Missoula’s midtown is home to an eclectic mix of local spots and major retailers in the city’s center. With several shopping centers, beloved hometown restaurants and breweries, and all kinds of activities, this is the perfect neighborhood for those looking for a more laid-back, residential vibe.
There’s this place that makes everyone feel like a local.
Missoula’s midtown is just that—right in the middle of everything. With easy access to hiking and wildlife watching on the south hill, to a plethora of shopping, dining and entertainment, there’s something for everyone in this neighborhood. Whether you’re looking to spend a day shopping (tax free!) until you drop, enjoying a movie on the big screen or coming face to face with insects and butterflies, Midtown has it all.
Midtown is brimming with exciting year-round attractions for all ages. Missoula Butterfly House and Insectarium houses bugs from all over the world, and allows visitors to get up-close-and-personal with some of their favorite butterflies, insects and creepy crawlies. When the weather’s cold, take a spin around Glacier Ice Rink, a community ice rink offering open skating for everyone to enjoy. Throughout the summer, catch an outdoor movie at the Missoula Fairgrounds, where the whole family can cozy up on the grass, and watch their favorite film under the stars. For year-round movie-goers the AMC Dine-In Southgate 9 is a luxury theater with a full bar and restaurant, and reclining seats so you can enjoy your movie in complete comfort. For a family-friendly activity, Lookout Throwing Co. offers axe throwing games suitable for throwers of all skill levels.
With endless options for dining and drinking in midtown, the hardest part is always choosing where to start. From a casual neighborhood breakfast spot, to elevated Mexican cuisine, there’s no shortage of meals to suit everyone’s palate. Paul’s Pancake Parlor is a favorite among locals, with its casual atmosphere and delicious breakfast fare making for the perfect way to start a laid-back weekend. Looking to grab a drink? Pay a visit to OddPitch Brewing, a brewery crafting libations of all kinds, from IPA’s to seltzers. Stop by on a Sunday afternoon to sip on a brew and watch the weekly pinball tournament. If you’re hoping to hit a hometown spot, head to Great Burn Brewing, a neighborhood brewery serving up their craft brewed beers and ever-rotating tap list. The Dram Shop’s Southgate Location offers a diverse lineup of beers, wines, seltzers and ciders in a relaxing setting, and if you’re craving a burger after a couple of drinks, don’t miss Double K Ranch and Deli right next door. Serving up locally-sourced beef, this spot also features an artisan grocery where you can pick up all your hosting necessities. Swing by in the morning to grab one of their legendary breakfast burritos—featuring their mouth-watering pork fat french fries.
This part of town is the hub for shopping for all of your wants (and your needs). For a one-stop-shop, head to Southgate Mall to find a diverse selection of stores, with everything from unique clothing to specialty candy and toys. Home to big brand names like Scheels, Dillards and Lululemon, this is the premier shopping destination for this part of town. Where Brooks Street meets Reserve Street, you’ll find great shopping options at the intersection of these two thoroughfares. With Bass Pro Shop to outfit your wilderness adventure, Boot Barn to update your Western wardrobe, and Kohl's to browse the latest styles, your closet will be ready for wherever Missoula takes you. In the heart of midtown, Tremper’s Square has a plethora of dining and shopping, including hometown favorite, The Book Exchange. Offering both new and used titles, this spot is the perfect place to spend an afternoon lost in a book.
There’s always something going on in Missoula, and midtown is no exception. At the end of the summer, the fairgrounds come alive for the Western Montana Fair. With rodeos, animal showings, concerts and a midway, this is the event of the season. When the weather gets colder, head to Glacier Ice Rink to catch a Griz Hockey match, where the energy is electric and the arena is packed with students and locals alike.
As the weather warms up, Missoula County Fairgrounds prepares for the city’s newest summertime tradition, Zootown Music Festival. With a can’t-miss lineup of all your favorite artists, this is one event you won’t want to miss.
Lodging in this part of town is accessible, with all of midtown’s amenities right at your doorstep. For casual accommodations, rest your head at the Sleep Inn. Just minutes away from shopping and dining, this spot is right off of Brooks Street—the main drag in this part of town. Looking for something a little more upscale? The Gibson Mansion Bed and Breakfast is a thoughtfully restored home in the heart of the neighborhood, just a short drive away from all the hiking and biking in Pattee Canyon. Find more information on lodging in Missoula here.
