 1806, the celebrated landmark has welcomed visitors for centuries, with local indigenous peoples having frequently visited them for hundreds of years before even Lewis and Clark.

Today the hot springs continue to bless visitors with their gift of revitalization in a selection of maintained indoor and outdoor pools at an elevation of 1,267 meters and engulfed by the awe-inspiring natural landscape.

After soaking all of their worries away, guests have a wide selection of fun and engaging activities to choose from. From exploring the natural wonders of the area via hiking, horseback riding, cross-country skiing, or even hunting to grabbing a drink at the nearby bar and casino, Lolo Hot Springs offers plenty of entertainment for everybody.

7. Explore Caras Park

Nestled in the heart of Missoula’s downtown area on the banks of the Clark Fork River, Caras Park is the cultural center of the community.

Hosting several gatherings and cultural events throughout the year, the park is a fantastic destination for interacting with the locals and immersing yourself in the traditional lifestyles of the Montanan people.

Of course, Caras Park is also a fantastic attraction even when there aren’t any events going on, and it attracts numerous visitors thanks to its verdant picturesque spaces and community-inspired art pieces.

Having hosted over a thousand events in the last 12 years, Caras Park is a fantastic destination for catching a movie night in the park, enjoying a family night out during the Recreation’s Kid Fest, or even enjoying a drink at Missoula’s celebrated Garden City Brewfest.

Alternatively, visitors can head down to the Riverfront Walking Trail, where they can watch as kayakers battle against the white waters of the human-made Brennan’s Wave or peruse through the myriad of food trucks offering some of the best samplings of delicious street foods in Montana.

8. Step into History at the Garnet Ghost Town

Situated about 39 miles east of Missoula, the Garnet Ghost Town was once a thriving community of gold miners that has since become one of the best-preserved ghost towns in Montana.

Starting in 1895 as a humble stamp mill to crush ore in the area around First Chance Gulch, Garnet slowly developed as a small town. However, shortly after the town’s founding, local miner Sam Ritchey hit a rich ore vein, causing a significant rush to the area. By January 1898, the community boasted a population nearing 1000 people.

The community’s development boomed as eager miners and entrepreneurs worked their way to Garnet. The town was soon home to four stores, four hotels, two barber shops, three livery stables, a union hall, a butcher shop, a doctor’s office, a candy shop, a school, and no less than thirteen Saloons, many of which can still be visited in their preserved states today.

By 1905 the local mines began to dry up. Just as quickly as it had grown, the town’s population dwindled to about 150 people. Garnet continued to struggle for the following decades, and by the 1940’s it was abandoned entirely to become the ghost town it is today.

Visitors traveling to the Garnet Ghost Town from Missoula step back in time to the age when the gold rush dictated human migration to the Montana Region. The abandoned community offers visitors a window into the hardened lifestyles of the miners who created makeshift settlements that have survived for over 100 years.

9. Explore the Wildlife at the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation

Promoting and preserving local wildlife since its founding in 1984, the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation operates its visitor center from the outskirts of Missoula. It is an absolute must-experience for visitors traveling to the city.

By displaying interactive exhibits, the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation reveals the beauty, diversity, and importance of elk across North America. In addition, it educates its guests about elk, elk country, and the vital role the foundation plays in its conservation.

Throughout your visit to the foundation, you will hear elk bugle, identify animal tracks, touch an authentic elk antler, and test the depths of your knowledge about Montana’s local wildlife.

And, if a stuffy museum isn’t really your thing, don’t worry. The Rocky Mountain Elk Museum is so much more than that and features 22 acres of wooded nature trails through the beauty of the surrounding landscape.

Along with the local elk population, visitors to the property can spot herds of white-tailed deer, turkeys, bald eagles, owls, trout, and much more.

10. Cool Off at Splash Montana Waterpark

The Splash Montana Waterpark operates from June to August in Missoula’s Playfair Park. With something for everyone, Splash Montana offers some of the most family-friendly fun to be had anywhere in the state.

The park features a wide array of waterslides for thrill-seekers, including three separate three-story slides, several floating play structures, and even a kid-friendly Grizzly Slide.

Meanwhile, the park’s lazy river float way and Olympic-sized swimming pool are a favorite amongst guests that prefer to simply float their worries away as they soak in the pool’s cooling waters.

Also found within the park’s premises are the Crazy Creek Café, the Fireline Grill, and a series of Cabana Rentals to make your visit to the park as relaxing as possible.

Are you traveling as a group? Contact the park ahead of your visit and arrange for one of Splash Montana’s specialty parties. These packages range from an all-inclusive party with pizza, cake, and party favors to a simple group rate for a collection of poolside cabanas.

Regardless of whether you are traveling alone or as a group Splash Montana is one of the best and most exciting ways to escape the heat of a Montana Summer.

Final Thoughts

There are some places on earth that everyone should visit at least once in their life, and Missoula happens to be one of those places.

Missoula offers a vast array of outdoor recreational activities for people of all ages. Whether you love the rush of adrenaline or want to indulge in calming hobbies, Missoula has it all!

To make it easier for you to decide which activities you wanna partake in, we have shortlisted the best things to do in this magnificent city.

We hope you benefit from our guide on your next trip there! This city offers an unparalleled experience to all its visitors, and a trip to Missoula is guaranteed to remain a cherished memory forever.

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About The Author

Kurt Norris

A Canada-based freelance writer, Kurt acquired his bachelor’s degree in English Language and Literature from the University of Windsor. Upon graduating, Kurt left the courtside media desk behind and began venturing the globe. Throughout his journeys, Kurt enjoys partaking in slow travel and loves to explore the histories and cultures of each destination, which he shares with others through his writing.

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39 Amazing Ideas for Things to See & Do in Missoula

• Updated: 04/08/2024

Nestled in a picturesque valley and bisected by the Clark Fork River, we visited the thriving town of Missoula, Montana, after spending four days in Glacier National Park in July. More than a college town, as it is home to the University of Montana, Missoula offers a rewarding summer stop for any Montana visitor.

Warm weather activities include outdoor adventures like hiking, biking, rafting, and fishing—or culture and history found at the Missoula Art Museum and Fort Missoula. Soaking up this mountain town’s atmosphere at its lively farmers market and live music venues offers more excellent options. 

I share 39 of the best things to see and do if your Montana travels take you through Missoula for one day or several. We did some of the activities during our 3-day visit . Other activities are recommendations from our local friend, a many-year resident of the area, and things we wanted to do but could not carve out the time.

At-a-glance: 39 Missoula things to do by category.

Find things you want to do most quickly by jumping to one of the 12 categories of Missoula experiences. All activities are in town or within an hour or two drive, making Missoula an excellent base for day trips.

• Water activities (7)
• Fishing (3)
• Horseback riding (1)
• Wildlife experiences (3)
• Shopping and galleries (3)
• History, museums, and culture (6)
• Food and drink (5)
• Two more Missoula highlights: University of Montana & minor league baseball (2)
• Events and festivals (3)

Or view all of the Missoula things to see and do on the map below.

How to use this map:  In the map header, click the square tab to the left of my logo or click the enlarge frame to the right to view detail. You can save the map to “Your Places” on Google Maps by clicking the star next to the map name. Or you can share it by clicking the share icon.

Sign up for my monthly Discovery Newsletter & get a free Trip Budget Calculator !

14 outdoor adventures.

Outdoor enthusiasts love Missoula for its wide range of activities. From hiking to biking to rafting or simply strolling along the Clark Fork River, there is no shortage of things to do if you want to spend the bulk of your day outside.

1. Hike the M. 

Get a great view of Missoula by catching this 1.2-mile out-and-back trail with just under a 650-foot elevation gain to reach the iconic symbol of the University of Montana and Missoula. Once at the M, if you want to extend your walk, consider following the route up another 1.75 miles to ascend the top of Mount Sentinel . Or head to the other side of the Clark Fork River and hike the Mount Jumbo trail.

2. Find more trails.  

Explore one of the many wilderness areas that conveniently surround Missoula. Some of the spots with the best hikes include:

• K Williams Nature Trail Area /Pattee Canyon Recreation Area: these hiking areas are adjacent and sometimes referred to interchangeably. Find them next to the University of Montana campus. Find the M and Mount Sentinel hikes mentioned above here.
• Rattlesnake Wilderness Area : next to town and across the Clark Fork River. The Mt. Jumbo trailhead is at the edge of town. 
• Bitterroot National Forest : a 1.25 to 1.5-hour drive south of town, depending on where you plan to explore. We loved our hike on the rewarding 2.8-mile Blodgett Canyon Overlook trail . 
• Flathead National Forest : a 1.5-hour drive northeast of town, depending on where you plan to stop and hike. The 3.3-mile Holland Lake and Falls trail is a highlight.

See more photos and get information about our Blodgett Canyon Overlook hike in this article .

3. Explore on two wheels. 

Ride some of Missoula’s 22 miles of off-street paved or gravel trails on two wheels. We rented bikes from Spotted Dog Cycles and headed down the nearby Bitterroot Branch trail toward Fort Missoula. Although we did not make my goal of Fort Missoula, you will hopefully be more successful in finishing this 3.7-mile route. A fair amount of unhappy scowling from our 13-year-old due to “not being a big fan of biking,” combined with the beginning section of this industrial path crisscrossed by roadways being charmless, had us reverse our route and head back to the river. 

There, we picked up the Milwaukee Road Path, or the Kim Williams Nature Trail , following the pretty riverside route to the University of Montana, where it became too rocky for our rentals. However, if you have a sturdier ride, you can continue along the 4.2-mile route into the Kim Williams Nature Area.

See all area paved or gravel bike trails here . Or, for the more adventurous and skilled, see area mountain biking options here . Additionally, consider joining one of the Spotted Cycle day bike tours .

Water activities .

The Clark Fork River that runs through the middle of Missoula is perfect for floating, kayaking, and paddleboarding, while the nearby Bitterroot River offers excellent fishing opportunities. You can also rent a boat and spend a relaxing day on nearby Seeley Lake or Flathead Lake, surrounded by mountain scenery.

4. Float down the Clark Fork River. 

Want a relaxing way to take in the town and surrounding scenery? Make time for one of Missoula’s #1 most recommended activities—a Clark Fork River float trip. 

