At least once in your life, you should go to Missoula, Montana. Check out our curated list of the best things to do in Missoula, Montana and the best places to visit in Missoula, Montana below. Wondrous Drifter is a Web 3 travel company that aspires to disrupt the travel industry.
Table Of Content
- A Carousel for Missoula
- Brewery Tours
- Caras Park
- Clark Fork Riverfront Trail
- Garnet Ghost Town
- Hub Family Entertainment Center
- Lewis and Clark Trail
- Lolo National Forest
- Missoula Art Museum
- Missoula Butterfly House and Insectarium
- Missoula Symphony Orchestra and Chorale
- Montana Natural History Center
- Mount Sentinel
- Pattee Canyon Recreation Area
- Rattlesnake National Recreation Area
- Ten Spoon Vineyard & Winery
- The Historical Museum at Fort Missoula
- The Montana Snowbowl
- The Roxy Theater
- Zootown Arts Community Center
- Volunteer At Animal Shelters
A Carousel for Missoula
The Carousel for Missoula is one of the top attractions in Montana.
Hold your horses and stop by Missoula’s iconic carousel.
One might think that nothing is special about the carousel, but once you get to know its rich history, you’ll love this place.
Established in 1991, a carousel is an important spot for people from Missoula because it helped the town prosper.
Though the final touches were made in May 1995, there were about 100,000 individuals who volunteered to finish the carousel.
Some of the volunteers came from Canada!
Building the merry-go-round took almost 4 years to finish, and the result didn’t disappoint.
The carousel has a touch of chariots, ponies, and gargoyles, making the place a perfect spot to take great pictures.
It would seem like you’re inside a music box full of mirrors, 2 chariots, 38 majestic horses, and 14 gargoyles.
In addition, the largest U.S. band organ can be found in A Carousel for Missoula.
Almost 4,000 individuals volunteered again to improve the area in 2001, and they built the Dragon Hollow Play Area for children.
If townspeople, especially the kids, are happy, it makes the community flourish, which is why abundant blessings come to the community.
Don’t forget to stop by the area when you’re traveling to Montana.
Address: 101 Carousel Dr, Missoula, MT 59802, United States
Brewery Tours
Spend your weekend by taking a brewery tour in Missoula and enjoying the city’s best brewing companies.
The brewery tour provides a world-class beer experience as if you’re moving from one country to another.
The tour takes about three to four hours and will provide you with an understanding of how different breweries craft their beers and different flavors.
There are three stops of breweries that are the locals’ favorites and have won several awards.
First on the list is Draught Works, which is located on Toole Street.
If you’re in for some great live music and high and cabin-inspired ceilings, Draught Works surely won’t disappoint you.
Their best-sellers are California Common Lager and Cream Ale, with free snacks or cheese on the side.
There are food trucks outside the brewery that provide a wide choice of food.
The next place you should drop by is Kettlehouse Brewing Company.
The unique thing about the brewery is that you can fish while learning about crafting beers!
Their most famous drinks include Santa’s Slayer Winter Ale and Fresh Bongwater Pale.
Lastly, Big Sky Brewing Company is ranked as the largest brewery in the U.S.
Their mezzanine provides a top view of the beautiful town.
Their best-sellers are Bobo’s Robust Porter, Summer Honey, and Pounder Hound Winter Ale.
Grab a glass of beer at Brewery Tours!
Address: Missoula, Montana 59802
Caras Park
A laid-back tour to relax is a great way to spend your vacation, and Caras Park is where you need to go.
Caras Park is located in the downtown area. It is a place to get entertained while enjoying the view.
It opened in 1995, and Caras Park has been a popular spot among locals and tourists.
If you’re wondering what to expect in Caras Park, they have a theater, art shows, a barbecue place, a festival, and live music.
The Riverfront Trail at Clark Fork is the park’s highlight and hosts several events, including birthdays, family reunions, and weddings.
Two pavilions are placed on the trail where individuals spend their time while watching events and concerts.
The Celtic and Brewfest Festivals are some of the most awaited activities that are held once a year.
There is a playground for the children and a carousel with a touch of hand-crafted gargoyles and horses.
Looking for something to do in Caras Park? Surf through the waves of Brennan in the river!
You’ll never run out of things to do in Caras Park, so drop by the place for a fun-filled experience.
