The Best Outdoor Patios in Missoula: Where to Eat and Drink Al Fresco This Summer |
From rooftop bars to riverside decks, these Missoula restaurants offer the perfect outdoor dining experience |
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Quick Answer: Best Outdoor Dining in Missoula
Missoula's best outdoor patios include Plonk Wine Bar's secret rooftop, FINN's riverside deck overlooking the Clark Fork, Highlander Brewing's mountain-view backyard, Iron Horse's four outdoor sections, and the 7R Rooftop Bar at AC Hotel with 360-degree city views. Whether you're looking for craft cocktails, local brews, or a casual bite, these spots let you enjoy Montana's summer weather while you dine.
Why Outdoor Dining Matters in Missoula
When summer hits Missoula, locals head outside. After months of Montana winter, there's nothing better than enjoying a meal or drink in the fresh air with mountain views as your backdrop. The city's restaurants have embraced this culture, creating patios that range from intimate rooftop hideaways to sprawling brewery backyards complete with games and fire pits.
Whether you're catching up with friends over brunch, enjoying a romantic dinner with river views, or grabbing post-hike beers, Missoula's outdoor dining scene delivers. Here's where to find the best al fresco experiences in town.
Rooftop Views: 7R Rooftop Bar
Located atop the AC Hotel by Marriott downtown, 7R Rooftop Bar offers stunning 360-degree views of Missoula and the surrounding mountains. This elevated patio opened in 2022 and quickly became a go-to spot for craft cocktails and skyline sunsets.
The modern space features comfortable seating, fire features for cooler evenings, and a full bar menu. It's the perfect spot for date night or when you want to impress out-of-town guests with Missoula's beauty.
Best for: Craft cocktails, sunset views, special occasions
Riverside Dining: FINN
If water views are your thing, FINN delivers with a large deck overlooking the Clark Fork River. Located near the riverfront trail, this spot lets you watch kayakers and tubers float by while you enjoy Pacific Northwest-inspired cuisine.
The deck gets plenty of afternoon sun but has shade options for hot days. Inside, the restaurant has a modern lodge aesthetic; outside, it's all about that river breeze.
Best for: Date night, river views, weekend brunch
The Secret Spot: Plonk Wine Bar
Plonk offers not one but two outdoor options. The front of the restaurant opens to sidewalk seating perfect for people-watching on Higgins Avenue. But the real gem is the secret rooftop patio tucked away upstairs.
This intimate space feels like a hidden oasis above downtown. With wine bar vibes and twinkle lights, it's ideal for a relaxed evening with friends or a low-key date.
Best for: Wine lovers, intimate gatherings, date night
Brewery Backyards: Highlander Brewing
Highlander Brewing's outdoor section is more than a patio—it's an entire backyard designed for summer fun. Located near a mountain stream, the space features a taco truck, cornhole, fire pits, and plenty of seating.
Bring the whole crew (including the dog) and spend an afternoon sampling craft beers while the kids play games or you relax by the water. This is Missoula outdoor dining at its most laid-back.
Best for: Groups, families, post-hike refreshment
Multiple Options: Iron Horse
Iron Horse Brew Pub didn't stop at one patio—they built four different outdoor seating sections. This downtown classic gives you options whether you want sun or shade, quiet or lively atmosphere.
The pub fare menu pairs perfectly with their house-brewed beers, and the multiple patio spaces mean you can usually find a table even on busy summer nights.
Best for: Large groups, craft beer lovers, casual dining
Live Music Vibes: Top Hat Lounge
Top Hat recently expanded to include a sprawling outdoor patio with twinkle lights and shade cover. As a live music venue, the patio sometimes features acoustic sets or extends the concert experience outdoors.
The atmosphere strikes a balance between energetic and relaxed, making it a great stop during a night out on the town.
Best for: Live music fans, night owls, groups
More Great Patio Options
Hana: Authentic Japanese cuisine with a sunny patio perfect for afternoon sushi and sake. Located downtown near Caras Park.
Cambie Taphouse & Coffee: One of Missoula's newest spots combining coffeehouse and taphouse vibes with a beautiful patio.
Notorious P.I.G.: BBQ joint with casual outdoor seating—perfect for a messy, delicious lunch in the sunshine.
The Camino: Margaritas and Mexican fare with outdoor seating when you need a vacation vibe.
Thomas Meagher Bar (Mar Bar): Lively sidewalk seating downtown with great people-watching.
Tips for Patio Dining in Missoula
Best times to go: Weekday afternoons are quieter if you want a relaxed vibe. Weekend evenings buzz with energy but fill up fast—arrive early or expect a wait.
What to bring: Sunscreen and sunglasses are essential for afternoon patio sessions. A light jacket for when the sun goes down—even summer evenings can cool off quickly in Montana.
Dog-friendly spots: Many brewery patios welcome well-behaved dogs. Highlander and several downtown spots have water bowls available.
Reservations: Some patios (especially rooftop spots like 7R) accept reservations. Call ahead for special occasions or large groups.
FAQ: Outdoor Dining in Missoula
Q: When is patio season in Missoula?
Q: Are these patios open in winter?
Q: Can I bring my dog?
Q: Which patio has the best views?
Q: Are reservations recommended?
Related Reading
Looking for more Missoula dining inspiration? Check out our guide to the Best Breweries in Missoula for more outdoor drinking spots, or explore our Best Breakfast Spots for morning patio sessions.
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