You could easily dedicate a day or more to visiting the museums and historical attractions around Missoula. Montana boasts a wealth of settler and prospecting artifacts from the country's westward expansion in addition to contemporary cultural treasures.
To get your bearings and fully understand the when, where and how of Missoula's early days, begin at the Historical Museum at Fort Missoula. Built in 1877, the Fort sits on 32 acres that feature 13 historical structures, many of which house exhibits. The Historical Museum presents a window back in time as America focused on westward expansion and shows how it impacted Missoula.
Keeping on the historical path, head next to the Museum of Mountain Flying. The Museum is a great opportunity to get up close and personal with vintage aircrafts, artifacts, memorabilia, historical documents and more.
After you’ve caught a glimpse into Missoula’s past, journey back to the present at the Missoula Art Museum. This nonprofit museum is conveniently located in the heart of downtown Missoula, and showcases contemporary art exhibits relevant to our community, state and region. Plus, admission is free so you can swing by anytime you feel like a creative detour from your day downtown.
Don't stop there—Missoula has many more museums to satisfy the most curious minds.
Historical Museum at Fort Missoula
Missoula Art Museum
Montana Museum of Art & Culture
Montana Museum of Work History Inc.
Montana Natural History Center
Museum of Mountain Flying
National Museum of Forest Service History
Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation's Visitor Center
Rocky Mountain Museum of Military History
Smokejumper Visitor Center
