The Little Town In Idaho That Might Just Be The Most Unique Town In The World
Of all the towns in Idaho, it’s hard to choose just one to be the “most unique” — they’re all pretty special! But one charming town in the panhandle is so singular that it’s been recognized nationally as the most unique small town in Idaho, as one of the top 10 most “authentic” towns in America, and more. But while Wallace’s claim to fame is often its unique history, captured in places like the Sierra Silver Mine and Oasis Bordello Museum, this town has so much more to offer!
Wallace was named after William R. Wallace, a local farmer. The discovery of the Poorman and Tiger silver lodes transformed the region into a booming epicenter, eventually forming one of the largest Silver deposits in the United States. By 1886, the town's population surpassed 500, just shy of its current population.
From battling multiple fires -- including the Big Burn of 1910 -- and devastating floods, to coming together to protect the town's history from being destroyed by the unwanted development of a highway through the city center, Wallace is one collaborative success story after another.
A stroll through downtown will never disappoint -- be sure to stop an take a few photos, too!
Wallace Chamber of Commerce/Facebook
This photo is circa 1964, but not much has changed architecture-wise!
The Historic Wallace Heritage Trail, the Pulaski Tunnel Trail, the Trail of the Coeur d'Alenes, and dozens of other hiking, biking, and scenic meandering trails have their place in Wallace.
It's perfect in every season! In fall, a trip to the top of one of Wallace's 12 historic stairs offers perfect foliage viewing opportunities, while in winter, you might just find local schoolchildren fashioning a makeshift slide.
You can read more about Wallace's historic trolley ride and mine tour here.
From the traditional Oktoberfest, to Wallace's unique Gyro Days, Fall for History, and Depot Day celebrations, every moment is enjoyed with the community in colorful style.
The Oasis Bordello Museum -- a preserved tribute to the town's former underbelly reputation - is one of the most surprising places to visit, but the Depot Museum, Sierra Silver Mine Museum, and more are all worth a trip.
They even have the "center" marked at the intersection of Bank and Sixth St. to prove it. This was yet another moment in Wallace's history where the townspeople came together to protect their city, which you can read more about here.
When it comes to personality, Wallace has one of the biggest and most vibrant “big-little” cultures in Idaho, and we love this little town for all of its oddities, surprises, and beauty!
