Location: Missoula
Top Things to do in Missoula
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Top 10 Museums 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. Dana Gallery
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 8 reviews
One of the largest galleries of fine art in Montana, Dana Gallery offers a diverse group of nationally recognized artists painting everything from traditional western to abstract art in mixed media. A staple in the Missoula arts scene since 1996, Dana Gallery is committed to bringing both experienced masters and emerging local artists to the spotlight. A must see for art lovers of all types.
Reviewed By DRo43 - Seattle, United States
This gallery is a gem. We have many fine galleries in Seattle, but none that moves my heart like this one. It has modern masters and emerging talents. Deep reverence and lyrical whimsy live comfortably side by side. It takes seriously the proposition that art is for everyone and not just those with deep pockets. So, whether it's 20 minutes or two hours, stop by. You'll find something you love and likely an interesting conversation besides.
2. Radius Gallery
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 3 reviews
Radius Gallery is a contemporary art gallery in downtown Missoula dedicated to showcasing the work of contemporary artists as well as fostering an energetic forum for discussing art and its vitality in the world today.
3. 4 Ravens Gallery
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 5 reviews
4 Ravens is a gallery in the heart of downtown Missoula at the corner of Higgins & Broadway. We are a collaboration of partners; local and professional artists working in a variety of mediums: glass, stone, metal, fine woodworking, jewelry, fiber, traditional basketry, and photography. Our emphasis is on fine contemporary craft. We explore the innovative use of materials & express with quality
4. 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.
5. Boone and Crockett Club
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 20 reviews
A citizens group founded by T.R. Roosevelt along with a group of concerned individuals to save wildlife and Yellowstone. It was the first effective conservation measure in the US.
6. Aerial Fire Depot and Smokejumper Center
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 233 reviews
Reviewed By nancycD3182RR - Lancaster, United States
The smoke jumpers' center was one of the highlights of our time in Missoula. We were right in the center of the action. The tour included the ready room, sewing room, and parachute rigging area. Our guide was well informed and shared a lot of information. The smoke jumpers answered questions, as well. We need to give thanks to these men and women for putting their lives on the line to save our beautiful natural resources.
7. Missoula Art Museum
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 70 reviews
Founded in 1975 and accredited by the American Association of Museums since 1987, MAM is emerging as the leading contemporary art museum in the Intermountain West. MAM is a spectacular attraction in the heart of Missoula's historic downtown: a fully accessible, free, public museum that boasts eight exhibition spaces, a library, education center, and an inviting information lounge.
Reviewed By Judyhwright - Missoula, United States
We love the Missoula Art Museum and are very proud of the part art plays in our community. They always have great displays to visit and change them on a regular basis. As parents and grandparents, we also appreciate the many opportunities the MAM offers the children of our community. Thanks for your important work. Dwain C. and Judy Helm Wright
8. Montana Natural History Center
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 30 reviews
The mission of the Montana Natural History Center (MNHC) is to promote and cultivate the understanding, appreciation and stewardship of nature through education. MNHC offers numerous programs for children, including week-long summer outdoor day camps for pre-K through 5th grade, weekly pre-school programs, Saturday Kids' Activities, and Center Visits. Adult programs include Naturalist Trivia, evening lectures, and Naturalist Field Days, as well as several Montana Master Naturalist certification courses throughout the year. MNHC has a newly-renovated Exhibit Center filled with local animal specimens, information on Montana's ecosystems, and an exhibit on Glacial Lake Missoula. There is an interactive Kids' Discovery Room and a Nature Adventure Garden for outdoor play. MNHC also provides a tri-annual publication, Montana Naturalist magazine, free to members and the public, with feature articles about the flora and fauna of Montana, their ecology, habitats and conservation issues.
Reviewed By 866TaylorB - Chicago, United States
The Montana Natural History Center is a truly ingenious concept. Established in 1991, its mission is to promote and cultivate the appreciation, understanding and stewardship of nature through education. Located at 120 Hickory Street in Missoula, near Osprey Baseball Stadium and Currents Aquatic Center, on the Kim Williams Trail, near McCormick Park in the heart of Missoula, the encompasses the flora, fauna and natural history of western Montana. There are several interesting exhibits, including Explore Montana Ecosystems: discover Montana's four main ecosystems, from prairie to montane, and view mounted species, including bison, bears, birds and badgers; Explore Glacial Lake Missoula; Explore as a Naturalist; Explore fossils: view a life-sized replica of a Tyrannosauras rex skull and learn about fossils from various geological eras from thousands and millions of years ago; Explore Pollinators: learn about insets and other animals that pollinate flowers; Explore fire ecology; Explore Geology: learn about Montana's wealth of rocks and minerals from copper to agate to quartz; Explore our kids' Discovery Room; and Explore our Naturalist Lab. Look for the big green and brown building with the gorgeous dragonfly mural. You'll enjoy the visit.
9. Children's Museum Missoula
10. Artists' Shop gallery of art & fine craft
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 14 reviews
The Artists' Shop is Missoula's premier artist-owned, artist-run cooperative gallery, and is located in the heart of historic downtown Missoula, Montana. We specialize in local and regional fine craft and art, carrying the work of our member artists as well as that of numerous other artists from this area. The shop feature ceramics, jewelry, glass, calligraphy, fine woodwork, fiber, local t-shirts, cards, photography, painting, prints, rock work, metal work, and more.
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