I Asked Our AI-Travel Planner for a Weekend Adventure in Missoula — Here’s What It Created

I love Missoula, Montana. I have loved this college town since my first visit nearly a decade ago. Each time I drive through on Interstate 90, I carefully time my visit so I can stop to enjoy a meal at one of the local restaurants, walk along the river, or even explore the downtown area.

With a visit to Missoula planned this upcoming summer, I decided to do something a little different — I turned to AI to create my itinerary. Actually, I turned to Only In Your State’s award-winning AI-powered Dashboard trip planner. This unique AI tool creates custom adventures based on our Only In Your State curated editorial content library. I simply told the Dashboard that I was traveling to Missoula for a weekend in July, I would be with my family, and I wanted an itinerary filled with outdoor activities, delicious food, and unique places to stay. The following are the recommendations I received.

What do you think of the results?

Things to do in Missoula, Montana

Rattlesnake National Recreation Area

This incredible wilderness area is tucked within Lolo National Forest and is just a few miles north of Missoula. You can spend an entire day (or even multiple days) here, as you’ll find more than 30 miles of trails, breathtaking views, and even some incredible wildlife. Within this area, you’ll find some long trails that are perfect for backpacking adventures, but for a day hike recommendation with some beautiful views, check out the Sawmill Curry Gulch Loop Trail.

Clark Fork River

Since I plan to visit Missoula in the middle of summer, I was happy to see a visit to the Clark Fork River on my itinerary. This is one of the most popular places to float the river in Missoula and you’ll find several places along the way to hop in and out of the water. One of the most popular floats is from Sha-Ron River Access to Caras Park. This float trip takes approximately two hours but you can always travel down the river in kayaks or stand-up paddleboards for a little faster adventure as well.

Caras Park

There’s nothing quite like a summer evening spent at Caras Park in downtown Missoula. This city park is located right along the river and is filled with attractions, beauty, and events. Put on your walking shoes and take a stroll along the Riverfront Walking Trail or just sit on the grass and watch a sunset. This is also a great place to stop and watch kayakers as they brave Brennan’s Wave, a man-made wave on the Clark Fork River. You may also want to unleash your inner child and take a ride on A Carousel for Missoula, or attend one of the many events happening in the park all summer long.

Places to eat in Missoula, Montana

1889 Steakhouse

My favorite places to eat are delicious steakhouses and very few compare to 1889. This incredible restaurant uses local and regionally-sourced ingredients and has a drink menu that you’ll love. 1889 serves dinner seven days a week, and you’ll find items on the menu such as oysters on the half-shell, filet mignon, and king salmon. Save room for dessert as you’ll have options like butterscotch crème brulee and lemon blueberry cheesecake. I strongly recommend making reservations for your visit.

Places to Stay in Missoula, Montana

Blue Mountain Bed and Breakfast

Yes, Missoula has some incredible hotels to consider, but I was excited to see Blue Mountain Bed and Breakfast on my itinerary. This delightful bed and breakfast features various rooms with rustic vibes, plush bedding, and private bathrooms. Not to mention, you will enjoy gorgeous views of the mountains, forest, or valley, with a delicious breakfast served each morning. Doesn't it sound absolutely dreamy?

Gibson Mansion Bed and Breakfast

If you’d like to stay right in the heart of town, the Gibson Mansion Bed and Breakfast will not disappoint. This bed and breakfast is located within a restored Victorian mansion and is where you’ll enjoy history, comfort, hospitality, and so much more. The home is beautiful and you’ll notice historic touches all throughout. There are private bathrooms, a delicious breakfast, and a cereal and snack bar that is available 24/7. Don’t forget to spend some time walking around the mansion's property — it’s truly breathtaking.

So, what are your thoughts on this weekend getaway to Missoula, Montana? What other attractions, restaurants, or accommodations would you include? Let me know by filling out this nomination form. I’d love to hear from you. You can also try Only In Your State’s AI-powered dashboard trip planner for your upcoming adventures. Let me know what it recommends for you.