If you’re looking for an unforgettable vacation in Idaho, why should the adventure stop at your doorstep? From treehouses and train carriages to sleeping in a giant potato, this list features some of the coolest and most unique places to stay in Idaho. What are you waiting for? Start packing!
1. The 36th Street Urban Yurt | Boise
Surrounded by nearly an acre of lush gardens, this charming 20-foot yurt provides the experience of glamping in a forest, but with the added delights and comforts of being in the city.
Cozy up next to the gas fireplace with a book and a glass of wine during winter, or eat breakfast under the pergola on a summer morning before exploring the city or embarking on a hike in the foothills—the Buena Vista Trailhead is just a five-minute walk away. When you’re ready to refuel, you’ll find nearby eateries like Flying Pie Pizzaria and The Lift.
2. Dog Bark Park Inn | Cottonwood
Sleeping in the doghouse is a good thing at Dog Bark Park Inn. Drawing inspiration from their canine chainsaw carvings, owners and artists Dennis and Frances Conklin built a 30-foot-tall beagle named Sweet Willy and turned it into a one-of-a-kind bed-and-breakfast.
The World’s Biggest Beagle comes with a queen bed and a loft and comfortably sleeps four, making it perfect for the road-tripping family. Adorned with books, games and puzzles, Sweet Willy has family game night covered. The Inn’s continental self-serve breakfast features milk, yogurts, cheeses, home-baked pastries, fresh fruit and the family’s homemade fruit granola. Before checking out, be sure to stop by the studio and pick up a souvenir from the gift shop, which is filled with more than 60 different carvings of dog breeds and poses.
3. Big Idaho Potato Hotel | Boise
If you think sleeping inside a big beagle sounds fun, then you should add staying in a colossal potato to your list as well. Repurposed from the Idaho Potato Commission’s Big Idaho Potato Tour, this six-ton spud now rests on a plot of farmland, just outside of Boise. Stylishly decorated with warm pinks, white fuzzy pillows and old records, owner Kirstie Wolfe has created the ultimate getaway for two.
4. Treehouse on Lake Pend Oreille | Sandpoint
Overlooking Lake Pend Oreille is a magical, three-story treehouse that would make anyone nostalgic about their childhood summers. Expansive windows and twisting stairs highlight this rustic-cabin-meets-whimsical-treehouse that comes with its own private dock on Idaho’s largest lake.
Revel in activities in or on the water or find dining, shopping and more in downtown Sandpoint.
5. Restored 1909 Train Carriage | Deary
All aboard! Railway buffs and outdoor enthusiasts will adore overnighting in this classic train car, which carried passengers, freight and mail from 1909 to 1955. The carriage now houses a bedroom, bathroom, kitchenette and a sitting room. If you look closely, mail slots on either side of the car can be seen, as well as evidence of heavy crates being moved across the floors.
Beyond the doors is 145 acres of forest and wheat fields, fit for any nature lover. With so much wide-open space to explore, guests are encouraged to go hiking, biking, four-wheeling and even fishing. There are two ponds near the train car—one of which has bass and is perfect for dropping a line.
6. I Bar Ranch Cabin | Challis
Located on the historical I Bar Ranch in the Challis-Salmon National Forest, this off-the-grid cabin is the perfect accommodation for those looking to disconnect and recharge. The custom-built, timber-frame structure sits along Mill Creek, which creates a tranquil soundtrack for your stay.
Snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, ghost towns and more are accessible from the cabin; or cuddle up next to the wood stove and sip your worries away with some hot chocolate on a chilly winter afternoon.
7. Salmon Gypsy B&B Wagons | Salmon
Inspired by 19th-century gypsy caravans, these wagons possess their own eclectic flare—like mini chandeliers—and come with everything you need for a comfortable stay, including a bathroom, kitchenette and Wi-Fi.
Located on a mini-donkey ranch along the Salmon River, each wagon has its own outdoor table, a shared gas BBQ and an outdoor fire pit—perfect for roasting s’mores on a cool evening.
8. Western Saloon | Tetonia
Kick off your boots and relax in a cozy one-bedroom saloon in the Teton Valley, featuring a queen bed, pull-out couch, fireplace, pool table and all the western-inspired décor you can imagine. Scoot on up to the breakfast bar in a saddle-seat bar stool, or sit by the creek and watch the sunrise.
Located on a 10-acre property, there are many spots where you can relax while taking in the view of the Teton Mountain Range. Take a dip in the saltwater hot tub, or treat yourself to a cowboy cookout under the stars.
9. Conestoga Wagons | Downey
Travel back in time to the pioneer days along the Oregon Trail with a stay in a Conestoga wagon. The six wagons—three of which sleep four and the other three sleep six—bring the Old West alive with authentic canvas tops and fully functioning wagon wheels, but also offer modern conveniences like comfy quilts, air conditioning, heating and even a mini refrigerator, microwave and an outdoor firepit.
Spend your days soaking in Downata Hot Springs or exploring the surrounding area while birdwatching.
10. Southfork Springs Private Hot Spring & Cabin | Garden Valley
Situated between the South Fork of the Payette River and the Boise National Forest, near the small town of Crouch, this modern cabin showcases a stylish interior, with earthy accents and local art, but also comes with in-floor heating and your own private hot spring.
Take a soothing evening dip as you marvel at the starry sky, and explore rafting, biking and hiking opportunities in the area during the day. Boise is located just an hour away via the Wildlife Canyon Scenic Byway.
If you’re looking for more unusual accommodations, check out these 10 amazing fire lookouts sprinkled throughout Idaho’s national forests. Let us know if you stay at one of these incredible vacation rentals by tagging #visitidaho on Instagram.
Feature image credited to Western Saloon.
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Published on November 11, 2021