Idaho City was one of the largest cities during the historic gold rush in the Pacific Northwest and is now a quaint, historic, hidden gem city that acts as the Sawtooth Mountains gateway. Idaho City features historic monuments and building related to the logging and mining industry, preserved wooden sidewalks, and plenty of antique stores to explore. There is a still an operational Saloon that serves sarsaparilla and the Boise Basin Museum where visitors can learn the exciting full history of Idaho City. Idaho City is a great day trip less than an hour outside of Boise and hosts many different seasonal festivals throughout the year.