If you have two cars as we did, arrange your own shuttle float trip down the Clark Fork River, putting in at the Milltown State Park Confluence Area and exiting just before the Van Buren Street Walking Bridge on the left side of Jacobs Island Dog Park. Our local friend had her own raft. You can also rent one from local water outfitter Love Boat Paddle Co . 

Or book a shuttle innertube trip with Love Boat Paddle Co. during the week or the Clark Fork Yacht Club during the weekend to outsource your transportation. See more details on how we managed our shuttle float trip here .

5. Kayak or paddleboard. 

If you are looking for more action and want to explore the river and get exercise while you do it, rent a kayak or paddleboard from Love Boat Paddle Co. , which also offers river shuttle options.

6. Play on the wave. 

River surf or practice your paddling on Brennan’s Wave, a non-natural feature installed on the Clark Fork River. Or watch the adventurous kayakers and surfers try their skills while you stay dry on the shore in Caras Park. The wave is just west of the Higgins Avenue bridge. Rent surfboards or kayaks from Love Boat Paddle Co . 

7. Build your river skills. 

If you get lucky on dates, sign up to attend one of the two-day kayak clinics at Love Boat Paddle Co. Or request a one-day private lesson available on weekdays for yourself or a group.

8. Jump (or boat) in a lake.  

Make it a day trip and drive east an hour, taking scenic Highway 83 to Seeley Lake, at the base of two mountain ranges, to rent motorized and non-motorized watercraft at Tamaracks Resort Rental shack . Or, sign up for its Clearwater Canoe Trail Adventure , including craft rental and a portage to the trailhead.

Prefer a slightly quieter lake experience? Head south to Lake Como and bring your own craft. Surrounded by campgrounds and alpine scenery in the Bitterroot Valley, you may prefer this smaller lake.

9. Jump into a different and bigger lake. 

Drive north for 1.25 hours to the southernmost point of nearly 200 square-mile Flathead Lake to rent pontoon boats, Sea-doos, kayaks, and paddle boards from Riverside Recreation . 

Or turn it into a longer excursion by driving further north to explore Bigfork, a charming Montana town on the northeast shore of Flathead Lake. Dine at one of several in-town eateries or grab a lakeside bite to the south at The Raven on its outdoor deck. Rent watercraft from Old Faithful Watersports near The Raven in Woods Bay. Or, in town, rent canoes and kayaks from Base Camp Bigfork , which also offers guided kayak tours during the shoulder seasons.

10. Join a whitewater rafting adventure. 

Enjoy a half-day or full-day guided whitewater rafting trip with Adventure Missoula for ages six to adult. A 30-minute drive west of town, you will meet there for your trip down the Clark Fork or Blackfoot Rivers on Class I, II, and II rapids. 

Enjoy a River Runs Through It moment or several—by fishing along the Clark Fork, Blackfoot, and Bitterroot rivers. Grab your gear and spend a relaxing day soaking up picturesque surroundings while casting your line. Alternatively, choose to go guided by an expert. Or, if you are an angling newbie, learn how to fly fish in a clinic or with one-on-one instruction. 

11. Find your own fishing spot. 

Get your license and bring your gear to spend a peaceful day on one of the three rivers mentioned above or in Rock Creek. Learn more about fishing around Missoula and how to get your license here .

12. Go on a guided fishing trip. 

Angle with an expert on a half-day or full-day fishing trip. Join local providers like Adventure Missoula or Missoula Fly Fishing Outfitters , also offering overnight camping options.

13. Learn how to fly fish. 

Adventure Missoula offers private sessions and even has women-only options in the spring. Missoula Fly Fishing Outfitters provides private instruction to singles or groups.

Horseback riding.

14. horse around. .

Take in Montana’s wide-open spaces and big skies from horseback. Book a guided trip with Adventure Missoula . Or, drive 20 minutes south of town for longer rides and lessons at Dunrovin Ranch for ages 8+.

3 parks to visit.

Missoula is home to several parks perfect for outdoor lovers and families. 

15. Caras Park. 

In the heart of downtown Missoula, Caras Park is a popular riverside gathering spot. Stroll its river path, enjoy a picnic, ride its carousel, or attend one of its many events, including live concerts and festivals.

16. Greenough Park and McCormick Park. 

Known for its greenery, creek, and walking trails, Greenough Park is a convenient in-town place to step into nature on winding paths. For families with kids, visit the playgrounds, a children’s fishing pond, a skate park, and open spaces of riverfront McCormick Park—a perfect place for kids to burn off energy and have fun.

17. Cool off at a waterpark. 

Take the kids or go without them to Splash Montana , a family-friendly small-scale waterpark with three 3-story waterslides, a lazy river, a zero-depth entry pool, and on-site eateries within Playfair Park. 

3 wildlife experiences.

In addition to hiking where you are likely to catch sight of lots of area wildlife, consider including one of these three unique experiences in your stay.

18. Pair birding with photography. 

Consider splurging on a birding and wildlife private half or full-day float tour with Missoula Fly Fishing Outfitters . Bring your binoculars to catch sight of one of the 400+ bird species in Montana.

19. Learn about elk. 

Although you will not see live elk here, you can learn about them through interactive exhibits at the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation Visitor Center, a hunting heritage conservation group dedicated to preserving elk populations and engaging in habitat stewardship. If you have the time, stroll the walking paths on the property.

20. See bison in their natural habitat. 

About an hour’s drive north, see 300+ bison on one of two scenic driving loops at the CSKT Bison Range , a former federal nature reserve transferred back to the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes.

Interested in seeing smaller things that fly? Visit the Missoula Butterfly House and Insectarium.

3 shopping areas and galleries to explore.

No visit to Missoula would be complete without exploring its vibrant downtown area and galleries, restaurants , and shops. From locally made crafts to contemporary artwork, Missoula offers plenty to browse and admire. 

21. Hit the Hip Strip and more downtown shops. 

Stroll the section of Higgins Avenue just south of the bridge to explore the vintage and music shops of the Hip Strip. Then, walk back over the bridge to wander the downtown streets. A few of our favorite shops included HO & KO Boutique and The Trailhead outdoor shop.

22. Wander in wonderment at Rockin Rudy’s. 

Billed as the “original hipster department store,” carve out time for a stop at Rockin Rudy’s headquarters outpost on Blaine Street. This sprawling emporium sells all the best knick-knacks, t-shirts, and funky decor items you never knew you wanted, though now must have.

23. Discover Montana artists. 

Visit top local galleries to see new-to-you and Montana artists. Favorites like Radius Gallery are known for their excellent modern and contemporary art and ceramics collections. And the Dana Gallery for showcasing regional Western artists.

6 places to go for history and culture.

In addition to its natural beauty, Missoula boasts a rich cultural scene, including museums and performing arts venues. 

24. Learn about Missoula’s history.  

History lovers will enjoy a visit to the Historical Museum at Fort Missoula , a former military post. Explore the buildings, learn about the region’s past through fascinating indoor and outdoor exhibits, and stroll some of the 32 acres of this regional park as you immerse yourself in the stories of the people who lived and worked here. Take an hour-and-a-half guided walking tour or explore self-guided. If you are in town for the 4th of July, check out its annual celebration . See a short video about the fort below.

25. Witness Montana’s gold-mining past. 

Drive an hour east of Missoula to catch a sense of the Old West and explore Garnet Ghost Town , Montana’s best-preserved ghost town and a former gold mining community. Explore the grounds and walk its local trails to abandoned cabins and mines.

26. See art for free. 

Showcasing contemporary, folk, and local art that reflects the region, explore the rotating collections of the Missoula Art Museum in the heart of downtown for free, though donations are appreciated. Join a guided tour on Saturday mornings. Or browse the eight galleries within this museum at your own pace.

27. Get tickets for a show. 

Missoula has a thriving theater scene. The Montana Repertory Theatre at the University of Montana hosts a variety of productions throughout the year, including plays, musicals, and dance performances. The Wilma Theatre , a beautifully restored venue, is another great spot for live performances, ranging from concerts to comedy shows. Or catch a movie at the Roxy Theater , a historic and non-profit community-owned cinema that screens independent and foreign films.

28. Visit Missoula’s monument to books. 

Book lovers will want to stop in the beautifully designed and reimagined Missoula Public Library downtown. Winning the “World’s Best Public Library” accolade in 2022 from the World Library and Information Congress, it is the first library in North America to win this distinction. Take a virtual tour of the library and Missoula in the video from the Missoula Public Library below. Then, see it in person to marvel at the architecture and soak in the gorgeous mountain views from indoor and outdoor seating areas. 

29. Gain a new respect for firefighting. 

Next to the Missoula Montana Airport, visit the Smoke Jumper Visitor Center , an actual in-use facility, to learn about the history and how-tos of aerial smoke jumping and the courageous people who do it to combat forest fires in remote areas. Join for a free 45-minute guided tour to get fascinating facts and stories and see the aircraft that transports the smokejumpers.

5 things to know about Missoula’s places to eat and drink.

From farm-to-table eateries serving fresh, locally sourced ingredients to international cuisine, Missoula’s dining and brewery scene will impress. 

30. Indulge in food truck heaven. 

If your Missoula visit overlaps on a summer Wednesday or Thursday, head to Caras Park to sample the best of its food truck scene at the weekly Out to Lunch (Wednesdays) and Downtown Tonight (Thursdays) series, organized by Downtown Missoula.

On a Wednesday, we got a burger dripping in nacho cheese for our daughter, Banh Mi sandwiches and Vietnamese iced coffees for us, and a donut ice cream sandwich for dessert. We thoroughly enjoyed our delicious lunch at a nearby picnic table while listening to live music.

31. Go hyperlocal with your eats. 

Pick up sweet, savory, or fresh produce treats at the weekly Missoula Farmer’s Market . About a city block long, find it on the north end of Higgins Avenue on Saturday mornings from May to October and Tuesday evenings from June to September. Also, shop local crafts and artisanal products that make for great souvenirs.

32. Puzzle out which amazing place to eat. 

For its population and size, Missoula has a plethora of seriously excellent and walkable places to eat, particularly if you are staying downtown. The breadth of options wowed us, and the quality and execution of dishes at every level of eatery won us over to the culinary charm of this western Montana town. 

