Missoula Montana is a small city with a big reputation. The town is tucked away in western Montana along the Clark Fork River and surrounded by no less than five mountain ranges. It’s that setting that makes it feel like a Pacific Northwest town tucked into the Rockies. The town’s outdoor-oriented lifestyle draws swarms of summer visitors while winter brings a more discerning crowd that includes those who love the stillness of snow-covered mountains and rugged wilderness.
The outdoors isn’t all this town has to offer though. It also has a first-rate art scene with the Missoula Art Museum (MAM) as its centerpiece. The museum features an extensive collection of works from the Western United States with a special emphasis on Montana artists. It also hosts first-rate national and international touring exhibits. And admission to MAM is free.
For foodies, the town’s popular monthly Food Truck Gathering at Caras Park is a must. This event takes place every Wednesday afternoon and Thursday night from June-August. The lineup of food trucks changes but local favorites include Big Dipper Ice Cream, Front Street Pizza, Sa-Wad-Dee Thai Country and Isla’s Lemonade.
Another highlight of the arts scene is the Performing Arts Center at the University of Montana. This venue is home to many world-class musicians and theater groups. Plus, the venue hosts a number of educational resources, including an annual community concert and an after-school program for kids.
Missoula also has a few must-see historic sites. The St. Francis Xavier church is unique in that it looks more like a European church than the usual North American religious edifice. And the Sullivan Museum and Library is another highlight that showcases the town’s rich history. The Sullivan Museum and Library contains an outstanding collection of Native American artwork as well as a great collection of books and manuscripts.
This city is a great place for young adults and recent college graduates. It recently ranked as America’s most fun city for young adults, according to a study by SmartAsset. This analysis was based on factors such as the percentage of residents in their 20s, the number of bars and restaurants and other entertainment venues and the average household income.
One of the best things to do in Missoula is to go on a nature-focused scavenger hunt, which can take you off the beaten trail and give you a chance to see some of the town’s most hidden gems. Another option is to explore the Lewis and Clark National Forest on a packraft or hike while retracing the steps of the famous explorers. Other nature-related activities include horseback riding, biking or kayaking. The town is also home to several galleries, including Radius Gallery, Dana Gallery and 4 Ravens Gallery. And the University of Montana offers a wide variety of arts courses for students and adults alike.