The United States 2000 Census showed the population of Missoula to be 57,053, with an estimation of more than 100,000 in the surrounding area, making it the second-largest city in Montana.
Because Missoula is one of the west's most sophisticated smaller cities, it offers many advantages of a larger city. The University of Montana is located here, along with Community Medical Center and Saint Patrick's Hospital. Both the University and the regional medical centers form the economic base of the city, offering many health services and jobs.
As the cultural hub of Montana, Missoula offers a wide range of attractions including delightful shops, fine dining establishments, an array of coffee houses, an exciting nightlife and many sporting events. Missoula even has its own local, minor league baseball team, The Missoula Osprey.
Spending time in Missoula is easy. Some of the wonderful places to visit include: A Carousel for Missoula/Dragon Hollow, Missoula Art Museum, The Historical Museum at Fort Missoula, The Montana Natural History Center, The Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation Wildlife Visitor Center, The Smokejumper Visitor Center, St. Francis Xavier Church and The Children's Museum, Missoula, to name a few.
Missoula also boasts several important events including: The International Wildlife Film Festival, The International Choral Festival, The Farmer's Market, Saturday Arts and Crafts Market, and First Night Missoula. In addition, The Missoula Symphony, The Missoula Children's Theatre, and The University of Montana performing arts program continue to entertain the public.
Outdoor Recreation
Surrounded by the Rocky Mountains of western Montana, Missoula lies in the convergence of five valleys. Three major rivers, the Clark Fork River, the Bitterroot River and the Blackfoot River wind around and through town. Missoula's unique geography creates many opportunities for fun-filled activities in any season.
Nothing is better than summer in Missoula. Bicycle through town, fly fish in the Clark Fork River, or kayak down Brennan's Wave. Stay cool by splashing in one of the many splash decks or swim at a water park. Within a couple of miles of Missoula, you can hike or backpack in the Rattlesnake National Recreation Area or the Bob Marshal Wilderness Area. You could also join a horse packing trip or a whitewater rafting trip. The choices never end.
If you like winter, you will love winter in Missoula. Only twenty minutes from town is Montana Snowbowl ski area, where beginners and experts alike enjoy downhill skiing and snowboarding. Add to that, several other ski areas within a three-hour drive, and you have a skier's paradise. Also, cross-country skiing and snowmobiling trails abound. The choices continue with ice skating and ice fishing. And, after all that cold weather excitement, a soak in a nearby, natural hot springs is always soothing.
When you live in Missoula, you don't have to choose between culture and recreation. You can find it all, right in your own backyard.
