Whether you are visiting from out of town or you’re a local looking to enjoy a staycation, The Wren Missoula has everything you need—comfort, unique amenities, and location, location, location.
The Wren is a 73-room boutique hotel located on E. Main Street. Locals may remember it as a Days Inn prior to its restoration. “We’re smack dab in the middle of everything going on in downtown,” says General Manager Todd Liphardt.
The hotel is managed by Columbia Hospitality. These third party managers work with the ownership team to build and operate hotels in vibrant communities known for their lively downtowns. Other properties in the company’s nest include The Lark Bozeman and The Sparrow Boise.
Instead of going outside to build a new box, Columbia Hospitality looks at recreating structures to fit the character of each location. This business model goes a long way in separating The Wren from other chain hotels.
“They are very mindful of coming into the community and helping to develop the personality of the downtown,” says Todd. “It’s thoughtful, it’s mindful, and it’s strategic in its minimalistic approach to the amenities and the properties. Our goals are to make people feel comfortable but also get involved in the local community.” To the team at The Wren, that involvement means going to Griz games, taking advantage of our incredible music scene, floating the river, and shopping and dining at local establishments.
The Wren has seen an increase in returning guests as the hotel gains its reputation for service. Building that reputation takes extra effort for a hotel whose name might not ring a bell as strongly as some. Both Todd and Front Desk Manager Katie Mandilian credit the staff at The Wren for playing a big part in building that reputation for service.
“Our staff is our number one asset” says Katie. “They really are what make our guests enjoy coming back.” The staff is comprised of local residents who make them adept at offering up first-hand recommendations on where to go and what to do. “We always tell our guests that if you’re looking for something to do, or even have specific food preferences, let our team know and we’ll help you,” says Katie. The staff keeps updated on happenings from annual events to weekly karaoke at The Union Club, and they put together, and continually update, an interactive map of downtown. “We want the guests to have a good time in Missoula, and not just at the hotel,” says Katie.
The Wren’s commitment to being a part of the Missoula community is evident from the minute you step into the bright and spacious lobby. Rotating exhibitions provided by the Missoula Art Museum hang on the wall. On another wall, a display on smokejumpers—courtesy of the U.S. Forest Service—is next to colorful surfboards from Strongwater Surf that tempt travelers to check out Missoula’s bustling riverfront.
Upstairs, local artists like Josh Quick have shared their talents through unique Missoula-themed infographic art in each room. Examples include a timeline of musical acts that have headlined The Wilma and a whimsical map of local hiking trails. In addition, the woodwork throughout the hotel comes from Belgrade-based Dry Fly Builders. “Those are expensive decisions to make,” says Todd. “It shows that the team puts their money where their mouth is as it relates to investing in sustainability and utilizing as much local as possible.”
Guests will find a number of special touches at The Wren. The lobby features plenty of comfy seating alongside expansive workspaces. A selection of board games and complimentary La Croix sparkling water in the mini-fridge can be enjoyed in the lobby or taken up to the privacy of your room.
Some hotels sacrifice necessity for style but here, personality meets function. Eclectic lamps illuminate end tables beside beds draped in warm Pendleton blankets. Colorful towel racks hang in the bathroom, and huge walk-in showers with the handles far away from the shower head keep you dry until the water temperature is just right.
Room options range from standard rooms with king and queen beds to expansive suites to the bunk bed rooms—a magnet for any kid or kid-at-heart. Guests with four-legged friends are welcome on the second floor which features wood floors instead of carpet, and blankets designed to repel dog hair. There is no microwave or refrigerators in most the rooms but guests can easily receive those items upon request.
All of these unique touches along with a friendly staff dedicated to service make The Wren the perfect base for your Missoula adventures. “I think there is an art to hospitality,” says Todd. “It’s not brain surgery but there is something to be said for those who can be the most aware of service. That’s what we really try to focus on, and that’s the magic that sets us apart.”
Need a caffeine fix? Basecamp Coffee is the on-site coffee shop at The Wren, making it a weather-free experience if you are experiencing a Missoula staycation. Nothing says self care quite like going downstairs and having an experienced barista make the perfect hot latte. Wrap your palms around a big mug and decide on what pastry to devour—there are many!
Here's a look at what local favorites to expect:
Black Coffee Roasting Company
Bernice's Bakery
Le Petit
Posh Chocolat
Back to the Mother kombucha
Nourishing Cultures kombucha