If you ask any Idahoan that’s been here for some time, they’ll tell you that our state has changed a lot over the years. Many of our cities are experiencing rapid population growth and things seem to move faster than they did before. However, there are still many areas of our state that haven’t changed one bit. In fact, you’ll find timeless communities hiding all over the Gem State—you just have to know where to find them. The historic small town of Oakley is a great example of a spot in Idaho where time seems to stand still. Plan a visit and take a trip back in time. This timeless village is just too charming to resist!
Located just south of Burley near City of Rocks National Reserve is a historic small town that many Idahoans don’t even know about. Oakley is a little-known community that will win you over with its timeless charm and it’s so worth getting to know.
Jimmy Emerson/Flickr
Originally founded by Mormon immigrants in 1878, this place is home to some amazing history. In fact, the entire town is actually listed on the National Register of Historic Places for its vast collection of century-old stone and brick buildings.
Lynn Sessions/Google
With a population of just 763 residents, Oakley is a pretty typical ranching and farming town. Interestingly enough, the town is actually known worldwide for its Middle Mountain quarries which produce a special type of quartzite known as Oakley Stone. Thousands of tons of this stone is continually shipped to locations around the world.
Lynn Sessions/Google
Despite its small size, the town has been home to a number of notable people. For instance, Oakley was once the home of former governors of both Utah and Massachusetts, and it’s currently home to Scott Bedke, a member of the Idaho House of Representatives since 2001.
Casey Pye/Google
Visiting Oakley is a truly unique experience. Walking through town, surrounded by the century-old buildings and serene atmosphere, is strangely peaceful. It’s not often you come across timeless towns like this one, that’s for sure.
Lynn Sessions/Google
If you get a chance to visit, you’ll want to first stop by the Oakley Historical Area. This is where many of the town’s historic structures can be found, including the numerous Victorian-style mansions that look pristine to this day!
Jerrye & Roy Klotz, MD/Wikimedia Commons
At first glance, Oakley may seem like a pretty typical small town nestled away in the Idaho backcountry. But stop for a visit and you’ll see that it’s so much more—it’s an adventure back to another time.
Jimmy Emerson/Flickr
Have you visited this historic small town? What are your favorite spots in Idaho where time seems to stand still? Let us know in the comments! For more places like Oakley, check out this list of 7 Historic Towns In Idaho You Need To Visit.
Jimmy Emerson/Flickr
Lynn Sessions/Google
Casey Pye/Google
Jerrye & Roy Klotz, MD/Wikimedia Commons
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