A quaint city nestled between five mountain ranges.
The historic downtown is filled with local businesses, restaurants, and entertainment. Summertime consists of Saturday farmer’s markets, hours spent on hiking trails, beer festivals, and concerts in the park. The Clark Fork River runs through the heart of downtown where you will find many water sport enthusiasts from fly fishing to surfing.
Activities:
Missoula Farmer’s Market - Enjoy a Saturday morning exploring the Rocky Mountain vendors from hand-made crafts to local bites.
Weir Creek Hot Springs - Located in Idaho, but only a scenic drive away nestled in the Nez Perce Clearwater National Forest. One can find tranquility by hiking a mile into these remote hot springs. Stop at Lochsa Lodge on your way back for a bite with great river and mountain views.
Disc Golf at Blue Mountain Open Space - A scenic 18-hole disc golf course that will challenge your skill and fitness level. Bring your family and friends to enjoy a hike and enhance your disc golf skills. Free to play!
Hiawatha Mountain Bike Trail - Located in Mullan, Idaho. Enjoy this beautiful 15-mile descent near Lookout Pass Ski Area. The trail winds through scenic mountain views, old train tunnels, and across towering bridges. A great family activity as it is mostly downhill!
Food:
Draught Works - ($). A local favorite. This brewery is well-known for their large variety of craft beer and community events. The patio is filled with blooming flowers, tunes from a local band, and mountain views. Often featuring food trucks, you are able to enjoy a post-hike beer and dinner!
Sonny’s Original Cheesesteaks - ($). A local food truck that’s worth chasing down to try their famous cheesesteaks. Often found at a brewery in town, you can enjoy a cold beer with their shoestring fries and sandwiches.
Top Hat - ($$). A classic Missoula restaurant with an array of activities. From enjoying their house-made tater tots in the heart of downtown to becoming a concert venue for a Friday night show.
Biga Pizza - ($$). Small-town pizza shop with locally sourced ingredients and bold flavors. Biga always keeps their customers on their toes by changing the menu seasonally.
Market on Front - ($$). Grab and go breakfast and coffee spot that sets the bar high. The food is fresh, healthy, and affordable!
Plonk - ($$$). Perfect place for a date night that gives a big-city feel in a small-town. Plonk sets the mood with delicious food, crafty cocktails, and music in an urban venue.
Saketome - ($$$). Best sushi in town! Guests are entertained with creative recipes that are prepared right in front of you. A restaurant filled with unique art matched with craft cocktails makes for a fun Saturday night. Reservations are required!
Estimated cost key
- $ ($0-20 pp)
- $$ ($20-40 pp)
- $$$ ($40+ pp)
Author: Eric Steingas (ft. Kelsey Davis)
Quote to consider:
Think long. Write short. -George Lois