Missoula Riverfront Development

Welcome to Missoula's New Riverfront Development: A Gateway to Community and Connection

Missoula, Montana, is approaching an exciting transformation with the introduction of a vibrant new development along the Clark Fork River at the corner of Orange and Main Streets. The site, which once housed The Fox Theater, has sat vacant for nearly 30 years. This ambitious project will breathe new life into a currently bleak and underutilized site, creating a dynamic hub that celebrates the natural beauty of Missoula's cherished riverfront while fostering community engagement and serving as a catalyst for the revitalization of this area.

A New Destination

At the heart of this development will be a state-of-the-art hotel and conference center designed to cater to both business and leisure travelers. With luxurious accommodations and modern amenities, visitors will find a welcoming retreat that embodies the unique spirit of Missoula. The hotel will serve as an ideal venue for conferences, weddings, and special events, bolstering the city's reputation as a premier destination for gatherings. Even more exciting than that, we anticipate the pending development of this beautiful facility and its surrounding grounds will be a beacon to attract additional investment in this area.

Aerial Site Plan

A Place for Everyone

In addition to lodging accommodations and the conference center, the development includes a mix of public and private spaces, an expanded river walk, river access, and enticing retail spaces that showcase local businesses and artisans, making this a newly vibrant area of town. The outdoor plaza along the riverfront will be more than just a beautiful spot-it will be a lively gathering point, perfect for community events, outdoor activities, and relaxation by the riverside, fostering a sense of belonging among residents and visitors alike.

Riverfront Plaza and Community Space

Connecting the Community

A key highlight of this development is the dedicated pedestrian and bike path, a practical addition that will enhance non-motorized travel and connectivity in the city. This pathway, set against the stunning backdrop of the Clark Fork River, will encourage active lifestyles and provide residents and guests with a picturesque route to enjoy Missoula's natural beauty.

Pedestrian & Bike Path Connection to Caras Park

Partnership for Progress

The City of Missoula and Averill Hospitality, a renowned Montana-owned company recognized for its commitment to exceptional service and community enhancement, are proud to collaborate on the strategic development of this lot and expand Missoula's lively downtown into this revitalized zone. Averill Hospitality has a rich history in the region, dating back to 1945 when Les Averill returned from World War II, purchased what is now the Flathead Lake Lodge, and began the task of restoring vacant lodges and building new cabins to host generations for years to come. Les had the vision of bringing Western culture and a personal touch to hospitality, and this tradition has been carried on for generations by his children and grandchildren.

Today, the Averill family strives to give guests the same special memories they have from growing up in Montana - from rugged beauty and diverse wildlife to fun adventures and embracing community. Averill Hospitality's mission is to provide authentic, personalized experiences in spectacular settings. AH successfully operates notable properties, such as the Edgewater Missoula DoubleTree Hotel and Finn restaurant, as well as three well-regarded hotels in Whitefish: The Lodge at Whitefish Lake, The Firebrand, and the new Whitefish Riverfront Hotel. Additionally, the company established a live music and food truck venue, Thirty Eight, located in downtown Whitefish. This new development will build upon Averill's legacy of excellence.

Dan & Laurie Averill, Brian & Sean Averill

Giving Back to the Community

This project will not only pivotally revitalize a key, historically underutilized area of Missoula and create a new destination, but it will also give back to the community through job creation, increased tax revenue, and significant contributions to Missoula's Affordable Housing Trust Fund. Projected to bring upwards of $7 million in contributions, the development supports efforts to create and sustain workforce housing. This contribution is made possible in part through the Averill Community Foundation, which will collect 1% of lodging, food, and beverage revenue generated at the property. The 1% assessment will be donated in full to the City's Affordable Housing Trust Fun for a minimum of 10 years or until $3,000,000 is contributed, whichever comes later.

Dining Deck Overlooking Plaza

A Bright Future Ahead

The Missoula Riverfront Development is poised to enhance the community, inviting residents and visitors to experience Missoula in a new way. This development is a result of the collective efforts and vision of our community, fostering a sense of togetherness and collaboration. With sustainable practices and community-centered initiatives at its core, this development is not only a significant step forward for Missoula but a reflection of Averill Hospitality's commitment to building a vibrant future for all.

We are grateful for your support and enthusiasm as we embark on this journey to transform this area into a vibrant and beautiful space for current and future generations to enjoy. Stay tuned for more updates and be part of this exciting new chapter in Missoula!