Higgins Avenue
Missoula's vibrant downtown street, Higgins Avenue, offers unique local shops, art galleries, and eateries, embodying Montana's creative spirit.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Bustling atmosphere
Higgins Avenue
Best Time
Bustling atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Missoula's vibrant downtown street, Higgins Avenue, offers unique local shops, art galleries, and eateries, embodying Montana's creative spirit.
"Higgins Avenue is a lively stretch filled with boutiques, galleries, and eateries, offering a true taste of Missoula's local charm."
Bike Lane Alert! 🚴♀️
Bike lanes disappear for 3 blocks on the Hip Strip. Be aware of traffic changes.
Shop Local Treasures 🛍️
Explore unique boutiques and galleries for Montana-made goods.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Hip Strip
Downtown Missoula
A lively stretch of Higgins Avenue filled with boutiques, art galleries, and eateries. A true taste of Missoula's local charm.
4 Ravens Gallery
Higgins Avenue
Showcasing the work of creative artisans and craftsmen from Montana. Find unique, locally made treasures.
Shop Sunday School
130 N. Higgins Avenue
A popular boutique offering new and curated items. Known for its vibrant atmosphere and fresh inventory.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating Higgins Avenue
Discovering Local Gems
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Bike Lane Alert! 🚴♀️
Bike lanes disappear for 3 blocks on the Hip Strip. Be aware of traffic changes.
Shop Local Treasures 🛍️
Explore unique boutiques and galleries for Montana-made goods.
Check Sale Hours ⏰
Some shops, like the one at 68 1/2 Higgins Ave, have specific weekend hours.
Downtown Parking Tips 🅿️
Parking can be tricky; consider a parking garage or walking if possible.
Tips
from all over the internet
Bike Lane Alert! 🚴♀️
Bike lanes disappear for 3 blocks on the Hip Strip. Be aware of traffic changes.
Shop Local Treasures 🛍️
Explore unique boutiques and galleries for Montana-made goods.
Check Sale Hours ⏰
Some shops, like the one at 68 1/2 Higgins Ave, have specific weekend hours.
Downtown Parking Tips 🅿️
Parking can be tricky; consider a parking garage or walking if possible.
Seasonal Charm ✨
Enjoy festive decorations, especially around the holidays.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Higgins Avenue is celebrated for its vibrant downtown atmosphere, featuring a diverse array of local boutiques, art galleries, and eateries. Visitors appreciate the unique shopping experiences and the opportunity to support local artisans. Some find parking and the temporary absence of bike lanes on the 'Hip Strip' to be minor inconveniences.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Higgins Avenue is the main street running through downtown Missoula, Montana. It's easily accessible by car, and public transportation options are available. If you're flying in, Missoula Montana Airport (MSO) is about a 15-minute drive away.
Parking can be challenging in downtown Missoula, especially on Higgins Avenue. There are street parking spots, but they fill up quickly. Several parking garages are also available nearby. Consider using ride-sharing services or public transport if you want to avoid parking hassles.
Yes, Higgins Avenue is generally bike-friendly, with dedicated bike lanes for much of its length. However, be aware that these lanes disappear for a few blocks on the 'Hip Strip' section, which can be a point of confusion for cyclists. It's also a very walkable street with many shops and restaurants.
Walking is often the best way to experience Higgins Avenue, allowing you to browse shops, stop for coffee, and soak in the downtown atmosphere. For longer distances or if you're short on time, consider using local bus services or ride-sharing.
Higgins Avenue runs through the heart of downtown Missoula. Key sections include the 'Hip Strip' and areas with specific shops like 130 N. Higgins Avenue (Shop Sunday School) and 321 N Higgins Avenue for events.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Higgins Avenue itself is a public street and does not require tickets to access. You can stroll along, window shop, and enjoy the atmosphere freely. Individual shops, galleries, or restaurants may have their own entry requirements or cover charges for events.
Shop hours can vary, but most boutiques and galleries on Higgins Avenue are typically open from late morning to early evening, Tuesday through Saturday. Some may have extended hours on weekends or special event days. It's always best to check the specific hours for individual businesses you plan to visit.
Most art galleries on Higgins Avenue, such as 4 Ravens Gallery, do not charge an entrance fee. They are open for browsing and appreciating the local art.
Yes, Higgins Avenue is accessible at night, and many restaurants and bars remain open. The street has a lively evening atmosphere, especially on weekends.
