Whenever we see Missoula on lists like this it gives us mixed emotions. On the one hand it's great to be recognized and it really highlights the benefits of being able to live where we do. On the other hand, we cringe a bit and think "stop mentioning how awesome Missoula is before everybody decides to pack up and come to town."

An article on the Love Exploring website lists Missoula among their 15 US Cities With Natural Wonders on Their Doorsteps. Of course we would be on that list with all the nature and beauty that Missoula and Montana have to offer. We seem like we would be a much easier pick than some of the other cities on the list. When you think about Las Vegas or even Seattle, you kind of forget about the scenery that's waiting once you get outside of the big city.

Every city on the list gets a brief description of their urban area:

The presence of the University of Montana means the city of Missoula, with nearly 70,000 inhabitants, has plenty to offer tourists on a city break. Several breweries, numerous farmers’ markets and a variety of restaurants, cafés and bars, mean there’s plenty for those into food and drink, while shopaholics will enjoy getting lost in three different shopping areas. It’s also home to a number of prominent galleries, including Montana Museum of Art and Culture and Missoula Art Museum. Check the latest travel advice and updates here.

Plus, there's a brief description of the surrounding beauty you'll find once you're outside the hustle and bustle of it all:

The city also has easy access to a range of gorgeous landscapes. Activities in the area include fly-fishing, floating and paddle boarding on the Clark Fork, Bitterroot and Blackfoot rivers, while the Montana Snowbowl ski resort is minutes from downtown. Missoula is also located halfway between Glacier and Yellowstone National Parks, which can both be easily reached by car. Some areas within the parks remain closed, so check National Park Service websites for updates.

Need travel ideas? Check out the rest of the list including San Francisco, Denver, Salt Lake City, Boston, and more.

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