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Missoula
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Discover Missoula, Montana: A hub of outdoor adventure, cultural richness, and vibrant community spirit, nestled in the heart of the Rocky Mountains.

Nestled in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, Missoula is a vibrant city that offers a unique blend of outdoor adventure and cultural richness. Known as the 'Garden City' for its lush landscapes and abundant parks, Missoula is an oasis of greenery and natural beauty. The city is surrounded by seven wilderness areas and is bisected by the scenic Clark Fork River, making it a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Hiking, fishing, and rafting are just a few of the activities that draw visitors to this stunning location.
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Beyond its natural attractions, Missoula boasts a thriving arts scene. The city is home to a number of theaters, galleries, and music venues, offering a variety of entertainment options for visitors. The historic Wilma Theatre, for instance, is a beloved landmark that hosts everything from film screenings to live performances. Additionally, the University of Montana adds a youthful energy to the city, with its beautiful campus and engaging events.
Missoula’s downtown area is a bustling hub of activity, featuring an array of shops, restaurants, and cafes. Local markets and festivals, such as the Missoula Farmers Market and the River City Roots Festival, provide a taste of the local culture and community spirit. Whether you're exploring the great outdoors or taking in the local arts and culture, Missoula offers a well-rounded and memorable experience for every traveler.

When is the best time to visit Missoula?

Best: June–August · 23–28°C
Average daytime high and rainfall by month
MonthHigh (°C)Rainfall (mm)
January125
February323
March926
April1431
May1941
June (best)2338
July (best)2820
August (best)2725
September2228
October1328
November331
December031

Getting to and around Missoula

How to get there

Missoula, Montana is accessible via Missoula International Airport (MSO), which offers direct flights from major U.S. cities such as Seattle, Denver, Salt Lake City, and Minneapolis. Alternatively, you can reach Missoula by road via Interstate 90, which runs east-west, or U.S. Highway 93, which runs north-south. Greyhound buses also service Missoula, providing a budget-friendly travel option.

Transportation

Missoula has an efficient public transportation system operated by Mountain Line, offering free bus service throughout the city. Taxis and rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are also readily available. For those who prefer to drive, car rental agencies are present at the airport and in the city. Additionally, Missoula is bike-friendly, with numerous bike lanes and the Riverfront Trail providing scenic routes for cyclists.

Best attractions in Missoula

Missoula, Montana offers a diverse range of attractions for visitors to explore, from the picturesque landscapes of the Rattlesnake Wilderness Area to the cultural heritage of the Historical Museum at Fort Missoula. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy hiking, fishing, and kayaking along the Clark Fork River, while history buffs can delve into the past at the preserved ghost town of Garnet or the University of Montana's Museum of Mountain Flying. Art lovers will appreciate the vibrant arts scene, with galleries and theaters showcasing local talent, and foodies can indulge in farm-to-table dining options and craft breweries scattered throughout the city. Whether you're seeking adventure in the great outdoors or a taste of Montana's rich history and culture, Missoula has something for every traveler to enjoy.

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Best landmarks in Missoula

Missoula offers visitors a rich tapestry of history and culture, with landmarks such as the historic Wilma Theatre, the iconic Caras Park overlooking the Clark Fork River, and the fascinating Museum of Mountain Flying showcasing the region's aviation history. Nature lovers will enjoy exploring the scenic Rattlesnake National Recreation Area and the picturesque Mount Sentinel, while art enthusiasts can immerse themselves in the vibrant art scene at the Missoula Art Museum and the annual River City Roots Festival.

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Explore Missoula on the map

Plan your Missoula trip on one map. See where the top attractions, landmarks, restaurants, bars and hotels are, find what's near where you're staying, and book hotels and experiences in a few clicks.

Best restaurants in Missoula

Missoula offers a diverse dining scene that caters to a wide range of tastes and preferences. From cozy cafes serving locally roasted coffee and freshly baked pastries to upscale restaurants featuring farm-to-table cuisine with a focus on sustainable and organic ingredients, visitors can indulge in a culinary experience that highlights the flavors of Montana. Food trucks and street vendors offer a more casual dining option, perfect for exploring the city's vibrant downtown area. With a mix of traditional Western fare and international influences, Missoula's dining scene is sure to satisfy even the most discerning palates.

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Best bars in Missoula

Missoula's nightlife scene offers a unique blend of entertainment options for visitors, ranging from lively bars and clubs to cozy pubs and live music venues. Whether you're looking to dance the night away at a popular nightclub, enjoy a craft cocktail at a trendy bar, or catch a live music performance at a local venue, Missoula has something for everyone. With a friendly and welcoming atmosphere, visitors can expect to meet locals and fellow travelers alike while experiencing the vibrant nightlife of this charming city.

