You can organize your own tour and check out the architectural highlights of the "Garden City" by contacting the Missoula Historic Preservation Office (tel. 406/258-4706) or downloading a map from www.historicmissoula.org.

Especially for Kids -- A remarkable community effort, the Missoula Carousel (tel. 406/549-8382; www.carrousel.com) was a project begun with nothing more than unrealistic optimism. During planning, funding, and assembly stages of the project, Missoula relied on the kindness of others to make it happen. The hand-carved and -painted horses are the result of thousands of hours of labor from volunteer workers, most of whom were novices trained in the art of carving and painting. It's a treat for kids, and adults will also marvel at this merry-go-round by the river at downtown's Caras Park, which is located at the spot where Higgins Avenue crosses the Clark Fork River. The carousel is open daily year-round, with 50ยข rides for children 16 and under and seniors 55 and over, and $1.50 rides for adults. Immediately west of the carousel building is another fun community project: a fantasy-themed playground dubbed Dragon Hollow.

Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.