"Missoula - unfortunately for a funeral" Missoula by andyma

The University of Montana is a large presence in the city. It keeps the area moving, young, and growing.
It has a good selection of unusual or more traditional restaurants. Lots of shops, coffee spots, big box retail, and interesting places to hang out. A small but swift river runs through the city/campus. As you might expect, the downtown area close to campus is older, eclectic, and fun. The newer parts of town, especially to the west, features larger, more traditional restaurants and stores.
The geography surrounding the city is beautiful. Low mountains surround the area, most notably, Mount Sentinel, which features an enormous "M" commissioned by the U many years ago that's visible when it's not snowy. Mount Sentinel has a rotating white beacon that's visible for miles through the river valley unless obstructed by weather.

It's small, so it's easy to get in and out of. I-80 is about a half-mile from the airport and is plainly visible.
You can get from the airport to downtown in 10 minutes, easy.

• Pros:Small, easy to get around, beautiful scenery