The Up-and-Coming City in Idaho That’s Perfectly Sized

There is nothing quite like the small towns that dot Idaho. Places like Rigby, Paul, Star, and Wallace are each full of charm and hidden gems. And, of course, you can’t forget about the Gem State’s cities such as Boise, Idaho Falls, and Twin Falls. These towns are full of attractions, tasty restaurants, and so much to see and do. However, if you are like me, you want to find a place that’s right in the middle—one that is perfectly sized. Caldwell, Idaho, is a delightful suburb of Boise and is quite the up-and-coming city. It is considered one of the fastest-growing cities in Idaho, and for good reason. There’s so much to love here.

Caldwell is one of the larger cities in Treasure Valley, but it is still quite small compared to several others in the area. More than 73,000 people call Caldwell home, compared to the 238,000 people who live in Boise, 140,000 who live in Meridian, and 117,500 who reside in Nampa. Caldwell is best known as the location for the College of Idaho, the state’s oldest private college.

Caldwell lies approximately 30 miles west of downtown Boise and is near Interstate 84, making it easy to travel almost anywhere in Treasure Valley. But, you may not even want to leave as there is something for everyone here.

One of our favorite areas is downtown. Here, you’ll walk along historic buildings filled with locally owned shops and restaurants. Downtown Caldwell is also where you’ll find Indian Creek Plaza, the ultimate gathering space with a concert stage and ice skating rink. Throughout the year, Indian Creek Plaza hosts more than 200 events and activities from farmers’ markets to one of the most beautiful holiday light displays in Idaho.

For outdoor lovers like myself, Caldwell also has plenty to offer as the Boise River flows right through town, and to the south, you’ll find Lake Lowell, which is a prime location for a day of fishing, swimming, and boating. If you want to stay in town, there are more than a dozen city parks where you can find playgrounds, shaded areas, picnic spaces, and grassy lawns, perfect for enjoying the fresh air and sunshine.

Some of Idaho's best wine country is also found in Caldwell. Throughout the city, you’ll find bucket-list-worthy wineries and vineyards including Ste. Chapelle Winery and Tasting Room, Huston Vineyards, Kindred Vineyards, and Hells Canyon Winery.

History buffs will also rejoice as this Idaho city has a rich heritage that is still evident as you explore the area. Stop by the historic Caldwell Train Depot and Interpretive Center to learn more about how transportation played a role in creating the city we know today. I also recommend you put on your walking shoes and participate in one of several self-guided historic tours in town.

Caldwell may not be as large as some of the other cities in the Boise-Metropolitan area, and it may not be as small as others that dot the state, but in our opinion, it’s perfectly sized. With so much to offer, it’s easy to see why it is considered an up-and-coming city in Idaho. There’s plenty to love here.

Have you spent time in this Treasure Valley city? What are some of your favorite things to do in Caldwell, Idaho? Let me know! I’d love to hear from you. And try planning your own trip to Treasure Valley with Only In Your State’s AI-powered itinerary planner.