Missoula, Montana grabs you the moment you arrive. With the Clark Fork River cutting through town and the Bitterroot Mountains in the background, it’s a place built for adventure and laid-back charm.
Whether you’re here for fishing, hiking, or just soaking in the college-town energy, you’ll need a good place to stay. Motels in Missoula offer great value, comfort, and convenience without draining your wallet.
In this guide, we’re sharing the seven best motels in Missoula, picked for their cleanliness, comfort, location, guest reviews, and overall value, so you can focus more on exploring and less on lodging.
1. Super 8 by Wyndham Missoula/Reserve St
At a Glance:
- Location: 4703 N Reserve St, Missoula, MT 59808 (Just off I-90, about 4.4 miles from downtown Missoula)
- Website: Wyndham Hotels
- Best Time to Visit: January, when rates are at their lowest
- Cost: Budget-friendly, varies by season
- Reservations: Booking more than 90 days ahead is smart
- Duration: Most people stop over for about a day
Super 8 by Wyndham Missoula/Reserve St is a practical and reliable choice for travelers who want a clean, comfortable place to stay without any unnecessary extras.
Its location right off Exit 101 on I-90 makes it an easy stop, especially if you’re planning to explore the town or just passing through. Some rooms come with kitchenettes, and several guests have even been upgraded to full kitchens, making longer stays more convenient.
The motel is known for being welcoming to pets, which is a huge plus if you’re traveling with a furry companion. Shopping centers and casual dining spots are just a short drive away, so you don’t have to go far to grab a bite or pick up supplies.
The staff is friendly and helpful, and the property stays generally quiet, which helps after a day of hiking, fishing, or just cruising around Missoula. It’s a great mix of comfort, value, and convenience.
2. Motel 6, Missoula, University
At a Glance:
- Location: 630 E Broadway St, Missoula, MT 59802 (less than a mile from the University of Montana)
- Website: Motel 6
- Best Time to Visit: January is best for savings, May tends to be packed
- Cost: Starting at around $52 a night
- Reservations: Book online for ease
- Duration: Best for 1-2 day stays
Motel 6, Missoula, University is a favorite among travelers looking for an affordable, no-fuss place to stay close to campus life and downtown attractions. It’s about a mile from the University of Montana and only a quick 2.6-mile drive to downtown hotspots.
The rooms are simple, slightly smaller than average, but very clean and updated with comfortable beds and fresh decor. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the property, which is handy whether you’re catching up on emails or planning your next day’s activities.
A standout feature here is the well-maintained indoor pool, perfect for unwinding after exploring Missoula’s lively streets. The location draws families visiting students, prospective enrollees, and solo travelers who want to stay near the action without overspending.
Motel 6 keeps things straightforward, offering good value and easy convenience, making it a smart choice for short stays that don’t skimp on comfort or accessibility.
3. City Center Motel, Missoula
At a Glance:
- Location: 338 E Broadway St, Missoula, MT 59802
- Website: City Center Motel
- Best Time to Visit: June through August for prime weather
- Cost: Budget-friendly, lower than many hotels
- Reservations: Smart to reserve early in summer
- Duration: Good for short or longer stays
City Center Motel is the kind of place where location really does most of the talking. Sitting right on E Broadway Street, it puts you within easy walking distance of Missoula’s best spots, whether you’re grabbing coffee, checking out a festival, or heading over to the University of Montana.
The rooms are simple but clean, outfitted with practical touches like microwaves, minifridges, free Wi-Fi, and free parking, making longer stays a lot more comfortable.
You won’t find flashy extras here, but that’s part of its charm; it focuses on providing everything you really need without piling on extra costs. Travelers who stay here tend to be those who want to experience downtown Missoula on foot without feeling rushed or boxed into a heavy hotel atmosphere.
It’s the perfect motel for visitors who appreciate a no-nonsense, reliable base that lets them sink into the local rhythm of the town with ease.
