Downtown Missoula, Montana: Best Things To Do in Missoula
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This Montana city has much to see including great outdoor attractions, shopping, and history.
Historic Downtown Missoula
Begin your exploration in the charming historic downtown area, where the past seamlessly merges with contemporary delights. Stroll along the beautifully preserved streets, lined with unique boutiques, art galleries, and local eateries. Don't miss Caras Park, an inviting green space right on the banks of the Clark Fork River, where you can relax, catch a live music performance, or indulge in some family-friendly activities.
Be sure to make time for a visit to Import Market at the corner of Broadway and Ryman Streets. The four-story shop has a great collection of local collectibles and imports from the world. At Circle Square Second Hand Store you’ll find a store packed full of an equal mix of trash and treasures. Rusty machine parts, vinyl LPs, knickknacks, furniture, and random collectibles fill the store from floor to ceiling. It’s a fun treasure hunt.
University of Montana
Immerse yourself in the vibrant college town atmosphere by visiting the University of Montana. Take a leisurely walk through the sprawling campus, admiring its stunning architecture and picturesque views of Mount Sentinel.
If you’re looking to burn some calories look up to the giant white letter M on the side of Mount Sentinel. A series of switchbacks along a steep trail will allow you to stand at The M and view the valley below.
Outdoor Splendor: Missoula's Parks and Trails
For nature lovers, Missoula is a paradise waiting to be explored. Discover the awe-inspiring beauty of Mount Jumbo or the aforementioned Mount Sentinel, both offer breathtaking hiking trails. Alternatively, head to Pattee Canyon Recreation Area, renowned for its mountain biking trails surrounded by lush forests.
The Clark Fork River affords visitors the chance to take a whitewater rafting trip. If you’ve never done it, it’s a must-do for your bucket list. Numerous local vendors offer a reasonably priced safety-forward trip. For a more leisurely experience, the Clark Fork River offers scenic waterfront walks and opportunities for canoeing, kayaking, and fishing.
Missoula Art Museum
Delve into Missoula's thriving art scene by visiting the Missoula Art Museum. The museum showcases a collection of contemporary art, with a special emphasis on works by regional artists. Wander through the thought-provoking exhibitions and gain a deeper understanding of Montana's artistic heritage.
Historical Fort Missoula
From its origin as a frontier post to its role in World War II as an internment camp for Italian and Japanese Americans, every corner of Fort Missoula tells a compelling story.
Explore the small museum, which houses exhibits displaying the heritage of the area, including artifacts, photographs, and interpretive displays. Upstairs is a textile exhibit with many historic clothing items on display demonstrating the changes in the textile industry from the turn of the century until modern times.
A collection of restored buildings are open for exploration including a train station, schoolhouse, and even a fire watch tower that is open for visitors to climb. Also on the grounds are numerous vehicles from the region's train, logging, forestry, and firefighting history. Local knowledgeable and passionate volunteers are often on the grounds to help answer any questions and to enhance your visit.
Things to Do in Missoula, Montana:
Historic Downtown Missoula
University of Montana
Outdoor Splendor: Missoula's Parks and Trails
Missoula Art Museum
Historical Fort Missoula
