Best Things to Do in Oakley & Albion Idaho: A Friendly Guide

Oakley and Albion, two small towns nestled in southern Idaho, offer visitors a chance to experience the charm and beauty of rural America. Oakley, known for its historic district and natural wonders, attracts visitors from all over the world. Albion, on the other hand, is a tiny town with a rich history and excellent outdoor recreation opportunities. Together, these towns offer a unique blend of history, adventure, and relaxation.

Exploring Oakley is a must for any visitor. The town's historic district boasts the largest concentration of old stone and wood-framed structures in Idaho. Visitors can take a historic home tour on the third Saturday in June or odd-numbered years. Oakley stone, an Idaho quartzite, is quarried near here and used in many of the town's buildings. The Chocolate Festival, held on the third Saturday in June, is another popular event that draws visitors from far and wide.

Adventures in Albion are not to be missed. The town is surrounded by the Albion Mountains, which offer excellent hiking, camping, and rock climbing opportunities. The City of Rocks Backcountry Byway, which encircles the Albion mountain range, is a popular scenic drive that highlights the area's natural beauty. Visitors can also explore the Oregon Trail history at nearby sites such as Castle Rocks State Park and Lake Cleveland Recreation Area.

Key Takeaways

• Oakley's historic district and natural wonders make it a must-visit destination.
• Albion offers excellent outdoor recreation opportunities surrounded by the Albion Mountains.
• Visitors can explore the area's history and natural beauty through scenic drives and nearby sites such as Castle Rocks State Park and Lake Cleveland Recreation Area.

Exploring Oakley

Oakley is a quaint town located in south-central Idaho. It is known for its rich heritage and historic district, making it a great place to explore. Here are some of the best things to do in Oakley.

Historic District

The Oakley Historic District is a must-visit for history buffs. It is home to over 100 historic buildings that date back to the late 1800s. Visitors can take a self-guided walking tour of the district to learn about the town's history and architecture. Some of the highlights of the tour include the Oakley Valley Arts Council building and the Oakley Tabernacle.

Oakley Valley Arts Council

The Oakley Valley Arts Council is a non-profit organization that promotes the arts in the Oakley Valley. They host a variety of events throughout the year, including concerts, art shows, and theater productions. The council also operates a gallery that showcases the work of local artists. Visitors can stop by the gallery to see the latest exhibits or attend one of the council's events.

Overall, Oakley is a great place to explore for those interested in history and the arts. Visitors can take a walking tour of the historic district or attend an event hosted by the Oakley Valley Arts Council to experience the town's unique charm.

Adventures in Albion

Albion, Idaho is a small town that offers visitors a range of outdoor activities. Here are some of the top adventures to experience in Albion:

Pomerelle Mountain Resort

Pomerelle Mountain Resort is a popular destination for skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts. The resort features 24 runs, three chairlifts, and a terrain park. The ski area is known for its family-friendly atmosphere and affordable prices. The resort also offers ski and snowboard lessons for all ages and skill levels.

During the summer months, Pomerelle Mountain Resort offers scenic chairlift rides, hiking trails, and mountain biking. Visitors can enjoy the beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

City of Rocks National Reserve

The City of Rocks National Reserve is a unique destination for rock climbers and hikers. The reserve features towering rock formations that are perfect for climbing and bouldering. The area is home to more than 700 climbing routes, ranging from easy to challenging.

For those who prefer hiking, the reserve offers several trails that wind through the rock formations. The trails range from easy to moderate and offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Visitors to the reserve can also explore the historic California Trail, which runs through the area. The trail was used by pioneers traveling west in the mid-1800s and offers a glimpse into the history of the American West.

Food and Drink

Local Dining

Oakley and Albion offer a variety of dining options for visitors to enjoy. For a quick bite, visitors can stop by McDonald's in Oakley or grab a sandwich at the 2nd South Market Food Court in Twin Falls. For a more upscale dining experience, Morey's Steakhouse in Burley offers delicious steak and seafood dishes.

One local favorite is the Chuckwagon in Albion, which serves up classic American fare like burgers and fries. Another popular spot is the Albion Mercantile and Cafe, which offers a cozy atmosphere and homemade comfort food.

Idaho's Famous Potatoes

No trip to Idaho is complete without trying some of the state's famous potatoes. Visitors can stop by any local grocery store to pick up a bag of fresh Idaho potatoes to cook at home. For a more unique dining experience, they can visit the Idaho Potato Museum in Blackfoot, which offers a variety of potato-themed dishes like potato soup and loaded baked potatoes.

In addition, many local restaurants in Oakley and Albion feature Idaho potatoes in their dishes. For example, Morey's Steakhouse serves up delicious mashed potatoes as a side dish, while the Chuckwagon offers crispy potato wedges. Visitors can also try the famous Idaho potato skins at the Albion Mercantile and Cafe.

Overall, visitors to Oakley and Albion will have no shortage of dining options, from classic American fare to Idaho's famous potatoes.

