Want to Get Away? Montanans Often Visit These Locations

Summer is the most common time for people to hit the road, hop on a plane or catch a train. Having just returned from a vacation, I immediately started thinking about where I wanted to go next. As I considered next year's destination I realized that, and I'm generalizing, a lot of Montanans tend to vacation in the same place.

This likely has to do with proximity or that the locations are popular, but I did notice that there are a few that draw Montanans potentially for other reasons. The list below has been compiled based only on the feedback I get from family and friends, rather than data compiled from a third-party source.

Of course, if you do like to take shorter trips, you can always explore what's close to Missoula. But if you need to get "out of the bowl" these are the places that you most likely hear your fellow Montanans talking about.

Oregon

It's really similar to Montana in regard to outdoor activities, particularly water sports, biking, and hiking, but you'll find that you can see and do more without having to hike (or drive) as far. Plus, they've got ocean and you can't get that in Montana.

Hawaii

Hawaii is definitely popular for its proximity. It's fewer flights to palm trees and beaches if you head west than if you head east, and visiting Hawaii maybe feels more like a vacation than going to California. I've even seen Hawaii-themed license plates in Montana. Montanans love Hawaii.

Las Vegas

With a direct flight that doesn't even last that long, this is an easy trip for a long weekend. Birthday parties, bachelor/bachelorette parties, mini or long vacays, there's plenty of entertainment in Las Vegas.

Ireland, Scotland, or England

Often, trips to Ireland, Scotland, or England that I've heard about were inspired by Montanans that I knew who were doing genealogy research. They're also pretty safe bets if you want to go to Europe but don't plan on learning a foreign language.

Alaska

I think Alaska might be the only state that is more majestic than Montana. Alaska also might feel familiar to Montanans in terms of the landscape and the wild animals. Yet, it's still worth the visit.

Seattle

The other big city with a direct flight from Missoula and tons of entertainment. Whether you're a music fan, a sports fan, or are interested in art and culture, most Montanans find a reason to visit Seattle.

Banff, Alberta, Canada

Kinda like Alaska, the majestic nature of Banff's landscape is also a huge draw for Montanans. Proximity also helps with this one.

Where else do Montanans go? Let us know in the comments.