Our favorites included Top Hat Restaurant & Bar , also a live music venue, Biga Pizza enjoyed on the Cranky Sam Public House patio, breakfast and takeaway picnic sandwiches at the Market on Front , only a block from our downtown rental , and the upscale yet still relaxed outdoor dining at the Patio at Rattlesnake Market .

33. Get your craft drink on. 

In addition to its thriving restaurant scene, Missoula delivers on the drink front. Sample craft brews at favorites like Big Sky Brewing , which also offers a summer concert series, Imagine Nation Brewing Co. , which also features live music, or Bayern Brewing for its German lagers and Edelweiss bistro. Prefer your libations distilled? Head to the downtown tasting room of Montgomery Distillery , a family business serving creative cocktails and small-quantity spirits.

34. Enjoy some wine time. 

Relax with a glass of Montana-made wine at Ten Spoon Vineyard & Winery in the Rattlesnake Valley, a short drive from downtown Missoula. Enjoy a flight, light snacks, wood-fired pizzas, and live entertainment in a beautiful setting.

2 more Missoula highlights.

35. get schooled. .

Visit the University of Montana campus, where you can walk its beautiful grounds and relax on the Oval. While there, explore the Montana Museum of Art and Culture , showcasing a diverse collection, including Native American artifacts, contemporary pieces, and Western art. Or get tickets for a show at the campus Montana Repertory Theatre.

36. Take in America’s favorite pastime. 

Catch a baseball game by getting tickets to see Missoula’s local team, the PaddleHeads of the Pioneer League, play at Ogren Park at Allegiance Field on the south side of the Clark Fork River.

3 events and festivals.

Known for its lively events, including music festivals and cultural celebrations, Missoula always has something happening.

37. Feel the music at this festival. 

Attend the River City Roots Festival , a two-day free music and arts festival at the tail end of summer. Find it in the heart of downtown on Ryman and Main.

38. Catch more outdoor summertime tunes. 

Get epic Montana views while you enjoy the live performances at the Kettlehouse Amphitheater , a ten-minute drive northeast of town and on the Blackfoot River for its summer concert series.

39. Experience the best of the West. 

If your Missoula visit overlaps with the right dates in August, check out the Western Montana Fair & Missoula Stampede , an annual event showcasing regional agriculture, entertainment, and carnival rides at the Missoula Fairgrounds in the southern part of the town.

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12 Best Things to do in Missoula, Montana

By Alex Schultz · Last updated on November 3, 2023

Surrounded by spectacular scenery, Montana’s second-largest city of Missoula lies at the spot where five mountain ranges meet. As it is also set on the banks of the Clark Fork River, with both the Bitterroot and Blackfoot Rivers lying nearby, it has loads of excellent outdoor activities, with hiking and whitewater rafting particularly popular.

While both locals and tourists certainly make the most of all its incredible landscapes, there are plenty of things to do in Missoula itself. Besides boasting some interesting historical tourist attractions, it also has a lively yet laidback feel to it, thanks in part to the large University of Montana campus. In addition, there is a very active community life, with many events, festivals and markets taking place. Located in Western Montana, Missoula really does have something for everyone.

12. Mount Sentinel

Looming above its surroundings, Mount Sentinel lies just to the east of the city and the University of Montana, with fabulous views to be had from its summit. Long a popular place to go hiking, the largely barren mountain reaches 1,572 meters, with a massive ‘M’ spied about halfway up its hillside.

Originally made out of whitewashed rocks, this large letter was placed there by university students back in 1908. For over 50 years, each group of freshmen would hike up and repaint it. Although this ended when it was later replaced by a concrete ‘M’, numerous traditions still take place around the standout sight.

Snaking around the slopes of Mount Sentinel are different trails for visitors to hike along, with clumps of woods found here and there. From its higher reaches, hikers can enjoy beautiful views over Missoula and the university below.

11. Missoula Farmer’s Market

While a number of great arts and crafts and fresh produce markets take place in the city, the one you can’t miss is the Missoula Farmer’s Market. Held every year since 1972, its farmers, food producers, and ranchers have been providing the community with fresh, local, and sustainable food ever since.

With a lively yet laidback air, the market’s laden stalls and stands are loads of fun to peruse, with piles of vegetables, baked goods, and jams on display. Besides sampling some of its delicious treats and stopping for a coffee at one of its pop-up cafes, visitors can buy souvenirs produced and made in Western Montana.

Held in downtown Missoula on summery Saturday mornings from May to October, the Missoula Farmer’s Market also takes place on Tuesday evenings between July and September.

10. Selway-Bitterroot Wilderness

Home to dramatic landscapes and breathtaking mountain scenery, the Selway-Bitterroot Wilderness straddles the border of Idaho and Montana . One of the largest wilderness areas in the US, it boasts sweeping valleys, verdant forests, and prominent peaks.

As well as spanning the Bitterroot Mountain Range, it encompasses several national forests, with the Lochsa and Selway rivers originating in its upper realms. Scarred by glaciers, the majestic mountains’ slopes are home to craggy canyons and cliffs, with almost 3,000 kilometres of scenic trails winding their way here and there.

Besides hiking around its rugged terrain, the park is a great place to go wildlife watching: elk, black bears, and mountain lions reside within. With whitewater rafting and camping are also on offer. The untouched landscapes of Selway-Bitterroot Wilderness really are a treat to explore and only lie an hour’s drive to the south of Missoula.

9. Montana Snowbowl

Nestled amid the marvelous mountains and woods of Lolo National Forest, the Montana Snowbowl is one of the best places to go skiing and snowboarding in the region. Easily accessible from Missoula, it lies just half an hour to the north of the city.

Delightfully underdeveloped, it is most well-known for its steep expert runs that descend from the top of the 2,310 meters high Big Sky Mountain. To reach its summit, visitors can take the Grizzly Chair from its base area or the LaVelle Creek Chair, which starts halfway up its snowy slopes.

In addition to having 40 fun runs for guests to try out, in the summer, the Montana Snowbowl provides lovely hiking and mountain biking. Many Missoulans come to simply grab a bite to eat or drink at its restaurants and bask in the laidback ambience and magnificent mountain scenery.

8. Lolo Hot Springs

Set just a stone’s throw away from the border with Idaho, the Lolo Hot Springs have long been a popular destination with local Montanans and tourists. Centered around their warm and revitalizing waters are lots of amenities, with a hotel, casino and business center on offer.

Used by the Lewis and Clark Expedition in 1806, the hot springs were enjoyed by Native Americans for centuries before that. Set at an elevation of 1,267 meters, the indoor and outdoor hot springs and pools are surrounded by sublime scenery, with excellent views to be had over the nearby woods and mountains.

Besides relaxing and unwinding in their soothing waters, guests can try everything from hiking and horseback riding to hunting, fishing, and cross-country skiing. With so much to see and do, the Lolo Hot Springs are ideal for a quiet weekend getaway or mid-week outdoor adventure experience.

7. Rattlesnake National Recreation Area

Boasting picturesque paths and trails, Rattlesnake National Recreation Area will delight nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Set just an hour’s drive to the north of the city, it encompasses a wonderful wilderness area of the same name and is included as part of Lolo National Forest.

Established in 1980, it protects lots of fabulous fauna and flora, with scenic ridges and sparkling lakes lying alongside verdant forests and majestic mountain peaks. Meandering amid the idyllic landscapes and scenery are more than 100 kilometers of trails for visitors to explore.

As well as hiking around the recreation area, many people go horseback riding or mountain biking amid the untouched nature, with cross-country skiing popular in the winter months.

6. Splash Montana

A wild, wet, and fantastic waterpark, Splash Montana is a fun and family-friendly place to visit that lies just a short distance from the city center. Only open in the sunny summer months, it is one of Missoula’s most popular tourist attractions.

Home to lots of winding waterslides, outdoor pools, and a lazy river, it also has some fun floats for kids to play with, as well as shallow sections and spray features. Besides splashing about or soaking in its sparkling waters, adults can sunbathe around the outside of it.

In addition to this, Splash Montana has a cafe and grill where families can grab a drink or a bite to eat and take a breather from the waterslides.

5. White Water Rafting

Set at the spot where five mountain ranges meet, Missoula is the perfect place to go white water rafting along the many rushing rivers passing through the canyons and gorges. Besides lying on the banks of the Clark Fork River, the Bitterfoot and Blackfoot Rivers also pass by not far away.

One of the most scenic and spectacular settings to go white water rafting is in Alberton Gorge, located just half an hour to the west of the city. Here you’ll find exhilarating rapids to navigate, with mighty mountains and lush forests lying to either side of Clark Fork River.

This stunning stretch is the most popular part for white water rafting, with some great kayaking, canoeing, and boat trips to be had on calmer parts of the nearby rivers.

4. Caras Park

Lying right in the heart of Downtown Missoula, Caras Park can be found on the banks of the Clark Fork River. Besides being a pretty, pleasant, and picturesque place to spend some time, the park also hosts several community events and cultural festivals during the year.

While its green spaces are ideal for relaxation and recreation, its standout sight is its charming carousel. Built in 1995 by the community, its exquisitely crafted wooden horses and old-fashioned look and feel have bought joy to countless children and adults since then.

In addition, it also boasts Brennan’s Wave – a human-made wave where local kayakers can battle against the white waters. Having hosted over a thousand events over the last ten years, Caras Park is well worth heading to: you never know if a fun and festive film, food, or kids’ festival will be on.

3. Fort Missoula Museum

Established back in 1877 by the US Army to protect settlers to Western Montana, Fort Missoula is now a magnificent museum. Lying on the outskirts of the city, visitors can explore its numerous historic buildings and exhibits to learn more about the fort and the history of the region.

Initially built to protect local townspeople from raids by Native American Indians, the open fort was later used as a prison camp during WWII. All of this fascinating past and more can be delved into in-depth at its sprawling complex or on a tour around the site.

Besides excellent exhibitions on settlers, soldiers, and Indians who inhabited the area, visitors can stroll around some wonderfully preserved buildings, with the lovely Willamette Locomotive also on show.

2. Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation

Founded in 1984, the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation promotes not only the protection and preservation of wildlife, but also America’s hunting heritage. At their visitor center on the outskirts of Missoula, guests can learn all about elk and the RMEF’s efforts to conserve their natural habitats.

