Splash Montana opened Friday, June 12, marking the start of its 20th summer season.

The Missoula water park features multiple slides, a lazy river, zero-depth pools, and interactive splash zones — open daily through Labor Day.

Two decades of operation means generations of families have made summer memories at this Missoula institution, making it one of the best things to do in Missoula summer.

Missoula is partnering with NorthWestern Energy to bring more clean power to Montana.

The Garden City joins Bozeman in exploring renewable energy options with the state's largest utility provider, signaling a major shift toward sustainable energy sources.

The collaboration could lower energy costs while reducing carbon emissions, with potential projects including solar installations and wind farm partnerships.

Chip seal is a road maintenance technique that extends pavement life by sealing cracks and protecting asphalt from weather damage.

Eight Missoula streets are scheduled for chip seal work this summer, affecting neighborhoods citywide with temporary road closures and loose gravel.

The treatment extends road life by five to seven years, saving taxpayer dollars while keeping streets safe through Montana winters.

The Missoula Montana Temple will be the third temple built by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Montana.

Church officials broke ground this month on the new temple site, which will serve thousands of members across western Montana and eastern Idaho.

Construction is expected to take several years, reducing travel burdens for local families and strengthening community ties in the Garden City.

Missoula concerts in June feature a packed lineup of local bands, touring acts, and outdoor performances across multiple venues.

The Top Hat Lounge, Wilma Theatre, and outdoor venues like Caras Park and Bonner Park offer everything from rock and indie to folk and electronic music.

Live music is central to Missoula's culture, supporting local musicians and defining the Garden City's creative, independent spirit all summer long.

Mastering Downtown Missoula Parking

Downtown Missoula parking doesn't have to be stressful or expensive once you know where to look and how the system works.

Whether you're heading downtown for dinner, shopping, or work, understanding your parking options saves time, money, and frustration. From free parking zones to metered spaces and parking structures, Missoula offers more options than most visitors realize.

Free Parking in Downtown Missoula

The best free parking Missoula options require a short walk but save significant money, especially for longer visits.

Kim Williams Trail parking lot at the Madison Street Bridge offers free all-day parking with easy access to downtown via the riverfront walking path. It's a 5-10 minute walk to Higgins Avenue, making it ideal for anyone comfortable with a brief stroll.

Caras Park lower lot provides free parking for events and general downtown access. During summer festivals and concerts, this lot fills quickly, but on regular days it offers convenient free parking close to the river and Carousel.

Residential streets north of the railroad tracks (roughly north of Main Street) offer free street parking without time limits. Popular free parking streets include Pine Street, Spruce Street, and adjacent neighborhoods. These areas are about a 5-8 minute walk to central downtown.

Hiking trails near Missoula range from riverside strolls perfect for families to lung-busting summit climbs with 360° views of the Bitterroot, Rattlesnake Wilderness, and Sapphire ranges.

Easy trails: Kim Williams Trail (paved, dog-friendly) and Rattlesnake Creek Trail (3 miles, gentle). Moderate: M Trail Missoula (3.2 miles, iconic views) and Blue Mountain Loop. Advanced: Pattee Canyon Loop (6.5 miles), Lolo Peak (9 miles, 9,096 ft summit), and St. Mary's Peak (11 miles, highest in the Bitterroot Range).

Always carry bear spray in the Rattlesnake Wilderness, Lolo Peak area, or Bitterroot Range. REI in Missoula rents canisters for $5/week.

Missoula traffic updates are essential reading. Missoula traffic updates are essential reading this summer as MDT kicks off six major road projects including Reserve Street widening, Higgins Avenue Bridge rehabilitation, and Brooks Street interchange expansion.

Expect delays on Reserve Street (June-Oct), one-lane traffic on the Higgins Bridge (July-Sept), and a full Orange Street closure for two weeks in July.

Skip Reserve Street construction during rush hour by using South Avenue or Mullan Road. Downtown commuters should take Van Buren instead of Higgins to avoid bridge delays. Mountain Line's free bus service runs every 15 minutes and skips construction zones entirely.

Things to do in Missoula this weekend just got a whole lot more exciting—three major summer festivals are launching across the Garden City.

From River City Roots Festival at Caras Park (June 13-15) with 20+ bands and craft vendors, to the Downtown Art Walk and Farmers Market Grand Opening, this weekend is packed with local celebrations.

Whether you're catching the Missoula Mavericks at Ogren Park or joining free yoga at Bonner Park, the Garden City is delivering Missoula summer festivals that celebrate everything we love about Montana.

Discover a treasure trove of Montana-made goods and locally inspired style at Soul City Dry Goods, located in the heart of downtown Missoula. 

This vibrant boutique is your go-to destination for apparel, hats, accessories, top-notch home goods, and delicious local-food finds—all crafted with a western spirit and made with love in the Treasure State

Q & A

Q: What outdoor activities can I enjoy in Missoula, MT?

A: Hiking in the nearby mountains, fishing on the Clark Fork River, and biking along the Bitterroot Trail are popular outdoor activities in Missoula. 

Q: Are there any cultural attractions in Missoula, MT?

A: Yes, visitors can explore the Missoula Art Museum, attend performances at the Wilma Theatre, and visit the Historical Museum at Fort Missoula for a taste of local culture. 

Q: What are some dining options in Missoula, MT?

A: Missoula offers a variety of dining options ranging from farm-to-table restaurants like Burns St. Bistro, cafes like Bernice's Bakery, to breweries like Kettle House Brewing Co. for craft beers.