Idaho’s Rising Star: This Underrated City Is Ideal for Any Traveler

In my opinion, Idaho is an underrated state. Many individuals think our home is only full of potatoes and farmland but we know much better. Idaho is home to some of the most beautiful lakes, bold mountains, and delightful towns and cities. Located in the eastern part of the state, just a short drive from the Wyoming and Idaho border is Idaho’s rising star — Victor. This town is not only located in gorgeous country but it truly has something for every type of traveler.

Victor is home to approximately 2,300 residents, making it the largest city in Teton County. It is approximately 30 miles from the entrance to Grand Teton National Park and 25 miles from Jackson Hole Mountain Resort in Wyoming. It is the last town you pass through in Idaho before you make your way over the intense Teton Pass, which is known for boasting some of the steepest grades of any highway in the United States.

Located in the Teton Valley, Victor is a town that often, many people drive right through. However, after spending some time there, you'll quickly realize it is one of the most underrated cities in Idaho and truly the state’s rising star.

The town dates back to the late 1880s when Gideon and Alice Murphy established a small homestead at the base of the Tetons. After surviving their first winter, 13 more families, many of them members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, joined them. Due to the success of the crops and livestock in the area, the settlement grew. After a few setbacks in naming the town, it eventually became known as Victor, named after George Victor Sherwood, the town’s mail carrier who was well known for delivering mail over the Teton Pass to Jackson through the harsh winters and despite conflicts with the Bannock Native American Tribe.

For history buffs who want to learn more about this history, you can visit the Teton Valley Museum in nearby Driggs. Although, right in the heart of Victor is a must-visit piece of history that dates back to the early 1900s — the two-story Victor Railroad Depot. This railroad depot was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1995. Nearby is also the Depot Park Pavilion, which is the perfect place for a picnic, some time outside, or a place to stretch before you continue to your next activity.

For foodies, you’ll find plenty to love in Victor. I love huckleberries and no huckleberry shake compares to those found at Victor’s Emporium. This unique Idaho shop is where you can find everything from souvenirs and sporting goods to fly fishing gear and delicious treats. However, many people stop in for the famous huckleberry shakes and ice cream.

And when you want a delicious meal, there are plenty of options in this small town such as Butter Café, Brakeman American Grill, Big Hole BBQ, and even El Guadalajara Mexican Food. Depending on when you visit Victor, you’ll want to ensure the restaurant your mouth is drooling over is open as some places to eat in this small town are seasonal.

And, if you plan your visit just right, you'll always find some type of activity or event being held in town such as holiday events, live concerts, farmers’ markets, and more.

While there is so much right in town for travelers to enjoy, outdoor enthusiasts will fall in love with the surrounding area. You can always venture to nearby bucket-list-worthy destinations like Jackson, Wyoming, and Grand Teton National Park or you can lace up your hiking shoes and tackle some nearby hikes or hop on a mountain bike and explore. My family loves fly fishing, and the nearby Teton River is home to some of Idaho's best fly fishing opportunities.

No matter what your interests may be, you’ll find something to do in the beautiful, bucket-list-worthy town of Victor. It is an underrated city in Idaho and the state’s rising star — you’ll love it here.

Have you spent time in this Idaho town? What are some of your favorite things to do in Victor, Idaho? Let me know! And if you want to stay and explore Victor for a while, consider renting a cozy vacation rental and experiencing this town as a true local.