Shooting star wildflowers blooming in Elk Meadows, Salmon-Challis National Forest.

7 Most Vibrant Towns in Idaho

The state of Idaho is a rather large region. It covers two entire time zones and shares a land border with six American states and one Canadian province. The state's geographic location is abundantly beautiful with its 112 named mountain ranges (such as Blackfoot Mountain, Sawtooth Mountains, and Coeur d'Alene Mountains), numerous small and large rivers, and more than 2,000 lakes. With a varied climate, visitors will surely experience the wonder of Idaho weather at any time of the year. It certainly adds to the vibrancy of the state towns that will leave travelers with lasting impressions!

Underrated IdahoDiscover 7 of the Most Underrated Towns in Idaho

Sandpoint

Sandpoint, Idaho, USA: First Avenue, the main street through downtown Sandpoint, on a summer day.
First Avenue is the main street in Sandpoint. Image credit Kirk Fisher via Shutterstock.

In getting to Sandpoint, crossing the Long Bridge showcases magnificent views of Lake Pend Oreille, the Selkirk Mountain range, and nearby Sandpoint. Sandpoint can even be visited by boat at the Windbag Marina and City Beach Marina. It is also located a short 60 miles from the Canadian border.

The visitor’s center is a great place to find out information on the area and to find some recreational activities to take part in. The arts and culture of Sandpoint is vibrant and constant. Something is always happening, from rodeos to artist studio tours to seasonal-themed holiday events. There is something to do in every season, making this town exciting no matter the time of year one chooses to visit. It is close to the Schweitzer Mountain ski resort, so be sure to check that out if you visit during the winter months for some fun in the snow!

Moscow

Farmers' Market, Moscow, Idaho. Image credit Jeremy Segrott from Cardiff, Wales, UK, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons Ever since its official creation in 1890, the town has served as a lively center home to various histories, cultures, and activities highlighting the region’s biggest attractions. Known for being home to the University of Idaho, this town is known for its upbeat energy, but there is another side to the town to discover when visiting. Stop at the Appaloosa Museum and Heritage Center, at the home of the Appaloosa Horse. Visitors can learn about the history of the horse and various items linked to it. Once known as a railroad town, the history can still be explored today at the Latah Trail, which is situated along former rail lines and contains historical plaques that highlight the region's history. After, take a journey to the sky when you ascend Moscow Mountain, home to many trails with varying difficulties, and enjoy the rewarding scenery when you have conquered the mountain. Don’t forget to score some local goods when you visit the Farmer’s market that is open every Saturday from May through October. Ammon Overlooking Ammon, Idaho Overlooking Ammon, Idaho. Image credit Scoletti1, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons It's not too late to explore this lesser-known town before the secret is out: one of the fastest-growing cities in Idaho. Commence your day in Ammon at the scenic McCowin Park, renowned for its lush greenery and walking trails that wind through the beauty of nature. One of the best attractions in the entire state is the nearby Idaho Potato Museum in Blackfoot, where visitors can dive into the region's rich potato farming history and learn about the importance of this staple food and its impact on the country. Afterward, check out the Museum of Idaho in Idaho Falls, which is known for its diverse exhibit offerings, from Dinosaur bones to Native American artifacts. You will never know what awaits inside the state museum. Star Star Mercantile & Lumber Company began in 1908 in Star, Idaho. Star Mercantile & Lumber Company in Star, Idaho. Image credit Tamanoeconomico, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons Settled along the beautiful Boise River, Star has something for all types of travelers. Ease into your morning with a visit to the Star Riverwalk Park, a serene spot along the river. Situated west of the town of Eagle, venture to the nearby Eagle Island State Park, which offers hiking trails, a lake for water activities, and peaceful natural views. To explore the regions history, visit the Orma J. Smith Museum of Natural History in Caldwell, which is known for its vast fossilized exhibits. In the evenings, savor a meal at one of the town's charming restaurants, Star Country Café has some of the finest dining and a friendly atmosphere for those who enter. MOST QUAINT SMALL TOWNS IN IDAHO From lush forests to several stretches of the Rocky Mountains, Idaho is the ideal place for lovers of the great outdoors. Whether you are a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, Idaho's off-beat towns offer a diverse collection of experiences for those seeking a break from mainstream destinations. This beautiful state attracts visitors with its natural beauty, historical insights, and close-knit communities. These seven towns encapsulate Idaho's charm, blending adventure, culture, and natural wonder for a unique travel experience for those who stray from the norm. SHARE Home Places Cities 7 Offbeat Towns to Visit in Idaho Marc Beckstead February 8 2024 in Places More In Places Aerial view of the Arizona Williams city and the railway station in Arizona. Route 66. The Best Small Towns To Retire In Arizona The area surrounding the Taos Junction Bridge in Pilar, Taos County, New Mexico. 7 Most Charming River Towns In New Mexico To Visit In 2024 Lewis Lake in the Snowy Mountian Range of the Medicine Bow National Forest near Laramie, Wyoming. 8 Picturesque Small Towns In Wyoming For A Weekend Retreat Aerial view of Eureka Springs, Arkansas. 9 Best Places To Live In The Ozarks In 2024 Aerial view of Elkhart Courthouse and suburban townscape of Goshen, Indiana. 6 Picturesque Small Towns In Indiana For A Weekend Retreat Town officials march in a Fourth of July parade in Bristol, Rhode Island. Image credit James Kirkikis via Shutterstock 7 Must-See Historic Towns In Rhode Island Rosemary Beach, Florida. Editorial credit: Ken Schulze / Shutterstock.com 8 Most Vibrant Towns On Florida's Emerald Coast Downtown Deadwood, South Dakota. Image credit Michael Kaercher via Shutterstock.com 8 Most Vibrant Towns In South Dakota
Farmer's Market in Moscow, Idaho. Image credit Jeremy Segrott via Wikimedia Commons.