Through informative and interactive exhibitions, guests learn about these majestic mammals and the stunning landscapes they call home. Besides hearing elk bugles and identifying animal tracks, there are well-done wildlife conservation films to watch and an outdoor hiking trail to explore.

As the foundation’s slogan is ‘Hunting is Conservation,’ visitors shouldn’t be surprised to see some trophy elk mounts hung up on the walls. Offering a fascinating look into Montana and the Rocky Mountains’ rich heritage, life, and culture, the RMEF is well worth visiting when in town.

1. Garnet Ghost Town

Once a thriving mountain mining town, Garnet Ghost Town now makes for a popular tourist attraction. Abandoned in the 1930s, the remains of its well-preserved buildings lie nestled high in the Garnet Mountain Range, just an hour’s drive to the east of Missoula.

Wandering around its decaying old buildings and dilapidated cabins is an awe-inspiring if somewhat eerie experience as everything lies just as the miners left it when the gold ran out. Once home to lots of bawdy saloons, stores, hotels and a school, the town now lies at the mercy of the elements.

Now protected and preserved by both the public and a team of volunteers, Garnet is in remarkably good condition considering that it is a ghost town. Very unique and unusual, it is certainly one of the best and most unforgettable places to visit in Missoula with the abandoned town being set amidst some lovely mountain and forest scenery.

Map of Things to do in Missoula, Montana

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Top Things to Do in Missoula, MT - Missoula Must-See Attractions

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• A Carousel for Missoula
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• Rattlesnake National Recreation Area
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• University of Montana

21 Fantastic Things to Do in Missoula, Montana You Have to Try

I was born in the town of Missoula, Montana, and my sister and her fiance currently live there, which is why I have a good idea of the things to do in Missoula. While Montana is mostly known for its rugged cowboy-esque, picturesque landscapes and that western, mining town feel, Missoula, Montana offers something a little bit different.

Because it is a college town, you’ll find that it is a lot more, well, liberal than the rest of the state. It’s also home to some incredible dining, fun concerts and events, many hiking trails, and more.

If you are curious about what to do in Missoula while you are there, this list has got you covered. If you have any questions, feel free to comment below!

21 things to do in Missoula, Montana you shouldn’t miss

Here are my recommendations of things to do in Missoula, Montana on your Montana road trip itinerary – whether you’re coming straight from Missoula International Airport or driving into town in your van, you’ll want to spend at least a day walking around the downtown area and exploring some of the museums, the nearby nature, and more as you’re visiting Missoula.

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A Carousel for Missoula

Did you know that there is a Missoula carousel? This was one of my favorite activities as a kid when my parents would take us on road trips or to the Grizzly football games (on this list too!). These hand-crafted carousel horses (along with a few dragons, chariots, and more) each have their own story.

The carousel also puts on family-friendly events. They are usually open from 12:00 to 5:00 PM. Additionally, if you’re around for Christmas, there are free rides on Christmas Day from 11-3.

Whether you are an adult or a kid, you’ll want to visit and pick out your favorite Missoula, Montana carousel horse before someone else does!

Downtown Missoula

If you only have a few hours in this awesome town, I recommend checking out downtown Missoula, Montana.

Not only is that where most of the best restaurants in Missoula are, but it is also where you can find a number of bars available to cater to college students and tourists from out of state. There are also a number of cute shops and coffee places worth checking out, as well. If you love art, you can find galleries displaying the work of local artists.

The Missoula, Montana downtown is a hopping place with concerts, Missoula farmers’ markets, and a lot more things to do in Missoula! I also recommend staying in one of the downtown hotels in Missoula, MT too!

Big Sky Brewing Co. Concert Series

I would make the effort to visit Missoula, Montana just for some of the amazing concerts that were held at the Big Sky Brewing Co. over the past few years. Think you can’t see big name acts like Bob Dylan, the Avett Brothers, the Decemberists, and more in a small town? Think again!

It’s a great way to have a more intimate experience while paying a lot less at other venues in other cities. The concerts take place outdoors on a large, grassy field and are all general admission shows. Bring a blanket or a low-back chair for more comfortable viewing!

The concerts will happen rain or shine. So also be ready for heat, wind, or rain! The temperature also tends to drop after sunset, so remember to bring layers.

Keep in mind, umbrellas are not allowed, as they obstruct the view. So remember that raincoat!

Caras Park Missoula is located right along the Clark Fork River and offers events like Missoula brewing conventions, concerts, and more. Caras Park is a great place to get in your kayak and head down the river, or to walk from one end of the town to the next.

I recommend grabbing some lunch and having a picnic by the Clark Fork River at Caras Park before going to explore the rest of the downtown Missoula, Montana area.

The best part is that Caras Park is located close to the carousel, best restaurants, and boutique shops.

Hike to the M

Check out some wineries.

You might not have a Missoula winery on your list of things to do in Missoula, MT, but you would be missing out!

While most everyone focuses on beer here, there are some delicious wineries in the area that you want to make sure to add to your list.

Here are the ones that I would recommend:

• Ten Spoon Vineyard and Winery
• Missoula Winery and Event Center
• Missoula Wine Merchants

Fort Missoula

Time for a history lesson at one of the most unique Missoula attractions, the historical museum of Fort Missoula!

Fort Missoula historical museum was built in 1877 as a way to protect pioneers from the attacks of local Native American tribes. It was home to the local infantry until the 20th century when it was reconstructed as a detention center for Italian prisoners of war and Japanese Americans.

While Fort Missoula has a dark past, it’s worth visiting for the historical museum and to learn more about what life was like for the detainees.

Missoula Children’s Museum

This delightful museum is worth stopping by if you have kids in tow and love community events.

Locals decided to encourage family interaction and play by creating a children’s museum in Missoula, and it’s a great break for those who have been traveling with their kids and want a bit of a break everyone can enjoy.

Missoula Symphony

This award-winning orchestra and chorale group performs every year (except 2020, of course!) and offers incredible renditions of classic works and newer contemporary pieces.

During August, they typically have outdoor concerts to enjoy, while you can also head to the Dennison Theatre for a more traditional experience.

Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation

Elk play a vital role in Montana’s ecosystem, and the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation works to educate the public on why these animals are so important to the region. Here you can visit the Elk Country Visitor Center to learn more about these majestic creatures.

Including information, small tours, the Elk Country Visitor Center, and more, the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation is a great spot to learn more about the environment and how everything is interconnected when it comes to nature.

This is the perfect introduction to your Glacier National Park itinerary !

Montana Natural History Center

There’s so much to explore when it comes to nature in Montana!

The Montana Natural History Center focuses on bringing the outdoors to you with programs and classes for both kids and adults – the nature lovers’ dream.

Ever wanted to learn more about the flora and fauna in the area? Montana Natural History Center can get you started on your birding or fishing adventure.

It also has a number of small exhibits highlighting the natural history of the area from the dinosaurs onward.

Clark Fork Riverfront Trail

The Clark Fork River (named after Clark from Lewis and Clark) winds through the town of Missoula. It also includes a lovely trail (The Clark Fork Riverfront Trail) that follows the Clark Fork River and goes almost through the entire length of the city.

I recommend parking near Caras Park and then choosing to walk toward the University of Montana campus. You can check out the restaurants and shops in that area or the college itself, and then make the walk back to your car.

If you’re looking for a dose of nature but not wanting to stray far from the amenities of the city, look no further than the Clark Fork Riverfront Trail.

There are also some amazing  Missoula restaurants  right around the Clark Fork Riverfront Trail too!

Missoula Art Museum

If Fort Missoula wasn’t enough history for you, check out some art history!

Featuring incredible local Montana artists (including a large Native American-create collection), the Missoula Art Museum has some excellent exhibits and art galleries that highlight what it means to live in Montana.

The Missoula Art Museum also offers tours and classes on certain days, including an adult art class, so you will want to check out the website to see when those are scheduled.

Perusing these art galleries in the Missoula Art Museum is one of my favorite things to do in Missoula!

If you’re looking for a great afternoon inside, wandering from gorgeous painting to painting, look no further than the inspiring maze of the Missoula Art Museum.

The Snowbowl

A tough Missoula, Montana winter is made all the better by throwing on a pair of skies and heading to the main ski hill in the area, the Montana Snowbowl, one of many chilly Missoula attractions.

Located in the Lolo National Forest, the Montana Snowbowl also offers great mountain biking trails in the summer as well as a 100-mile view of the surrounding mountains from the top.

The Montana Snowbowl is a great spot for both summer and winter and gives you a chance to get outdoors and explore Lolo National Forest – making the Montana Snowbowl one of the best things to do in Missoula, Montana!

The Wilma Theater

When I was a teenager and I found myself bored, I would drive to downtown Missoula to see some of my favorite musicians play at the Wilma. Not only was it inexpensive, but they also hosted some amazing acts like Iron & Wine, the Flaming Lips, the National, Sheryl Crow, and way more.

Hosted in a theater from the 1920s, it’s the perfect place to get your groove on. It was one of my favorite things to do in Missoula, Montana.

When there aren’t concerts, you can also attend some arthouse and classic films.

Lolo National Forest

Taking up more than two million acres, the Lolo National Forest offers some great camping, hiking, cross-country skiing, and more. If you plan to get outdoors and you don’t feel like heading to Montana’s more crowded national parks, this can be a fantastic alternative. Do prepare for a bear interaction with bear spray and bear-proof containers on your camping gear list so you don’t have a nasty encounter!

Attend a Grizzly game

Want all the pomp and circumstance of a professional game without the price? The Montana Grizzlies football team has some pretty rapid fans and a stadium that continues to grow as more than 40,000 people pack in to see these champions play. You’ll be surprised how loud this area can get–you might want to bring a pair of ear muffs. In terms of Missoula Montana events, these always sell out!

Raft Alberton Gorge

The Alberton Gorge, located just minutes away from Missoula, is a premier destination for whitewater enthusiasts in Montana. This beautiful steep-walled canyon section of the Clark Fork River offers a perfect adventure for hot summer days, with its class II and III rapids providing a thrilling experience for both beginners and experts. The ideal time to visit is from late June to early August, where you can plan a trip with local river guides and enjoy the splash and swimming opportunities with your family. The Gorge also boasts of its natural beauty with thick forests, cool rock formations, sandy beaches and wildlife such as bald eagles and ospreys.

