Of all the towns in Idaho, it's hard to choose just one to be the "most unique" - they're all pretty special! But one charming town in the Panhandle is so singular that it's been recognized nationally as one of America's best small towns, as one of the top 10 most "authentic" towns in America, and more. But while Wallace, Idaho's claim to fame is often its unique history, captured in places like the Sierra Silver Mine and Oasis Bordello Museum, this town has so much more to offer!

The quaint town of Wallace, Idaho (population of approximately 1,100) dates back to 1884, just a few short years before the Silver Valley Mining District took off.

Wallace was named after William R. Wallace, a local farmer. The discovery of the Poorman and Tiger silver lodes transformed the region into a booming epicenter, eventually forming one of the largest silver deposits in the United States. By 1886, the town's population surpassed 500, just shy of its current population.

The close-knit community is notably special for a number of reasons, both historical and present-day.

Residents here have rallied together repeatedly over the years to fight for the conservation of this beautiful town.

From battling multiple fires (including the Big Burn of 1910) and devastating floods, to coming together to protect the town's history from being destroyed by the unwanted development of a highway through the city center, Wallace is one collaborative success story after another.

But Wallace is also home to wonderfully eclectic shops, motels, and theaters, each with its own vibrant personality.

A stroll through historic downtown will never disappoint - be sure to stop and take a few photos, too!

Truth be told, this charming town is still delightfully lost in time, at least on the surface.

This photo is circa 1964, but not much has changed architecture-wise!

The town's history played a major role in shaping Idaho into the state it is today.

In fact, you can learn even more about Wallace, Idaho's mining history by taking a historic trolley ride or experiencing a mine tour.

The architecture here is phenomenal!

And while there are dozens of reasons to fall in love with this one-of-a-kind gem, it all starts with the scenery.

The Historic Wallace Heritage Trail, the Pulaski Tunnel Trail, the Trail of the Coeur d'Alenes, and dozens of other hiking, biking, and scenic meandering trails have their place here. Despite its size, the list of things to do in Wallace is pretty impressive!

Each season offers beautiful new sights to enjoy.

It's perfect in every season! In the fall, a trip to the top of one of Wallace's 12 historic stairs offers perfect foliage viewing opportunities, while in winter, you might just find local school children fashioning a makeshift slide.

You'll almost always drive through and find a festival or celebration taking place in this small town in Idaho.

From the traditional Oktoberfest to Wallace's unique Gyro Days, Fall for History, and Depot Day celebrations, every moment is enjoyed with the community in colorful style. If there's any one thing Wallace, Idaho is known for, it's for knowing how to host an epic community block party!

Even the unique museums, tours, and reenactments have given Wallace a little something extra to add to their name.

The Oasis Bordello Museum - a preserved tribute to the town's former closed-door reputation - is one of the most surprising places to visit, but the Depot Museum, Sierra Silver Mine Museum, Northern Pacific Railroad Museum, and more are all worth a trip.

But perhaps the town's most lovable and notable claim to fame is its self-proclaimed title of "Center of the Universe."

They even have the "center" marked at the intersection of Bank and Sixth St. to prove it. This was yet another moment in town history where the community came together to protect their city. This unique location and interesting story of how it came to be are just a few of the many things that Wallace is famous for.

If you've never paid a visit to this fun little town, you're in for a treat! When it comes to personality, the "Center of the Universe" has one of the most vibrant personalities in Idaho, and we love this little town for all of its oddities, surprises, and beauty.

Craving more Idaho goodness? Avoid the crowds with this quiet hike through a beautiful nature preserve.