Not to be confused with the Moscow of Russia, this vibrant Idaho town is known for being “the heart of the arts” with the Lionel Hampton International Jazz Festival, Festival Dance, Renaissance Fair, Rendezvous in the Park, Artwalk, and the Prichard Art Gallery as some of the art-related events and places that people can enjoy.

Students of the nearby University of Idaho and residents of Moscow can enjoy a local farmers' market, Rants & Raves Brewery, and the Arboretum & Botanical Garden. It is easy to get around the town on foot or a bike, making exploring the college town a lot of potential fun. Travelers will quickly discover what makes this town so vibrant and memorable, with live music being heard frequently making for a wonderful day out!

Payette

Kayaking on Upper Payette Lake in Idaho.
Kayaking on Upper Payette Lake in Idaho.

The largest town in Payette County, the town is located at the junction of the Payette River and the Snake River; Payette is nearby to the Oregon border. Payette is home to a fifty-year-old golf course that is available to enjoy during the spring and summer months. It is affordable and usable by players of all levels. The course itself is beautiful to walk. The Sundance Saloon is an atmospheric bar where you can enjoy Payette's nightlife.

An interesting bit of local folklore is the belief that Sharlie/Slimy Slim, a sea serpent (similar to the Loch Ness Monster), lives in the deep alpine waters of Payette Lake. The folklore of Payette and the surrounding area is interesting to learn about, and it certainly adds to the charm of the small town. 

Soda Springs

Part of thousands of natural hot springs in the area, the world's largest captive geyser in Soda Springs, Idaho goes off every hour shooting warm water high into the air.
Geyser in Soda Springs, Idaho. 

This town gets its name from the natural carbonated waters in its geyser, which are located in the aptly named Geyser Park and numerous hot springs. In a town with the beauty of outdoor recreation, there is no shortage of things to do in Soda Springs. There are parks, recreational sports, fishing, camping, boating, swimming & hot pools, snowmobiling, skiing, and snowboarding. There are also several walking and hiking trails for use, such as the Hooper Springs Loop, Draney Peak Loop, Terrace Canyon, and Webster Range Loop, each with its unique level of difficulty.

If you require a place to stay for your visit, the Historic Enders Building is a hotel full of antique charm with modern comforts. The water in this town is beautiful and refreshing for its residents and any visitors it welcomes. 

Grangeville

USA, Idaho, Columbia River Basin, Snake River Basin, Salmon River Canyon (tributary to Snake River), between Grangeville and Riggins
Columbia River Basin between Grangeville and Riggins. 

Grangeville is located on the Camas Prairies close to the mountains of the Nez Perce National Forest, where the wilderness of the forest extends for almost half of the national park. The 4 million acres of vibrant forest will mark a memorable trip for anyone who visits. 

The Idaho State Highway 13 passes through the city as Main Street to add to the ease of any trip to Challis. This town has various places to visit to make any time spent memorable. Museum and history lovers should be sure to visit the Monastery of St Gertrude. Any outdoor adventurers might want to check out Whitebird Summit Adventure to ride some horses near the beautiful Salmon River Basin. After a full day of exploring, visitors might like to check out the Wolftrack Brewing and Tasting Den or the Triangle Tavern.

Challis

Shooting star wildflowers blooming in Elk Meadows, Salmon-Challis National Forest.
Shooting star wildflowers blooming in Elk Meadows, Salmon-Challis National Forest.

Located in central Idaho along the Salmon River drainage and next to the beautiful Salmon/Challis National Forest, Challis is a town full of history and located close to several beautiful parks and trails that stand out for the adventuring outdoorsman. It is an ideal base camp for those who enjoy recreation. The rodeos and July 4th celebrations are a stand-out activity for those who decide to partake. 

For a bit of local history, several ghost towns can be visited and are within driving distance of Challis, such as the Bay Horse ghost town or the Bonanza and Custer ghost town located in the uniquely named State Park of Land of the Yankee Fork. The Sunbeam and Challis Hot Springs are available to enjoy as well.

Mackay

An abandoned silver mine in Mackay, Idaho, USA
An abandoned silver mine in Mackay, Idaho.

The beauty of this small town boasts an amazing view of the White Knob Mountains peak. The Lost River Museum aims to help visitors discover the history of mining in Mackay. The town allows the use of ATVs, SXSx, and UTVs to be driven on any city street or alley, making this an adventurous town! There are also numerous trails to be used by these vehicles, which is the reason that Mackay has been called “the ATV capital of Idaho.” There are also several walking and hiking trails for use, such as the Iron Bog Lake Trail, the Mount Brietenbach Trail, and the Mount Borah Trail.

There are also tube and kayak rentals to have fun on the Big Lost River that runs through the town. Tours are also available at the old Mackay mine on the way to a nearby ATV trail in the Starvalley area. For a truly vibrant event, be sure to check out the Mackay Rodeo that takes place on June 16th and 17th, 2024. The IMRA Motorcycle Rodeo takes place on the same rodeo grounds on June 30th, July 1st and 2nd, 2024.

Retire in IdahoThe 8 Best Small Towns to Retire in Idaho

The beauty of Idaho can be found in every corner of the state. With so many lakes, mountain ranges, and numerous communities, there is something for everyone to enjoy in the mountain and river-nestled towns of Idaho. The vibrant towns can be enjoyed in every season. A visit or a stay in any of these authentic and exciting towns will surely be remembered by tourists for a long time to come!

Share
  1. Home
  2. Places
  3. Cities
  4. 7 Most Vibrant Towns in Idaho
Ronnie Neiman March 5 2024 in Places

More in Places