Address: 123 Carousel Dr, Missoula, MT 59802, United States
Deciding to travel to Montana? Hop over to the best travel guides for Helena and Bozeman. Check also the captivating things to do in Helena, Montana, and the best things to do in Bozeman, Montana!
Clark Fork Riverfront Trail
After a long day of traveling in Missoula’s busy city, the Clark Fork Riverfront Trail will help you relax and relieve your stress with its picturesque view.
The riverfront walk in Missoula serves as a bridge to the city’s main attractions and shows off the area’s beautiful natural scenery.
Visitors who are interested in seeing what’s on the other side of the river can cross it on one of the many footbridges.
The Clark Fork Riverfront Trail, which now goes by the name Ron River Trail because it runs for 18 miles along the Clark Fork River, is a major route in the area.
You can rent a horse or bike along Clark’s Fork of the Columbia River.
The trail connects city parks and open spaces to the University of Montana, homes, and buildings.
It gives visitors the chance to see how beautiful Montana is easy.
Spend your time at Clark Fork Riverfront Trail and take great pictures for your feed.
Address: 202 South 4th Street East, Missoula, MT 59801
Garnet Ghost Town
A ghost town in the middle of Missoula with a beautiful and rich history is a place that history enthusiasts should visit.
Over a hundred years ago, Garnet Ghost Town used to be a thriving gold mining town.
More than 30 buildings, perfectly preserved, are a must-see in the Garnet Ghost Town.
About 1,000 individuals used to live in the town of Garnet. This included gold miners with their families in 1898.
They have gemstones that are mostly found in 50 mines.
They are about 6,000 feet in height between the old forests and the tall peaks.
However, the townspeople left the area when the area ran out of gemstones and gold.
In 1912, a fire destroyed the town, and they had a hard time reviving the town again.
A preservation project was established to save everything that was left in 1970, and they were able to save about 90,000 artifacts from the past.
Some of the buildings that tourists may visit are F.A. Davey’s store, Dahl’s Saloon, J.R. Wells Hotel, and Kelly’s Bar.
Drop by the place and be amazed by the preserved artifacts from Missoula’s past.
Address: Drummond, MT 59832, United States
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Hub Family Entertainment Center
The Hub Family Entertainment Center lives by its name and is the best place to visit when you’re traveling with your family!
You will feel the excitement down to your bones with the rides and facilities available at the entertainment center.
Worried that you might get bored at the center? A 52,000-square-foot park full of rides will surely keep you and the kids entertained.
If you’re wondering what activities and rides you can do at the center, their Go-Karts are the ride anyone should try.
They have different skill levels. They have Junior Go Karts for kids and Adult Go Karts, where you can drive 32 miles per hour.
One of the best activities you should try with your family is laser tag.
They have several arcade games perfect for anyone to play on the machines.
If you’re lucky enough to gather a lot of tickets, you can trade them for prizes!
Fill in your stomach with their “The Pit Stop,” which serves pizza, sandwiches, and burgers.
Address: 5055 Expressway, Missoula, MT 59808, United States
Lewis and Clark Trail
The Lewis and Clark Trail is one of the best things to do in Montana.
Explore one of the most remarkable trails in Montana—the Lewis and Clark Trail isn’t a place for weak-hearted travelers.
Since its inception in 1989, the Lewis and Clark Trail has provided visitors with a memorable experience.
The trail’s name came from Captain Lewis and Clark, who are hailed as America’s heroes.
The reason behind their trip was to explore the canals that flow into the Pacific Ocean.
Despite taking one of the hardest trails due to steep mountains and deep forests, they were able to track down the waterways that connect Missoula to Lewistown.
Some of the outdoor activities you can try on the trail include canoeing on the Mad River, which flows around 17 feet long.
Canoeing on the lazy river is a great place for first-timers.
You’ll see the first house built in the area, wildlife, rock formations, and cliffs.
You can take guided tours and learn more about Lewis and Clark’s journey by traveling the trail.
After a long day of exploring the trail, ease your muscles with Lolo Hot Springs.
Address: 6717 Highway 12 West Lolo, Montana
Lolo National Forest
The Lolo National Forest is one of the best places to visit in Montana.
Thrilling activities await you at Lolo National Forest!
