These Historic Towns in Idaho Are Worth Exploring
Idaho is a state known for its diverse landscapes, from rugged, cold mountains to expansive plains, and its towns reflect a rich tapestry of history and culture. Idaho was once called The Gem State, and the name Idaho itself stems from an Aboriginal word meaning Gem of the Mountains. This state, which was known for its gold rush in the 1860s, is rich in both mineral wealth as well as hidden gems of historic hamlets dotting this state.
Idaho is a state which takes pride in its varied history, displaying proudly in each of its cities, and preserving it for locals and visitors alike. In its over 10,000 miles of river, there are waiting adventures, history, and natural beauty rarely seen elsewhere.
Sun Valley
Nestled in the heart of the Sawtooth Mountains, Sun Valley is a lynchpin in America’s skiing history. Established in the 1930s, Sun Valley became the United States’ first destination ski resort. The Sun Valley Resort, still open to this day, has attracted tourists for decades. With European-inspired architecture, and the "best ski mountain in the country" nearby, stars and skiing enthusiasts alike flocked to Sun Valley, including Ernest Hemingway. Hemingway, or Papa Hemi as he is affectionately known, finished For Whom The Bell Tolls in the Sun Valley Lodge.
Both of these histories, which are richly intertwined, are chronicled at the Wood River Museum of History and Culture. If you prefer a quieter time with Hemingway, you can pay your respects at the nearby Hemingway Memorial, or perhaps a toast in the Trail Creek Cabin, a cabin-turned restaurant built in 1937, where you are brought in by sleigh.
Wallace
Continuing its 100-plus-year run as the world’s largest silver producer, Wallace is still the richest mining town in existence. For this fact alone, the whole town is listed on the National Register of Historic Places! This colourful town is not left in the past, however, diversifying into world-class recreation.
For must-see historic sights, Wallace starts with…stairs? Don’t be fooled by their humble appearance! These restored stairs have stood proud since the 19th century and were the only way for the residents to climb up from the main street to their homes. Today, they treat you to a breathtaking view of the mountain ranges, and a good workout too! For history a little more hands-off, the Historic Wallace Preservation Society houses a vast collection of historical photographs, and accounts covering over 125 years of Wallace’s history.
Finally, you can’t leave Wallace without plunging into the mines. The Sierra Silver Mine Tour takes you on an open-air mine tour in a trolley to an underground mine! Following the tour in the mine, there is a 15-minute tour around the Historic Wallace residential and business district!
Bonners Ferry
Halfway between Sandpoint and the Canadian border, Booners Ferry is a postcard come to life. This small town of less than 3,000 residents is bursting at the seams with charm. Outdoor adventures abound! The history of this sleepy hamlet is on full display and interlaced through the town, with the Boundary County Museum, the anchor of the historic downtown. This carefully curated space retains and exhibits the unique heritage of the Far North Idaho area for both residents and visitors.
To take in a show, The Pearl Theater is Bonners Ferry's Broadway! An artfully renovated church serves as a setting for intimate shows of all kinds: music, theatre, and even informative speakers. If you want to take a piece of Bonners Ferry home, look no further than the 3 Mile Antique Mall. A flea-market-style mall by locals, for everyone! Whether or not you have room in your suitcase, it is a feast for the senses and an excellent way to plug into history from the locals.
Idaho City
Originally a gold rush town from the 1860s, Idaho City still echoes with the tales of prospectors searching for their fortune. Allowing you to step back in time, historical spots have been preserved and are dotted around the city while the rest of the city grew up around it. Local spots include the Idaho Territorial Penitentiary (located in nearby Boise), the Pest House and County Jail, and the Fire House, just to name a few.
If you want the city to truly come alive, come during Idaho City Days. Beginning September 30th to October 1st, this is where vendors hawk their goods, you can attend a cowboy church service, and mine in the gold mine, and try to find your fortune.
If you don’t know where to begin, (and you aren't to blame!) perhaps a walking tour is in order, with Simply Fun! This tour is not only informative – and fun, like its namesake, but allows you access into the County Courthouse, where a collection of antique ledgers and artifacts are housed inside of a historic bank vault. Finally, you can visit the Boise Basin Museum, where you will learn about the rich and often difficult history of the 19th-century gold rush.
Lewiston
One of the oldest towns in the state, Lewiston played a significant role in its namesake: the Lewis and Clark Expedition. You can walk in their steps as you take on the Lewis and Clark National Historical Trail that extends beyond the eastern border of Idaho.
The Aboriginal peoples who guided Lewis and Clark on their expedition are still much beloved in the town of Lewiston. Learn about the Nimiipuu, or the Nez Perce Tribe's heritage and traditions from the very source at the Nez Perce National Historical Park, where tribal members can guide you.
Between white-sand beaches, intersecting rivers, and the rugged beauty of Hells Canyon, Lewiston is a destination like no other!
Sandpoint
Nestled within three mountain ranges, Sandpoint is a popular tourist destination not only for its beauty, but its outdoor activities. Sandpoint is more than just boating and skiing fun; it has a rich history on display! Sandpoint is home to the Panida Theater, a theater that has been operating since 1927. Originally a vaudeville and movie house, Panida has always been a community hub in Sandpoint, and still is to this day.
While in the area, explore the rest of the Sandpoint Historic District, listed on the National Register of HIstoric Places. The district consists of 13 buildings, including Panida Theatre and the Sandpoint City Hall, which has stood proud since 1910. Take a stroll through history, or reach out and touch it, as many of these buildings are still operating today.
To step back farther, visit the Bonner County Historical Society and Museum, which is nestled in view of the beautiful Lake Pend Oreille. This curated collection chronicles how Sandpoint went from a few shacks along the railway to a bustling resort town. Attractions include a full colonial kitchen, allowing guests to truly step back and see what it would be like to stay in Sandpoint over 100 years ago.
Island Park
With the whole town surrounded by the largest volcanic caldera in the nation, Island Park is a hidden gem for Yellowstone goers. Only a half hour from the nearest park entrance, Island Park is a great set-off point for Yellowstone vacations. However, there is enough in this town of just about 500 people to make you want to stay for an extra day or two!
In nearby Big Springs, just five miles from Island Park, is Johnny Sack's Cabin, a historic log cabin that exemplifies the craftsmanship and Idahoian ruggedness that comes to define the state. Johnny Sack, the cabin's builder and namesake, started construction on the cabin in 1932 and completed it three years later. A cabinetmaker by trade, Johnny knew craftmanship and how to preserve the natural beauty of the medium he worked in. What makes it stand out is its use of bark as accenting in many of its pieces of furniture.
Island Park is also a fishing paradise! Henry's Lake is home to up to 30-inch trout. While fishing, you may see a passing moose, bear, elk, or even a bison. Wildlife is alive and well in Island Park, and if you want to connect with nature, there is no more beautiful place to do so.
The fusion of historical landmarks and modern commercial attractions in Idaho is the secret to its charm. Visiting any of these historic towns is not only a testament to the state’s rich and varied past but allows you to visit a beautiful, curated destination. Whether you are drawn to the Old West charm of Idaho City or the lakeside elegance of Sandpoint, Idaho invites you to step back in time and savor its history.
