Wallace IdahoATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Wallace, Idaho.
1. Wallace Mining Museum
MINING HERITAGE EXHIBITS
Wallace Mining Museum presents an in-depth look at the area's storied mining history, capturing the era from early gold rushes to its legacy as a silver production powerhouse. Interactive exhibits and artifacts offer visitors a chance to experience the working lives of miners firsthand. The museum is a must-see for those seeking to understand Wallace's role in shaping Idaho's mining industry.
2. Route of the Hiawatha
SCENIC BIKE TRAIL
Route of the Hiawatha is a world-renowned 15-mile rail-to-trail path famous for its scenic trestles and tunnels through the Bitterroot Mountains. The trail is especially popular with bicyclists and families for its gentle grade and breathtaking views. Shuttle services and convenient trailheads make this one of the premier outdoor attractions in the region.
3. Sierra Silver Mine Tour
UNDERGROUND MINE EXPERIENCE
The Sierra Silver Mine Tour offers a one-hour guided journey deep into a real silver mine, led by former miners who share their personal stories and local lore. Visitors begin with a trolley ride through historic Wallace before entering the mine's cool, dimly-lit tunnels. The tour provides an engaging, educational look at the techniques and tools of Idaho's silver mining heritage.
4. Oasis Bordello Museum
HISTORIC BORDELLO EXHIBIT
Oasis Bordello Museum preserves the colorful history of Wallace's former red-light district, offering a glimpse into the lives of the women who worked there. Frozen in time since the late 1980s, the museum's rooms remain as they were the day operations ceased. Guided tours reveal both the playful and serious facets of a once-vital part of Wallace's underground economy.
5. Northern Pacific Depot Railroad Museum
RESTORED TRAIN DEPOT
Northern Pacific Depot Railroad Museum occupies Wallace's historic 1901 train station, meticulously restored and relocated to survive highway construction. Exhibits highlight the crucial role railroads played in the development of the inland Northwest and the daily lives of early residents. Visitors can enjoy vintage railcars, period furnishings, and engaging displays about the region's railroad heritage.
6. Trail of the Coeur d'Alenes
AWARD-WINNING BIKE TRAIL
Trail of the Coeur d'Alenes is a 73-mile paved pathway perfect for biking, walking, and rollerblading, stretching from Mullan near Wallace to Plummer. The trail follows scenic rivers, forests, and meadows, with abundant opportunities to spot wildlife and enjoy peaceful North Idaho landscapes. It stands out as one of the premier long-distance rail trails in the nation.
7. Downtown Wallace Historic District
CHARMING HISTORIC STREETS
Downtown Wallace Historic District features lovingly preserved architecture from the late 19th and early 20th centuries, with the entire town on the National Register of Historic Places. Visitors enjoy guided walking tours, vintage storefronts, and a vibrant small-town atmosphere surrounded by mountain vistas. The district is known for its unique shops, antique stores, and classic saloons.
8. Center of the Universe
QUIRKY LANDMARK PLAZA
Center of the Universe is a whimsical traffic intersection in downtown Wallace, humorously declared by locals as the geographic center of everything. The landmark draws visitors for fun photo opportunities and serves as a symbol of the town's playful spirit. It is marked by a distinctive manhole cover and is a favorite stop on walking tours.
9. Sixth Street Melodrama Theatre
LIVE COMMUNITY PERFORMANCES
Sixth Street Melodrama Theatre offers lively community theater productions, specializing in traditional melodramas and vaudeville acts. The venue is cherished for its audience participation and entertaining blend of comedy and local stories. Attending a show offers a glimpse into Wallace's deep-rooted theatrical culture.
10. Wallace Brewing Company
CRAFT BREWERY TAPROOM
Wallace Brewing Company crafts award-winning beers inspired by the region's mining heritage and rugged spirit. Its welcoming taproom features rotating taps, brewery tours, and a relaxed setting in the heart of downtown Wallace. The brewery is a social hub beloved by locals and visitors alike.
11. Red Light Garage
ECLECTIC DINER & DECOR
Red Light Garage is a quirky diner and soda fountain famed for its huckleberry pancakes and wildly eclectic décor filled with antiques and curiosities. The menu features classic American comfort food and local specialties in a lively, welcoming atmosphere. Guests also enjoy browsing the attached gift shop for unique Idaho memorabilia.
12. Blackboard Marketplace
CAFE, BAKERY & GIFTS
Blackboard Marketplace is a cozy downtown destination combining an artisanal bakery, full-service café, and boutique gift shop under one roof. Fresh pastries, locally roasted coffee, and seasonal fare make it a popular stop for breakfast or lunch. Its inviting ambiance and carefully curated selection of goods appeal to both locals and visitors.
13. Silver Corner Bar
HISTORIC PUB EXPERIENCE
Silver Corner Bar is a lively saloon with roots stretching back over a century, offering a taste of Wallace's storied past through its period décor and friendly service. Guests enjoy local brews, classic cocktails, and occasional live music in an authentic old-west setting. The bar also houses mining memorabilia and vintage touches throughout.
14. Lookout Pass Ski & Recreation Area
FAMILY SKI DESTINATION
Lookout Pass Ski & Recreation Area is a popular year-round mountain resort located near the Idaho-Montana border, just east of Wallace. The area is renowned for its powder skiing, beginner-friendly terrain, and summertime hiking and mountain biking opportunities. Its historic lodge and convenient location make it a favorite among families and outdoor enthusiasts.
15. Kellogg's Silver Mountain Resort
ADVENTURE RESORT & WATERPARK
Silver Mountain Resort in nearby Kellogg offers year-round adventure with skiing, snowboarding, mountain biking, and Idaho's largest indoor waterpark. The resort is famous for its scenic gondola ride, which provides sweeping views of the Silver Valley. Whether seeking outdoor thrills or family-friendly activities, Silver Mountain is a top regional destination.