Established on September 20, 1906, Lolo National Forest is hailed as the oldest one of its kind in the country.
The forest’s beauty stretches around 2 million acres of green area.
Because of the numerous activities available in the forest, it is a popular destination for both locals and tourists.
Forested ridges, mountain tops, beautiful lakes, and slopes with cliff bands await you there.
If you’re in for some stimulating activities, rent a cabin, try OHV riding, winter sports activities, and hiking are some of the things you can do in Lolo National Forest.
Relax in the forest and get a chance to meet different animals face-to-face.
There are more than 300 kinds of birds; mountain gorillas, bears; elk; and moose in the forest.
If you’re bringing a fishing rod with you, about 20 kinds of fish can be found in the lakes.
Bring a tent and spend the night in the forest to escape from the bustling city.
Address: Huson, MT 59846, United States
Missoula Art Museum
If you love supporting local artists, you should definitely visit the Missoula Art Museum!
The museum was built by the Art Committee of the Missoula Festival in 1975.
Art collections such as photographs, paintings, sketches, installation art, and sculptures by Montana local artists are featured in the museum.
The museum aims to showcase the world-class talents and skills of local artists from western America.
The museum is a non-profit organization that highlights the culture and art of Western people.
A large collection of Native American art and Hmong textiles by American-Indian artists are also displayed.
A 45-minute guided tour is provided, whether it is by group or a solo tour.
Some of the artists in the museum are Dana Boussard, Winnie Lloyd, Phoebe Toland, and Ted Waddel.
If you’re visiting the Missoula Art Museum, try out their art classes available for kids and adults while learning more about the museum’s rich history.
Address: 335 N Pattee St, Missoula, MT 59802, United States
Missoula Butterfly House and Insectarium
Missoula Butterfly House and Insectarium is a great place that science geeks shouldn’t miss!
The insectarium opened in 2015 and has become one of the well-known spots to learn about insects!
They have an interactive science exhibit and an educational program where children and adults can learn.
If you’re scared of insects, this place will help you appreciate invertebrates.
The museum shows how an insect’s life is and the challenges they face, such as finding food, escaping from their predators, and such.
Every single one of the bugs in the insectarium is interesting and mostly has antennae or wings.
From watching the insects, you’ll see insect engineering in terms of making their homes, how pollinating, and how to decompose.
Insects like spiders and bugs aren’t the only insects to see in the insectarium.
If you ever get thirsty, try out their local beers while learning about a bug’s life at one of their programs called Bugs and Brews.
Address: 120 Hickory St, Missoula, MT 59802, United States
Missoula Symphony Orchestra and Chorale
Learn about Missoula’s culture and history through its music and concert events.
They have been providing people with world-class performance for over 50 years.
Solo artists from around the globe perform for the Missoula Symphony Orchestra and Chorale.
A 100-voice choir and an 80-piece orchestra are the concert’s highlights.
Each year, there are about five concerts held at the venue.
Every August, they provide a free concert for everyone to enjoy!
Get a chance to watch European soloists on stage during the summer season.
Some of the songs performed during the concert are Franz Doppler’s Double Concerto and Durufle’s Requiem, performed by the chorale.
The song was about Gabriela Lena Frank’s multi-cultural background.
Appreciate the live performances of the Missoula Symphony Orchestra and Chorale with your family and friends.
The raw talent and emotions depicted by the artists will surely give you chills.
For ticket reservations, check out their website, as the tickets are always sold out.
Address: 320 East Main Street, Missoula, Montana 59802
Montana Natural History Center
The Montana Natural History Center is a wondrous place for nature lovers to learn about Missoula’s ecosystem.
The center has the most fascinating plants and animals that can only be found in Missoula.
Since 1991, the history center has aimed to cultivate Missoula’s ecosystem while raising awareness among individuals regarding the benefits of preserving nature.
The idea of establishing the center came from a group of professors who are doing research and studying nature.
They have interactive exhibits of different plants that grow in Missoula, perfect for children and adults.
Bring extra clothes with you, for you won’t be able to resist getting dirty and playing in the mud in their Nature Adventure Garden.
An education library for kids to discover about nature will keep them entertained.
Their guided tours include knowledge about how plants and flowers pollinate and the food chain among insects and animals.
