Here in Idaho, we are lucky to have historic towns that are charming, beautiful, and give us a glimpse into life in the Gem State years ago. One of these small towns is Montpelier, located in southern Idaho. This enchanting and historic Idaho town is the perfect day trip destination with its interesting history, unique shops, and incredible outdoor opportunities. This enchanting town in Idaho is one you simply must visit.

Montpelier is located in Bear Lake County, near the Idaho and Utah state line. This southeastern Idaho town is home to more than 2,700 residents.
Google Maps
Montpelier was established by pioneers of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The town flourished and eventually became a stop along the Oregon Trail.
J. Stephen Conn/Flickr
While its pioneer history is something to remember, Montpelier is best known as the location of the last standing bank in the entire world that the outlaw Butch Cassidy and his gang robbed.
Butch Cassidy Museum, 833 Washington St, Montpelier, ID 83254, USA
Butch Cassidy Museum
john jackson/Google
On August 13, 1896, Butch Cassidy and two other outlaws robbed the Bank of Montpelier. They escaped with $7,142 in gold, silver, and currency. Today, the bank has been transformed into a museum where you can learn more about this historic event.

Please note: the Butch Cassidy Museum is open seasonally, Memorial Day through Labor Day, and you can learn more on the website.
After a visit to the museum, stop by Papa’s Chocolates. This family-owned chocolate shop is home to some of the best homemade candies in southern Idaho. If you visit in the summer, make sure to grab some ice cream as well.
Papa's Chocolates, 484 Washington St, Montpelier, ID 83254, USA
Rick Stirling/Google

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Papa's Fine Chocolates/Facebook
If you need to gas up or you are simply craving some tasty food in Montpelier, head to the Ranch Hand Trail Stop, one of the most unique gas stations in Idaho.
Ranch Hand Trail Stop, 23200 US-30, Montpelier, ID 83254, USA
Google Maps
Tim Pendleton/Google
This unique truck stop features a large convenience store, full truckers lounge, sports bar, and an award-winning restaurant.
Of course, the perfect ending to your day is a visit to Bear Lake. Just a short drive outside of town, this beautiful lake is where you can enjoy it all — gorgeous views, awesome hikes, excellent fishing, and more. It’s also the perfect place to enjoy a sunset as you end your charming day trip in southern Idaho.
Bear Lake County, ID, USA
Lauriann Wakefield / 500px Via Getty Images

Have you ever spent time in Montpelier, Idaho? What are some of your favorite things to do in this town? Did you know about its history? What do you believe are the most enchanting towns in Idaho? Let us know in the comments.

Montpelier is an excellent road trip stop. But, before you spend time on the road, check out our road trip planning list and some of the best car-friendly snacks.

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More to Explore

Enchanting Small Towns In Idaho

Courtnie Erickson | February 01, 2024

What are some other small towns in Idaho I should check out?

The best small towns in Idaho are found all around the state. From up in the panhandle to the Utah and Idaho state line, there are plenty of enchanting towns in Idaho to explore. While we could list dozens of these destinations, the following are excellent places to start.

 

What are some bucket-list-worthy destinations in Idaho?

While Idaho's small towns are certainly lovely to visit, they are just the beginning of the wonderful places to explore. From our state parks to our hidden gems, there are countless places for adventure and lots of natural beauty. For your next getaway, consider a visit to the following bucket-list-worthy destinations in Idaho:

 

 

What are some Idaho ghost towns to visit?

We love the small towns in Idaho but we also love the ghost towns found throughout the state. Did you know that Idaho has more than 100 documented ghost towns? These places take you back in time and give you glimpses of Idaho’s past. Plus, they also give off an eerie and creepy vibe. If you are searching for ghost towns in Idaho, consider the following locations:

  • Rocky Bar
  • Ulysses
  • Ragtown
  • Roosevelt
  • Reynold’s Creek

 

If you love exploring ghost towns in Idaho like we do, how about an Idaho ghost town road trip? You’ll travel to several abandoned towns in Idaho. It’s one trip that is a bit chilling.

 

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Montpelier, ID 83254, USA