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Best nightclubs in Missoula

Missoula's nightlife scene offers a unique blend of entertainment options for visitors, ranging from lively bars and clubs to cozy pubs and live music venues. Whether you're looking to dance the night away at a popular nightclub, enjoy a craft cocktail at a trendy bar, or catch a live music performance at a local venue, Missoula has something for everyone. With a friendly and welcoming atmosphere, visitors can expect to meet locals and fellow travelers alike while experiencing the vibrant nightlife of this charming city.

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Best shops in Missoula

In Missoula, visitors can expect a unique shopping experience that combines the charm of a small town with the variety of a larger city. From local boutiques and art galleries to outdoor gear stores and antique shops, there is something for everyone. The downtown area is perfect for leisurely strolls, with historic buildings housing trendy shops and cozy cafes. Visitors can also explore the bustling farmers market for fresh produce and handmade goods. With a mix of well-known brands and one-of-a-kind finds, shopping in Missoula is sure to delight tourists looking for a memorable retail experience.

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Missoula essentials

Currency and Payment
The official currency in Missoula, as in the rest of the United States, is the U.S. Dollar (USD). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops. ATMs are plentiful throughout the city. It's advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and tipping service providers.
Safety
Missoula is generally a safe city for tourists. However, as with any city, it’s wise to exercise standard safety precautions. Areas such as the Northside and Westside neighborhoods have higher crime rates compared to other parts of the city, so it's best to remain vigilant if you find yourself in these areas. Avoid walking alone at night, and keep personal belongings secure in crowded places.
Emergency Situations
In case of an emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance from police, fire, or medical services. Missoula has several hospitals, including the Community Medical Center and St. Patrick Hospital, which provide comprehensive medical care. Pharmacies are widely available for minor health issues. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.
Do's and Don'ts
Fashion: Do dress in layers, as Missoula's weather can be unpredictable. Outdoor and casual attire is common. Avoid overly formal wear unless attending a specific event. Religion: Do respect local religious practices and places of worship. Public Transport: Do be courteous to fellow passengers and bus drivers. Don't eat or drink on public buses. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'hello' or a handshake. Missoulians are generally warm and welcoming. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies such as huckleberry products and local craft beers. Don't leave without tipping; a standard 15-20% tip is customary in restaurants.
Local Tips
To experience Missoula like a local, visit the Clark Fork River Market on Saturdays for fresh produce and local crafts. Take a stroll or bike ride along the Riverfront Trail for picturesque views of the Clark Fork River. Don't miss the chance to attend a University of Montana Grizzlies football game if you're visiting in the fall. For a unique experience, explore the Missoula Art Museum and the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation Visitor Center.
Eve, your Evendo local guide

From Eve

Local phrases worth knowing

You don't need to get them perfect. A few words go a long way, and locals appreciate the effort.

6 phrase groups · English, local and pronunciation

Basics
EnglishLocalSay it
HelloHowdy[haw-dee]
GoodbyeSee ya[see yuh]
YesYup[yuhp]
NoNope[nohp]
Please/You're welcomePlease/No worries[pleez/no wuhr-eez]
Thank youThanks[thanks]
Excuse me/SorryPardon me/My bad[pahr-dn mee/my bad]
How are you?Howdy, how's it goin'?[haw-dee, howz it go-in]
Fine. And you?Good. How 'bout you?[good. how bout yuh]
Do you speak English?Ya speak English?[yuh speak ing-glish]
I don't understandI'm lost[ahm lost]
Eating & Drinking
EnglishLocalSay it
I'd like to see the menu, pleaseCan I check out the menu?[kan eye chek out thee menyoo]
I don't eat meatI'm vegetarian[ahm vedge-eh-tare-ee-an]
Cheers!Cheers![cheers]
I would like to pay, pleaseCan I settle up, please[kan eye set-ul up pleez]
Emergencies
EnglishLocalSay it
Help!Help![help]
Go away!Get lost![get lost]
Call the Police!Call the cops![call the cops]
Call a doctor!Get me a doc![get mee uh doc]
I'm lostI'm lost[ahm lost]
I'm illI'm feelin' sick[ahm feel-in sick]
Shopping
EnglishLocalSay it
I'd like to buy...I'm lookin' to purchase...[ahm look-in to pur-chase]
I'm just lookingJust browsin'[just brow-zin]
How much is it?How much does that run?[how much duhz that run]
That's too expensiveThat's a bit steep[thats uh bit steep]
Can you lower the price?Can ya do a deal?[kan yuh do a deel]
Time & Numbers
EnglishLocalSay it
What time is it?What's the time?[whats thee time]
It's one o'clockIt's one[its wuhn]
Half past (10)Ten-thirty[ten-thur-tee]
MorningMornin'[morn-in]
AfternoonAfternoon[after-noon]
EveningEvenin'[even-in]
YesterdayYesterday[yest-er-day]
TodayToday[to-day]
TomorrowTomorrow[tomor-row]
1One[wuhn]
2Two[too]
3Three[three]
4Four[four]
5Five[five]
6Six[six]
7Seven[seven]
8Eight[ate]
9Nine[nine]
10Ten[ten]
Transport & Directions
EnglishLocalSay it
Where's a/the...?Where's the...?[wheres thee]
What's the address?Where's it located?[wheres it lo-cated]
Can you show me (on the map)?Can you point it out (on the map)?[kan yuh point it out on thee map]
When's the next (bus)?When's the next (bus)?[whens thee next bus]
A ticket (to ....)A ticket (to ....)[uh ticket to]