Smokejumper Visitor Center

The Smokejumper Visitor Center offers a unique and interactive experience for those interested in learning about the demanding profession of smokejumping. Visitors can take a free tour of the facility which includes the Smokejumper loft, ready room, and National Smokejumper Memorial. The center also features a gift shop and museum that houses a 1930 built fire lookout tower. During the summer months, visitors may also have the opportunity to witness Smokejumpers and aircraft being dispatched to fires.

Check out a food truck

The food trucks in Missoula are not just a convenient option for a quick meal, they represent a unique culture within the community. The food truck scene in Missoula is characterized by local ingredients, creativity, and passion that goes into every dish. It’s a place where people can gather with friends, enjoy a delicious meal and listen to live music. You’ll most likely find them in Caras Park, but during certain events and games you’re likely to see them around–be prepared for a ton of different options and to have a hard time choosing which foods to sample! From tacos to Mediterranean, there’s something for all foodies.

Visit Mobash Skate Park

The Mobash Skate Park in Missoula is a locally-conceived and developed project, brought to life through a partnership between local skaters and the city. It was made possible through the contributions of several donors, with a grand opening ceremony led by professional skateboarder and philanthropist Tony Hawk in 2006. During the summer, visitors can participate in the summer skate camps and the Skateboard Mentor Program offered by Missoula Parks and Recreation. Who knew that you could have world-class skate parks located in the Treasure State?

Do you have any recommendations for things to do in Missoula, MT? Let me know in the comments!

Like this post? Save it for later!

Want more information on Montana? Check out these articles:

• The Ultimate Montana Road Trip Guide
• Where to Stay Near Glacier National Park
• The Ultimate List of the Best Hikes in Glacier National Park
• The Ultimate Glacier National Park Itinerary

Alex is the founder of Alex on the Map, a site devoted to national park guides, hiking, climbing, and enjoying your outdoor adventures. After growing up near Glacier National Park in Montana, Alex now spends summers in the American West hitting up the trail with her husband and dog.

Her work has been featured in Fodor's, the Huffington Post, Bustle, and many more. She has also been featured in publications such as The Washington Post, CNN, and USA Today.

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• Things to do in Missoula

Nestled in the heart of the Rocky Mountain West, Missoula has a unique way of blending small-town charm with big-city sophistication, all in a setting that’s second to none.

In Missoula, recreation is an art form – with unique opportunities to combine rafting, skiing, hiking, and biking, with gallery nights, poetry readings, concerts, and plays.

Although the city’s setting provides the perfect backdrop for outdoor enthusiasts, Missoula is rich with recreational alternatives.

Robust with cultural events, family-friendly activities, and a multitude of special events, Missoula is beloved by those who live here – and those who wish they did!

So much to do, so little time… That’s the only downside to Missoula’s vibrant variety of social, cultural, and outdoor activities. Get the scoop on what’s going on around town by this website.

Popular pages include:

Explore It  – Explore a variety of attractions within a day’s drive of Missoula

Missoula Dining  – A listing of Missoula eateries/restaurants

Missoula Nighlife  – A listing of Missoula bars

Missoula Attractions  – Checkout Missoula Attractions

Missoula Shopping  – A listing of Missoula Shops

Missoula Museums / Galleries  – Learn about Missoula’s Museums/Galleries

Missoula Outdoor Recreation  – Learn about hiking, biking, fishing and other Missoula area recreation opportunities

Missoula Theater – Live Theatre anyone?  Missoula has lots to choose from

Missoula LIVE Music  – Missoula’s Music scene is not to be missed

Be sure to Check out Make it Missoula’s Calendar of Events for all the goings-on around town.

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Missoula Montana Tourism Attractions

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• Ski Resorts
• History & Museums
• Lakes, Rivers & Waterfalls
• Scenic Drives

Missoula, Montana has a little something for everyone who loves great indoor and outdoor attractions in a mountain setting including parks and wilderness, museums, scenic drives, a university, and more.

Missoula is a great place to get in touch with your inner adventurer, historian, scholar, and child. Surrounded by pristine mountain ranges, you’ll find a multitude of attractions and activities, such as hiking, hunting, fly-fishing, shopping, and sight-seeing.

University of Montana

UM Missoula is the main campus for the University of Montana offering a number of degrees from its three colleges and six schools. UM Missoula is regularly voted as one of the most scenic campuses in America and students can enjoy a variety of recreational activities.

History and Museums

Several historic museums and buildings are located in Missoula as well as performing art centers and other tourism venues. Visit the Daly Mansion in Hamilton or the ghost town of Garnet. View contemporary pieces at the Missoula Art Museum or brush up on history at the Fort Missoula Museum, Victor Heritage Museum and others.

Take a peaceful stroll through Kim Williams Nature Trail and enjoy views of Clark Fork River and Mount Sentinel. Take to the pathways at Lolo Trail Center before enjoying a visit to the adjacent hot springs in Lolo National Forest. And everyone should get a glimpse of the famous “M” halfway up the Mount Sentinel Trail.

Skiing and snowboarding rank high on the list of popular Missoula, Montana wintertime activities and several resorts are located in the area. Test the slopes at Montana Snowbowl, Black Mountain, Lookout Pass Ski Area, Lost Trail Powder Mountain and more.

Nature and Outdoors

National Forests and Wilderness Areas such as the Bob Marshall and Lee Metcalf are untamed, rugged landscapes filled with wildlife making them excellent places to hunt, fish, hike, and camp. Take a soothing dip at an area hot spring or see herds of wild buffalo at the National Bison Range in the Flathead Valley.

When planning a scenic drive near Missoula, the question becomes, “Where does one go in order not to experience breathtaking scenery?” It seems that any direction you choose, a glorious landscape awaits you. Explore Lolo Pass and the Bitterroot Valley or head north and see the Flathead region. Follow Rock Creek to Phillipsburg Valley or take the Chief Joseph Scenic Highway near Yellowstone.

Near Missoula, play in one of a number of state parks including Frenchtown Pond, Blackfoot River, Placid Lake and several others. State Park activities range from wintertime fun like cross-country skiing and snowshoeing to summer fly fishing excursion and camping. Two miles south of Missoula, Blue Mountain Recreation Area offers hiking and biking opportunity in over 5,000 acres and Missoula Parks and Recreation Department maintains 45 municipal parks spread throughout the city.

Lakes and Rivers

The tantalizing waters of Rock Creek draw avid anglers each year and fly fisherman also wet flies in the Clark Fork, Blackfoot and Big Hole Rivers. Head north and recreate on Flathead Lake or Seeley Lake and then towel off and pick a new direction to explore with more lakes and rivers around every bend.

Other Attractions

If you crave unique shops, great restaurants and active nightlife, be sure to visit Missoula’s downtown in both day time and evening hours. While downtown, stop in Caras Park for a ride on a hand-carved pony at A Carousel For Missoula. And to release your inner cowboy, head to the Western Montana Fairgrounds in August for exciting rodeo events, concerts and other activities.

Questions & Answers

Regional area attractions, yellowstone attractions, bozeman attractions, glacier park attractions, whitefish attractions, bitterroot valley attractions.

Escape to a Perfect Cabin Getaway

Visit allcabins.com.

Other Area Attractions Resources

The Mission Valley Speedway is a local race track for auto enthusiasts and racers.

21 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions & Things to Do in Montana

Written by Brad Lane Updated Jan 24, 2024

Montana is the American West at its best. This rugged state still has a touch of its wild past brimming from its cities and small towns and its massive unaltered natural spaces. National forest acreage outnumbers residents in Montana, the country's 4th largest state by land size and one of the least populated. These uncrowded spaces have enticed explorers, writers, and Big Sky enthusiasts to Montana over the last 100 years.

Adventure and the outdoors dominate many of the things to do in Montana. And adventures in Montana always come with remarkably beautiful and vast landscapes. From mountains glistening in Glacier National Park to the many wild rivers teeming with trout, the state is a foreign land to some, its wild places unmatched anywhere else in the country.

But it's more than just the opportunities for adventure that make the state worthy of a visit or long stopover. There's also a wild sense of the Old West that still lingers. The state capital, Helena, exemplifies this Western aura with its gold-digging past woven throughout its downtown district. This frontier history of Montana evokes a sense of exploration that feels like something new is around every corner.

Find out why the state is known as the Last Best Place with our list of the top attractions and things to do in Montana.

1. Glacier National Park

2. explore a national forest, 3. hit the slopes at big sky resort, 4. fly fish blue ribbon waterways, 5. meet the residents at the grizzly and wolf discovery center, 6. unearth history at the museum of the rockies, 7. visit yellowstone national park, 8. discover the richest hill on earth at the world museum of mining, 9. tour the state capitol in helena, 10. explore the shore of flathead lake, 11. go underground at lewis and clark caverns state park, 12. soak in one of montana's hot springs, 13. get inspired at the c.m. russell museum complex, 14. spot the smelter stack in anaconda, 15. drive the beartooth highway, 16. visit the moss mansion in billings, 17. indulge at the sweet palace in philipsburg, 18. ross creek cedars scenic area, 19. pay respects at the little bighorn battlefield national monument, 20. dive deep into the western heritage center, 21. bike on the route of the hiawatha.

Glacier National Park stands proudly as the Crown of the Continent in Northwest Montana. This outstanding scenic area comprises mountain ranges, alpine meadows, thick forests, tall waterfalls, countless sparkling lakes, and numerous glaciers. It's a real adventure paradise with iconic landscapes enticing repeat visitors for years to come.

The 50-mile-long Going-to-the-Sun Road is a marvel of engineering and the only paved route that navigates across the park. It crosses the Continental Divide at the 6,646-foot-high Logan Pass, connecting St. Mary to Apgar Village and West Glacier. This automobile route is worth a visit alone.

The national park is a magnet for adventure tourists, with over 700 miles of hiking trails. Some of the most iconic hiking routes include Grinnell Glacier, Ptarmigan Tunnel, and the incredible Highline Trail. While day hiking is the most common way to explore, overnight adventures are also popular within the park's extensive backcountry.

Accommodation: Best Places to Stay near Glacier National Park

• Top-Rated Things to Do in Glacier National Park, MT
• Best Campgrounds in Glacier National Park

Montana is home to a remarkable seven national forests comprising nearly 20 million acres. This vast, wide-open space has come to define the Montana experience, and no visit is complete without trekking through these public lands. From the Kootenai to the Custer-Gallatin , the western half of the state is home to many of these national treasures.

