IdahoUnique Stays
By Jennifer
|Updated on May 20, 2022(Originally published May 19, 2022)
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Jennifer
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Super-rad musician, scholar, photographer, and traveler. The Mountain West and larger PNW = home, but can be found wherever there's adventure.
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As local travel experts, we know what travelers are looking for when it comes to finding the perfect accommodations for their next trip. To compile our lists, we scour the internet to find properties with excellent ratings and reviews, desirable amenities, nearby attractions, and that something special that makes a destination worthy of traveling for.
Unlike its European counterparts, the Gem State isn’t typically known for centuries-old medieval-inspired architecture, nor for a history of knighthood, peasantry, and feuding fiefdoms… but that doesn’t mean there aren’t some super cool castles in Idaho. Despite its humble, rural setting, dotted across the Gem State are a number or fairytale-like structures that seem to take a step back in time to when chivalry was alive and tables were round. They may not rival the richly ornamented castles of France and Ireland, but from turreted masterpieces to traditional stone abodes buried deep in mountain forests, these hidden castles in Idaho are fit for royalty.
Located on the edge of one of Boise's most unique and historic architectural areas, the Warm Springs castle - a petite medieval-inspired residential home - is a relatively new addition to the downtown Boise area, circa 2011. Uniquely crafted from local sandstone and heated geothermally, this quaint castle is not only distinct from its neighbors, but eco-friendly as well.
The two towers are styled after the Magdala Tower in France and the Tower of London, while the interior plays host to a number of incredible period pieces, including a full suit of armor, a dragon sculpture, and a gargoyle. Yes, there are even a few secret passageways tucked away inside, for any fellow Radcliffe fans!
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The Castle Gardens, 2050 N Meridian Rd, Kuna, ID 83634, USA
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A vibrant venue for weddings, parties, and royal galas straight out of a storybook (complete with working drawbridge and vaulted ceilings), Kuna's own Castle Gardens has ample space for entertaining. For more information on Castle Gardens, visit their website.
2493 Blaine Rd, Moscow, ID 83843, USA
Uniquely luxurious and cozy, the Meadowinds castle (actually a local inn) combines a lavish getaway with all the coziness of staying in a B&B. You won't find suits of armor or jousting trophies here, but you will find plenty of elegance befitting royal guests who enjoy the softer, more delicate creature comforts of their station. Learn more about Meadowinds, venue rentals, and overnight stays on their website.
IDANHA, 928 W Main St, Boise, ID 83702, USA
Completed in 1901, this BoDo landmark has a surprisingly long history. Once operating as a hotel, restaurant, and piano bar (go-go dancers included), the Idanha catered to sophisticated and wealthy visitors from all across the country.
Featuring Gothic-inspired pillars and a French Chateau exterior, the Idanha also boasted the state's first elevator and had a short stint as Boise's tallest building. While still a prominent figure, today the Idanha now houses post-modern apartments, an amazing doughnut shop, and a host of ghost stories.
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Knights of Pythias Lodge Hall, 30 E Idaho St, Weiser, ID 83672, USA
The quaint town of Weiser is home to dozens of small wonders, this downtown facade included. Built in 1904, the Knights of Pythias Lodge Hall (its official title) was handcrafted as an ornate commissioning by the Order of Knights of Pythias, a non-sectarian fraternal order established in 1864.
This stunning, three-story beauty is tucked away in the mountains of Sandpoint and boasts one of the most isolated castle experiences you can find. In fact, in winter, this is a ski-in, ski-out destination (perfect for testing your white knight's shredding abilities!). Inside, 9 rooms come alive with all of the medieval and modern touches one could hope for, including stained glass, epic sculptures, and magical stonework. You can learn more and book your stay here.
Old Idaho Penitentiary Site, 2445 Old Penitentiary Rd, Boise, ID 83712, USA
While not very castle-like on the interior, Boise's penitentiary façade mimics a fortress to behold. The guard towers overlooking the prison yard are homage enough to kingdoms of yore, but the penitentiary's main entrance showcases the spires and rock detailing that make the Old Pen so uniquely remarkable as a historical monument. To find out more about the Idaho State Penitentiary and to plan your visit, head to the Old Pen webpage.
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Waterfront views, the woodsy, secluded setting of scenic Hope, and soaring towers make this castle in Idaho an absolute treasure. There are 9 rooms tucked away in this 6,000-square foot beauty, but no princesses or dragons.
Another dreamy abode built on the shores of Pend Oreille, Von Frandsen was a two-decade labor of love that is now ready for yon royale subjects. If you act fast, the coinage from your next jousting win could make you the proud owner of this stone beauty.
If you’ve ever wanted to experience medieval lyfe from within the whimsical setting of the highest room in the tallest tower of a remote kingdom far, far away, these Idaho castles are a stunning glimpse of recreated royal history. But of course, like many fairytale settings (or Hogwarts), some of these time-traveling structures are private homes and thus only viewable by distant yon wearie travelers or those who know magic.
If you know of any other enchanting hidden castles in Idaho or have visited one of these dreamy abodes, let us know!
Did you know that Idaho is home to a log cabin castle inn tucked away in the woods of Moscow Mountain? The LogCastle Inn is an enchanting place to book your next stay!
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
More to Explore
Hidden Gems In Idaho
Melissa M|April 18, 2021
What are some hidden gems in Idaho?
Hidden gems are like the best-kept secrets that only locals seem to know about. They are places that are rarely teeming with tourists and can offer a unique place to explore. Hell Roaring Lake sits among the forest of the Sawtooth Mountains at an elevation of over 7,400 feet. A hike here will reward you with gorgeous lake views. Located in Kooskia, Fenn Pond is another natural treasure tucked away and surrounded by dense forest and mountains. It’s an incredible place to relax in nature.
What are some fairytale places I can visit in Idaho?
Idaho is filled with magical locales that look like they were ripped out of the pages of a fairytale book. Ketchum’s Gale Severn Sculpture Gallery Garden showcases large sculptures among a gorgeous piece of property that will have you dreaming of enchanting lands. The idyllic Sawtooth Botanical Garden is another stunning spot with a meditation garden and paths that meander through lovely flower gardens. If you are up for a hike, head to the University of Idaho campus in Moscow. Here you will find the University’s Arboretum and Botanical Garden that seems to have every facet of a fairytale. There’s a charming red barn at the entrance and over 17,000 plants to marvel at. It’s quite the place to spend some time!
What are some unique things to do in Idaho?
Head out for a hike at the incredibly unique Black Magic Canyon that was created by a volcano and eventually carved out by a river. This three-mile hike will transport you to another world and is located in Southeast Idaho. Another place that’s completely unique to Idaho is the Idaho Potato Museum located in Blackfoot. Upon arrival, you will see a giant potato and when you get inside, there are potato exhibits galore!
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