Dinner dates are classic, and with a food scene like Missoula’s they are sure to be filled with great flavors and even better conversation, but sometimes date nights call for something a little more action-packed, thought-provoking or straight-up fun! Luckily, Missoula has no shortage of unique date night spots and activities that give you the chance to experience something new or different together. Whether you are looking for that perfect first date or want to mix up your usual routine, here are some suggestions for memorable dates around Missoula that go beyond just the usual date night.
Missoula has an impressive live music scene that makes for an incredible and memorable date night. In the warmer months, Missoula’s outdoor amphitheaters including KettleHouse Amphitheater and Big Sky Brewing Amphitheater have a seriously-impressive concert calendar that makes for a perfect date night. Speaking of seriously-impressive, the year-round calendar for The Wilma Theater is a great place to start planning an amazing date night experience featuring live music, comedy or special film screenings. Year-round, smaller venues around town host concerts from local and traveling acts, and these venues are perfect for an intimate date night connecting to the music. No matter the season or your music taste, there’s always a live show happening that can turn a night out into an experience.
If you’re looking for a date that’s a little competitive and a lot entertaining, axe throwing is a unique (and fun!) choice. Lookout Throwing Co., located in Tremper’s Shopping Center, offers a laid-back environment where you can try something new and laugh through the inevitable throws that are way off target. No matter your skill level, this is a sure-fire way to shake up the usual date night routine.
The couple that crafts together, stays together…at least, we think that is how the saying goes! For your next date night, create something new together by trying your hand at handcrafted art. Clay Studio of Missoula offers pottery classes and workshops that allow you to slow down, get your hands dirty, and make something memorable together. If painting is more your speed, Painting With a Twist offers guided classes that are low-pressure and fun (and BYOB). Regardless of your artistic prowess, attending a class together offers time to laugh, create and connect plus as a bonus, you leave with a souvenir from the night.
Skip the box theaters and support local with a cozy movie date night at The Roxy. Showing indie films, new releases, documentaries or special screenings, The Roxy is a great date night spot to take in a film that will spark conversation afterward. Pair the movie with pizza from Bridge Pizza, then walk over to Big Dipper Ice Cream for dessert. This combo will make the night very “classic Missoula" that feels relaxed, nostalgic and very date-worthy.
Sometimes the simplest dates are the best. Put together your favorite snacks from local finds at the farmers markets and pick your scenic spot (Greenough Park or the riverfront are two of our favorite picnic choices). No frills, just connection. Picnics are low-cost, flexible and open up space for good conversation and quality time together.
Bowling is a classic date night for a reason—it’s easygoing, interactive and gives you plenty of chances to laugh together. Westside Lanes is a great spot to rent a lane, grab a drink and enjoy a little friendly competition. Whether you’re surprisingly good or proudly terrible, bowling keeps things fun and light while giving you something to do between conversations.
Cheering on Missoula’s teams makes for a great date any time of year. In the summer, Missoula PaddleHeads baseball games are a local favorite, with warm evenings, ballpark snacks and a laid-back atmosphere that’s perfect for a casual date. During the school year, Griz sports offer plenty of options including football, basketball, volleyball, hockey, baseball and more, so there’s always a game to catch no matter the season. Sharing the energy of a live sporting event is an easy and entertaining way to add excitement to your date night.
If you’re looking for a thoughtful date night that invites deep conversation and introspection, spend time together wandering through local art museums and galleries. The Missoula Art Museum is a fantastic (and free) spot to browse local and regional artists. You can also go on a walking tour of public art in downtown Missoula and beyond, or make your way to Sculpture Park for outdoor art adventures together. No matter the route you choose, exploring new art together gives you plenty to talk about and offers a relaxed, intimate way to connect, especially when paired with coffee or a drink afterward.
Looking for some classic fun with throwback arcade games and good beer to boot? It may sound oddly specific, but Missoula has a couple of options for you! GILD Brewery is an awesome all-in-one date spot, great beer and wine options, a delicious Mexican-inspired menu, and an arcade in the basement, perfect for a night of laid-back fun.
OddPitch Brewing is another great option. This lively spot hosts tons of events and has several really cool pinball machines, making it easy to turn this casual brewery stop into a full-on date night.
The Butterfly House & Insectarium is a surprisingly magical date spot. The tropical greenhouses are home to a variety of butterfly species, and strolling hand in hand on date night is whimsical and fun! Beyond the exhibits, they also host cool weekly events like yoga and meditation, plus a newer adults-only event, Bugs & Brews, where you can grab a beer and explore after hours. It’s unique, unexpected and perfect if you want something a little different to explore together.
Ending the night with a sunset is always a win. Whether you’re up on a trail, by the river, strolling the streets of downtown or parked somewhere to enjoy the view, watching the Missoula skyline slowly disappear behind a stunning display of changing colors is a quiet, meaningful and romantic way to slow down and connect.