History of Missoula

The Founding of Missoula

Missoula, located in the heart of Western Montana, was originally founded in 1860 as Hellgate Trading Post. The settlement was established by Christopher P. Higgins and Francis L. Worden, who saw the potential of the area for trade due to its strategic location along the Mullan Road.

The Mullan Road

The Mullan Road, completed in 1860, was a significant development for Missoula. It connected Fort Benton, Montana to Walla Walla, Washington, facilitating transportation and trade. This route played a crucial role in the economic growth of Missoula and the surrounding regions.

Missoula's Role in the Lumber Industry

In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Missoula became a key player in the lumber industry. The abundant forests surrounding the area attracted numerous sawmills and logging operations, contributing significantly to the local economy. The development of the Northern Pacific Railway further boosted this industry by providing essential transportation.

Establishment of the University of Montana

The University of Montana was established in Missoula in 1893. This institution not only provided higher education opportunities but also became a cultural and intellectual hub for the region. The university has since played a pivotal role in the city's development, influencing its social and cultural landscape.

Missoula during Prohibition

The Prohibition era (1920-1933) had a unique impact on Missoula. The city, like many others, saw the rise of speakeasies and bootlegging operations. Despite the federal ban on alcohol, local culture adapted with clandestine establishments that became an integral part of the city's social fabric during this period.

The Smokejumpers and Forest Firefighting

Missoula is home to the Smokejumper Base, established in 1942, which is the largest training center for smokejumpers in the United States. These elite firefighters parachute into remote areas to combat wildfires, and their presence underscores Missoula's critical role in forest fire management.

The Hippie Movement in the 1960s and 1970s

During the 1960s and 1970s, Missoula became a haven for the counterculture movement. The influx of artists, musicians, and activists during this period left a lasting imprint on the city’s cultural identity, fostering a vibrant community that values creativity and social change.

Modern Missoula: A Hub for Outdoor Recreation

In recent decades, Missoula has emerged as a prominent destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The city offers a wide range of activities, from hiking and fishing to kayaking and skiing, thanks to its proximity to national forests, rivers, and mountains. This shift towards outdoor recreation has become a cornerstone of Missoula's modern identity.

Missoula in Photos

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Evendo - Your Ultimate Travel Guide to Missoula, Montana

Discover Missoula with Evendo, the 100% free travel guide app covering attractions, landmarks, restaurants, hotels, tours, and more.

  • Detailed information on attractions, landmarks, shops, bars, nightclubs, restaurants, hotels, tours, experiences, and activities in Missoula.
  • Rich set of information for each location including images, descriptions, local tips, maps, and contact details.
  • Easy booking for hotels, tours, tickets, and experiences directly through the app.
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More about the Evendo app

Explore the best of Missoula, Montana with Evendo, your free, all-in-one travel guide app. Discover top attractions, book tours, and experience the city like a local.

  • History of Missoula and travel essentials for visitors.
  • Curated local tips to experience Missoula like a local.
  • User-friendly navigation and 'Near me' feature to find nearby attractions.
  • 100% free with no in-app purchases or additional costs.

Welcome to Missoula, Montana – a city known for its stunning landscapes, vibrant culture, and rich history. With Evendo, your trip to Missoula will be seamless and unforgettable. Our app is designed to help you uncover all the best attractions, landmarks, shops, bars, nightclubs, restaurants, hotels, tours, experiences, and activities that Missoula has to offer.

Imagine starting your day with a visit to the famous **Caras Park**, followed by an afternoon exploring the historical **Missoula Art Museum**. Feeling hungry? Use Evendo to find top-rated dining spots like **The Notorious P.I.G. BBQ** or **Caffe Dolce**. Our detailed information includes images, descriptions, local tips, maps, and contact details, making it easy for you to plan and organize your trip efficiently.

In addition to discovering amazing new places, Evendo allows you to book hotels, tours, tickets, and experiences directly through the app. No more searching for what to see, do, and experience – everything you need is in one place. Whether you want to explore the outdoors at **Mount Sentinel** or enjoy a local brew at **Big Sky Brewing Company**, Evendo has got you covered.

Download Evendo today and transform your Missoula adventure into an extraordinary experience. With our app, you’ll have access to curated local tips, travel essentials, and easy navigation features, ensuring you get the most out of your visit.

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