7 Types of Travelers Who Visit Missoula (And Where They Eat, Drink & Play)
If you’ve ever wondered what kind of people roll into Missoula, Montana, the answer is simple: all of them. We’re talking hikers with trekking poles that cost more than their cars, college parents clutching lattes like emotional support animals, foodie pilgrims on a mission to try every brewery in town, proudly filling up their Montana Brewery Passport, and even birdwatchers who can spot an osprey faster than you can say “Clark Fork.” Missoula is one of those rare places where you can see a fisherman in waders walk past an art critic in a beret, while both politely step aside for a cyclist carrying a baguette. It’s eclectic, it’s quirky, and it’s exactly why we love it.
So, whether you’re here to chase trails, tacos, or the perfect IPA, Missoula has a little something for everyone—and we’ve mapped out where each type of traveler eats, drinks, and plays while they’re here.
Missoula, Montana, for the Outdoor Enthusiasts
Drink: Local craft beers at KettleHouse Brewing or a strong coffee at Black Coffee Roasting before hitting the trails.
Eat: Hearty meals at The Notorious P.I.G. BBQ or Tamarack Brewing to refuel after adventures.
Do: Hike the “M” Trail or Rattlesnake Wilderness, float the Clark Fork River, or mountain bike Blue Mountain.
Missoula, Montana, for The Road-Trippers & National Park Visitors
Drink: Grab-and-go coffee from Liquid Planet or Hunter Bay Coffee Roasters.
Eat: Quick, local spots like Five on Black (Brazilian bowls) or Bridge Pizza for easy, tasty fuel.
Do: Stroll downtown Missoula, stop at Caras Park, or visit the Smokejumper Visitor Center before heading on.
Missoula, Montana, for Students & Families
Drink: Smoothies and bubble tea at Pearl Café’s offshoot cafés or Green Source, coffee at Clyde Coffee.
Eat: Family-friendly dining at The Montana Club or tacos at El Cazador downtown. Top off with Big Dipper or Sweet Peaks Ice Cream.
Do: Tour the University of Montana campus, watch a Griz game, Carousel for Missoula, or explore the Missoula Butterfly House & Insectarium with kids.
Missoula, Montana, for The Culture Seekers
Drink: Craft cocktails at Plonk or wine at Ten Spoon Vineyard & Winery.
Eat: Elevated dining at Scotty’s Table or The Keep, or inventive small plates at Second Set Bistro.
Do: Browse galleries at the Missoula Art Museum, catch a show at The Wilma Theater, or join First Friday Art Walks.
Missoula, Montana, for the Food & Craft drinks Lovers
Drink: Brewery hop between Big Sky Brewing, Imagine Nation Brewing, and Conflux Taproom.
Eat: Thai at Rice Fine Thai Cuisine, wood-fired pizza at Biga Pizza, or gourmet ice cream at Sweet Peaks.
Do: Take a brewery tour, shop the Missoula Farmers Market, or join a foodie walking tour.
Missoula, Montana, for the Relaxation & Retreat Travelers
Drink: Herbal tea at Montana Tea & Spice Trading or kombucha at Kombucha Town taproom.
Eat: Farm-to-table dining at The Good Food Store deli or vegetarian plates at Green Source.
Do: Book a yoga session, unwind in a cabin or glamping spot (like yours ✨), or spend a day at Hot Springs nearby (LoLo Hot Springs).
Missoula, Montana, for the Wildlife & Nature Watchers
Drink: Morning coffee from Florence Coffee Company drive-through stands before an early outing.
Eat: Pack a picnic from Le Petit Outre bakery or sandwiches from Tagliare Delicatessen.
Do: Birdwatch at Lee Metcalf National Wildlife Refuge, stargaze at Blue Mountain, or photograph wildlife in the Bitterroot Valley.
No matter which Missoula tribe you belong to—the trail blazers, the cocktail sippers, the wildlife whisperers, or the “I just came for the ice cream” crew—you’ll need a place to recharge after your adventures. That’s where we come in. At The Hohnstead Glamping Cabins, the Wi-Fi is weak but the vibes are strong, the stars put on a nightly show, and even your dog feels like they’re on vacation. Think of us as the perfect home base: close enough to Missoula’s food, drinks, and culture, but tucked into the forest where you can actually hear yourself think.
So pack your hiking boots, your appetite, and maybe a pair of stretchy pants (Missoula portions are generous). We’ll save you a cabin by the fire.
