There’s always something magical about stumbling across something in Idaho that you never knew existed before. With so many hidden gems to be found, it’s not an unlikely occurrence. The place featured here is quite possibly one of the most charming places in all of Idaho for a number of reasons. However, the best thing about this place is its location. It’s slightly tucked away so you won’t find many tourists here, but it acts as an incredibly important place for the community to come together in ways you won’t find anywhere else.
Hidden away in Idaho's capital city is a unique little neighborhood that is unlike any other in the state. Hyde Park Historic District is located just outside of Downtown Boise in a section of the North End neighborhood.
Most people don't really expect to stumble upon Hyde Park. The location is odd since the district is just a few blocks long and completely surrounded by residential areas. The surprising element of this quaint community is part of its magic!
The district is almost entirely made up locally owned eateries and specialty shops in decades-old buildings, some of which are historic. In fact, Hyde Park as a whole is part of the National Register of Historic Places.
Many Idaho natives will admit to not even knowing about this special place! However, Hyde Park is a huge part of many Idahoan's lives. This isn't just a shopping center or an accumulation of restaurants, it's a community space where people can come together.
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The neighborhood certainly has it's own vibe separate from that of Boise's downtown area, which is just a few miles away. It's cute and trendy, but it also has a very "old neighborhood" type of atmosphere.
It's hard not to feel nostalgic as you walk down the cracked sidewalks of the park's main "strip." It's not an uncommon sight to see neighborhood kids gathered together at the nearby Sno Cone Shack or a group of people lounging on one of the many patios while enjoying each other's company.
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Hyde Park is home to many businesses that have been up and running for decades. It's refreshing to see small businesses such as Vince's Barber Shop or Sun Ray Cafe thriving in this community.
It's not the shops or the many delicious dining options that make Hyde Park special, though. It's the amazing support from the community and their love for this neighborhood that really shines.
All of the shops are so cute and charming that it's impossible not to fall in love with them right on the spot. One of the most popular spots in Hyde Park is Goody's, an old fashioned ice cream parlor and candy shop!
Not to mention the fact that Hyde Park is downright one of the most photogenic spots in Idaho. In fall, bright golden leaves line the brick sidewalks...
...and in winter, the neighborhood turns into a winter wonderland. The snow-covered streets and buildings (especially all lit up at night) look like something straight out of a storybook.
This humongous fair features a variety of local vendors and booths, live music, and tons of delicious food. It's an event that people eagerly await and some view as a type of "end of summer" celebration!
An outing to Hyde Park could certainly turn into an all-day event, especially since the one and only Camel's Back Park is just steps away. This park is famous among locals for its incredibly impressive hill and you'll likely see a few people attempting to climb up its steep incline!
It's a well-known fact that the top of Camel's Back Hill is a prime sunset/sunrise viewing spot and is the best place to view the entire Treasure Valley.
