Montana’s bar scene is colorful and diverse like its surrounding natural scenery. From casual bars with some of the best beer around to upscale craft-brew spots to lively and family-friendly sports bars, you’ll likely be spoilt for choice in some of the best bars in Missoula.
Beer is a firm favorite and an integral part of the local culture in Missoula as demonstrated by the various bars, taprooms, and distilleries in the town. This is a great part of Montana to grab a beer and a bite to eat, and whatever kind of vibe you are looking for in a bar you’ll find it in Missoula.
Eight of the Best Missoula Bars
- The Rhinoceros
- James Bar
- Top Hat Lounge
- Tamarack Brewing Company
- The Badlander
- Iron Horse Brew Pub
- The Press Box
- Charlie B’s
1. The Rhinoceros
The “Rhino,” as it’s affectionately known, has been a staple in Missoula for more than 30 years, and offers a tavern-like atmosphere in Montana style. Here you’ll find more than 50 beers on tap leaning mostly towards the local and the craft, and the same amount of single-malt scotches available.
With plenty of limited-edition options and daily specials on offer, the Rhino has a kind of speakeasy vibe indoors that includes free pool and shuffleboard, while there is a nice open beer garden for the warmer weather.
What to Try
Look out for the specials which change on a daily basis such as the 32 oz can of ‘High Life’ for $4 on Sundays.
2. James Bar
The owners of James Bar opened the doors in 2007 with the intention of offering a somewhat more cultured Montana bar experience than what they had seen before.
There’s plenty of quality beer, whisky, spirits, wine, and specials all served to the musical backdrop that gives the place a vibrant and lively feel. You can also enjoy high-quality, local-flavored cuisine in the friendly and accommodating atmosphere of James Bar.
What to Try
Local draught beer favorites such as the Kettle House Cold Smoke Scotch Ale and the Blackfoot Brewing IPA accompany a range of burgers, sliders, and other mouth-watering bar snacks.
3. Top Hat Lounge
Top Hat Lounge is another Missoula staple that is not only a great bar but is also a local live entertainment hot spot. You wouldn’t believe that this place has been around for the best part of 70 years when witnessing the polished, modern interior and wide range of upscale craft beers and such like.
The on-tap beers are numerous, the cocktails are trendy, and there’s an impressive food menu with a few thoughtful options like antibiotic-free chicken, wild-caught tuna, and a good few other specific dietary options including paleo and vegan. To top that there’s a nice outdoor patio area from which to soak up the evenings in the warmer months.
What to Try
Maybe a pickled avocado chicken sandwich or a Wisconsin cheddar burger with grass-fed beef. In terms of beer, there are the local draught favorites such as the Bitter Root Single Hop or the Kettlehouse Cold Smoke.
4. Tamarack Brewing Company
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The Tamarack Brewing Company opened its Missoula branch in 2011, serving the same great food and drink found in its other location in Lakeside. Located downtown in Missoula, overlooking the Caras Park and the Clark Fork River, this is a sports bar affair with two floors that combine both a fun, sports pub environment downstairs and a slightly more subdued and subtle vibe upstairs.
Great food and drink is available, as are a range of specials, not least of all the company’s own great Montana craft beer. This is a family-friendly bar that is open daily from 11 am for great beer, food, and 2 happy hours!
What to Try
Flagship option Lakeside APA is a Pale Ale with a caramel tinge