There are some parts of Idaho's history that you just don't learn about in school. There are a massive amount of fascinating stories and places just waiting to be uncovered. The trick is ... you have to go out and find them. That's one of the best parts about living in Idaho. You're constantly uncovering towns you didn't even know about, and therefore learning about a part of the Gem State that you never would've thought about ...
The small town of Murray, ID has a long history. It might not look like much on the exterior, but you'll soon find out that this place contains a charm unlike any town you've seen before. Here are just a few things to do in Murray, Idaho. Take a look.
The town of Murray is truly a hidden gem. Surrounded by the Coeur d'Alene National Forest, it's located approximately 25 miles north of Wallace.
This quaint community looks straight out of the Wild West. The main street is lined with vintage structures, some of which have been standing for centuries. It doesn't look like much has changed since this place was a prominent mining town.
Located in north Idaho's Silver Valley, Murray was one of the numerous towns to see a population spike during the Gold Rush in the 1880s. It's hard to imagine now but Murray was home to around 5,000 people during its heyday.
Today, just a few businesses remain open. However, they provide a unique insight into what life was like in this Old West town during the 19th century.
The Sprag Pole is part museum and part restaurant. You can take your time looking over the items while you wait for your meal to cook. You'll be in awe at how many items they've crammed into the rooms, all with unique historical significance.
The museum is home to old typewriters, cigarette collections, old newspapers, and more. It's almost like a time capsule of Murray in the 19th century.
The Bedroom Gold Mine Bar resembles your usual rough n' tumble restaurant and bar, but it's worth a visit for the weird story behind it alone.
The story goes that a man in the 1950s began digging a hole in his bedroom hoping to uncover buried gold. He kept digging for 36 feet until he hit bedrock. At this point, the man found an 11-ounce gold nugget at the bottom of the hole. Today, the Bedroom Mine looks like it's about to topple over. But that doesn't stop the locals from gathering in this unique bar. Don't forget to take a peek at the original gold mine shaft in what used to be the bedroom.
Have you ever visited Murray, Idaho? What are some of your favorite things to do in Murray, Idaho? What's your favorite historic town in the Gem State? Let us know in the comments!
Be sure to check out these historic towns in Idaho that look straight out of the Wild West for more fascinating places to discover! And, if you have a favorite small town to visit in Idaho, we'd love to know about it! Fill out this form and tell us about your favorite small towns and things to do while visiting! We'd love to hear from you!
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