What To Do in Missoula

Zootown, Garden City or Place of Small Bull Trout – call Missoula whatever you want; just don’t call it boring. The excitement and sheer number of things to do in Missoula have attracted students, explorers and innovators for decades, each comprising our community today. Missoula might no longer be a well-kept secret, but it’s still, without a doubt, the Last Best Place.

Discover a sample of the excitement with these top things to do in Missoula:

Wander the River Trail

You can’t go wrong wandering the River Trail, spanning both sides of the Clark Fork River at the town center. Big mountains and aquatic scenery line the entire route, making it easy to get lost in the landscape. The River Trail also offers an easy connection to campus for an enjoyable commute.  

Float, Fish or Splash in the Clark Fork River

There is no Missoula without the Clark Fork River. This blue-ribbon trout fishery runs through the city's center, and its free-flowing current hosts activity throughout the year. Enjoy it on a tube during the Freshman Float or practice fly-fishing – there’s no avoiding the Clark Fork in Missoula.

Take a Hike!

The number of trailheads near the city is startling, many within walking distance. Mount Sentinel, Mount Jumbo and Mount Dean Stone are hiking destinations within eyesight, and three different national recreation areas surround Missoula within Lolo National Forest (Rattlesnake, Pattee Canyon and Blue Mountain).

Catch a Movie at The Roxy

The marquee of this independent movie theater is a beacon for Missoula’s Hip Strip on the opposite side of the Clark Fork River from downtown. Catch the newest releases, the cultiest classics and some live comedy at this local favorite venue (and don’t skimp on the triple organic popcorn).  

Grab a Scoop or Two at Big Dipper Ice Cream

Winter, summer, spring and fall – Big Dipper always has a line outside its counter window. That’s because Big Dipper Ice Cream hits the spot no matter the time of year. Find your favorite concoction of cone, cream and accouterments, and forget whatever used to be your favorite ice cream joint.   

Catch a Party at Caras Park

Caras Park is the signature outdoor space on the city’s river trail. It’s also home to the city’s biggest celebrations. First Friday, Out to Lunch, Downtown Tonight, Pray for Snow, Brewfest and plenty more – you can’t live in Missoula without gathering at this beautiful public space.

Ski at Snowbowl

Rip, shred and tear down the slopes at Montana Snowbowl – Missoula’s local winter mountain. Students can see the summit of this local favorite ski and snowboard spot from campus and catch a free University shuttle to the mountain on the weekends. 

Get Down in Downtown

Live music provides the soundtrack for our mountain community, broadcasted from several local venues downtown and at the city’s edge. The historic Wilma Theater, Top Hat, Badlander, the Union Club, the ZACC and so many more! And don’t forget the impressive KettleHouse Amphitheater. If you’re a music lover, you’ll love the constant playlist reverberating down our sidewalks.

Walk Through History at Fort Missoula

Fort Missoula was first established in the late 1800s and today comprises 32 acres on the city’s south side. Alongside preserved structures and buildings, the campus is home to the Historical Museum, offering a unique perspective of the city’s not-so-distant past.

Experience First Friday

Stroll downtown on the First Friday of each month to catch Missoula’s community in full regalia. Local stores open their doors to host impromptu art galleries and dance parties, and the celebration spills out onto the sidewalk and into the night.

Wander the Galleries of the Missoula Art Museum

After visiting the Montana Museum of Art and Culture on campus, head across the river to the Missoula Art Museum for more cultural intrigue. This non-profit and accredited museum houses over 2,000 artworks centered on Western history, emphasizing contemporary Montana artists. Admission is always free.

Build a Bike at Free Cycles

Bicycling is a big part of the Missoula lifestyle, and the local Free Cycles fuels much of the excitement. This nonprofit institution opens its doors to any interested bicyclist looking for parts, maintenance or a new ride altogether. Many of the resources are free upon meeting minimum volunteer hours. 

Peruse a Local Bookstore

Missoula has a literary history, much of which is tied to the University’s storied creative writing program. But creative literature resonates throughout the city, especially at local bookstores. Peruse the shelves of Fact or Fiction, Shakespeare & CO or the Book Exchange and pick your favorite.  

Surf Brennan’s Wave

Next to downtown Caras Park, Brennan’s Wave is a magnet for kayakers and surfers from across the state. The wave has a heartfelt and somber backstory, and it helps solidify Missoula as a river town. Hit the wave yourself or enjoy spectating from the nearby observation platform connected to Caras Park.

Dive into the Missoula Food Scene

Flathead cherries, bison burgers and huckleberry everything – if you think Montana has a bland palate, think again. The food scene in Missoula is ever-evolving, with new tastes added to its menu every year. Dive into the various culinary concoctions and enjoy narrowing down your preferred comfort meals.

The University of Montana acknowledges that we are in the aboriginal territories of the Salish, Kootenai, and Kalispel people. Today, we honor the path they have always shown us in caring for this place for future generations.