4. Days Inn and Suites by Wyndham Downtown Missoula, University
At a Glance:
- Location: 744 E Broadway St, Missoula, MT 59802
- Website: Days Inn
- Best Time to Visit: Peak comfort from June to August
- Cost: Reasonably priced, good bang for your buck
- Reservations: Definitely reserve during summer months
- Duration: Fits short stays and week-long trips alike
Days Inn and Suites by Wyndham Downtown Missoula, University strikes a comfortable balance between affordability and those little perks that make traveling easier.
The relaxed atmosphere here sets the tone the minute you walk in, with a friendly staff that makes checking in feel like a breeze.
Guests enjoy a complimentary breakfast, free Wi-Fi, and parking, all small details that go a long way when you’re spending your days exploring the city.
A casual restaurant onsite and a handy business center add to the motel’s appeal, especially for longer stays or work trips. Its downtown location keeps you within easy walking distance of the University of Montana and plenty of shops, restaurants, and parks.
Whether you’re in town for a campus tour, a business meeting, or just some summer fun along the riverfront, this Days Inn makes a smart home base without the hefty price tag you might expect from a prime location.
5. Baymont by Wyndham Missoula
At a Glance:
- Location: 4953 N Reserve St, Missoula, MT 59808
- Website: Baymont
- Best Time to Visit: Summer brings the best activities
- Cost: Competitive rates
- Reservations: Suggested…it’s a busy spot
- Duration: Great for overnight or longer stays
Baymont by Wyndham Missoula is a great middle-ground option for travelers who want motel-style ease with a few bonus comforts.
Located just off the interstate, it’s a convenient stop for folks driving through town or staying a little longer to explore western Montana.
The motel serves up a free breakfast every morning, and the indoor pool is a refreshing perk, especially after long days of hiking or sightseeing. Rooms are clean, well-kept, and spacious enough to accommodate both families and solo travelers without feeling cramped.
Parking is free and plentiful, and the property’s quiet atmosphere makes it easy to rest up between adventures. Shopping centers, dining spots, and the downtown area are all just a short drive away.
Baymont offers a comfortable, stress-free home base that doesn’t feel far from the action. It’s a reliable choice whether you’re overnighting on a road trip or settling in for a week-long stay.
Tips for Choosing the Right Motel in Missoula
Finding the right place isn’t just about the cheapest rate. It’s about picking a motel that fits your trip like a well-worn pair of boots. Here are a few tips to make sure you land the right spot:
Know Your Budget and Travel Style
Before you start browsing motels, think about how much you’re comfortable spending and what kind of experience you want. Some travelers don’t mind a basic room if it means saving money for river rafting or brewery hopping.
Others might prefer a few extra comforts like a pool or a bigger room if they’re staying a little longer. Knowing where you want to splurge or save makes narrowing down your options much easier.
Plan Around Your Itinerary and Location
Missoula is a spread-out town with a lot to see, so it helps to match your lodging to your plans. If you’re focused on exploring downtown, staying near the University area or city center will make walking around a breeze.
If you’re in town for outdoor adventures like hiking or fishing, something closer to the interstate could save you valuable travel time.
Read Recent Guest Reviews
One of the smartest ways to get a real feel for a place is by reading what other travelers have said. Look for recent reviews, especially those mentioning cleanliness, noise levels, and staff friendliness.
A quick scan can tell you a lot about whether a motel will match your expectations or not.
Check for Must-Have Amenities
Everyone’s needs are different. Some travelers just want a clean bed and a shower. Others might need Wi-Fi for work, laundry facilities for longer trips, or pet-friendly rooms. Make a quick checklist before you book so you won’t end up missing something important once you arrive.
Book Early During Peak Seasons
Missoula comes alive during the summer months and university-event weekends, which means motels fill up fast.
Booking early is a good way to lock in better rates and guarantee you get the spot you want. Waiting until the last minute can mean limited choices and higher prices, especially downtown.
Final Words
Choosing a motel in Missoula is a smart way to enjoy comfort, convenience, and great value while staying close to everything the city offers.
Whether you want to be steps from downtown or need easy access to the interstate, the motels we highlighted each offer something a little different. Clean rooms, friendly service, and affordable rates are the common thread.
Take a closer look at the options that match your travel style, book your stay early, and get ready to experience the best of Missoula at your own pace.