Need a quirky mountain town escape packed with history and adventure? Head to Wallace! Nestled in the Silver Valley of northern Idaho, Wallace is known as the "Silver Capital of the World" and boasts rich mining heritage, outdoor trails, and preserved 19th-century charm. Whether you're biking, sipping craft brews, or touring underground mines, Wallace is a hidden gem in the Rockies.

Wallace, ID Highlights:

  • For Adventurous Travelers: Bike the Route of the Hiawatha – Pedal through tunnels and across high trestles on this famous rail-trail with stunning mountain views.
  • For History Buffs: Take the Sierra Silver Mine Tour – Ride a trolley and go underground with retired miners for a glimpse of Idaho’s silver mining legacy.
  • For Shoppers: Stroll historic downtown Wallace – Browse antiques, gifts, and vintage finds in charming brick storefronts.
  • For Couples: Sip local beer at Wallace Brewing Company – Enjoy award-winning brews and cozy pub vibes right downtown.
  • For Families: Explore the Oasis Bordello Museum – A preserved time capsule offering a quirky look at Wallace’s Wild West past.

Best Time to Visit Wallace, ID

The best time to visit Wallace is in summer and early fall (June–September). These months offer warm weather perfect for biking, hiking, and outdoor events. Winter brings snowshoeing and skiing in nearby resorts for those who love the cold.

How to Get to Wallace, ID

  • If you are traveling by car: Wallace is located off I-90 in northern Idaho, about 1 hour east of Coeur d’Alene and 1.5 hours from Spokane, WA.
  • By Plane: Spokane International Airport (GEG) is the closest major airport, with car rentals for the scenic drive to Wallace.
  • By Bus: Limited regional bus service is available; driving is the most convenient option for accessing local attractions.

Where to Stay in Wallace, ID

  • Recommended for Families: Wallace Inn – Indoor pool, comfortable rooms, and walking distance to historic downtown.
  • For Couples: The Ryan Hotel – Charming boutique stay in a restored historic building with period décor.
  • For a Unique Experience: Stardust Motel Wallace – Retro vibes and fun roadside motel atmosphere with modern comfort.

Best Things to Do in Wallace, ID

Route of The Hiawatha Trail


Bike through scenic tunnels and admire breathtaking mountain views.

Route of The Hiawatha Trail

© Valerie/stock.adobe.com

The Route of The Hiawatha Trail is considered by many to be “the crown jewel of rail-to-trail adventures.” This 15-mile trail is designed for hiking or mountain biking and features seven sky-high trestles and ten train tunnels. The ride along the Route of The Hiawatha begins with a journey down the St.

Paul Pass Tunnel, or also called the Taft Tunnel, which is a little over 1.5 miles long. One of the trail highlights is the Bitterroot Mountains crest near the Lookout Pass Ski Area. The Route of The Hiawatha Trail is a family-friendly trail suitable for people of all ages.

Wallace, ID, Phone: 208-744-1234, Map

Oasis Bordello Museum


Explore quirky exhibits and uncover the building’s unusual history.

Oasis Bordello Museum

© Oasis Bordello Museum

The Oasis Bordello Museum of historic Wallace, Idaho is housed inside of a former bordello that was active all the way until 1988. The occupants at the time hastily left the town, leaving almost everything behind. In 1993, a local businessman purchased the building from the bordello’s out-of-business madam and kept the place just as it was left, operating it now as a unique museum. Visitors can take a guided tour for all ages of the Oasis Bordello Museum explaining the occupants’ rushed departure from information gathered by several clients, former maids, and the girls who worked there themselves.

605 Cedar St, Wallace, ID 83873, Phone: 208-753-0801, Map

Northern Pacific Depot


Discover local railroad history and admire historic architecture.

Northern Pacific Depot

© Northern Pacific Depot

Built back in the year 1901, the Northern Pacific Depot was constructed with unique bricks sourced from the Olympian Hotel. Now operating as the Northern Pacific Railroad Depot Museum, visitors can come explore the chateau-style depot on a seasonal basis from the month of April through the month of October. Listed in 1976 on the National Register of Historic Places, the Northern Pacific Depot has long been a focal point in town for the historical heritage and grand architecture of Wallace. The exhibits highlight the rich railroading history of the depot and the Coeur d'Alene Mining District.

219 6th St, Wallace, ID 83873, Phone: 208-752-0111, Map

What to do if you are traveling with kids:

Center of the Universe


Visit this quirky landmark and enjoy a fun photo opportunity.

Center of the Universe

© Kirk Fisher/stock.adobe.com

The small town of Wallace (founded in 1884) in Idaho is unique, in that it has been declared the Center of the Universe (by the Mayor). Since no one has disproved the theory (as yet) the legend continues and a manhole cover has been nominated as the exact spot. While this is all a bit of fun, Wallace has a more serious side.

For example, the entire town is listed on the National Register of Historic places and its location really does put visitors in a position to explore near and far. There are several outdoor activities including scenic drives, hiking, biking and zip-lining, and visiting all the historic attractions could keep you busy for days. Map

Activities and Attractions for Couples and Singles:

City Limits Pub


Savor craft beers and enjoy hearty meals in a relaxed setting.

City Limits Pub

© City Limits Pub

The City Limits Pub in the town of Wallace, Idaho is the home of the North Idaho Mountain Brew company, as well as a unique eatery serving a full menu of pub fare. The menu includes a variety of family-friendly fresh choices, along with both vegetarian and gluten-free options. All dishes served at the City Limits Brew Pub are made-to-order and made from scratch, including the desserts and breads, which are baked on premise. A nice stop along Idaho’s Trail of the Coeur d’Alenes, the pub also offers brewery tours, delicious brews, wireless internet, and a full bar.

