Wardner IdahoATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Wardner, Idaho.
1. Silver Mountain Resort
YEAR-ROUND ADVENTURE HUB
Silver Mountain Resort is a popular destination for skiing, snowboarding, and mountain biking, located just minutes from Wardner. The resort features a scenic gondola ride, an indoor waterpark, and various events throughout the year. It is well-known for family-friendly activities and easy access to outdoor adventures.
2. Crystal Gold Mine
HISTORIC UNDERGROUND TOURS
Crystal Gold Mine allows visitors to tour a restored 1880s gold mine and learn about mining history in North Idaho. Guests can pan for gold, view mining relics, and explore underground tunnels. The site also offers a gift shop and RV parking, making it a favorite educational stop for families.
3. Silver Rapids Indoor Waterpark
FAMILY-FRIENDLY WATER FUN
Silver Rapids Indoor Waterpark is Idaho's largest indoor waterpark, offering exciting slides, a lazy river, and kid zones. It is conveniently connected to Silver Mountain Resort, making it perfect for year-round aquatic fun. The waterpark caters to both families and thrill-seekers looking for a lively way to unwind.
4. Oasis Bordello Museum
UNIQUE HISTORIC MUSEUM
The Oasis Bordello Museum preserves the history of Wallace's colorful past as a mining town with lively entertainment. Visitors can tour the museum's preserved rooms, untouched since the bordello's closure in the 1980s. It offers an intriguing perspective on the area's social history and is a standout among regional museums.
5. Wallace District Mining Museum
MINING HERITAGE EXHIBIT
The Wallace District Mining Museum provides a comprehensive look at the region's rich mining legacy. The museum showcases artifacts, photographs, and displays on the Silver Valley's mining history. It is a must-visit for those interested in learning about the industry that built the community.
6. Northern Pacific Depot Railroad Museum
RESTORED RAILROAD STATION
The Northern Pacific Depot Railroad Museum is housed in a charmingly restored train depot from the early 1900s. Visitors can explore exhibits detailing the impact of the railroad on Wallace and the broader region. Its vintage architecture and educational displays attract history buffs and train enthusiasts alike.
7. Sunshine Miners Memorial
MINING DISASTER TRIBUTE
The Sunshine Miners Memorial honors the miners who lost their lives in the tragic 1972 Sunshine Mine disaster. The memorial features a poignant monument and serves as a somber reminder of the area's mining heritage. It provides a reflective space for visitors and locals to remember those impacted by the disaster.
8. Inland Lounge
CLASSIC LOCAL BAR
Inland Lounge is a beloved local watering hole, recognized for its welcoming atmosphere and classic bar fare. It serves as a social hub in Wardner, offering drinks and friendly conversation. Locals and visitors appreciate its laid-back vibe and historic charm.
9. Dirty Ernies
NEIGHBORHOOD DINING SPOT
Dirty Ernies is a casual eatery in Wardner known for hearty meals and a relaxed environment. The restaurant is a favorite among locals looking for comfort food and friendly service. It's a great place to experience small-town dining and hospitality.
10. Shoshone County Mining & Smelting Museum
MINING ARTIFACT COLLECTION
Shoshone County Mining & Smelting Museum displays artifacts and exhibits on the region's mining and smelting history. Visitors gain insight into the techniques and stories of North Idaho's mining past. The museum plays an important role in preserving local industrial heritage.
11. Center of the Universe
QUIRKY TOWN LANDMARK
The Center of the Universe is a fun and eccentric landmark in downtown Wallace, marked by a manhole cover. Locals claim Wallace as the world's center, complete with a commemorative plaque. The site is a popular photo stop and conversation starter for tourists exploring the historic district.
12. Downtown Wallace Historic Street Scene
PRESERVED MINING TOWN
Downtown Wallace offers visitors a step back in time with its well-preserved turn-of-the-century architecture. The streets are filled with shops, cafes, and museums, maintaining the town's unique mining heritage. It's perfect for a leisurely stroll, shopping, or dining amid historic charm.
13. White Horse Saloon, Grill, and Bar
HISTORIC SALOON EXPERIENCE
White Horse Saloon, Grill, and Bar is the second oldest bar in Idaho, exuding rustic atmosphere and Old West flair. Patrons can enjoy classic American dining alongside a wide selection of drinks. Its storied history and lively ambiance make it a memorable stop for visitors in the area.
14. Burke Canyon
SCENIC OUTDOOR EXPLORATION
Burke Canyon features dramatic mountain views, remnants of old mining towns, and opportunities for hiking and exploring. The canyon is rich in both natural beauty and historic intrigue, attracting photographers and adventure seekers. It offers a unique glimpse into Idaho's mining past within a picturesque valley.
15. The Sprag Pole Museum
ECLECTIC LOCAL MUSEUM
The Sprag Pole Museum in Murray is a quirky attraction filled with mining artifacts, antiques, and regional memorabilia. It shares the colorful gold rush history of the area through creative displays and storytelling. The museum also houses a bar and grill, making it a popular spot for both history buffs and hungry travelers.