The Gateway To Idaho Wine Country Is A Quaint Town With A Hot Farm-To-Fork Dining Scene Just Outside Boise

Napa Valley might be the most famous wine region in America, but it's not the only place in the country with outstanding vineyards. The Snake River Valley American Viticultural Area in southern Idaho is home to dozens of quaint wineries — and if you want to experience the best, a visit to Caldwell is a must. Along with a lovely downtown district, the town of Caldwell is home to several great restaurants and is adjacent to the popular Sunnyslope Wine Trail. This trail takes you to 19 wineries along the Snake River, letting you indulge in the region's best wine while surrounded by the rolling Idaho landscape.

Caldwell is quite sizable, with a population of just over 60,000. Visitors here will benefit from all the amenities of a large suburb, including plenty of lodging options, a handful of museums, and quick access to the Boise Airport. It's a town in flux, as it continues to grow and expand from its once small stature, and it's quickly becoming a renowned place for amateur sommeliers. Whether you're looking to indulge in a glass of wine or dig into a meal at one of Idaho's best restaurants, Caldwell is an up-and-coming destination perfect for a relaxing getaway.

Want to see the best of the underrated Snake River Valley AVA? While visiting this wine lover's paradise surrounded by mountains, a trip along the Sunnyslope Wine Trail won't disappoint. Taking you through Caldwell and the neighboring communities of Kuna, Sunnyslope, Wilder, and Parma, it's the perfect way to spend your time in Idaho. You can order a passport that gets you access to free tastings, wine discounts, and other benefits for just $35 — give it a look if you want to sample wine from several different vineyards.

Of course, you're also free to explore the wineries a la carte. Huston Vineyards is one of the best-reviewed spots in Caldwell. Winner of Great Northwest Wine's "Idaho Winery of the Year" award in 2023, the sprawling property is a great place to unwind in the Idaho sunshine while sipping on a locally crafted beverage. Bitner Vineyards is another favorite among locals. The exclusive tasting room is reserved for members, though non-members can call ahead to see if space is available (sharing a last name with the vineyard may improve your odds).

Vineyards on the Sunnyslope Wine Trail have earned a wealth of awards over the years. Both Bitner Vineyards and Huston Vineyards are included on that list, but so are destinations like Hat Ranch Winery and Cuesta Sol Vineyards. If you only have time to visit a few spots along the trail, make sure it's these.

Wine is a big allure of Caldwell, but there's more to the city than delicious grapes — it also has delicious food. Caldwell boasts a plethora of restaurants that source ingredients from the surrounding area; just look for the special "Farm to Fork" designation. Mr. V's Family Restaurant is an overwhelmingly popular spot. Serving comfort food and all-day breakfast, it's a cozy and affordable way to start (or end) your day. Amano is a more upscale choice, with a premium dinner menu featuring innovative Mexican fare. For an authentic Idaho experience, grab a meal at Grit 2C. Using locally sourced ingredients from farms and ranches, it's a fantastic spot to sink your teeth into an oversized burger. 

Beyond food and drink, Caldwell is home to a few museums. Learn more about the region's past at the Indian Creek Museum, examine planes and other aircraft from World War II at the Warhawk Air Museum, or look to the stars at the relaxing Whittenberger Planetarium. You could also explore the Orma J. Smith Museum of Natural History at the College of Idaho. Housed in the basement of Boone Hall, it's a fun way for visitors of all ages to learn about the wildlife inhabiting the ecosystems throughout Idaho, Oregon, and Nevada.

Caldwell is within driving distance to an artsy city with exciting theme parks, so consider venturing over if you've had enough relaxing and want to get your adrenaline flowing. Additionally, you're close to the largest outdoor mural gallery in the Northwest. It's a sprawling display that's constantly changing, with new artists leaving their mark on the urban canvas throughout the year. Hundreds of collaborators have lent their skills to the project, making it a truly unique way to experience the art of the Northwest.