Missoula’s Ice Age Floods Institute is also in partnership with the center, where seminars and field trips are available to give knowledge regarding Missoula’s glacial lake and ice age floods.
Find out more about Missoula’s ecosystem and how to take care of it by visiting the center.
Address: 120 Hickory St A, Missoula, MT 59801, United States
Mount Sentinel
See the beauty of Missoula from a bird’s eye view with Mount Sentinel, which is over 1,958 feet high.
Mount Sentinel is also known as Mount Woody by the locals.
It is located behind the University of Montana, and a couple of students from the university have put up a huge letter “M.”
Locals and tourists have put much effort into seeing the big letter M. There are several routes to choose from.
If you’re more into thrilling hiking, you can take the most difficult routes going to the big “M.”
What’s great about Mount Sentinel is that it doesn’t cost anything!
The mind-blowing view of Mount Sentinel will make you never want to leave the place!
The spot is also a popular destination among couples because you can climb it and do the most romantic things when you reach the top of Mount Sentinel.
It is a great place to watch the sunset because you will see everything from above!
Mount Sentinel is also inhabited by coyotes, black bears, reptiles, foxes, and mountain lions.
The 1,000-acre green area is a great spot to enjoy the native plants and trees.
Address: University of Montana, Missoula, MT 59812
Pattee Canyon Recreation Area
If you’re feeling weary and are looking for a place to spend your time, Pattee Canyon’s Recreational Area will keep you occupied.
The first individual to set foot in the area was David Pattee, who was the inspiration for the name of the canyon.
The first shelter was built in the 1930s, and it was the start of people visiting the canyon.
A 3,200-acre land area full of outdoor activities is what your soul needs.
You can ride a bike, hike, truck, horse, or walk to the recreation area.
The forest in the canyon was described as an enchanted-looking forest by the locals and visitors alike.
However, 25 years ago, a wildfire destroyed about 1,200 acres of the area.
The canyon has been restored and remains a popular tourist attraction due to its captivating beauty.
The place’s fire pit is a great spot to have a picnic with your family or friends.
While you’re in the area, try to turn off your mobile gadgets and enjoy the beautiful views of Pattee Canyon.
Address: Missoula, MT 59803, United States
Rattlesnake National Recreation Area
Outdoor enthusiasts will love to go back to Rattlesnake National Recreation Area.
The recreation area was established in 1980, and a great number of animals, mesmerizing mountain views, wonderful slopes, lush forests, and trees make the spot a place free from traffic and pollution.
It was set up in 1980 and protected a wide range of plant and animal life, as well as beautiful slopes, sparkling lakes, lush forests, and breathtaking mountain peaks.
More than 100 kilometers of paths run through the beautiful landscapes and scenery, and guests are welcome to use them.
Rattlesnake National Recreation Area is where trees found in Montana only can be seen, as well as rarely-seen birds.
They also have great trails that will save the hikers and cyclists time in visiting the recreation area.
The best option to go to the area from the city is by car.
Individuals are allowed to bring their pets, given that they are on a lease.
The recreation area is open every winter and summer.
Address: Rattlesnake Dr, Missoula, MT 59802, United States
Ten Spoon Vineyard & Winery
Care for a glass of wine? Ten Spoon Vineyard & Winery will provide you with the best wine in the country!
The countryside of Missoula is an escape from the bustling city of Montana.
Missoula takes pride in growing the best organic grapes and rich soil.
Ten Spoon’s vineyard stretches about 7.5 acres of land where wine grapes have been grown since 1998.
They support sustainable agriculture, such as recyclable packaging, and they use solar electricity.
In 2003, Ten Spoons started making wine, and they have won several awards since then.
They do not use harmful chemicals that will affect the quality of grapes, and their wines have been well known as “Made in Montana.”
After enjoying the picturesque view, visitors may head to their tasting room.
You can sample various wine flavors while eating complimentary food such as cheese.
Picnic tables are also available in the area. However, they have strict rules regarding littering and garbage segregation, so make sure to pick up your trash as you go!
Address: 4175 Rattlesnake Dr, Missoula, MT 59802, United States
The Historical Museum at Fort Missoula
Take a quick detour to Missoula’s historical museum and experience the old life of the city!
The people of the city started the museum in 1975 to keep the history of the city alive.
It has around 32 acres full of collections from the past.
