Downtown Missoula: Historical Self-Guided Tour of Montana's Heart

Montana , United States of America

Downtown Missoula: Historical Self-Guided Tour of Montana's Heart

Active

(5 reviews)

1h - 2h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Explore Montana's second-largest city on this self-guided audio tour. Along the way, you'll hear about the colorful characters, architectural gems, and dramatic stories that shaped this mountain community's unique identity. Weave through Missoula's historic streets, exploring buildings like the elegant Florence Hotel and passing landmarks that showcase the city's evolution from railroad hub to automobile center. Learn about the contentious relationship between the city's founding father, C.P. Higgins, and his business rival, Andrew Hammond. Cross the Clark Fork River with views of Brennan's Wave, a man-made kayaking feature, and see the Spanish Mission Revival-style Milwaukee Road Depot. You'll also explore the “seedier” side of Missoula's history, including tales of notorious madams like Mary “Mother” Gleim, whose exploits included diamond smuggling and attempted murder. The tour ends at the historic Missoula Mercantile, now beautifully preserved as part of the Residence Inn.

Available options

Downtown Missoula: Historical Self-Guided Tour of Montana's Heart

What's included

Lifetime access to this tour in English before your booking date and after it

Offline access to audio, maps, and geodata

App for Android and iOS

Flexibility to explore at your own pace with a self-guided GPS tour

Directions to the starting point so that when you’re in the right place, the tour will start

Detailed itinerary

You'll begin your journey in the heart of downtown Missoula at this central location. From here, you'll explore the historic streets that tell the story of the city's transformation from trading post to cultural center.

You'll enter this elegant historic hotel that stands as one of downtown's architectural gems. Walk past this landmark to discover how it represents Missoula's evolution from a frontier town to a sophisticated mountain city.

You'll marvel at this eight-story "skyscraper" built in 1921 for Vaudeville star Edna Wilma. Explore how this iconic theater became a centerpiece of Missoula's entertainment and cultural life.

You'll pass this beautiful Spanish Mission Revival-style railroad station. Discover how this architectural landmark represents Missoula's railroad heritage and westward expansion.

You'll walk through this riverside gathering space that serves as Missoula's community heart. Experience where locals and visitors come together along the waterfront.

You'll end your tour at this beautifully preserved historic building. Browse historical artifacts and artwork while discovering tales of the city's colorful past, including stories of notorious madams and diamond smugglers.

What's not included

Smartphone and headphones

Personal expenses for admission fees not included during the tour

Transportation

Food and drink

Available languages

Audio guide

Written guide

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

5 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

The tour start outside the Destination Missoula Visitors Center on East Main Street. Before arrival, please install the mobile app and use the code provided on your confirmation ticket. Detailed starting point instructions are available after downloading.

Important notes

VOICEMAP CODE
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Please check your email at the address you provided when you made this booking. You've been sent an eight character code you'll need to redeem your tour.

DOWNLOAD INSTRUCTIONS

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Once you've received your code, please follow these steps:

Install the VoiceMap Audio Tours mobile app

Create an account

Select Tour Codes from the menu, then select Enter Codes

Enter your code then select Download Now

PLEASE NOTE
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You can download the tour at any time, before or after your booking date. It’s best to download the tour before you set off for the starting point.

This tour follows a set route and includes turn-by-turn directions. It works best if you start it in the right place and follow the directions from one location to the next.

When the download completes, you’ll see a screen with a photo of the starting point and directions to it. The red start button will become active when you are at the starting point.

Remember to bring your own headphones, unless you have booked a driving tour.

SUPPORT
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For technical support and other queries, please email support@voicemap.me

About Montana

Montana, known as Big Sky Country, is a vast and rugged state in the northwestern United States. It is celebrated for its stunning natural beauty, including the Rocky Mountains, Glacier National Park, and Yellowstone National Park. Montana offers a unique blend of adventure, tranquility, and wide-open spaces, making it a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking a genuine Western experience.

Top Attractions

Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its stunning landscapes, glaciers, and diverse wildlife. It offers hiking, scenic drives, and breathtaking views of the Rocky Mountains.

Nature Multiple days recommended Free (park entry fee: $35 per vehicle for 7 days)

Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park, the world's first national park, is famous for its geothermal features, including geysers, hot springs, and mud pots. It also offers diverse wildlife and stunning landscapes.

Nature Multiple days recommended Free (park entry fee: $35 per vehicle for 7 days)

Bozeman Hot Springs

Bozeman Hot Springs offers a variety of natural hot springs pools for relaxation and rejuvenation. It is a popular spot for both locals and visitors.

Relaxation 1-3 hours $25-$40 per person

Must-Try Local Dishes

Bison Burger

A delicious and lean alternative to beef burgers, made with locally sourced bison meat and topped with fresh ingredients.

Main Course Gluten-free options available

Huckleberry Pie

A sweet and tangy pie made with wild huckleberries, a favorite fruit of Montana.

Dessert Contains gluten

Popular Activities

Hiking in Glacier National Park Skiing and snowboarding at Big Sky Resort Whitewater rafting on the Missouri River Soaking in Bozeman Hot Springs Picnicking in Caras Park Enjoying a craft beer at a local brewery Visiting the Museum of the Rockies Exploring the historic district of Old Town Missoula

Best Time to Visit

June to August

Summer is the peak tourist season in Montana, with warm temperatures and long daylight hours. This is the best time to explore national parks, hike, and enjoy outdoor activities. However, it is also the busiest and most expensive time to visit.

15°C to 30°C (59°F to 86°F) 59°F to 86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: Spanish
English: Widely spoken

Currency

United States Dollar (USD)

Time Zone

Mountain Time Zone (GMT-7:00, GMT-6:00 during daylight saving time)

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Montana is generally a safe destination for travelers, with low crime rates and friendly locals. However, visitors should be aware of potential hazards, such as wildlife encounters, extreme weather conditions, and remote areas with limited services.

Important Precautions:

• Be aware of your surroundings and trust your instincts.
• Keep valuables secure and out of sight.
• Research and book tours and activities with reputable operators.

Getting there

By air

Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport • 10 km (6 miles) from Bozeman
Missoula International Airport • 7 km (4 miles) from Missoula

By train

AmTrak Empire Builder

By bus

Jefferson Lines, Greyhound

Getting around

Public transport

Affordable and reliable bus service within Missoula, connecting major points of interest and neighborhoods.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Downtown Bozeman Old Town Missoula

Day trips

Bannack State Park

50 km (31 miles) from Dillon • Half day to full day

Bannack State Park is a historic ghost town and the site of Montana's first major gold discovery. It offers a glimpse into the state's mining history and features well-preserved buildings and artifacts.

Big Sky Resort

50 km (31 miles) from Bozeman • Full day

Big Sky Resort is a year-round destination offering skiing, snowboarding, mountain biking, hiking, and more. It is one of the largest ski resorts in the United States and offers stunning views of the Rocky Mountains.

Festivals

Montana State Fair • Late July to early August International Wildlife Film Festival • April

Pro tips

Visit national parks early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the best light for photography.
Pack layers and be prepared for rapidly changing weather conditions, especially in the mountains.
Try local foods and support local businesses, such as farms, ranches, and artisan shops.
Respect wildlife and maintain a safe distance, as encounters can be dangerous and harmful to the animals.
Plan your route and transportation in advance, as Montana is a large state with vast distances between attractions.