Accommodations

Oakley and Albion offer a range of accommodations to suit different preferences and budgets. Visitors can choose from hotels, vacation rentals, and bed and breakfasts.

Hotels

For those who prefer the convenience of a hotel, the Best Western Plus Burley Inn & Convention Center located at 800 N Overland Ave in Burley is a great option. With a rating of 4 out of 5 stars from 33 reviews on Yelp, this hotel offers comfortable rooms, an indoor pool, a fitness center, and complimentary breakfast.

Vacation Rentals

Vacation rentals are a popular choice for visitors who want more space and privacy. There are several vacation rentals available in Oakley and nearby areas. Visitors can browse and book vacation rentals on websites like TripAdvisor. One highly rated vacation rental is the Cozy Cabin Retreat located in Oakley. This cabin has a rustic feel and is surrounded by beautiful scenery. It can accommodate up to six people and offers amenities like a fully equipped kitchen, a hot tub, and a deck with a barbecue grill.

Bed and Breakfasts

Bed and breakfasts offer a more intimate and personalized experience. In Oakley, the Oakley Oasis Bed & Breakfast is a charming option. This B&B is located in a historic building and offers three guest rooms, each with its own private bathroom. Guests can enjoy a home-cooked breakfast and relax in the peaceful surroundings.

Overall, visitors to Oakley and Albion have a variety of accommodations to choose from, whether they prefer the convenience of a hotel, the privacy of a vacation rental, or the charm of a bed and breakfast.

Travel Tips

When planning a trip to Oakley and Albion, there are a few travel tips to keep in mind to make the most of your experience. Here are some suggestions:

• Pack for the weather: The weather in Oakley and Albion can vary depending on the season, so it's important to pack accordingly. During the summer months, temperatures can reach the high 80s and low 90s, while winter temperatures can drop below freezing. Be sure to check the forecast before you go and pack layers, sunscreen, and bug spray.
• Explore the great outdoors: Oakley and Albion are known for their stunning natural beauty, so be sure to take advantage of the many outdoor activities available. From hiking and camping to rock climbing and mountain biking, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Don't forget to bring your camera to capture the breathtaking views.
• Visit the historic sites: Oakley and Albion are steeped in history, and there are many historic sites to explore. Take a tour of the Oakley Historic District, where you can see beautifully preserved historic homes and buildings. Or visit the Albion State Normal School, which was once a teacher's college and is now a museum.
• Plan ahead: While Oakley and Albion are small towns, there are still plenty of things to see and do. To make the most of your trip, it's a good idea to plan ahead and make reservations for popular activities and restaurants.
• Respect the locals: Oakley and Albion are close-knit communities, and it's important to be respectful of the locals and their way of life. When visiting, be sure to follow local customs and traditions, and treat everyone with kindness and respect.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some popular attractions in Oakley and Albion Idaho?

Oakley and Albion offer visitors a range of attractions to explore. Some of the most popular attractions in Oakley include the Oakley Historical Area, which features a collection of old stone and brick buildings dating back to 1883, and the Middle Mountain quarries, which produce a special type of quartzite known as Oakley Stone. In Albion, visitors can explore the City of Rocks National Reserve, which features unique rock formations, and the Pomerelle Ski Resort, which offers skiing and snowboarding in the winter months.

What are some outdoor activities to do in Oakley and Albion Idaho?

Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty of activities to enjoy in Oakley and Albion. Visitors can explore the City of Rocks National Reserve, which offers hiking, rock climbing, and camping opportunities. There are also several fishing and boating opportunities in the area, including the nearby Snake River and Magic Reservoir. During the winter months, visitors can enjoy skiing and snowboarding at the Pomerelle Ski Resort.

What are some unique experiences to have in Oakley and Albion Idaho?

Oakley and Albion offer visitors a range of unique experiences. Visitors can tour the Oakley Historical Area, which features a collection of old stone and brick buildings dating back to 1883, and learn about the history of the area. The Middle Mountain quarries, which produce a special type of quartzite known as Oakley Stone, are also a unique attraction. In Albion, visitors can explore the City of Rocks National Reserve, which features unique rock formations, and experience skiing and snowboarding at the Pomerelle Ski Resort.

Are there any good places to stay in Albion Idaho?

There are several good places to stay in Albion, including the Pomerelle Mountain Resort, which offers ski-in/ski-out accommodations during the winter months, and the Albion Bed and Breakfast, which offers cozy accommodations in a historic setting.

What is the history of Albion Idaho?

Albion was founded in 1868 as a Mormon settlement. The town was named after the ancient city of Albion in England. The town was originally a farming community, but it later became a center for mining and logging. Today, Albion is a small town with a rich history and a range of outdoor recreational opportunities.

What is the history of Oakley Idaho?

Oakley was founded in 1883 as a railroad town. The town was named after William Oakley, who was a prominent businessman in the area. Oakley was originally a center for agriculture and ranching, but it later became a center for mining and quarrying. Today, Oakley is a small town with a rich history and a range of outdoor recreational opportunities.