Learn About Missoula’s Colorful Past, While Not Getting Lost

Missoula already features a great "walking downtown".

But for out-of-town visitors, or even locals who don't go downtown on a regular basis, having directions and info not tied to a phone can be super helpful.

Now, after a massive effort that's taken more than a dozen years to complete, Missoula has a complete "wayfinding" system of signs that not only give directions but background on the colorful history of the Garden City.

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Finding Your Way in Downtown Missoula

Back in 2013, leaders of the Downtown Missoula Partnership completed a study which showed a need for a better system of informational and direction signs throughout the downtown core.

That led to the "Missoula Comprehensive Wayfinding Plan", which included multiple steps to improve the situation.

One of the first parts of the effort was the installation of three dozen directional signs to help pedestrians find points of interest and services.

Informational Kiosks in Downtown Missoula

The final piece was finally wrapped up earlier this month, with the completion of six additional informational kiosks, completing the total of 10 around downtown.

On one side, the panels have a detailed map, complete with directions and time and distance estimates. A colorful "you are here" sort of approach.

Yet the opposite side is just as useful, including extensive historical photos and stories about downtown landmarks and activities, such as the story of the historical Missoula Mercantile.

Missoula's "Legacy Trail"

Those history points are the key part of the new "Legacy Trail", which visitors and locals can follow to learn more about the colorful past of Downtown Missoula. As the Partnership puts it, it is to "enhance the sense of place" for everyone.

The ten kiosks include:

• Gathering at the Place of Little Bull Trout – Missoula Public Library
• Celebrating Community and the Arts – Missoula Art Museum
• Crossroads of Commerce – Central Park Garage
• Arrival of the Automobile – ZACC
• Missoula’s Restricted District – Front & Ryman
• A Growing City – Broadway & Higgins
• Missoula Mercantile – Front & Pattee
• Travel to Missoula – North Higgins & Alder
• Celebrating in the Streets – Spruce & Higgins
• Welcome to Caras Park – Caras Park Pavilion

Money for the project came from the Business Improvement District (BID) and the Missoula Downtown Foundation (MDF).

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