Fun Things to Do On the University of Montana Campus

As the fall semester comes to a close, now seems like the perfect time to showcase all the fun activities the University of Montana has to offer the greater Missoula community. After all, living in a college town comes with some great perks and we want residents to take advantage of that!

Back in 2015, the University of Montana provided their own list of 10 things to do on campus. The following is your friendly Neighborhood Ambassadors’ top picks (and a few recommendations of our own):

1. Hike the M

View of the Grizzly statue, Main Hall, and the “M” trail.

This activity is a University of Montana classic. Hiking the “M” at the beginning of the year (before the bad weather sets in) is a tradition. The view from the “M” is absolutely stunning. You can see all of Missoula from the top. Plus, it’s a great workout!

2. Stroll along the Clark Fork River

View of the Clark Fork at dawn.

This doesn’t need much of an explanation. Any Missoula native can attest to the beautiful scenery surrounding the Clark Fork. It just so happens that some of the best walking trails stem from the University. It’s especially stunning in the fall. Grab a hot drink of your choice (preferably from one a classic Missoula cafe like Drum Coffee or Liquid Planet) and enjoy the fall colors.

3. Grab a bite at one of the University’s eateries

If you don’t have someone who can swipe you into our award-winning cafeteria, also known as the Food Zoo, that’s okay! The University of Montana has a wide range of food options sprinkled around campus. (And you don’t need a meal plan to enjoy them!) Our suggestion: Try the tacos in the University Center Food Court (trust us, they’re worth it).

4. Wander the UC Gardens

Partial view of the UC gardens from Level 2.

The University Center on campus also doubles as a miniature botanical garden that hosts a variety of exotic plant life. With its open skylights and friendly atmosphere, this public oasis is enough to lift anyone's mood!

5. Get lost in the stacks

Looking for somewhere quiet to work for a few hours? How about just a place to escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life? If that’s the case, the Maureen and Mike Mansfield Library is the place for you! With thousands of books to browse, it’s impossible to get bored. The Library is also home to the Mansfield Archives and Special Collections which is free for the public to use. Browse the seemingly endless collection of rare and unique books, hold a Chaucer from 1532, or take some time to look through their digital collections. This is a must for any history nerd!

Geoffrey Chaucer, often referred to as the “Father of English literature”, was a fourteenth-century poet best known for his work The Canterbury Tales. This book is one of the many priceless artifacts available for browsing at the Mansfield Archives and Special Collections.

6. Attend a public lecture

Every year the University of Montana hosts a variety of guest lecturers from around the world to speak on a whole assortment of topics. These lectures are usually open to the general public. The President’s Lecture Series is an especially popular series to see and is a great opportunity to learn from the world’s leading experts!

7. Go to a University of Montana sporting event

Griz vs Lions Football game 9/7/19

Last, but not least, it is absolutely necessary to show some school spirit at one of our many sporting events throughout the year. It’s a fun way for the community to come together and have a good time. Plus, tailgating is always a necessity (whilst indulging in some game-side concessions, of course!).

Click here to see the University’s original list. We hope that this list can give you some inspiration for the next time boredom strikes!