There is an estimate of around 20 historical buildings which have been greatly preserved.
Among the buildings is where the first people in Missoula lived, with over 24,000 artifacts displayed in the museum.
The museum has indoor galleries that teach about the history of human development up to the present.
Human exploitation of black people back in 1877 is exhibited, together with their culture and lifestyle.
There is also an area that highlights the Second World War, where over 2,200 Japanese and Italians took shelter.
If you’ve watched Cinderella, you’ll be thrilled to see carriages as houses, as if you have until 12 midnight as a princess.
Over 50,000 individuals visit the Historical Museum at Fort Missoula yearly.
Drop by the place and learn more about Missoula’s history.
Address: 3400 Captain Rawn Way, Missoula, MT 59804, United States
The Montana Snowbowl
Have you ever wondered what it’s like to be inside a snow globe? The Montana Snowbowl will provide you an experience as close to being in a snow globe as possible!
Thrilling snow activities await individuals who are in for some heart-pumping excitement.
In fact, you don’t have to break the bank to have fun at the Montana Snowbowl.
They have the best spots for snow skiing in the United States.
If you’re a first-time snow-skier, you don’t have to worry because Montana Snowbowl has different levels for individuals with different skills.
For more experienced skiers, an area with a lot of trees will surely leave you feeling worked out!
Their Snowbowl is around a 2,600-foot drop, where you’ll have to ride a ski lift first and slope down the area.
The Montana Snowbowl retains some of its original features, such as the double chair riblet.
The place is also open during the summer for people who are interested in horseback riding or hiking.
Visit the Montana Snowbowl for an electrifying snow experience!
Address: 1700 Snow Bowl Rd, Missoula, MT 59808, United States
The Roxy Theater
If a retro-vibe theater is your cup of tea, Missoula’s Roxy Theater will provide you with an exciting experience and the best building interior.
The Roxy Theater, which opened in 1937, is a non-profit historic building in downtown Missoula.
They feature classic, international, and independent films and shows weekly.
Deanna Durbin’s “3 Smart Girls” was the Roxy Theater’s first show that appeared in September of 1937.
It used to be a dollar theater, which hosts theater and community events and shows second-run movies.
However, a fire broke out and the building suffered minor damage in the year 1994.
The Roxy Theater reopened in 1998 but later closed in 2000.
There are a total of three areas inside the theater; one has 150 seats, 130 seats, and lastly, 75 seats.
In the last space with 75 seats, comedy, music, live theater, and dances are held in the small space.
With the help of the International Wildlife Film Festival, the theater reopened in 2002 and has become a thriving theater known for its wide film selection.
Enjoy the lively atmosphere at The Roxy Theater.
Address: 718 S Higgins Ave, Missoula, MT 59801, United States
Zootown Arts Community Center
If you’re looking for a new hobby, art classes at Zootown Arts Community Center are a perfect way to spend your leisure time.
You don’t have to spend thousands just to learn about art at the Zootown Arts Community Center.
The center has around 3,000 square feet of space, where the old building was renovated into an art center.
Moreover, the Zootown Arts Community Center opened its doors to the public in 2008 and promoted passion and development in the art for all ages.
Aside from cultivating your skills, the art community is a great place to make friends!
Local artists provide classes and teach them different forms of art.
Their main focus is on helping the youth grow and deepen their intellectual and artistic skills.
Visitors may also choose a private art lesson where they’ll have the opportunity to have their own gallery space, theater venue, or pottery studio.
Support the local artists by buying from the souvenir store and finding unique art pieces created by adults and young people!
Interested in learning about art? Take classes at Zootown Arts Community Center!
Address: 216 W Main St, Missoula, MT 59802, United States
Volunteer At Animal Shelters
Would you like to help out at an animal shelter in your area? Animal shelters are places where homeless or unwanted animals can stay temporarily and get care.
Do you know that rewarding and warm sensation you get when you realize that you have just done something selfless that will significantly brighten another person’s day? This is the prize you will receive each time you assist a shelter animal that is ill or in distress.
Some ways to volunteer are: to walk dogs at a local shelter, foster kittens with a rescue group, do office work for a good cause, help raise money or plan events for local animal charities, or participate in local events that raise awareness about animal welfare.
Help out in your community by visiting one of these animal shelters in Missoula, Montana.
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