At least five national forests are within a short drive of Missoula , home to the University of Montana. And Lolo National Forest surrounds the city. This proximity to public lands offers residents and visitors backyard access to adventure hot spots like Rattlesnake and Blue Mountain National Recreation Areas.

Bozeman, home to Montana's other state university, is also an excellent jumping-off point for exploring national forests. While several public lands are within reach, the Custer-Gallatin National Forest draws the most interest. South of Bozeman, the Custer-Gallatin reaches past the adventurous town of Big Sky and connects to Yellowstone National Park.

Read More: Best Hiking Trails in Montana

Big Sky Resort, home to some of the "Biggest Skiing in America," is approximately an hour's drive south of Bozeman. The slopes are known for their abundance of snow, with an average of 400 inches per year. Thousands of skiers and snowboarders descend onto the resort come winter. Still, with 5,750 skiable acres, there's plenty of room to make some turns.

Visiting Big Sky provides the full resort experience. From the heated eight-person lifts to the energetic base of the mountain filled with events, restaurants, and après-ski entertainment, Big Sky offers the crème da la crème of a Montana downhill experience. The resort recently upgraded their iconic Lone Peak Tram for the 2023/24 season, offering a breathtaking and sightseeing adventure to the top of its namesake peak and an adventurous black-diamond ride down for those comfortable with steep terrain. Down rides are also available.

But Big Sky isn't the only ski destination worth visiting in the state – several of Montana's best ski resorts offer similar landscapes for downhill endeavors. Lost Trail Powder Mountain is a local favorite near the Idaho border. And up north, Whitefish Mountain Resort offers excellent views of the adjacent Glacier National Park. Other popular spots like Montana Snowbowl and Bridger Bowl are within easy reach of Montana's university cities.

Address: 50 Big Sky Resort Road, Big Sky, Montana

Official site: https://bigskyresort.com/

Read More: Top Things to Do in Big Sky, Montana

The 1992 movie, A River Runs Through It , starring Brad Pitt and directed by Robert Redford, made Montana synonymous with fly fishing. But anglers have been casting lines in the state for years prior, already aware of the surplus of mountain streams and rivers primed for a fly.

The movie, adapted from an iconic 1972 novella by Norman Maclean, takes place primarily on the Blackfoot River . But many of the most mesmerizing river scenes were filmed on the Gallatin River . These two rivers both offer productive seasonal hatches and some of the best mountain scenery in the sport.

And world-renowned fly fishing takes place throughout the state. Besides other major rivers like the Madison , Missouri , and Yellowstone Rivers , the state has thousands of mountain streams and creeks with plenty of action. One of the best ways to enjoy Montana fly fishing is by connecting with a local guide shop.

Undoubtedly the only time you'll be happy to see a bear or wolf up close, the Grizzly and Wolf Discovery Center is a must-see excursion when visiting Montana. It's in the town of West Yellowstone , near the western entrance of Yellowstone National Park.

Opened as a sanctuary for animals otherwise not fit to live in the wild, the center offers a chance to see giant grizzly bears and gray wolves in a natural habitat. It also encourages learning about their behavior, history, and population decline. Highlights include watching the bears forage for food, play in their ponds and with each other, as well as the chance to hear the haunting howls of the wolf packs (best in the mornings and evenings).

The facility also features an engaging Banks of the Yellowstone indoor exhibit, with a dynamic riparian display with cutthroat trout and river otters.

Address: 201 S. Canyon Street, West Yellowstone, Montana

Official site: www.grizzlydiscoveryctr.org

Read More: Top Things to Do in West Yellowstone, MT

The Museum of the Rockies adds to Bozeman's status as one of Montana's best cities . Along with its planetarium, the museum – part of the Smithsonian Institution – is renowned for its excellent displays of dinosaurs and dinosaur eggs . The collection includes skeletons and realistic models of numerous species found in the state.

The museum's dinosaur collection is one of the largest in the US and includes the world's biggest Tyrannosaurus skull. Other highlights include a T-Rex thighbone with soft-tissue remains and the T-Rex skeleton at the museum entrance known as "Big Mike." All these prehistoric monuments help share the region's history.

It's not all dinosaurs, however. The museum also features a dynamic display welcoming people to Yellowstone Country, illustrating the region's evolution into a tourism magnet. Other subject matters include native peoples of the region, Western art exhibits, and the Tinsley House – an original pioneer log home from the late 1800s.

Address: 600 W. Kagy Blvd, Bozeman, Montana

Official site: https://www.museumoftherockies.org/

Read More: Top Attractions and Things to Do in Bozeman, MT

Montana has two main entrances into Yellowstone National Park, the nation's first national park. These two openings, the West Entrance and the North Entrance , also feature gateway communities that are fun places to visit on their own. And it's a world of adventure once you're inside the park, with over two million acres to explore.

From the aptly named town of West Yellowstone , the West Entrance of Yellowstone dives deep into geyser country. After reaching the iconic Madison Junction 14 miles from the entrance, the road diverges, with top Yellowstone attractions either way. North of the Madison Junction is Norris Geyser Basin , home to Steamboat Geyser . The Lower, Midway, and Upper Geyser Basins are to the south, with big-name sights like Grand Prismatic and Old Faithful .

The North Entrance of Yellowstone is in Gardiner, Montana. This entrance is accessible via a beautiful 90-minute drive through Paradise Valley from Bozeman. Shortly after the park's gates, the Boiling River , another top attraction of Yellowstone, invites immediate exploration. Farther into the park, the Mammoth Hot Springs area offers stunning travertine terraces and a touch of the park's history.

Read More: Top Hiking Trails in Yellowstone National Park

Butte, once known as the Richest Hill on Earth, is Montana's most historic city. It began in the late 1800s and flourished in the copper mining industry. It grew to be Montana's first major city and the biggest city between Chicago and San Francisco for a period in history.

Mining operations continued into the 1980s in Butte, though never reaching their early 1900s heydays ever again. Today, this history and culture are still on full display, making Butte one of Montana's best places to visit. One of the best places to dig into the city's mining history is the World Museum of Mining.

The museum centers around a restored mining camp with more than three dozen historic buildings and structures on display. It was part of the old community known as Hell Roarin' Gulch at the base of a now inactive silver and zinc mine. A highlight is the huge headframe – the winding tower at the mineshaft's head – along with underground tours of the mines.

Other mine-related highlights in Butte include the Copper King Mansion , constructed in 1888. This 24-room Victorian mansion features many of the original artifacts that reflect the prosperity of the Richest Hill on Earth. The Mineral Museum is also a fun place to visit, featuring more than 1,300 specimens, like a 27-and-a-half-troy-ounce gold nugget.

Address: 155 Museum Way, Butte, Montana

Official site: https://miningmuseum.org/

Read More: Top-Rated Things to Do in Butte, Montana

Montana's capital, Helena, once known as Last Chance Gulch after a group of disheartened gold-diggers decided to have one final dig before striking gold, possesses one of the most attractive state capitol buildings in the US.

The building reflects a Greek Renaissance-style of architecture with sandstone and granite composing much of the facade. It's topped with a copper dome and houses several eye-catching murals featuring themes of Montana's past. The iconic Montana artist, Charles M. Russell, has a mural in the building depicting Lewis and Clark meeting the Salish Indians.

It's not just the state capitol that makes Helena a pleasure to visit. The city has a distinct and vibrant culture tied to its gold-digging days of the past. Historical places like Reeder's Alley co-mingle with the modern art galleries and hip storefronts nearby.

Helena is also a great base camp for exploring the Montana countryside. The two-million-acre Helena-Lewis and Clark National Forest surrounds the entire city. Popular things to do in the forest include fishing, hiking, backpacking, and big game viewing. For an even closer adventure, the expansive Mount Helena City Park is within walking distance of downtown.

Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Helena, MT

Flathead Lake is the largest natural freshwater lake in the American West outside of Alaska. It's in the northwest part of the state, approximately 25 miles south of Whitefish. The lake has over 160 miles of shoreline, meaning it takes a while to drive its length.

Boating and boating activities tend to reign supreme at Flathead Lake. The lake is known for its crystal-clear water alongside its icy depths. And adventure extends from the shoreline, too, with hiking trails and parks operated by either Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks , or the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes .

Like Polson and Bigfork, small towns punctuate the shoreline with services like restaurants and boat rentals. Less than 15 miles north, Kalispell is another Montana city worth checking out, and a great spot to find a hotel to spend the night near Flathead Lake.

Read More: Top-Rated Things to Do near Flathead Lake, Montana

Lewis and Clark Caverns is between Butte and Bozeman. It's Montana's first state park and a popular spot to explore underground. And the only way to experience its depths is as part of a guided tour led by park staff . Three different tours are available during the summer that cater to different ability levels. And a special Winter Holiday Candlelight Tour occurs throughout the colder months.

Lewis and Clark Caverns are one of the largest limestone caverns in the world. They host colossal cave features, handrails, and resident bats. Tours follow a concrete walkway the entire way and never navigate through tight spaces. For those not affected by claustrophobia, the state park does offer a unique three-hour Wild Cave Tour that does include some crawling.

Outside the cavern, the park's aboveground area has hiking trails and a visitor center with interpretive information about the caves. The cavern's campground is also above ground, with cabins, tipis, and group campsites available. Reservations are recommended for campsites and cave tours.

Address: 25 Lewis & Clark Caverns Road, Whitehall, Montana

Official site: https://fwp.mt.gov/stateparks/lewis-and-clark-caverns/

Among its many natural features, Montana has several hot spring facilities that inspire a soak. Many of Montana's mainstream hot springs are developed, meaning it's usually a pool of some sort with natural hot water piped in. These hot springs vary in size and are mostly found in the state's western half.

One of the best hot springs in Montana is Quinn's Hot Springs Resort , located next to the Clark Fork River in Paradise, Montana, an hour's drive northwest of Missoula. This beautiful hot spring resort recently added more natural outdoor pools to its landscaped grounds. The resort also offers lodge rooms, cabins, and the decadent Hardwood House Restaurant.

