Idaho’s Small Town Was Just Named One Of The Coolest In The US.
Sandpoint, Idaho, recognized as one of the coolest small towns in the country, offers a relaxed, charming atmosphere with scenic byways and mountain ranges.
Sandpoint, Idaho was just named as one of the coolest small towns in the country by Matador Network.
To come up with their rankings, the "researchers" listened to the stories of residents and travelers, aiming to figure out what makes a particular community special and what ignites that magical small town vibe.
Sandpoint was selected based on all the amazing outdoor adventure opportunities that surround the town, as well as its proximity to Silverwood, the Northwest’s largest theme park. It’s nestled between three mountain ranges, and sits on the shores of the stunning Lake Pend Oreille.
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You might not expect such a small community to have such a strong dining and arts scene, but Sandpoint delivers on both fronts. The town’s main street is packed with local restaurants, small businesses and plenty of quirky art galleries.
Though there’s plenty to do, Sandpoint still feels like a relaxed, laid-back small town. With only 8,000 permanent residents, it's a cozy place to hang out and get to know your neighbors. In fact, the town’s motto is actually "What a beautiful pace." And no, that’s not a typo.
Even the trip to Sandpoint is memorable. Matador raves that there are "almost too many scenic byways and mountain ranges for one town" around Sandpoint, but you won’t hear the residents complaining. The little community was also named as "the most beautiful town in America" in 2012 by USA Today.
As with all of the towns who made the cut, this lovely Idaho town is a truly special community with loads of charm to spare.
If you have been reading my articles for a while now, you know that I love the small towns that dot Idaho. These towns are not only packed with friendly faces and irresistible charm but they are also home to some of the best hidden gems and must-visit attractions. Melba, Idaho is one of these small towns. This town is small — so small that you might blink and miss it. But it’s home to many tourist attractions, restaurants, and shopping that make it a town in Idaho that’s worth exploring.
Tucked away in the Snake River Valley, just a short drive from Boise, lies Melba. This is a farming community where approximately 600 individuals call home.
Melba is known as the “Seed Heart of America” as the farmers here grow a variety of seed crops including onions carrots, corn, alfalfa, and more.
a shot facing south, near the soda wildfire in Idaho. This area is adjacent to the wildfire, and remained intact.
But it is not just the rich agricultural roots that you'll notice as you drive into town, it's also the area's history. This small Idaho town was established in 1912 and over the years has captured the hearts of many.
Melba is a fabulous destination if you wish to spend a little time outdoors. In fact, it is home to one of our favorite Idaho viewpoints — Dedication Point Overlook. Part of the Morley Nelson Snake River Birds of Prey National Conservation Area, you can take a short 0.5-mile loop trail to capture gorgeous landscape views and see incredible birds in action. It is beautiful here and you’ll certainly want to take your time when you visit.
Tess W./AllTrails
You may also want to spend some time at Cleo’s Ferry Museum and Nature Trail where you’ll spot animal sculptures, birdhouses, peacocks, and more. I also recommend Celebration Park, which is the only archaeological park in Idaho.
Celebration Park is home to a collection of petroglyphs as well as hiking, boating, and fishing opportunities. It is also where you will find Guffey Bridge, a historic bridge from the late 1800s. It is now a pedestrian bridge that is truly spectacular.
Historic Guffey Bridge
Of course, when hunger strikes on your adventures in this small Idaho town, there are plenty of fabulous places to eat including Buck’s Saloon and Steakhouse, Tacos El Centro, cook’s Two Hold Bar and Grill, and Extreme Pizza. There’s something for every craving.
Melba, Idaho may be small but it’s packed with all types of adventures and you never know what you will find here. It’s a town that is certainly worth exploring.
For more information on this small town in Idaho, visit Melba, Idaho’s official website.
Have you ever visited Melba? What did you think of this small town? What are some of your favorite things to do in Melba? Let us know. And if your visit to Melba is part of a road trip, make sure to pack some of our favorite car-friendly snacks for the journey. You won’t regret it!
Idaho is full of beautiful small towns that make for the perfect day trip destination. However, there is one tiny historic town in Idaho that should be at the top of almost every list: Riggins. Located in west-central Idaho, this tiny town is truly a remarkable place that must be on your bucket list. From its fascinating history to the most incredible views and thrilling outdoor adventures, Riggins is one area in Idaho that you’ll immediately fall in love with.
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Riggins is certainly a tiny town in Idaho. There are approximately 300 individuals who call it home.
Riggins sits adjacent to Hell’s Canyon, the deepest gorge in North America. This tiny town also sits along the beautiful Salmon River, which is one of the longest free-flowing rivers in the United States.
This name originated in 1850 following a bar fight between two men where one man’s eye was close to being gouged out. The men were fighting over a woman of marrying age.
Fortunately, the name was officially changed in the 1900s when the postmaster, whose last name of Riggins, applied for a post office in the town. The request was denied due to the name “Gouge Eye.”
For the request to be approved, they considered naming the town after prominent families in the area, but most of the family names were too common and also denied. However, the name of Riggins, named after the postmaster, was approved and became the official town name.
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When visiting Riggins today, you’ll want to spend time outdoors. This tiny historic town in Idaho is known as the Whitewater Capital of Idaho. Rafting and tubing are popular activities in the area.
There are also many hiking trails near Riggins that will help you experience the beauty of the area all year long. If you are looking for a bit of a challenge, check out the Rapid River Trail, an 8.6-mile trail that takes you along the river.
These events range include the Riggins Rodeo, Salmon River Jet Boat Races, Big Water Blowout, and more.
On your day trip, make sure you stop by Kate’s Cattlemen's Restaurant. You’ll find all types of entrees on the menu, from delicious omelets to crave-worthy hamburgers. It may just become one of your new favorite places to eat in Idaho!
No matter if you stay in Riggins for a day or a week, be prepared to fall in love. It’s impossible not to!
Have you spent time in the tiny historic town of Riggins, Idaho? If so, what are your favorite things to do in Riggins, Idaho? What are some of your favorite day trips in Idaho? We’d love to hear all about your experiences in the comments! And if you want to learn more about this Idaho small town, visit the Riggins official website.
If you are looking for another small town in Idaho to visit, consider the teeny tiny town of Avery. And if you need gear for your upcoming adventures, visit REI or Backcountry.
