Friends Weekend in Missoula, MT

Guided Fishing

There are plenty of companies in Missoula who offer fishing guide services. Some of the most popular ones are Lazy Bear Outfitters, Grizzly Hackle Fly Shop and Missoula on the Fly. No matter your experience level, you will learn tons! They will get you taken care of with all the equipment you need and either take you down the river on a raft or wade off the shore in one of their best spots. Choose from different types of fishing and meet the local species inhabiting our rivers. You can do this as a part of a bachelorette weekend and prepare to have a load of laughs! (This can be done pretty much any time of the year. Waders are made to keep you warm and dry while standing in the river.)

River Floating

In the summer, rent a tube, kayak or stand up paddle board and hit the water! Later in the year, the water level is lower, making the floats slower, but be mindful of logs and such you might encounter sticking out of the surface. It is recommend putting into the Blackfoot River northeast of Missoula at a place called Weigh Station Fishing access and you will get out a few hours later in the heart of downtown, Caras Park. Another great float is putting in at the Lolo River Access south of Missoula, and getting out at Bunkhouse Bridge on the outside of town - this is a shorter float that takes you right next to a field of Bison that sometimes will come say hi at the shore as you float by. Leave a vehicle at the takeout spot before you get in the water so you can get back to the other vehicle where you put in.

Local Markets

Saturdays in the summer at Caras Park will have you enjoying local food trucks (find the waffle one- the BEST waffle breakfast sandwich and fresh-squeezed orange juice), everyone’s garden grows - fresh fruits, veggies and plants, tons of locally made apparel, jewelry, crafts, mugs, dream catchers, etc. In the winter, they move the market indoors to the Southgate Mall. Of course, you’ll find fewer fresh crops but more canned jams, salsas, handmade soaps and lotions, lots of creative treasures! The Farmer’s Market is a cannot-miss when you’re in Missoula.

Take a walking tour of Historical Downtown Missoula

See the county courthouse built in 1910, the Palace Hotel built in 1909, and the Northern Pacific Railroad spot. That’s just the beginning of the interesting old buildings in the area. You can do this with a group of friends and enjoy it together! The Downtown Association will give you a map of all the stopping places and their history information. There are also local pros who would love to guide you through the tour if you want and give you extra tidbits.

Shopping

There’s something for everyone at the Southgate Mall: Victoria’s Secret, American Eagle, Maurice’s, Bath and Body Works, Bohme, Dillard’s, Scheels, an arcade, a movie theater with dining, kids riding toy rentals and many food options from sit-down restaurants like Texas Roadhouse to quick bites like Cinnabon. Check out other shopping opportunities around town, from big box stores like Kohl's and TJ Maxx, to small boutiques and shops like Rockin’ Rudy’s, a very unique quirky store with fun gifts, soaps, prank toys, vinyl records, stickers, incense and more! This is a true representation of the personality around Zootown. Visit APORTA, The Montana Scene, Olive + Iron, Rhapsody, Cloth&Crown and Pink Elephant.

Treat Yourself

Massage on Broadway, Cedar Creek and Sacred Ally are my favorite go-to’s for a massage in the area - most will need pre-booking. For spa services there is Dharma, Skin Chic, Kindred and Remedy. Float Missoula is a unique experience for some self-care and will have you feeling rejuvenated. Take your group for a mani/pedi at Reserve Street Nails, Saigon or One Stop Nail Shop.

Day Trips

Most electrical boxes on the street corners are uniquely painted by local artists, each with a unique theme: popcorn machine, underwater scene, etc. Keep your eye out for these as you drive/walk through town.

There are tons of hot springs in the area- check out Jerry Johnson’s, Lolo and Fairmont.

Hiking is a huge plus in this area, climb the “L” or “M” Mountains to see the best 360 views of the valley.

Big Dipper Ice Cream: A Missoula Classic! Located downtown and a local favorite, their array of flavors is amazing! Popular flavors are Mango Habanero Sorbet, Pumpkin, Maple Walnut and Tangerine Sorbet. A fan favorite is the Lemon Cake! Get a cone, shake or double scoop. You’re always greeted with a smile and friendly help when you walk up to the window.

The Montana Club: A popular place where familiess usually celebrates for a birthday or anniversary dinner (discounts!). Be sure to always start with their huckleberry or strawberry mules to drink- to die for and their stacked nachos. The cabin/rustic-like atmosphere really gives you a taste of Montana, and the local servers are some of the best in town. Salads at the Montana Club are hard to beat and definitely don’t miss their surf n turf combos! Order a local favorite, Hoagieville Cheese Fries.

Five on Black: A made-to-order Brazilian cuisine with options like Churrasco chicken or beef, roasted tofu, coconut roasted sweet potatoes and mango barbecue sauce and spicy chimichurri. The combos are endless, and you can’t go wrong when you build your bowl. Be sure to get a few Pao De Quiejo’s!

The Still Room: Endless cocktails and local brews (try the peach whiskey!) locally sourced food (build your own burger, steak or tacos), yummy soups, salads and sandwiches and always have a daily special. Kids menu is a plus!

The Old Post: The perfect Montana twang, unique architecture and beautiful landscaping. Catch live music and enjoy a local microbrew. Indulge in brunch-sweet, savory, pancakes or greens. The creative cocktail menu is impeccable!

Plonk: Known for their array of wine options, they pride themselves on a comfortable atmosphere to join food, wine and music. The stunning venue is just the beginning - lots of charcuterie board options, meat and vegan entrees and delicious desserts. Highly recommend the coconut vanilla crème brûlée!

Laughing Grizzly: Updated American eats and a great place to watch the game! Don’t skip the Pop Itz, their unique spin on jalapeño poppers, go specifically to have these! Their menu includes a ton of drink/cocktail options and is kid friendly with a casino in the back. They also have the best prime rib!