The most historic hot spring, Chico Hot Springs , is another fun one to visit. Alongside a large open-air pool, it's the ambiance of this historic resort, established in 1900, that makes for a memorable visit. That and its prime location within Paradise Valley , close to the Yellowstone River and a short scenic drive to Yellowstone National Park.

Other notable soaking spots include Lolo Hot Springs near the Idaho border and Elkhorn Hot Springs in the Pioneer Mountains. And Yellowstone Hot Springs , 30 miles south of Chico Hot Springs, is a relatively new hot spring with one of the state's best outdoor pools.

In Great Falls , the C.M. Russell Museum celebrates the life and work of famed US artist Charles M. Russell, perhaps best known as the Cowboy Artist. The museum includes numerous documents and artifacts relating to the artist's career spanning the end of the 19th and early 20th centuries and an extensive collection of original paintings .

A highlight is visiting the original Russell House and Studio , now designated a National Historic Landmark. Also of interest is the museum's Russell Riders Sculpture Garden with its statues of area wildlife. The museum also has entire wings dedicated to Russel's many contemporaries, offering a vast and varied collection of Western artworks.

The city of Great Falls itself offers several other things to do to tack onto a long weekend. The Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center is a great place to learn about a different slice of regional history. Natural spaces also line the city, like Giant Spring State Park and Gibson Park, many of which connect to the River's Edge Trail .

Address: 400 13th Street N., Great Falls, Montana

Anaconda is a historic town in Western Montana, dating back to the copper mining days of the late 1800s. This history is on display throughout the town, including a preserved smelter stack towering on the horizon. Today, it's a vacation destination for its modern but rustic attractions and its easy access to the great outdoors.

A few fun things to do in Anaconda include hot spring adventures and skiing at the nearby Discovery Ski Area . Anaconda is also home to the Jack Nicklaus Old Works Golf Course . This unique 18 holes sits upon an old refinement site and features black "slag" bunkers – a byproduct from the smelting days.

Anaconda sits near the end of the Pintler Veteran's Memorial Scenic Highway. This 64-mile route offers a beautiful alternative for I-90 and a recommended course for adventure when traveling from Yellowstone to Glacier. The Scenic Highway is also a launching point for adventures into the surrounding Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest.

The Beartooth Highway is in southwest Montana and leads into Wyoming. It is an All-American Road and a true marvel of engineering. Comparable to the Going-to-the-Sun Road in Glacier National Park, but less crowded, this 68-mile route switchbacks up and over a mountain pass for fantastic views.

The route begins south of Red Lodge , one of Montana's best small towns . The road then climbs over 5,000 feet to reach Beartooth Pass (elevation 10,947 feet) on the other side of the Wyoming border. The highway then proceeds west throughout Shoshone National Forest to the northeast entrance of Yellowstone National Park .

It's truly a bucket-list drive, even though it's not as well-known as some other Montana adventures. The highway is typically open between Memorial Day and Columbus Day (May through October), weather dependent. And with hiking trails, campgrounds, and stunning landscapes lining the way, plan for ample time driving the 68-mile route.

Read More: Top Things to Do in Red Lodge, Montana

The Moss Mansion Historic House Museum is one of the most important landmarks in Billings, comprising a large red sandstone manor that dominates its neighborhood. Renowned New York architect Henry Janeway Hardenbergh designed the 28-room mansion in 1903. His previous works included the Waldorf Astoria, Plaza, Willard, and Copley Plaza hotels.

The mansion features original draperies, fixtures, furniture, Persian carpets, and artifacts. It's like stepping back in time when going inside. Guided and self-guided tours are available . The site also hosts temporary displays and exhibits, including seasonal events and festivals.

Billings is Montana's most populated city with over 100,000 residents. Alongside the fascinating history at the Moss Mansion, the city has several notable tourist attractions and things to do . It's also surrounded by a fantastic landscape, well represented by the massive Rimrocks jutting throughout the center of town. Billings is also home to ZooMontana, the Yellowstone Art Museum, and Pictograph Cave State Park.

Address: 914 Division Street, Billings, Montana

Official site: www.mossmansion.com

In Phillipsburg, on the Pintler Veteran's Memorial Scenic Highway , the Sweet Palace is a candy lover's dream come true. Rows and rows of candy jars line this old-fashioned candy shop, offering all types of flavors and confectionary styles. Visitors add to their bags as they are shopping, with most candies costing the same per pound.

The Sweet Palace is only one of many things to do in Philipsburg . The main drag, where the Sweet Palace is centrally located, has several other local shops and attractions worth a full afternoon of perusing. This includes places to shop for and sluice out the city's most precious resource: Montana sapphires.

Ross Creek Cedars Scenic Area is a notable point of interest in Kootenai National Forest. This ancient grove is in the far northwest part of the state, near the border with the Idaho Panhandle. And within its approximately 100 acres, a tall world awaits.

Some of the cedars in this scenic area have been growing for over 1,000 years. Today, visitors crane their necks at these long-living hardwoods along a 0.9-mile interpretive path. Take some time on this wide and accessible path, listening to the sounds of Ross Creek rumbling nearby.

Expect some crowds on the weekends and throughout summer at Ross Creek. It's a bit of a drive on a dirt road to access the scenic area. Downloaded GPS coordinates are helpful when visiting for the first time. Visitors can also extend the hike for up to four miles along the Ross Creek Trail, where it's easy to ditch the crowds and connect with nature.

The Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument commemorates the 1876 clash between the US Army and Sioux and Cheyenne Indians. It is one of the best-known historical landmarks in the US – and one of the most important in terms of the reconciliation that has taken place since. This must-see attraction includes a visitor center, museum, the Custer National Cemetery , the 7th Cavalry Memorial, and the Reno-Benteen Battlefield.

For the most in-depth experience at the battlefield, book an Apsaalooke Tour , available throughout the summer between Memorial Day and Labor Day. The Crow Nation of Tourism offers this one-hour, air-conditioned bus tour across the battlefield, providing perspectives on this significant historic landmark.

Address: Interstate 90 Frontage Road, Crow Agency, Montana

Official site: https://www.nps.gov/libi/index.htm

Another Billings attraction worth a visit is the Western Heritage Center, housed in the old Parmly Billings Memorial Library built in 1901. The center features a diverse collection of more than 17,000 artifacts . Highlights include more than 6,000 photos covering the history and culture of the Yellowstone River region .

Opened in 1971 and now affiliated with the Smithsonian Institution, the museum also houses a broad collection of materials focusing on the history of the Northern High Plains and Yellowstone River Valley. It also has a special focus on the preservation of the histories of the Cheyenne and Crow Indians . Other highlights include lectures, educational programs, and workshops.

Address: 2822 Montana Ave, Billings, Montana

Official site: www.ywhc.org

The Route of the Hiawatha is one of the most scenic rail-to-trail conversions in the country, departing from Lookout Pass at the Idaho/Montana border . It spans approximately 15 miles and primarily follows a downhill grade, meaning riders can coast most of the route. Along the way are 10 scenic tunnels and seven trestle bridges that span high above the mountainous environment.

Lookout Pass operates the shuttles and bike rentals that make this scenic bike ride a breeze. The route and rentals are only available throughout the summer season, approximately between Memorial Day and Labor Day. Trail passes are required to ride, and most finish the bike ride within approximately two hours .

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Looking for attractions in Missoula? Historic buildings, splash parks, the great outdoors, museums — the list of attractions goes on and on.

Attractions in Missoula

10,000 Waves Raft & Kayak Adventures

• 406.549.6670
• 802 W. Spruce St,
• Nearby Partner

A Carousel for Missoula

• 406.549.8382
• 101 Carousel Dr
• Local Business

Adventure Missoula

• 406.813.0595
• 39 Juniper Lane

Artists' Shop

• 406. 543.6393
• 127 N. Higgins

Bayern Brewing

• 406.721.1482
• 1507 Montana St

Beargrass Adventures

• 406.218.8886
• Missoula, MT

Big Sky Brewery

• 406.549.2777
• 5417 Trumpeter Way

Big Sky Documentary Film Festival

• 406.541.3456
• 216 W Main St Studio 7

Discovery Ski Area

• 406. 563.2184
• 180 Discovery Basin Rd

Downtown Missoula Partnership

• 406.543.4238
• 218 E Main, Suite C

Draught Works Brewery

• 406.541.1592
• 915 Toole Ave.

Epic Outdoor Adventures

• 406.880.6815

Glacier Ice Rink

• 406. 728.0316
• 1101 S Ave W

Gray Wolf Peak Casino

• 406.726.3778
• 20750 US Highway 93 N

Grizzly Athletics

• 406. 243.2213
• 32 Campus Dr

Historical Museum at Fort Missoula

• 406.728.3476
• 3400 Captain Rawn Way

Holt Heritage Center

• 406.273.6743
• 6800 Hwy 12

KettleHouse Brewing Co.

• 406-728-1660
• 605 Cold Smoke Ave

MCT, Inc. Missoula Children's Theatre & Missoula Community Theatre

• 406.728.7529
• 425 E Broadway St.

MTB Missoula

• (406) 351-0069
• 235 N. 1st St. W.

Miracle of America Museum

• 406. 883.6804
• 36094 Memory Lane

Missoula Art Museum

• 406.728.0447
• 335 N. Pattee

Missoula Butterfly House and Insectarium

• 406.317.1211
• 1075 South Ave. W., Suite 2

Missoula PaddleHeads

• 406.543.3300
• 140 N Higgins Ave

Missoula Peoples Market

• 406.830.3216

Missoula Symphony Association

• 406.721.3194
• 320 E Main St

Montana Museum of Art & Culture

• 406.243.2019
• PAR/TV Center, University of Montana

Montana Natural History Center

• 406.327.0405
• 120 Hickory St, Ste A

Montana River Guides

• 406.722.7238
• 138 Big Bend Lane

Montana World Trade Center

• 406.243.6982
• Gallagher Business Bldg #257 UofM

National Museum of Forest Service History

• 406.541.6374
• 6305 Highway 10 W

Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation

• 406.523.4500
• 5705 Grant Creek Rd

Rocky Mountain Museum of Military History

• 406.239.7738
• 2975 Gen Foster Ave

Spotted Dog Cycles

• 406.529.0668
• 738 S. 1st Steet W.

