Guided Missoula History Walking Tour

Right on the river, learn about the railroad history of Missoula.

Missoula's old time redlight district and the madams who ran it.

Learn about the old mercantile and the new.

Beautiful trees, flowers, and banners in downtown Missoula

Walking tour is right next to the river.

Duration1h 30m

Free cancellationFull refund up to 24 hours before

Instant confirmationYour booking is confirmed right away

TicketMobile or paper ticket accepted

LanguagesEnglish

Group sizeUp to 25 travelers

Overview

The tour begins in the heart of downtown, where you'll learn about Missoula’s evolution from a railroad hub to an automobile‑era crossroads. You’ll see buildings like the elegant Florence Hotel while you learn about founder rivalries.

The tour also delves into the city’s rougher past, like the infamous madam Mary “Mother” Gleim, known for violent influence on Missoula’s red‑light district.

Your walk concludes at the historic Missoula Mercantile—where you can browse artifacts and historic artwork.

During this 1.5-2 hour journey you'll:

-Visit the Wilma Theater

-Learn the origin of Missoula’s name and more about Lewis and Clark

-Explore buildings along “Gasoline Alley,” where automobile culture reshaped West Main Street in the 1920s

-Hear how labor activists fought for free‑speech rights on street corners

By the end, you’ll have walked in the footsteps of early settlers, railroad workers, entrepreneurs, and the many colorful figures who helped shape Missoula.

What's included

Guide in-person
15 % off One Eleven Shopping Discount in the Florence Hotel
All Fees and Taxes
15% off Cocktails and Beverages at the Florence Hotel
15% off Coffee in the Florence Hotel

Tips not included

What to expect

The Wilma Theater
5m

Learn about the wild west at the historic Missoula "skyscraper."
Caras Park
10m

Learn about then and now Caras Park, the historic M hike, Brennan's Wave, and the beautiful river that runs right through Missoula!
Boone and Crockett Club
5m

Check out the old Milwaukee Road Railroad Depot, and learn how train culture shaped Missoula.
Missoula
1h 10m

From wagons to trains to automobiles, learn about "gasoline alley," Madame Gleim, and many other colorful characters as you stroll through downtown Missoula. Stop by architectural gems like the Florence Hotel and the Missoula Mercantile.

Meeting and pickup

Meeting point

Check in is 15 minutes early in the Destination Missoula lobby, 101 E Main St, Missoula, MT 59802. Tours are roughly two hours and will operate rain or shine. Please wear comfortable walking shoes and dress for the weather.

End point

Check in is 15 minutes early in the Destination Missoula lobby, 101 E Main St, Missoula, MT 59802. Tours are roughly two hours and will operate rain or shine. Please wear comfortable walking shoes and dress for the weather.

Additional 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
All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Cancellation policy

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

Reviews

4.6 (8)