10 Must-Do Family-Friendly Activities in Missoula, Montana (No Hiking Required!)
- Travel Missoula
- May 13
- 3 min read
Missoula offers an incredible variety of family-friendly attractions, from interactive museums to exciting entertainment venues. With a rental car from Missoula Adventure Rentals, you can easily explore all these amazing activities at your own pace.
Welcome to Missoula, Montana - where family adventures come to life! Nestled in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, this vibrant city offers countless opportunities for family fun without ever needing to hit the trails. Whether you're visiting for a weekend or planning an extended stay, having a reliable vehicle from Missoula Adventure Rentals ensures you can comfortably explore all the city has to offer.
Missoula sees over 4,800 daily visitors during peak summer months, with tourism contributing $5.4 billion to Montana's economy in 2023.
To help you make the most of your family trip, we've curated this list of 10 fantastic activities that cater to all ages and interests.
1. A Carousel for Missoula & Dragon Hollow Play Area
This hand-carved carousel is a community treasure featuring 38 unique horses. Adjacent to the carousel, Dragon Hollow Play Area offers a magical playground that sparks children's imaginations.
Hours: Daily 11 AM - 5:30 PM
Cost: $1 per ride
Perfect for: All ages
Why we love it: Central downtown location with ample parking for your rental vehicle
"The carousel and playground combo makes this our family's favorite stop in Missoula!" - Local Parent
2. Missoula Butterfly House and Insectarium
Get up close with beautiful butterflies and fascinating insects at this unique attraction. The facility offers daily butterfly releases and hands-on exhibits that educate and entertain.
Hours: Tue-Sat 10 AM-5 PM, Sun 12 PM-4 PM
Admission: $4 adults, free under 3
Best for: Budding scientists ages 3+
Transport tip: Easy parking available for your Missoula Adventure Rentals vehicle
3. SpectrUM Discovery Area
This interactive science center brings learning to life with engaging exhibits on robotics, physics, and more. Located downtown, it's easily accessible with your rental car.
Hours: Wed-Fri 11 AM-6 PM, Sat 10 AM-5 PM
Cost: $3.50 per person
Highlight: Water table and maker space
4. Historical Museum at Fort Missoula
Journey through Montana's past across 32 acres of historic grounds. Having a rental car makes visiting this slightly out-of-town location convenient.
FeatureDetailsHoursDaily 12 PM-5 PMAdmission$4 adults, $2 childrenMust-SeeHistoric buildings & exhibits
Feature | Details |
Hours | Daily 12pm-5pm |
Admission | $4 adults, $2 children |
Must-See | Historic buildings & exhibits |
5. Missoula Art Museum
Inspire creativity at this contemporary art museum offering free admission and family workshops.
Hours: Tue-Sat 10 AM-5 PM
Special: Free art activities for kids
Why visit: Perfect cultural stop on your itinerary
6. Splash Montana (Seasonal)
Cool off at Missoula's premier water park - pack your rental car with towels and sunscreen!Summer Hours:Daily 11 AM-6 PM
Features:Multiple pools, slides, and concessions
7. Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation
Learn about wildlife conservation through interactive exhibits.
Hours: Mon-Sat 9 AM-5 PM
Admission: Free
Parking: Spacious lot for your rental vehicle
8. Currents Aquatics Center
Year-round swimming fun with features for all ages.
Indoor facility: Perfect any weather
Activities: Lazy river, water slides, swim lessons
9. Get Air Trampoline Park
Let kids bounce off energy at this indoor trampoline park.
Hours: Daily 10 AM-10 PM
Best for: Ages 3+
Safety: Supervised jumping areas
10. Missoula Public Library
A modern marvel with children's area and maker space.
Hours: Mon-Thu 10 AM-8 PM, Fri-Sat 10 AM-6 PM, Sun 12 PM-5 PM
Cost: Free
Features: Regular family programming
Why Choose Missoula Adventure Rentals?
Exploring these fantastic attractions is easiest with your own wheels.
Missoula Adventure Rentals offers:
✅ Family-friendly vehicle options
✅ Convenient pickup locations
✅ Local knowledge and support
✅ Competitive rates
Pro Tip: Book your rental car in advance during peak summer months when visitor numbers grow by 8.8%.
Planning Your Perfect Missoula Itinerary
Book your rental car through Missoula Adventure Rentals
Group activities by location to maximize time
Mix paid and free attractions
Check seasonal hours before visiting
Allow flexibility for spontaneous fun
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