Higgins Avenue often hosts local events, festivals, and holiday celebrations throughout the year. Keep an eye on local Missoula event listings for specific dates and activities.
🍽️ 🛍️ Shopping & Dining
Higgins Avenue boasts a diverse range of shops, including independent boutiques, art galleries showcasing local Montana artists, gift shops, and specialty stores. You can find unique clothing, handcrafted items, and souvenirs.
The avenue offers a variety of dining options, from casual cafes and bakeries to restaurants serving local and international cuisine. You can find everything from quick bites to more formal dining experiences.
Missoula is known for its craft breweries and local food scene. You might find unique Montana-inspired dishes or locally brewed beers at establishments along Higgins Avenue.
Popular spots include Shop Sunday School for curated goods, 4 Ravens Gallery for local art, and various eateries mentioned in travel vlogs. The 'Hip Strip' area is a hub for many of these establishments.
Yes, there are shops that offer vintage and antique items. For example, a sale was advertised at 68 1/2 Higgins Avenue featuring art, small furniture, and decor.
📸 📸 Photography
The vibrant storefronts, unique architecture, and street art along Higgins Avenue offer many photo opportunities. The 'Hip Strip' provides a lively backdrop, and seasonal decorations add extra charm.
Absolutely. The mix of local businesses, people, and the general downtown atmosphere makes Higgins Avenue a great location for street photography. Capture the essence of Missoula's urban life.
Generally, it's polite to ask permission before taking extensive photos inside private businesses. Many shops are happy to have visitors share their finds online, especially if you tag them.
The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset can offer beautiful lighting for capturing the street's ambiance. Midday can be good for showcasing shop details, but be mindful of harsh shadows.
While not a single landmark, the entire stretch of the 'Hip Strip' with its eclectic storefronts and the general downtown Missoula vibe are the key photographic draws.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during local events or holidays when the street might have extra activities or decorations that can engage children. The presence of art galleries might also spark curiosity in younger visitors, offering a chance to see unique creations. Remember to check the specific hours of businesses, as some may have limited weekend hours.
🛍️ Shoppers & Art Enthusiasts
Take your time to explore the 'Hip Strip' section, where many of these unique shops are concentrated. You'll find a distinct lack of chain stores, ensuring a more authentic and personalized shopping experience. Keep an eye out for special sales or pop-up events that add to the excitement of discovering local talent.
🚶♀️ Walkers & Cyclists
However, cyclists should be particularly aware of the 'Hip Strip' section where the bike lanes disappear for a few blocks. This requires extra caution and awareness of vehicle traffic. Planning your route and being prepared for this transition will ensure a smoother ride through downtown Missoula.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Missoula 'Hip Strip' Experience
Be aware that the 'Hip Strip' section of Higgins Avenue has a unique traffic dynamic. Unlike the rest of the avenue, the dedicated bicycle lanes disappear here, which has been a point of discussion among residents. This means cyclists need to be extra vigilant and drivers should be mindful of sharing the road in this concentrated area.
When exploring the Hip Strip, take your time to wander into the various shops. Many feature the work of local artisans and craftsmen, providing a true taste of Montana's creative spirit. Seasonal decorations, like the Christmas displays mentioned, add an extra layer of charm to the street, making it a delightful place to visit any time of year.
Shopping and Local Artisans
Beyond these specific examples, the entire avenue is dotted with independent boutiques and specialty stores. You can find everything from clothing and accessories to home decor and gifts. Many of these businesses are passionate about supporting local makers, so your purchases directly contribute to the Missoula community.
For those looking for vintage finds or unique decor, keep an eye out for sales advertised at addresses like 68 1/2 Higgins Avenue, which have featured art and small furniture items. Exploring Higgins Avenue is an opportunity to find one-of-a-kind items and support the local economy.
Navigating Traffic and Transportation
Parking in downtown Missoula, particularly along Higgins Avenue, can be competitive. Visitors are advised to utilize the available parking garages or consider public transportation and ride-sharing services to avoid the stress of finding a spot. This approach not only simplifies your visit but also allows you to fully immerse yourself in the downtown experience without worrying about your vehicle.
For those who prefer to explore on foot, Higgins Avenue is highly walkable, making it easy to browse shops and dine at various establishments. The street is also served by local public transport, offering another convenient way to navigate the area and connect to other parts of Missoula.

Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit