Is The Wren Missoula the Best Basecamp? A Complete Review!

If you’re planning a trip to western Montana, The Wren Missoula is well-worth considering a stay at. This boutique hotel blends eclectic design with local flair—and it’s right in the heart of downtown. Whether you’re here for outdoor adventures, a quick overnight, or a cozy weekend away, this spot is a standout.

Here is everything you need to know about The Wren Missoula before booking.

2025 Guide to The Wren Missoula

I couldn’t believe how familiar The Wren Missoula felt when I arrived to check in this spring. It was almost like coming home. Funny enough, I had popped into the cozy coffee shop connected to the lobby on a past visit—without even realizing it was part of a hotel!

Not only that, but the artsy, outdoorsy vibe instantly reminded me of The Finch in Walla Walla, Washington. Turns out, they’re sister properties—part of the same thoughtful, community-focused hotel family. The Wren officially opened in December 2022, so everything still feels incredibly fresh, modern, and well-curated.

While the nostalgic start was a pleasant surprise, it was our three-night, four-day stay that fully convinced me: The Wren Missoula is hands-down the best hotel in Missoula, Montana.

Let’s dive into why—from the design-forward rooms and local art to dog-friendly policies and those little details that truly make a difference.

Where is The Wren located?

Location, location, location. It’s one of the biggest wins here.

You’ll find The Wren in the heart of downtown Missoula, within walking distance of top-rated restaurants, indie boutiques, local art galleries, and scenic riverfront spots like Caras Park—where you might even catch a few adventurous souls mountain surfing on the river.

From the Missoula Montana Airport (MSO), it’s a quick 15-minute Uber or Lyft ride. Once we checked in, we didn’t need a car the entire time. That said, if you’re road-tripping or renting a car, you’re covered with diagonal street parking nearby or valet service for $20 a day.

Bonus: The Wren is nestled against the backdrop of soft, rolling green hills. Not only did our room have city views, but a glimpse of those hills added to the calming feel of the space.

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What Makes The Wren Missoula So Special?

Community-Minded Decor

From the moment you step inside the lobby, you can tell this is not your typical chain hotel. Every corner of The Wren Missoula feels intentional and deeply rooted in local culture.

What you can expect to see:

• Rotating art from local artists displayed throughout public spaces.
• Historic artifacts and outdoor-themed memorabilia in The Map Room, like smokejumper gear on loan from the National Museum of Forest Service History.

• Locally sourced materials, including wood from Bozeman and Pendleton wool blankets inspired by Glacier National Park in every room.

It’s the kind of place where you learn a little something just by walking to your room.

Basecamp Coffee Shop On-Site

I’m usually skeptical of hotel coffee—but not here. Basecamp, the coffee shop right off the lobby, is one I’d actually gone out of my way to visit before.

They brew beans from Black Coffee Roasting Co., Missoula’s premier roaster, and offer a full espresso menu where you can even choose your roast (I switched things up daily, but always came back to the dark roast).

Need breakfast? Their bagels are chef’s kiss—especially the combo of microgreens, cucumber, and red onion. It’s the kind of breakfast that powers you up for a day of hiking or strolling downtown.

Dog-Friendly

If you travel with a pup in tow, you’ll love The Wren Missoula. They allow up to two dogs per room, each up to 90 lbs. (If your dog is larger, just give them a call—they’re happy to work with you.)

Although we didn’t bring our yellow Lab, Lilo, on this trip, we’ve stayed with her at their sister hotel, The Finch, and she was greeted with a sweet little doggy welcome kit: bandana, tennis ball, bowls, and waste bags.

There are several parks just a short walk away, perfect for morning walks and zoomie sessions.

Sleep Quality

Honestly, I don’t tend to sleep well in new places. But at The Wren, I was out like a light every night. The bedding was soft, cool, and clearly high quality (we later confirmed that they do use luxury bedding), and our corner suite had blackout curtains that made the room pitch-dark even during Missoula’s bright spring mornings.

One especially nice touch? A 24/7 text concierge service. I texted to ask about firmer pillows, and someone from the front desk (“your guide,” as they call it) brought several options to our room within minutes.

Complimentary Refreshments

As I noted before, the Wren’s lobby has ice water hand by the entrance. This was super nice as the spring temperatures can get up into the 90s.

Additionally, the shared common space known as The Map Room (with a large couch and table/chairs similar to a coworking space) had a mini fridge fully stocked with cans of La Croix. This may sound like a little thing, but I really appreciated having sparkling water available. For me, It’s this attention to the little things that add up to a memorable experience.

Frequently Asked Questions about The Wren Missoula

Is there a gym or fitness center?

No in-house gym, but you’re steps away from riverside trails for walking or running, and several local gyms offer day passes.

What are the best rooms at The Wren Missoula?

I’d recommend the Bitterroot Suite for the most natural light and best views. Our room had a living room, bedroom separated with a barn door, and large bathroom with a walk-in shower. But even the standard rooms are well-designed and full of character.

Can you walk to the University of Montana from The Wren?

Yes! It’s about a 15–20 minute walk across the bridge. The location makes it a great stay for campus visits or events. Once, walked through campus to connect to the M Trail and then hiked up to the M on Mount Sentinel!

Is breakfast included at The Wren Missoula?

Breakfast isn’t included, but Basecamp Coffee is right in the lobby with incredible bagels and espresso drinks.

This post was all about The Wren Missoula.