Bank Street, the main street through the historic town of Wallace, Idaho. Image credit Kirk Fisher via Shutterstock

These 6 Towns in Idaho Have Bustling Main Streets

While big cities like Boise and Idaho Falls are popular tourism destinations in Idaho, quaint towns with their busy main streets, like McCall or Island Park, can offer an equally satisfying experience. Idaho's towns combine small-town charm with big-city amenities to provide you with all the exploration and leisure you want, including historic sights, local eateries, mom-and-pop shops, must-see attractions, and outdoor fun. Uncover the top six towns in Idaho with lively main streets for you to check out on your next Idaho trip.

McCall

Classic building fronts in a McCall, Idaho.
Downtown McCall, Idaho. Image credit Charles Knowles via Shutterstock

Situated on the southern shore of Payette Lake, McCall is a beautiful resort town on the western edge of Valley County. Shore Lodge is one of the top places to stay, with waterfront dining, a serene spa, and seasonal recreational activities. Many breweries and bars in the vibrant downtown hub showcase McCall's local charm, such as the McCall Brewing Company and the historic Forester McCall, which has been around since 1947. Local eateries like Crusty's Pizza, Toll Station Pizza & Grill, and Steamers Steak & Seafood, a pleasant upscale dining experience, are a few steps away.

Those looking to explore the shopping scene in the area can check out pottery at Mountain Monet, gourmet kitchen items at Bella Kitchen, and home and garden décor at Razzle Dazzle. From summer to fall, the downtown streets come alive with the McCall Farmer's Market.

Island Park

Henry's Fork of the Snake River in Island Park, Idaho, near Yellowstone National Park.
Henry's Fork of the Snake River in Island Park, Idaho, near Yellowstone National Park.

Island Park, a small town in Fremont County, has a 33-mile-long main street, making it the world's longest. The massive street is home to various restaurants, shops, and lodges unique to Island Park. For a delightful dining experience, Connie's Restaurant & Saloon offers comfort food and Western charm. Another great place to eat is inside Angler's Lodge, which has riverfront views. In front of the Lodge, you will come across Happy Anglers, a nice place to grab an espresso or quick breakfast. Over at the nearby Mountain Pop Shop, you can find sodas and delicious treats.

Shopping enthusiasts can stop by Island Park Souvenirs and Gifts, then Sam Patch Co. Grocery and Sundries for fresh produce and other items. Island Park is just a short distance from Henrys Lake, Harriman State Park, and Yellowstone National Park, famous for outdoor recreation.

Ketchum

Ketchum, Idaho street
Ketchum, Idaho street. Image credit Sharon Hahn Darlin, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Ketchum is a mountain town in central Idaho in the Rocky Mountains with blue skies, clear waters, numerous hiking trails, and ski resorts. Outside of its beautiful scenery and outdoor recreation, Ketchum boasts a lovely downtown area for residents and visitors. One event that draws huge crowds to the downtown area is the Trailing of the Sheep Festival, a one-of-a-kind festival celebrating the history and culture of sheepherding in Idaho and the town's quintessential charm. Concerts, street parties, and parades fill the streets with music and entertainment.

You can also stroll the weekly farmer's market or the plaza area for a peaceful walk. Grab a coffee at Java On Fourth, have a healthy meal at NourishMe, see live bands at Whiskey's on Main, and shop for appeal and sporting goods at Lost Rivers Outfitters, all in the heart of downtown Ketchum.

Stanley

Street signs in Stanley, Idaho.
Street signs in downtown Stanley, Idaho. Image credit Frank Kovalchek from Anchorage, Alaska, USA, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Stanley is an idyllic town that is a great place to visit at any time of the year. The heart of its downtown area lies on the corner of Wall Street and Ace of Diamonds Boulevard, with eateries like Papa Brunee's offering the best pizza and shops like Sawtooth Spirit for apparel and gifts. Stanley's downtown area is also home to events and festivals that take over its streets. Sawtooth Valley Gathering, a multi-day music festival, attracts many people to Stanley in the summertime every year. The Sawtooth Festival for Arts, Crafts, and Food is another event that brings the community together.

Mountain Village Resort, located on the banks of Salmon River, is a great place to stay with a hot spring overlooking the Sawtooth Mountains, a full-service restaurant, and live entertainment at Velvet Falls Dance Hall. Stop by the Kasino Club nearby for music, street dances, and free games for more entertainment. Just minutes from Stanley's downtown area are many hiking and biking trails and opportunities for fishing, camping, horseback riding, and whitewater rafting.

Sandpoint

First Avenue in Sandpoint, Idaho, on a summer day.
First Avenue in Sandpoint, Idaho, on a summer day. Image credit Kirk Fisher via Shutterstock

Situated on Lake Pend Oreille, Sandpoint, in northern Idaho, is well known for its ski slopes and terrain parks at Schweitzer. But if you travel approximately 20 minutes down to Main Street, you will find much more in store. In downtown Sandpoint, dine at the iconic Connie's Cafe & Lounge, order a round of handcrafted beers at MickDuff's Brewing Company, or partake in wine tastings at Pend d'Oreille Winery. There are plenty of boutiques and stores, ranging from Finan McDonald Clothing Company to the Native American gallery The Blue Lizard.

In addition to its eateries and shops, Sandpoint's Main Street is unique because its two-mile-long stretch takes you straight to Sand Creek, where you can go kayaking and canoeing. Many lodging options, ranging from cabins to bed and breakfasts, are also in the area.

Wallace

Picturesque Railroad Museum in the Old West mining town of Wallace, Idaho.
Picturesque Railroad Museum in the Old West mining town of Wallace, Idaho. Image credit Kirk Fisher via Shutterstock

Wallace may be located in the Silver Valley mining district of the Idaho Panhandle, but the town is much more than that. You will be surprised by the local eateries, small shops, and vibrant bars in downtown Wallace. Brooks Hotel, Restaurant & Lounge is a cozy lodging option if you want to stay in the heart of downtown. Nearby, Johnson's Gems & Collectibles sells jewelry and other rare items. North Idaho Trading Co. is another great place for neat finds.

To get a feel for the nightlife scene, visiting 1313 Club, housed in the historic Heller Building, is a must. Stop by 6th & Cedar Espresso Bar & Saloon for a coffee during the day or catch live music and other entertainment at night. In addition to its lively main streets, Wallace has abundant recreation options in the surrounding mountains.

Towns In Idaho That Were Ranked Among US FavoritesOutside Boise, whose charming downtown is among the best in America, Idaho is sprinkled with many cute little towns, many of which can hold their own against the nation’s prettiest.

The Best Bustling Main Streets to Explore in Idaho

Idaho, often celebrated for its breathtaking landscapes and outdoor adventures, is also home to a collection of charming towns waiting to be discovered. While in these towns, step outside the norm and explore their bustling main streets. Each offers something different but still gives you a taste of what Idaho is all about.

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Chanelle Hayes September 2 2024 in Places

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