Missoula Events – Anyone? Anyone?
With winter here, it can be hard to come up with activities for your family to do. It’s just can be a stressful time because we’re so locked inside all the time! And so our counselors are always being asked “How do we make the best of these cold days?”
While we may not be able to travel far from home, there are still plenty of fun places to take your family to in Missoula once the temperature drops. Let’s explore some of the best places in town that will keep you, your family, and kids entertained and warm this winter!
Missoula Public Library
The Missoula Public Library is a great place to spend time with your family this winter. This wonderful resource offers a variety of programs and events for children of all ages. From story time for toddlers to book clubs for tweens and teens, there’s something for everyone at the library! Plus, they offer free Wi-Fi and access to computers, so you can stay connected while you explore.
https://www.missoulapubliclibrary.org/
Storytime:
Tiny Tales for kids:
Scheel’s in the Southgate Mall
Scheel’s Mall is another great spot in the cold months. Not only does it have a variety of stores that offer entertainment for kids, but it also has an indoor play area where they can run around and let off some steam! Not bad! There’s also a literal bowling alley with two entire lanes. Sure, it’s a little small but still! The kids love it.
Throw in a shooting range (with laser guns) and an arcade and wowsers we’re onto something.
Plus, it’s conveniently located right inside the Southgate Mall so you won’t have far to go if you need anything while you’re there. Plus it’s a great work out! Who needs the gym? Speaking of which – check out my blog on mall wogging:
The Roxy Theater
If you’re looking for something a little different than the usual movies at home or at the theater, why not check out The Roxy Theater? This historic theater has been showing classic films since 1935 and is sure to entertain both parents and kids alike! It’s also a great way to support local businesses during these tough times. https://www.theroxytheater.org/
Virtual Reality Arena – Big Sky Arcadia
If your kids are looking for something more active than browsing through books or shopping at stores, then head over to the Virtual Reality Arena in the Southgate Mall! This family-friendly venue offers virtual reality games as well as arcade games and snacks for visitors to enjoy. And because it’s indoors, you won’t have to worry about braving cold temperatures outside! Whether your kids want an afternoon filled with adventure or just need somewhere comfortable and safe to hang out during winter months, Virtual Reality Arena has them covered!
Snowshoeing
Snowshoeing is a great way for families to get outside and experience the beauty of winter while getting some exercise. It’s a low-impact activity that doesn’t require any special skills or knowledge. Plus, it’s a great chance to explore nature and discover new places. You can rent snowshoes at local sporting goods stores or purchase them online.
Ice Skating
Ice skating is another wonderful winter activity that is perfect for the whole family. Whether you’re an experienced skater or just starting out, you can find rinks in Missoula where you can practice your skills or just have fun with friends and family. Be sure to dress warmly if you plan on spending any length of time on the ice!
Sledding
Sledding is one of those classic winter activities that never gets old! If you’re looking for a more thrilling ride, there are several hills in Missoula with steep inclines perfect for sledding down. However, if you’re looking for something more sedate, there are smaller hills available too. Don’t forget helmets–safety first!
Family Ski Trip
One of the most popular winter activities in Missoula is skiing. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced skier, there is something for everyone at one of Missoula’s ski resorts. Many resorts offer lessons for children and adults alike, so even if you have never been on skis before, you can still enjoy the slopes with your family this winter.
Snowbowl Resort is a popular ski area located just a short drive from Missoula. It offers a diverse range of ski runs, from beginner slopes to challenging black diamond runs. The resort also features a terrain park for snowboarders. https://www.montanasnowbowl.com/
Lolo Pass is another popular ski area near Missoula, known for its stunning views and well-groomed ski runs. It offers a variety of slopes for skiers of all levels, as well as cross-country skiing trails. https://www.missoulanordic.org/lolo-pass
Seeley Lake Nordic Center is a cross-country ski area located near Missoula. It offers a peaceful and scenic setting for skiers, with well-maintained trails and breathtaking views. https://www.seeleylakenordic.org/
Restaurants
Missoula, Montana, offers many great restaurants to warm up and enjoy a delicious meal on a cold winter day. Here are a few of the best options:
- Finn – What a view! This is our favorite restaurant in Missoula. Great food, great everything. https://finnmissoula.com/
- Tamarack Brewing Company: Tamarack Brewing Company is a brewpub in Missoula that offers a warm and inviting atmosphere. They serve a variety of beer, as well as pub food, including burgers, sandwiches, and appetizers. https://www.tamarackbrewing.com/missoula
- Iron Horse Bar & Grill: Iron Horse Bar & Grill is a cozy restaurant in Missoula that specializes in American comfort food. They offer dishes such as macaroni and cheese, chicken pot pie, and meatloaf, making it a great place to warm up on a cold winter day. https://www.ironhorsebrewpub.com/
Conclusion
Missoula offers countless opportunities for family fun even when temperatures drop outside. Whether you visit the Missoula Public Library or take your kids on an adventure through Scheel’s Mall or The Roxy Theater, there’s something special about each place that will make this winter season memorable for years to come. So grab your coats and scarves, bundle up with your family, and get out there! Enjoy exploring what Missoula has to offer this winter season!
John Michaels is a local Missoula author who graduated from Brown University in creative writing. In between raising kids, he spends his time meandering around downtown Missoula, writing screenplays, playing chess, and writing blogs for Sunflower Counseling, MT.