Montana

Missoula is one of America’s best cities for a weekend getaway

December 6, 2022
Bryan Joy





If you’re looking for an incredibly diverse destination, look no further than Montana! Big, rustic and stunningly beautiful, this incredible state has something for everyone, from spectacular mountain ranges and alpine lakes to welcoming small towns and ranch-to-table dining. But while Big Sky Country is full of amazing cities to visit, the hopping city of Missoula is quickly making a name for itself as THE place to be. Whether it’s a base camp for all of Montana’s most exciting outdoor adventures or an epic place to explore, soak up history and relax in style, Missoula has it all! Here’s how to make the most of this hidden gem on your next weekend getaway:

The charming college town of Missoula is located in far western Montana, just before the Idaho border. While the name itself harks back to its Wild West roots and is a holdover from the city’s surprisingly tumultuous history as “Hell’s Gate,” Missoula has long since embraced its new era as a vibrant gateway to all things beautiful and delicious.

Today, the colorful city is home to the University of Montana and around 75,000 residents. Combined with great lodging options, shopping, history and an incredible dining scene, it’s no wonder Missoula has become one of the most desirable weekend destinations in the area.

When it comes to sightseeing, Missoula is as vibrant as one could hope for, and the city offers a variety of museums, cultural sites, and family activities that are definitely worth checking out. For history buffs, the ultimate Missoula experience begins with a look at the massive T-Rex skull on display at the Montana Natural History Center.

Montana’s history is deep, and the opportunities to delve into the state’s oldest eras are overwhelming at this natural history museum. You should also check out the Fort Missoula Historic Park, Missoula Butterfly House & Insectarium, Montana Museum of Art and Culture, Missoula Art Museum, Lewis & Clark Interpretive Center, and the Museum of Mountain Flying just to get started! Every museum in the city—big and small—adds a piece to the eclectic puzzle that places Montana’s place in geological and American history. There is so much to learn and discover!

Next, ride the Carousel for Missoula: a phenomenal hand-carved and hand-painted vintage carousel. It is the only one of its kind in the country!

Kids and parents alike will love taking a few spins on this nostalgic work of art in Caras Park.

A true Montana experience wouldn’t be complete without also delving into the town’s Wild West roots, starting with the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation, a visit to Garnet, and a trip to the Smokejumper Visitor Center.
Missoula’s Smokejumper Visitor Center is a small, one-of-a-kind exhibit that offers a fascinating look at the specialized teams that do so much to protect Montana — and the West — from the growing threat of wildfires.

The RMEF is an educational field that explores the variety of ways the country’s moose population can be protected and grow over time. A short walking trail with numerous signposts offers a refreshing walk and learning experience in one and is great for children.

Garnet is one of the best preserved ghost towns in the state and definitely worth a special trip.

Originally settled by prospectors for gold and silver in the early 19th century, the thriving town of Garnet was quite a busy center in its day due to the wealth of local ores. By the early 1900s the mines were exhausted and the town was completely abandoned in 1940. Today, the Garnet Preservation Association keeps this unique Wild West ghost town frozen in time for visitors to admire.

Of course, it would be a shame to spend a weekend in Missoula without experiencing the incredible outdoors that Montana is known for. The Clark Fork River is Missoula’s lifeblood, and the paved trail that runs on both sides of the water is an easy walk that can be enjoyed by visitors of all ages.

A classic Montana favorite is fly fishing on the Clark, but if you’re still working on your casting form there are plenty of other activities to enjoy. How about trying some white water rafting? Or kayaking? Be sure to visit the lookout at Brennan’s Wave to watch paddlers and surfers try their hand at the artificial kayak wave! With river otters playing below and birds of prey soaring above, it will be a day on the water you won’t forget.

But don’t stop at a waterfront adventure. get out there The Rattlesnake Recreation Area is an accessible place to hike and enjoy the beautifully pristine wilderness for which the Treasure State is known, and is just steps from downtown.

You can also visit the Mount Sentinel M Trail, Pattee Canyon Recreation Area, Blue Mountain hiking and biking trails, and the Maclay Flat Nature Trail for even quieter nature experiences that don’t require a strenuous backcountry climb.

For the discerning backpacker who might be longing for something a little more intense than Missoula’s numerous nature trails, Lolo National Forest offers a number of challenging hikes, lookouts, rock climbs, and (in winter) snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.

And if talk of snow got your ears buzzing, the Montana Snowbowl is known for its groomed powder.

Don’t forget to eat while you explore the sights and sounds of Missoula! This city is packed with delicious dining experiences ranging from hearty country fare to fine dining that rivals larger cities.

Soup Farm is an absolute treasure for head-to-toe warming bowls of the state’s most unique soup flavors. The Patio at Rattlesnake Market, on the other hand, is a quiet, café-like gem that serves fresh, casual fare as well as crunchy favorites like steak frites and fresh sockeye salmon with risotto.

To experience one of the cornerstones of Missoula’s culinary scene, try a delicious meat-centric meal at the Notorious PIG BBQ. This local favorite combines the best of Kansas City, Texas, Memphis and more into one incredibly unique menu. We recommend you have lunch here before they sell out!
Biga Pizza has been making classic and innovative pies since 2006, and the incredible crust is a treat in itself. A standout option for Mexican cuisine is The Camino for epic tostada de atun, conchinita pibil taco, and carne asada tacos—all packed to the brim with texture and flavor. But a top spot for ever-changing seasonal cuisine or a night out on the town is definitely Plonk!

Finally, wash it all down with a drink at the must-visit Big Sky Brewing. This standout taproom offers a wide range of beers, specialty ales (like Summer Honey Seasonal Ale and Huckleberry Blonde Ale) and spiked seltzer.

In season, shopping at the Missoula Farmers’ Market is a must. You’re sure to find a souvenir or two and plenty of fresh snacks to take along.
Finally, get a well-deserved night’s sleep at a local VRBO, such as B. this rustic getaway in Miller Creek.
The warm and thoughtfully designed space features typical Montana ranch touches, a cozy fireplace, large yard, and easy access to everything Missoula has to offer. It’s the perfect blend of country chic!

Everything fully booked? Do not worry! Missoula is a hotspot on VRBO, which means you’re sure to find the perfect place to stay for the vacation of your dreams.

At heart, Missoula is a nature lover’s paradise—but it has so much more to offer! Whether it’s for a quick weekend getaway or the summer vacation of your dreams, there are a million reasons to fall in love with this charming little big Montana town. What would you recommend visitors to look at first?

Find and book your perfect home base for a Missoula getaway on VRBO. There are some truly incredible options to choose from!

Ready for more BIG adventures in the Treasure State? How about a dinosaur road trip?

Address: Missoula, MT, USA

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