Summer Boredom? Missoula has you covered! Although some say Montana is the literal definition of being in the middle of nowhere, there is actually a ton of different things to do if you spend your summers here. Here are some of my favorite things that Zootown has to offer.
1. Take a hike.
Missoula is such a gorgeous place to explore and it is so easy to access multiple hiking trails that are no more than 20 minutes outside of town. Head to Blue Mountain, the Rattlesnake, the “L” on Mount Jumbo, and of course, the “M” Trail on Mount Sentinel.
2. Missoula Farmer’s Market
The People’s Market by the XXXs on Higgins Avenue and the Farmer’s Market under the Higgins Avenue Bridge are great places to take a stroll on a Saturday. The markets are perfect places to buy some delicious and locally grown fruit and vegetables, unique pastries and drinks, and handmade art and trinkets.
3. Explore Local Coffee Shops
Missoula is home to many of the cutest cafes and coffee joints around, so if you have some extra time this summer, try out a new one. Although I’m partial to Starbucks (I know, I’m so basic right?), I always love to try new places and find new hangout spots.
4. Hit Up a Brewery
We Missoulians love our beer, so there is no shortage of places to grab a local brew and dinner. One of my favorites is the Tamarack in downtown Missoula. It’s a great place to grab a beer, and some amazing food as well. It’s close in location to Brennan’s Wave as well, which is a great place to watch some kayaking and Montana “surfing” after stopping by the Tamarack.
5. Concerts
Missoula, for a town as small as it is, actually brings in some big name concerts of all genres. In the summer, my personal favorites are anything country. The Big Sky Brewing Company holds concerts every summer, including Lee Brice who will perform in July. Local events such as the River City Roots Festival and Symphony in the Park are other great places for music lovers to go see local bands and artists of all genres in the summertime.
6. Caras Park Events
Caras Park is in the heart of downtown Missoula, located right along the Clark Fork river. From June through August, the park holds Out to Lunch every Wednesday where local food vendors come to serve food and local bands play music. Similarly, every Thursday night Caras Park hosts Downtown Tonight, which is the same kind of event with food and music, but in the evenings.
7. Go Fishing
The worst day of fishing is still better than the best day of doing anything else, am I right? Missoula is the perfect place to meet up with a local guide to hit the river, or to take some buddies to nearby ponds. Even if nothing is caught, a day fishing is a great way to get outside and have a mini adventure Montana style.
The beautiful Garden City is a great place to spend your summer, and there is no shortage of things to do. Although it isn't a big city, it’s a city full of fun people and places to go, with plenty of beautiful nature recreation areas to fulfill your adventurous side. All you need to do is look for your opportunity.
