Wallace is one of the most interesting towns in North Idaho. History is alive here. In fact, all of downtown Wallace is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
From Coeur d’Alene, take I-90 east for a 45 minute drive to Wallace. At Exit 61 you’ll find the Mining Heritage Exhibition, a display of old mining equipment, much of it dating back a half century or more. Take a left for the short drive to downtown. You’ll find plenty of free, on street parking.
Sierra Silver Mine Tour
If you enjoy history, take in the Northern Pacific Railway Depot, the Wallace District Mining Museum and the Oasis Bordello Museum. For a firsthand look at hardrock mining, take the Sierra Silver Mine Tour. It’s a 75 minute tour that takes you into a mine where you’ll see, hear and feel what its like to work a jackleg and a mucker. That’s mining lingo and you’ll find out what they mean.
Gift and antique stores dot Wallace. Idaho gifts, mining treasures, huckleberry goodies and even an old pinball machine showroom can be found in the 6 block area. Don’t miss seeing the Center of the Universe at 6th and Bank Streets.
When you get hungry you’ll find a great selection of eating establishments including Jameson’s, the Smokehouse, Red Light Garage, 1313 Club, Albi’s and Pizza Factory to name a few. Thirsty for a beer? Check out Wallace Brewing Co. or North Idaho Mountain Brewery.
Check the FYI Calendar for Silver Valley events. If there’s a reason for a festival (and there are some good ones), then Wallace will be celebrating.
If you stay into the evening, try and catch a performance at the Sixth Street Melodrama.