13 Reasons to Visit Missoula

The city of Missoula sits in a valley, where 3 rivers become one, surrounded by mountains. The mountains and rivers create amazing opportunities for locals and visitors to explore, create, and come together for fun events.  Considering a trip but are not quite sure? Let us give you a few ideas of the reasons to visit Missoula. 

Here are our 13 reasons why you should visit Missoula:

1. Outdoor Recreation On Land - Missoula is one of America's top cycling-friendly cities, with bike lanes, and trails all around town.  Add to the cycling adventures with hiking opportunities, golf courses, a skate park and folf courses make Missoula a great place to try a new outdoor activity.  

Photo by Montana Snowbowl

2. Water adventures abound with 3 rivers coming together in Missoula, there are many opportunities to get out and enjoy the water.  Fly fishing, and kayaking are among the favorite water activities in Missoula.  Take a short drive north to Flathead Lake for even more adventures.  Winter comes with it's own share of water adventures from ice fishing, and ice skating to downhill skiing on some of the freshest powder around.  

3. The Arts and Culture Scene - Take a walk though the Missoula Art Museum, head over and learn about the natural history of western Montana at Montana Natural History Center.  There are galleries,  an insectarium, and the Historical Museum at Fort Missoula to explore.

4. The Food - Fresh and local food are available at more restaurants around Missoula than we can count.  From the Farm-to-Table American bistro Scotty's Table, to the Red Bird that serves locally raised bison, or at Romaine's - a green certified restaurant serving up fresh salads, soups and sandwiches made with local ingredients. 

5. The Breweries - With 8 breweries in town, as well as a growler fill station (The Dram Shop) there is a craft beer for every pallet.  Head downtown for the highest concentration of breweries but there are a few others scattered around the city as well.  

6. The People - Missoula residents live here because we love it.  We love the location, the surrounding mountains and everything that Big Sky Country has to offer.  We love to tell people who much we love Missoula! That is something that visitors tend to notice, locals who enjoy being locals.  

7. The Proximity to Glacier and Yellowstone National Parks.  The west entrance to Glacier National Park is just 2.5 hours north of Missoula, and the western entrance to Yellowstone National Park is only 4 hours away.  Situated between to two large national parks makes Missoula an ideal place to stop and relax.  

Photo by Taylar Robbins 

8. The Events - There are always great events going on in Missoula.  From concerts and football right across the river at the University of Montana to community theater just down the road.  Plan a weekend of adventure, and entertainment in Missoula. 

9. The Shopping in Missoula is quilt free, because it is tax free.  What is better than shopping without taxes?  

10. The Nightlife - Bars and nightlife around Missoula are unique.  Sip a glass of wine at a wine bar, or pull up a stool at one of Missoula's oldest operating bars, or have a bite to eat before heading out to dance the night away.  The options are endless. 

Photo by Plonk 

11. The Family-Friendly Activities - There are so many family-friendly activities in Missoula, it is hard to know where to begin.  We suggest starting at A Carousel for Missoula, and Dragon Hollow Playground.  Take a cookie class, painting pottery, and pony rides are a few more fun ideas.  Just ask our friendly front desk staff for directions, or a recommendation. 

12. Iconic Views and Photography Opportunities - Don't miss those opportunities for great family photos at some of Missoula's iconic spots.  Hiking the "M", sunset over the river in downtown Missoula, or a family photo taken around some of the wonderful outdoor art in Missoula.  

13. Relaxation - At the end of the day, after all the fun activities you will want a place to relax.  Join us at Comfort Inn University, put your feet up and enjoy the sound of the river on our patio. Watch the sunset and take in the views surrounding you right here at our hotel.