There’s a certain charm about small towns, a kind of magic that’s hard to pin down but impossible to ignore. For us, living in Missoula, it can actually feel too big sometimes. I know! Missoula isn’t big compared to a city – but you know what I mean? Missoula’s not the same Missoula that it used to be! So now, if you want a small town, you gotta take a drive.
A mere hour’s drive from home, Hamilton is one of our escapes where time slows down and the world somehow feels simpler, more authentic.
As we drive the scenic route along US-93 S, flanked by the Bitterroot’s distant peaks and cliffs, we often find ourselves reflecting on life. The car ride offers a rare uninterrupted space for us to just talk – about how far we’ve come, about gratitude, about our journey. “Remember ten years ago?” we often say. It’s a ritual of ours, this retrospection. “We were were just kids – we just met! And we were sort of just floating through life in comparison to now it seems like…”
We reminisce about the days before the kids, the job changes, the self-growth, the marriage. Some people call this “relishing”. And some people say you should do this once a week. So that’s what we do! We ponder the linear progression of life, acknowledging the past but also looking forward to what the future may hold. It’s a time of connection and introspection and trying to focus on what we’re grateful for.
Because there’s always things in life that you want. For example – I would love to have a Tesla or an RV but I can’t afford it. So it’s nice to take my mind off of these things and to focus on what we do have – and the things that are actually really important.
Arriving in Hamilton
Arriving in Hamilton, the magic is palpable. The town’s enchantment reminds me of my childhood in Helena, a place where we roamed freely, not a care in the world. A time before the internet, before everything was at our fingertips, and yet, everything felt within our reach. We love swinging by Hamilton’s bustling Farmer’s Market on warm Saturday mornings. It’s a vibrant, colorful affair, and our kids’ excitement is infectious. The local produce, the handmade crafts, the friendly chatter – it’s a sensory delight and a community experience that’s genuinely heartwarming.
There’s a strong sense of politics there – obviously mostly right-leaning – and for some reason we get a kick out of seeing the liberal booths perched right next to the conservative booths.
And then there’s the food – an understated culinary treasure.
BOUILLA
Nestled in the heart of Hamilton, Montana, lies a culinary gem that goes by the name of Bouilla. Established in September of 2013, Bouilla was born out of a desire to create more than just a successful eatery; it was designed to serve as a community oasis.
The minute you walk through the doors, you’re welcomed by a spacious, inviting dining room that exudes a chilled vibe. You instantly feel at home, setting the tone for the relaxed and enjoyable experience that awaits you.
The magic of Bouilla lies in its menu, a remarkable array of dishes meticulously handcrafted from scratch. A testament to the chefs’ creativity and passion, the menu boasts a diverse array of flavors and textures, each dish carefully crafted to bring out the best of its ingredients.
One standout from the menu is their Half Sweet Potato Fries. Priced at $4.50, this dish offers a beautiful balance of sweet and savory. Served with a unique curry BBQ sauce, it’s an unexpected twist on a classic dish that’s sure to please your taste buds.
For a heartier option, the Mi-So Hungry Burger, priced at $15, is a must-try. It features a beautifully cooked burger topped with curry BBQ sauce, pepper jack cheese, and a slice of juicy grilled pineapple. Finished off with a topping of miso slaw, it’s a blend of flavors that’s both surprising and incredibly satisfying.
If you’re looking for something a bit lighter, the Lemon-Curry Tempeh offers a delicious and nutritious option. Priced at $14, this vibrant dish combines fresh cabbage, carrot, celery, red peppers, green onions, and cilantro. Tossed in a lemon-curry vinaigrette and topped with peanuts and seared fresh tempeh, it’s a delightful explosion of flavors that leaves you feeling full yet light.
What truly sets Bouilla apart, however, is its service. The staff at Bouilla are professional and personable, expertly walking the fine line between being attentive without being intrusive. Their love for what they do shines through, adding an extra layer of warmth to your dining experience.
The Toy Shop
We notice that if we stop by a toy shop before we go to dinner or lunch, and if we buy a toy that is “constructive”, that makes our kids “think”, then they will have a blast at lunch trying to solve a puzzle. Or, it can give them something fun to draw! Hey, whatever gets us through lunch with a multitude of kids so no one is bored, right?
Thus, for your healthy dose of nostalgia – Mainstreet Toys. This locally owned and operated toy store is more than just a shop; it’s an adventure waiting to unfold for every member of the family.
At Mainstreet Toys, the selection is vast and varied, encompassing everything from the newest trends to timeless classics. Whether you’re looking for arts and crafts to spark your child’s creativity, engaging board games for family game nights, or puzzles to challenge the mind, you’re sure to find it here. The store boasts a giant chalkboard and a giant Lite-Brite, providing hands-on fun that transcends age limits. Moreover, areas inside and outside the store are specifically designed for kids of all ages to try out the toys before making their pick.
Indeed, Hamilton is one of our many escapes for a quick jaunt out of Missoula to enter a literal different world. It’s one of those places that reminds us of the importance of taking a step back, of savoring the moment, and of cherishing the simple joys in life.
John Michaels, a Missoula native and author, has been captivating readers with his writing for years. A graduate of Brown University’s esteemed creative writing program, Michaels has spent the majority of his career crafting stories that resonate with his readers and capture the essence of the human experience. Despite the demands of raising children, Michaels has continued to pursue his passions, finding solace in the bustling downtown Missoula scene. There, he spends his free time honing his craft, whether it be working on short stories, playing music, or dedicating himself to his work at Sunflower Counseling, MT.