The early inhabitants of Missoula land were the American Indians from the Salish tribe. The inhabitants referred to the area as "Nemissoolatakoo," from which the "Missoula" name was derived. Missoula translates to "river of surprise," reflecting the inter-tribal wars common in the area. The Lewis and Clark expedition's passing through Missoula valley led to the Indians' first encounter with the Whites. The opening of a trading post known as the Hellgate village on the Blackfoot River led to the first permanent white settlements in Missoula valley. The trading post led to the opening of flour and sawmill, referred to as "Missoula Mills" by the settlers. The completion of the Mullan Road that connected Fort Benton with Walla Walla saw the fast growth of Missoula. Additionally, the establishment of Armies of Fort Missoula and the arrival of the Pacific Railroad led to Missoula becoming the trading center. The success of the city was fueled by two factors. The opening of the University of Montana served as the center of advanced learning in Western Montana. The second factor was Missoula becoming the county's HQs for the Forest Service. The Aerial Fire Depot was created in the city leading to the establishment of a big industry that saw the entry of the first pulp mill in Missoula. For an extended period, logging was the main industry in Missoula. Almost all the county labor wages were from wood and paper products. Unfortunately, the early recession hit the lumber industry so hard, leading to the diversification of Missoula's economy. The city took a different turn and focused more on the healthcare and education industries. With time, the industries became the leading employers in the city. However, these industries with additional business and professional services became the main economic drivers of Missoula's growth.

There is nothing as fulfilling as enjoying the beauty of Missoula on a bicycle. Rent a bike and go mountain biking at the Rattlesnake recreation area or explore the old Hiawatha rail Trail. You can also take a trip day out from Missoula and head over to Montana's State Parks to enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, fishing, boating, camping or swimming. If that is not enough, you can consider learning about aerial firefighting at Smokejumper Visitor Center. While at this place, you will get trained on how to smoke jump or enjoy watching the displays and videos on fire suppression.

If you are a shopping enthusiast, Missoula has lots of choices. Spend a day at the Southgate Mall or visit the downtown shops to purchase unique Missoula products. You can also visit Farmers Markets and be sure to have fun as you browse through the locally produced foods and handcrafted goods. You can also experience shopping at the winter market. You can purchase a unique gift for someone you love in the winter market or get the perfect item to remember your stay in the city.

Enhance your creative skills at Pine & Company. The company is a custom sign-making studio situated in downtown Missoula. If you are not the craftiest person, don't worry, as the company will ensure you walk out with wall-worthy, handmade home decor. Alternatively, you can book a private workshop to have your skills developed.

From the unique feel of downtown to the outer parts of Missoula, you can enjoy various food scenes in different local restaurants. Looking for something new to make your taste buds happy? Try a Bison Burger. In addition, you can also treat yourself to hand-tossed Pizza as you enjoy top-notch waterfront views at DoubleTree. You can keep your experience casual with Pizza and beer on the patio or level it up with fine dining and cocktails at FINN restaurants. Living in Missoula, you can be sure of plenty of options to explore.