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 one of America’s best small towns, as one of the top 10 most “authentic” towns in America, and more. But while Wallace, Idaho’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!
The quaint town of Wallace, Idaho (population of approximately 1,100) dates back to 1884, just a few short years before the Silver Valley Mining District took off.
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.
The close-knit community is notably special for a number of reasons, both historical and present-day.
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.
But Wallace is also home to wonderfully eclectic shops, motels, and theaters, each with its own vibrant personality.
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 here. Despite its size, the list of things to do in Wallace is pretty impressive!
It's perfect in every season! In the 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 school children fashioning a makeshift slide.
You'll almost always drive through and find a festival or celebration taking place in this small town in Idaho.
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. If there's any one thing Wallace, Idaho is known for, it's for knowing how to host an epic community block party!
The Oasis Bordello Museum - a preserved tribute to the town's former closed-door reputation - is one of the most surprising places to visit, but the Depot Museum, Sierra Silver Mine Museum, Northern Pacific Railroad Museum, and more are all worth a trip.
But perhaps the town's most lovable and notable claim to fame is its self-proclaimed title of "Center of the Universe."
They even have the "center" marked at the intersection of Bank and Sixth St. to prove it. This was yet another moment in town history where the community came together to protect their city. This unique location and interesting story of how it came to be are just a few of the many things that Wallace is famous for.
If you’ve never paid a visit to this fun little town, you’re in for a treat! When it comes to personality, the “Center of the Universe” has one of the most vibrant personalities in Idaho, and we love this little town for all of its oddities, surprises, and beauty.
Craving more Idaho goodness? Avoid the crowds with this quiet hike through a beautiful nature preserve.
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Address: Wallace, ID 83873, USA
The OIYS Visitor Center
Wallace, Idaho & Related Info
October 05, 2022
Courtnie Erickson
Where is Wallace, Idaho?
You'll find Wallace, Idaho about an hour southeast of Coeur d'Alene, making it the perfect place to kickoff a weekend road trip through the Panhandle, or a day trip of its own.
What are some must-see attractions in Wallace, Idaho?
There are plenty of things to see and do in Wallace, Idaho. Not only is the town absolutely gorgeous as it is tucked away in the mountains and is surrounded by some of Idaho’s natural beauty, but this town is also home to multiple historic landmarks. One of the most popular is the original train depot from 1901. Today, this is home to the Union Pacific Railroad Museum and a delightful stop while in town.
One of the most unique historic landmarks in town is the restored Wallace Stairs. Back in the 1880s, residents would use this staircase to access their homes that were located on the hills. Today, you can walk up these stairs and imagine yourself living decades in the past — and you’ll get a good workout while you are at it!
What is Wallace, Idaho famous for?
Wallace is known for its charming downtown area, beautiful views, and incredible mining history, but that’s not all. What you may not know is that Wallace has one claim to fame — it is the Center of the Universe. Located at the center of Bank and Sixth Street is a plaque in the middle of the road, claiming to be the Center of the Universe. While this likely isn’t the real Center of the Universe, it is still fun to stand on the plaque and pretend. You never know … you really might be standing in one of the most unique locations in the universe!
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