If you’re new to Moscow, you may be familiar only with the University of Idaho. UI has a rich history that is by no means boring, but Moscow as a city offers endless experiences. With delicious local food, beautiful nature and unique culture found nowhere else in Idaho, you can spend years uncovering all of Moscow’s hidden gems. But to start, here are three recommendations for your next day on the town.
Start your morning with a hearty meal at The Breakfast Club. This family-owned restaurant has been part of the community for over 25 years. As the name suggests, they specialize in breakfast foods and offer a range of savory and sweet dishes. There are omelets, pancakes, sandwiches, burritos, soups, fresh-baked goods and more.
Uncertain of what to get? The menu features the “House Favorites.” The stuffed biscuits and gravy are particularly delicious; sitting on a crispy bacon and hash brown base are two runny fried eggs and on top are two biscuits. The whole thing is smothered in country gravy and sprinkled with paprika.
That alone could fill you up, but if you want a little sweetness, try one of the jumbo cinnamon rolls. The Breakfast Club is open from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. It is a popular breakfast spot, so it is recommended that you get there early if you don’t want to wait in line. If you have to wait, though, it will be worth it. The atmosphere is bustling but cozy and the friendly staff will make sure all your needs are met.
After breakfast, walk through the shaded forest clearings of Idler’s Rest. This magical hiking spot is less than a 15-minute drive from town. There is no need to worry about what day you will go—Idler’s Rest is open year-round from dawn until dusk.
There are six main trails to explore. Each is marked with distance, time and difficulty. These trails are relatively beginner-friendly, each under one mile in distance and less than 10 minutes in hiking time. Non-hikers will enjoy exploring the area as much as seasoned hikers.
If you choose only one trail, you should visit the cedar grove. Even in the heat of summer, the grove remains cool. The shade and the sweet cedar smell make for a tranquil journey. Idler’s Rest has been a recreational site for over a century. It has been home to many people and activities, but it was first home to the Nez Perce tribe. You can read about the history of Idler’s Rest from the signs at the beginning of the trails.
Once you have explored the food and nature of Moscow, experience the unique culture. TabiKat Productions has hosted community drag shows for nearly 30 years. Some performers have been active for decades and others are just beginning.
That kind of diversity, especially for a smaller community, is a rare and special thing. It may be surprising to some to hear that Moscow, Idaho is home to a friendly, open and proud queer community. It is one of the greatest strengths of Moscow. The support and admiration the performers, hosts and audience share for each other is truly uplifting.
It may also be surprising to learn that most drag performers are activists. TabiKat Productions cares for the community; it is rare to attend a show and not hear a message about the importance of voting or looking after others. The ability to entertain, inform and bolster community pride all at once is a talent TabiKat has mastered. It is a treat to experience. These shows range from 16+ to 21+ events, depending on where they are hosted. They are often held at the 1912 Center on East Third Street or at John’s Alley Tavern on East 6th Street.
There are, of course, countless things to do and see in Moscow. These are but a few experiences that the city has to offer. No matter where you go or what you do, if you learn the history behind it, you will realize just how special places like Moscow can be.
Megan Kingsley can be reached at [email protected]
Tim
Some wonderful suggestions of things to do in Moscow. We are lucky to have such a diverse and rich community and surroundings!