108 Nine Mile Rd, Wallace, ID 83873, Phone: 208-556-1885, Map

1313 Club Historic Saloon & Grill


Enjoy classic pub fare and soak in historic charm.

1313 Club Historic Saloon & Grill

© 1313 Club Historic Saloon & Grill

The a class="map1" href="https://www.facebook.com/1313Club" target="_blank">1313 Club Historic Saloon & Grillis a popular historic restaurant and bar in historic Wallace that serves some of the area’s best and most unique food. There are several stories as to how the restaurant got its name of “1313 Club.” The most popular of the theories, however, is that the building’s original bar area was thirteen feet wide by thirteen feet high. 1313 Club Historic Saloon & Grill is located within the historic Heller Building.

1313 Club Historic Saloon & Grill, 608 Bank St, Wallace, ID 83873, Phone: 208-752-9391

Pulaski Tunnel Trail


Hike scenic trails and learn about a heroic firefighter’s story.

Pulaski Tunnel Trail

© Mike/stock.adobe.com

The Pulaski Tunnel Trail is a 4 mile out-and-back interpretive hiking trail located close to the town of Wallace. The trail is named for a Forestry Service employee, Ed Pulaski, who invented the Pulaski Tool which is still widely used in creating fire breaks. As you make your way along the picturesque trail you will find many interpretive panels which tell the story of the trail and the horrendous 1910 wild fires which forever altered the landscape of this part of Idaho. The first 725 feet of the trail is paved and suitable for wheelchairs and buggies. Hikers will find toilets at the trailhead.

Pulaski Tunnel Trail, NF-456, Wallace, ID 83873, 208 783 2100

Wallace Brewing Company


Sample local craft beers and enjoy a laid-back atmosphere.

Wallace Brewing Company

© Wallace Brewing Company

Wallace has a beer brewing history which goes back more than 100 years to when Sunset Brewing provided beer in place of (polluted) water to thirsty fire fighters in 1910. The Wallace Brewing Company was established in 2007 to continue the heritage of craft brewing in the city. The brewery is located in the historic Coeur d’Alene building in downtown where their Orehouse Tap Room invites you to stop by and enjoy a cold one. The brewery started off by producing just one beer – Dirty Blonde Pale Ale. Over the years several other styles have been added to the list including a lager, shandy, Irish red ale, black lager and a few IPA’s and Strong Ales.

Wallace Brewing Company, 610 Bank Street, Wallace, ID 83873, 208 556 5600, Map

If you are interested in local events:

  • For History Fans: Depot Day Classic Car Show (May) – Celebrate Wallace’s railroad past with classic cars and local vendors.
  • For Families: Huckleberry Festival (August) – Music, games, and all things huckleberry in the heart of downtown.
  • For Outdoor Enthusiasts: Wallace Blues Festival (July) – Live music, craft beer, and food trucks in a scenic mountain setting.

Day Trip Itineraries Within 30 Minutes of Wallace, Idaho:

  • For Hikers: Pulaski Tunnel Trail (20 min) – Follow the heroic route of Ed Pulaski in this forested hike with interpretive signs.
  • For Skiers: Lookout Pass Ski and Recreation Area (15 min) – Family-friendly resort with skiing, snowboarding, and summer biking trails.
  • For Nature Lovers: Silver Mountain Resort (Kellogg) (25–30 min) – Gondola rides, biking, and skiing in a resort town nearby.
  • For Fishing and Views: Coeur d’Alene River (30 min) – Peaceful river access for fishing, kayaking, or riverside relaxing.
  • For Scenic Driving: Thompson Pass (30 min) – Winding drive with alpine scenery and forested viewpoints into Montana.

Frequently Asked Questions:

  • What is Wallace known for?
    • The town of Wallace is one of the largest silver producers in the world and one of the richest mining towns still in existence today.
  • Why is Wallace historically significant?
    • It also happens to be the last town listed entirely on the country’s National Register of Historic Places.
  • How has Wallace evolved as a travel destination?
    • While its roots are in mining, Wallace has become a more attractive town to visitors over the years, offering a diverse assortment of recreation and things to do in town and in the surrounding area.
  • What are some highlights to visit in Wallace?
    • Highlights include the Route of The Hiawatha Trail and the City Limits Pub.

At a Glance:


Best Time to Visit Places to Stay Tips for Visiting
Spring (March-May) – Mild weather and blooming scenery, great for exploring nature. The Wallace Inn – A cozy and comfortable stay in the heart of town. Hike the Pulaski Tunnel Trail – A scenic trail rich in history and natural beauty.
Summer (June-August) – Warm and sunny, ideal for outdoor adventures and historic tours. Ryan Hotel – A charming historic boutique hotel. Bike the Route of the Hiawatha – One of the most scenic rail-to-trail bike paths in the country.
Fall (September-November) – Crisp air and stunning fall colors, perfect for sightseeing. Stardust Motel – A retro-style, budget-friendly stay. Tour the Oasis Bordello Museum – Discover Wallace’s unique and quirky past.
Winter (December-February) – Snowy and festive, great for skiing and snowmobiling. The Brooks Hotel – A historic and welcoming hotel downtown. Go skiing at Lookout Pass – Enjoy great slopes and scenic winter views.

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