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Experience Missoula Like a Local

As one of the premier hotels in Missoula, Montana, it is a privilege to guide you to the best dining, tasting, entertainment, shopping, and recreation options for your individual needs and tastes. This involves asking questions and getting to know you, not just pointing to a rack stuffed with brochures. And when you’ve got a place like Missoula and a playground like Montana to explore, well, let’s just say it’s one of the best parts of our jobs.

So read on for advice from a few of our Guides on where to grab the best bite, listen to the best tune, or snag that perfect glass of pinot.

  • Exterior shot of a group of surfers on the rocks at the river near our boutique Missoula, Montana hotel

Meet Our Guides

Nick: Fun For The Whole Family

My perfect day in Missoula would start with breakfast at local favorite, Paul’s Pancake Parlor. The chicken fried steak, Biscuits and Gravy, or Blueberry Pancakes are all great choices. After a hearty breakfast, head over to Westside Lanes to get some bowling in and if there’s a tournament, I’m ready to compete!

Otherwise, if the weather is nice, I’m packing up the family and heading to Splash Montana, Missoula’s very own waterpark. The kids love the three-story water slides, but you’ll find me enjoying a casual float on the lazy river.

After a long day we’re ready to hit the town for dinner at Kobe Seafood and Steakhouse. Here they use Teppanyaki style dining where the chefs cook everything on a hot grill, right at your table. It’s great food and great entertainment.

Darren: Tour de Missoula

The perfect way to start the day in Missoula is with breakfast at Ruby’s Café (you may recognize it from a scene in the hit TV series Yellowstone). Don’t miss out on their egg’s benedict – they’re some of the best in the city.

Then begin exploring the city by bicycle, it’s a great way to get the feel of the town and check out some of the most notable sights. Cruise across town to the University District neighborhood, where you’ll find historic homes, quaint parks, and a couple of hidden trailheads to access Mount Jumbo.

Head to the University of Montana campus and pop into the atrium for a quick break and a boba tea from Pearl Boba. Enjoy the tropical indoor garden here and take in the sounds of the bubbling brook. Fun fact: the herbs, edible flowers, and greens grown in the campus gardens are used by UM Dining and Catering Services.

When you’re finished exploring UM, head north over the footbridge, passing by Jacobs Island, a small island in the river that has been turned into a dog park. Once across bridge, head west towards Caras Park, paralleling the Clark Fork River. In the hot summer months when the doesn’t set until 10pm, the river is filled with people jumping off the footbridge and swimming about.

After a long day biking around the city, you’re bound to have worked up an appetite that only Sushi Hana can cure. Afterwards you’ll want to hit the town for a night cap and some pool at Three In The Side.

Todd: Outdoor Pursuits

A perfect day in Missoula would be an outdoor adventure with the family (dogs included). Our first stop is The Breakfast Club, where we never miss the chance to grab one of their delicious burritos to go.

Missoula offers a variety of fantastic trails for every skill level, such as the L trail, Greenough Park trails, and Saddle Trail. You can choose based on your preferred level of adventure for that day. Want to keep it more low key? A leisurely stroll along the riverside trail is equally enjoyable, where you can watch the locals surf (yes, surf!) Brennan’s wave, or perhaps even a visit to the dog park on Jacob’s Island.

During the summer months, we often find ourselves at the Clark Fork Yacht Club, where you can enjoy a serene river float on The Clark Fork River to the heart of downtown Missoula. Make sure to stock up on your favorite local beverages to maximize the good times during your float.

After a big day, it’s time to get some grub at local favorites, Tamarack Brewery or Biga Pizza, where you can relish some delectable fare.