The Sapphire Gallery Inc

• 406. 859.3236
• 115 E. Broadway

The Sweet Palace, Inc

• 406. 859.3353
• 109 E. Broadway

Travelers Rest

• 406.273.4253
• Highway 12 W

Zootown Arts Community Center

• 406.549.7555

Other Attractions in Missoula

Flying Squirrel Missoula

• https://flyingsquirrelsports.us/missoula-montana/
• 2501 Brooks St
• 406.926.3544

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Abandoned Spaces

US Government Offered Free Room and Board In This Town, So Why Won't Anyone Live There?

Posted: April 30, 2024 | Last updated: May 1, 2024

US Government Offered Free Room and Board In This Town, So Why Won’t Anyone Live There?

In the western portion of Montana sits Garnet, an abandoned mining town that's garnered a reputation for being among the most haunted in the state. Settled in the 1890s to house those working in the nearby mines, it was abandoned in the early 20th century. The site has since been turned into a tourist attraction, hosting thousands of tourists each year. However, none stay very long, due to the supernatural phenomena. Keep reading this story to learn more!

Where is Garnet, Montana?

Garnet, Montana is located in Granite County, 11 miles up Garnet Range Road. At an elevation of 6,000 feet, it's surrounded by mountains and forests , making for a breathtaking sight. Spanning 134 acres , it features several buildings and structures dating back well over a century.

Miners flocked to the region

Garnet was established in 1895, over a decade after gold was discovered in the region. Originally known as Mitchell, it consisted of a mere 10 buildings With 50 nearby mines in operation , the town 's population grew to 1,000 residents.

A Bustling mining town

During its heyday, Garnet featured a number of attractions for residents and visitors alike, many of which weren't built to the best of standards.

There were 13 saloons (one of which was known for its "male-oriented" entertainment ), three hotels , grocery stores, a gift shop, a school , a barber and a jail . It was common for passersby to spend the night at one of the hotels, as the nearest city, Missoula, was 20 miles away.

What did residents do for fun?

Even the most devout miner needed to let off some steam after his shift, and Garnet had plenty to entertain them. Outside of the usual facets of mining towns - gambling, drinking - the settlement also held regular parties and dances. Those looking for more quiet activities also partook in fishing trips and picnics.

Garnet's swift decline

Just 20 years after it was founded, Garnet was largely abandoned. The reason for this was two fold.

A large fire broke out in 1912, destroying half the town. The structures lost in the blaze were never rebuilt. The second reason for the town's decline was that the gold eventually ran out, as was the case with other mining towns of the period.

An unexpected and short-lived resurgence

In 1937, during US President Franklin D. Roosevelt 's term, gold prices in the United States soared. Wanting a big payday, miners returned to Garnet. However, the Second World War brought about many restrictions to the trade, resulting in the town being abandoned for a second time in 1940.

Garnet Historic District

In 2010, Garnet was placed on the National Register of Historic Places as the "Garnet Historic District." Overseen by the National Park Service (NPS), this means the ghost town has been deemed worthy of preservation, largely for its historical significance.

A popular tourist attraction

Despite being abandoned by its residents, Garnet has become a popular tourist attraction, playing host to around 16,000 visitors annually. There's even a yearly celebration held on the third Saturday of each year, known as Garnet Day.

Garnet is open to the public year-round. That being said, road access is limited during the winter months, given the amount of snow the region sees.

Garnet Preservation Association

Working alongside the US Bureau of Land Management, the non-profit Garnet Preservation Association protects what remains of the former mining town. Along with aiding in the development of tourist activities, the organization also assists in the collection of oral history, to ensure Garnet's story doesn't become lost to time.

Looking for volunteers

In the mid-2010s, the Bureau of Land Management shared a posting for volunteers to reside in Garnet and care for the ghost town. Successful applicants would receive free lodgings in a fully-furnished cabin, as well as a stipend and food allowance. The proposed duties included assisting with public tours, working in the gift shop and setting up exhibits.

Given Garnet has been long abandoned, there's no running water or electricity, nor wifi or cellphone service - modern amenities the majority of society can't live without.

Unexplained paranormal phenomena

While the Bureau of Land Management received applications, something held many people back from submitting their resume: rumored supernatural phenomena.

Visitors have reported hearing laughter and the sound of piano playing coming from the saloons, while ghostly figures have been seen in hotel rooms. That's not to mention unexplained footsteps and the sound of doors closing. Those who've traveled there in the winter have also reported seeing phantom footsteps in the snow.

More from us: Fort Ross: The Southernmost Russian Settlement in North America

Would you be brave enough to visit Garnet, Montana, or is its haunted reputation too much to handle?

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• 6 Most Idyllic Small Towns in Montana

As anyone who has ever visited “Big Sky Country” can attest, Montana is full of picturesque small towns that showcase the state’s natural beauty and comparatively quiet, rustic way of life. The best of these idyllic communities serve as great jumping-off points for greater exploration of the state’s most dramatic landscapes and are great alternatives to larger cities like Billings and Missoula (as nice as they are!) for those wanting to get a taste of authentic Montana.

If that sounds like you, this list of the six most idyllic small towns in Montana will no doubt inspire you to dig a little deeper and then hit the road to experience some of those “big skies” for yourself.

Located in the northwest corner of Montana , the charming town of Whitefish offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventures, scenic wonders, and a vibrant downtown. Topping the list of natural wonders here is Glacier National Park with its hiking trails and boat tours, as well as historic Glacier Park Red Bus Tours abord vintage vehicles from the 1930s. Another favorite is Whitefish Mountain Resort. Boasting over 3,000 acres of terrain to explore, this resort area provides skiing, snowboarding, mountain biking, and gondola rides offering stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

The urban area of Whitefish is also fun to explore. Its location on Whitefish Lake makes for an idyllic scene, as does the Whitefish River, both of them offering tranquil spots for fishing and kayaking. A weekly Farmers Market is held every Tuesday evening from May through September and offers a taste of local produce and crafts, as well as live entertainment. Also worth visiting are the Whitefish Theatre Company and the Whitefish Depot Museum, both of which provide plenty of fun things to do for culture vultures.

Just south of the border with Canada , Choteau's proximity to the I-15 highway makes it an easy place to get to and an ideal spot from which to explore the Rocky Mountain Front , a spectacular meeting point between the plains and the Rockies. There’s plenty to see and do in town, too, with attractions like the Old Trail Museum being big draws. This fascinating museum is famous for its dinosaur exhibits as the area is part of the Montana Dinosaur Trail and is well known for its significant fossil discoveries (fun seasonal fossil digs can also be experienced).

Prefer the great outdoors? The nearby Bob Marshall Wilderness Area offers abundant hiking, fishing, and camping opportunities in what’s been described as one of the most beautiful untouched natural settings in the country (it’s accessible for both day hikes and extended backcountry adventures). Choteau's annual American Legion Rodeo, held every July 4th, is a great time to visit for those wanting an authentic Montana cowboy experience.

Hamilton is located near the state border with Idaho and is a great base from which to explore the scenic Bitterroot Valley region of Montana. Fun things to do in Hamilton include touring the Daly Mansion, the historic home of 19th-century “Copper King” Marcus Daly. Guided tours include admission to the grounds and are especially fun if planned to coincide with events like the annual McIntosh Apple Day, the state’s oldest such festival.

Hamilton's Main Street encapsulates that small-town Montana charm with its shops, galleries, and eateries, and is especially fun to visit during its weekly farmers market. Culture hounds will want to check out the Ravalli County Museum & Historical Society at the Old Courthouse with its exhibits on local history, natural history, and art, including Native American artifacts. Outdoor activities are plentiful on the Bitterroot River, while the surrounding Bitterroot Mountains are perfect for hiking and biking.

Red Lodge is located just off the I-90 in southern Montana close to the border with Wyoming at the foot of the majestic Beartooth Mountain. Considered one of the most stunning settings of any small town in the United States , getting here is half the fun thanks to the Beartooth Highway , which legendary broadcaster and road trip guru Charles Kuralt once called "the most beautiful drive in America." This thrilling roadway ascends to an altitude of 10,947 feet above sea level, offering great views of the Absaroka and Beartooth ranges with numerous trailheads making it perfect for photography, hiking, and wildlife viewing.

Back in town, the history of Red Lodge can be explored at the Carbon County Historical Society and Museum with its displays on the region's rich coal mining history, and its development into a tourist destination. It also includes information on the area's indigenous history and the annual Festival of Nations which celebrates the many European cultures that came here to mine. Red Lodge Mountain also offers excellent skiing and snowboarding opportunities with terrain suitable for all skill levels.

Set at the north end of Flathead Lake , Bigfork offers visitors a charming village-like experience in one of the most scenic spots in the state. For outdoor lovers, Wayfarers State Park is a must-visit. Located just minutes from the village center, here you’ll enjoy stunning views of Flathead Lake with access to hiking trails, picnic areas, and rocky beaches ideal for kayaking, swimming, and boating. Flathead Lake State Park is also fun to visit, especially during the quieter early morning and late evening hours.

Cultural attractions include Bigfork Summer Playhouse, a renowned repertory theater that has been providing high-quality performances since 1960. Known locally as "Broadway in the Rockies," this world-class theater company features professional performers in shows from musicals to classic dramas. The annual Bigfork Festival of the Arts is another good excuse to visit and brings together artists, crafters, and food vendors from around the country.

Philipsburg

Philipsburg is situated between the Flint Creek Range to the north and the Pintlers to the south, ensuring its picturesque appeal to travelers. Many of the best things to do in this historic town revolve around its past as a mining community. These attractions include the Sapphire Gallery, a hands-on attraction where visitors can experience the thrill of mining their own sapphire while learning more about the industry’s impact on the region; and the Granite County Museum featuring exhibits, a ghost town, and a mock-up of a mine.

Outdoor adventures are also plentiful in Philipsburg, especially for those interested in activities such as fishing, hiking, and hunting. The nearby Discovery Ski Area offers year-round recreational activities, from ice fishing and snowboarding in winter to boating and mountain biking in the summer months.

The Final Word

There’s no doubt that Montana's small towns are worth visiting. These treasure troves of natural beauty, history, and culture have everything the traveler needs for a memorable getaway, whether they’re here for a day, a weekend, or an extended vacation. From Whitefish's snowy slopes to Philipsburg's sapphire-rich mines, each of these six idyllic towns offers a unique slice of what makes Montana so enchanting.

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