Western Montana

Considered by many the “Town Square” of Missoula, Caras Park offers entertainment for the entire family under the big sky. Located right downtown and alongside the Clark Fork River, this mekka of community gatherings, seasonal events, and just good ol’ daily fun is popular for visitors and locals alike. In my opinion this is such a sensational place to take in the scenery of a town coming alive and enjoying spending time in Missoula.
The beautiful tent-canopy pavilion, situated on the east end of the park, just below the Higgins Street Bridge, is the host to numerous events throughout the warmer seasons. My favorites include the summer’s ‘Out to Lunch’ and ‘Downtown Tonight’ music series that offer live bands, dancing, and plenty of tasty local food vendors. The covered stage gives musicians an opportunity to perform outdoors rain or shine, and if you know your Missoulians, we love our music and dancing no matter what the weather. Facing the stage is a large grassy area perfect for kicking off your shoes and boogying down or lying out a big blanket for a picnic. Other yearly events have included the ever popular Brew Fest, Hemp Fest, and Tour de Fat, as well as numerous other small concerts and events.

Directly beside the pavilion area Brendan’s Wave attracts the interest and attention of awed gawkers as they watch boaters and surfers brave the rapids.
The artificial wave was put in so kayakers could practice their tricks and rolls while an audience could enjoy the show from the terrace above, but don’t be surprised to see surfers taking advantage of the Montana waters as well. Watching them makes me want to hit the water myself, but in front of all these people? These water hounds deserve props for their courageous presentations.

The kids will really enjoy the pavilion and Brendan’s Wave, but we all know (or will very soon find out) what really puts a spark they’re little hearts: the playground.

The playground at Caras Park is called Dragon’s Hollow and is a network of tunnels, slides, bridges, monkey bars, swings, ropes and ladders and fire poles and more!!! You won’t be the only one saying ‘Holy Cow’! Kids adore the dragon themed park and can get lost in the fun for hours. (Don’t worry, they won’t actually get lost in the park. It is fenced off and there are numerous benches you can hang out on while you watch the kids, unless of course you opt to go a little wild on the playground yourself—which I’m sure your children will enjoy just as much as I recommend it).

To add even more thrill and to this place, Caras Park also boasts a beautifully restored rendition of an old fashioned carousel. The 36-pony carousel runs throughout most of the year, but is opened up to the sunshine during spring, summer, and fall. Tokens must be purchased to ride, and partakers get a chance to win free rides by reaching for and grabbing the ‘golden ring’ while going around and around and around.

I always enjoy spending time at Caras Park, whether for a great event, music, or just watching the boaters and playing with the kids at the playground. The park is for everyone, young and old, avid partiers or those who are looking for a place to relax, and families or singles. All areas are wheelchair accessible, the parking lot offers handicap parking, and there are men’s and women’s bathrooms, as well as drinking fountains, shaded areas, and the close vicinity to the stores and restaurants of Downtown Missoula. Everyone will have a great time. I did, and I will many times again.