Location: Missoula
Top Things to do in Missoula
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Top 10 Budget-friendly Things to do in Missoula, Montana (MT)
Peacefully tucked away in the heart of the northern Rocky Mountains, Missoula is the perfect spot for a weekend of history, culture and outdoor fun. Home to the University of Montana, one of the most architecturally distinguished academic institutions in the country, the city offers a number of intellectually stimulating attractions. Spend a few hours browsing through the exhibits at the Art Museum of Missoula or take a trip back in time at the Historical Museum at Fort Missoula. The city's close proximity to three major rivers and acres of lush forest means visitors can also enjoy a host of recreational activities, from fly fishing and kayaking to hiking and biking. Missoula's historic downtown area has classic early-century buildings and boasts unique shops, galleries, fine dining and a lively nightlife. With kids in tow, don't miss Dragon Hollow, a magical playground that features an extraordinary hand-carved carousel.
Restaurants in Missoula
1. Zoo Town Surfers
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 50 reviews
Since 2004, Zoo Town Surfers has provided quality river rafting, kayaking and surfing adventures. At Zoo Town Surfers we are privileged to work in the beauty of Montana’s wild places. Expert guides, exceptional service, and community involvement are at the center of Zoo Town Surfers company mission
2. Rattlesnake National Recreation Area
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 107 reviews
An all-season recreation area, this wilderness region is designated to promote the watershed, recreational, wildlife and educational values of the land.
Reviewed By EJS50 - Southborough, United States
We had a wonderful 5-6 miles walk through the woods and field, lunching at an overlook over Missoula. The drive to the Sawmill Gulch Trailhead was very easy.
3. Missoula Farmer's Market
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 101 reviews
Reviewed By indigokristen - Taylor, United States
I lived in Missoula from August 1997-August 2000. I still have lots of friends who live there. One of my FAVORITE things to do in the summer, was go to the Farmer's Market! Tons of fresh fruits and vegetables to choose from, flowers, baked goods, artists, jewelers, and more, more, more! I can virtually guarantee you'll enjoy yourself! :)
4. Lewis and Clark Trail Adventures - Day Tours
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 78 reviews
When Lewis & Clark and the Corps of Discovery set out to map the uncharted route and the waterways leading to the Pacific Ocean in 1803, they did so with courage, precision and above all else an undying thirst for adventure. Lewis & Clark Trail Adventures has been the leader in connecting travelers to the rivers & trails of the historic expedition of Lewis & Clark through Montana & Idaho. We offer whitewater rafting trips on the Alberton Gorge, Lochsa and Blackfoot Rivers, Town floats on the Clark Fork River, Multi-day Wilderness River trips on the Salmon River, Historical Canoe trips on the Missouri river and hiking trips on the Lolo Trail. We offer active adventures with a personal touch. We take pride in the fact that many of our guests have been with us before and return for new adventures. Whatever your adventure: paddling a canoe, the thrill of whitwater or gazing across the rugged Bitterroot range after a long hike on the Lolo Trail, you will remember meals prepared with care, time shared with old friends and new and the rejuvenating feeling that only comes from spending a week in the wilderness.Owners Wayne & Gia Fairchild invite you to join in the adventures along the Lewis & Clark Trail!
5. St. Francis Xavier Church
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 58 reviews
Reviewed By EdwardSandiego_CA - San Diego, United States
The interior of the St. Francis Xavier Church is absolutely beautiful, with all wood hand painted. Beautiful stained glass windows, and an organ pipes located in the balcony. No admission, close to downtown and easy to find. Recommend
6. Fort Missoula Museum
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 142 reviews
Located at one of Montana's first military posts, this museum houses rotating exhibits and devotes an entire wing to the 25th Infantry Bicycle Corps. A recreated Western town of the late 1800s takes visitors back in time to the days of carriage houses and homestead cabins.
Reviewed By georgecQ397DZ - Coeur d'Alene, United States
I grew up in Missoula and When I visit I always seem to want to go visit the Museum. From stories about Ghostly things seen on the grounds to just Montana History itself. Can't get enough of the place and theirs a lot to see if your a history buff.
7. University of Montana
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 240 reviews
This scenic university campus spans 200 acres at the base of a mountain and borders the Clark Fork River. Founded in 1893, Montana's leading liberal arts institution enrolls 13,000 students.
Reviewed By crutt13 - Pottstown, United States
My daughter and I decided to top a strip through campus and climb Mount M. The university is nestled at the bottom of Mount M and has great 360 views of the mountains. This campus was beautiful. There are beautiful, mature trees, nice sculptures and artwork and well maintained buildings with historical markers throughout campus. To top it off there are great views from the top of Mount M. It's 406 feet of steep switchbacks, but the view is worth it. If in Missoula you need to type the campus.
8. Caras Park
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 189 reviews
This scenic downtown park on the banks of the Clark Fork River is the home of the popular Missoula carousel and a great place for a family outing, with a large jungle gym, walking and bike paths, frequent special events and concerts.
Reviewed By Scooops
From city-wide events, to overlooking the river, to kayaking, listening to music, and people-watching, Caras Park truly is Missoula's "Town Square".
9. A Carousel for Missoula
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 595 reviews
THE CAROUSEL IS CURRENTLY CLOSED TO HELP STOP THE SPREAD OF COVID19. THANK YOU FOR UNDERSTANDING, AND PLEASE STAY SAFE. This beautiful carousel, completed in 1995, was the brainchild and vision of a local Missoula cabinet-maker, who carved much of the structure himself and also trained an enthusiastic team of volunteers to assist in the project.
Reviewed By 749sierras - Wichita, United States
Want to feel like a child again??? Get on this beautifully restored carousel!!!! But be warned, this is not a ride for the faint of heart. One of the fastest carousels in the world, it spins at a heart racing 8mph!!! (Yes, they provide seat belts) Be sure to grab for the brass ring as you spin around... it's one of the only carousels in the world that still let's you win a prize!!!
10. Pattee Canyon
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 33 reviews
Reviewed By glbrooksie81 - Missoula, United States
If you are a hiker, you can spend many hours in Pattee Canyon without ever being on the same trail. You will discover several different trail heads with ample parking (most days). The Crazy Canyon trail, accessible from the lower parking area, has many branches that will lead to the main trail. That trail goes over the top of Mount Sentinel. From the top of Sentinel, you can jump on a trail that will take you to the bottom of Hellgate Canyon where you can get on the Kim Williams Trail to continue farther east or circle back to the University of Montana. Another trial option from the top will drop you down to the M, located right above the University of Montana. If you are a cross-country skier, you will have your choice of both groomed and ungroomed skiing here. I personally prefer making my own way, and there are various options for that up Pattee. Groomed trail fans also have several mile of trails to try. Most of those are most easily accessed at the top parking area. A large picnic area is also available, and there are trails from this area as well. If you go, realize that while this is close to Missoula, there are bears and at times cougars in this area. You would be wise to pack bear spray. Also, realize there are restrooms at the trail heads, but otherwise you are on your own. You will not find potable water here. Your adventures could take anywhere from half an hour to four or five hours, so prepare accordingly.
