Many people know Missoula, Montana as being home to the University of Montana. It’s a funky, eclectic progressive college town. It’s also a city of astounding natural beauty, located at the convergence of the Clark Fork River and five mountain ranges. Even better, it has a vibrant and thriving LGBTQ community. If you’re thinking of finding your next home in Missoula, chances are, you’ll find plenty about it to love!
A Look at Missoula’s History
Missoula has a fascinating history that dates back at least 12,000 years. It was once covered by glacier lake water which evaporated at the end of the last Ice Age. As a result, it is a stunningly beautiful area. Its more modern-day history began with Lewis and Clark reaching the area in the mid-1800s. It was initially a trading post but grew quickly after the founding of the University of Montana in the late 1800s and because it was named as a regional headquarters for the United States Forest Service. Throughout the years, Missoula has grown in diversity, and today is vibrant, and thriving city with plenty of opportunities and much to see and do for all who call it home.
A Few Fun Facts About Missoula
Read more fun facts about Missoula here.
Missoula’s LGBTQ Community
Missoula is a city with a thriving and diverse LGBTQ community that is supported by various resources, including:
The Western Montana Community Center
The Western Montana Community Center is headquartered in Missoula and is a community-based volunteer organization that seeks to promote LGBTQ+ inclusivity, support, recognition, and respect through various events throughout the year. It seeks to provide resources and build community across Western Montana.
What's the Weather Like in Missoula?
In Missoula, residents can expect to experience all four distinct seasons each year. This means cold winters with moderate snowfall and hot, sunny summers, along with mild and pleasant spring and fall seasons. Temperatures typically reach an average high of 85°F in July, and an average low of 18°F in January. Missoula gets 15 inches of rain and 40 inches of snow, on average, per year.
Can’t-Miss Events in Missoula
If you live in Missoula, you won’t want to miss this three-day party. It is the perfect time to get together with friends and allies and celebrate all that the LGBTQ community adds to the greater Missoula area!
Each year, Missoula hosts the famed International Choral Festival, which started in 1987. The festival draws talented choirs from around the world, and it’s one even you’ll want to be sure to put on your calendar.
The Best Neighborhoods in Missoula
If you're considering moving to Missoula, you will find that the entire city is very welcoming. Unlike some cities that tend to have one specific “gayborhood,” the LGBTQ community in Missoula is sprinkled throughout the city, so there are many neighborhoods that would make wonderful places to call home. Regardless of the neighborhood you choose, it is always advised to contact a Missoula gay realtor who knows and loves the community, and who can help you find the perfect home in the ideal neighborhood. The current median list price of homes for sale in Missoula is around $585,000.
Arts and Entertainment
Those who want to enjoy excellent performing arts need look no further than the Missoula Community Theatre. Throughout the year this 300-seat venue puts on a wide variety of shows in different genres. All are excellent and there is truly something for everyone to enjoy. Don’t miss your chance to see a show (or several!) for yourself.
Missoula is a town with a thriving arts scene, and as a result, it has some excellent art galleries. In addition, the Montana Museum of Art and Culture has an incredible permanent collection for visitors to enjoy.
Parks and Recreation
Missoula Butterfly House and Insectarium
The Missoula Butterfly House and Insectarium is a fascinating place where visitors can learn about an amazing variety of butterflies and insects from around the world, enjoy many family-friendly activities, and even enjoy the Bugs and Brews program which offers visitors great regional beer. It’s a unique Missoula place that you’ll definitely want to try.
Caras Park is a truly amazing Missoula park. It is much like a town square and is full of food trucks and beautiful green spaces. It also often hosts a variety of fun events throughout the year. It also has a perfect location along the Clark Fork Riverfront Trail, so it’s a great place for exercise, activity, and fun.
Missoula Nightlife
For those who live in Missoula, there are no shortage of excellent craft breweries. Many of these popular spots offer great food in addition to excellent unique locally brewed beers and the spots are friendly and welcoming to all. Make sure to try them all!
The Badlander is one of the most popular nightspots in the city. It’s a great place for music, a lively dance floor, karaoke, strong drinks, and plenty of opportunities for fun.
Contact a Missoula Gay Realtor Today
If you're ready to make a move to Missoula, at www.gayrealestate.com, we're here to help you take the first step toward finding an agent who knows and loves the community, and who can help you find a home and a neighborhood you'll love. We're proud to have a network of excellent realtors in Missoula, and we would love to help connect you with the right one. Contact a Missoula gay realtor today for a free, no-obligation consultation!
