It’s no secret that Missoula is known for its incredible winter recreation. From skiing and snowboarding, to snowmobiling and snowshoeing—Missoula has it all! The town attracts outdoor enthusiasts to experience the multitude of exhilarating winter activities. But not everyone is interested in winter sports, and even for those who are, sometimes it’s just nice to take a break from the cold. Here are five things to do this Missoula winter that are fun AND will keep you toasty warm.
Photo courtesy of Highlander Beer.
A couple of Missoula’s local eateries offer heated geodesic dome rentals where you can drink, dine and watch the snow fall around you. Head over to Highlander Brewing with friends and family for a crisp, locally crafted beverage inside a fire stove heated igloo, or swing by the Top Hat downtown to enjoy a truly mouthwatering Bison burger with a side of their famous Golden Tots and creamy aioli dipping sauce—all comfortably nestled inside a warm dome on their outdoor patio.
If you’d rather get a warm drink to go, take it with you to Glacier Ice Rink for a fun and inexpensive day of indoor ice skating. Rental skates are available, cheerful music is played on an overhead speaker, and hearty concessions are sold!
Need ideas for holiday shopping? Missoula boasts a variety of local stores downtown that offer everything from artisanal crafts and chic clothing, to novelty items and children's toys. If it’s too cold to bounce from shop to shop downtown, try the Southgate Mall. Not only will it offer an array of options—both local and chain—you might just run into Santa while perusing the decked out shopping center!
There’s nothing better than sipping a seasonal beverage at one of Missoula’s local coffee or tea shops. Snuggle up with a good book, or simply gaze out the window at the festive holiday decorations. Butterfly Herbs, Liquid Planet, Clyde Coffee and the Lake Missoula Tea Company are just a few of the many tea and coffee staples in Missoula.
Even though it seems like winter is just getting started, you may already be missing the river. The sunny weather and fun water activities seem like a distant memory, but just outside of Missoula you can experience that warm feeling again. There are many natural hot springs within a short drive from the city that are perfect for soaking frozen fingers and toes! Experience these geothermal hot tubs in nature day or night, taking in the beautiful, frigid landscape while you stay toasty warm.
