The Best Lodging in North-Central Idaho
The region is still building its boutique lodging infrastructure, but what exists reflects its character — independent, unpretentious, and evocative of its historical backdrop. From a renovated motor inn on Moscow’s Main Street to a winery estate above the Clearwater River, the options are small in number. Rooms fill fast, especially during University of Idaho event weekends, so book early. That being said, the new Courtyard by Marriott in Lewiston and the reliable Best Western Plus University Inn in Moscow offer lovely service and clean spacious rooms. You’ve got options!
Kitchen in Rivaura Ridge House. Courtesy of Rivaura Ridge House
Monarch Motel
Best for: Renovated motel walking distance to Main Street
Location: Downtown Moscow
Price: $$
North Stars:
Owners Nikki and Brett Woodland rescued the Monarch Motel from disrepair in 2015, tackling a room-by-room renovation that updated the interiors with a modern-retro sensibility true to the original bones. Walking distance to downtown, rooms feature local snacks and drinks, while larger suites have pull-out couches for kids and pets. For groups, the rooftop Penthouse has a full kitchen, gas fireplace, and private patio. Gym passes, bike rentals, free EV charging, and a 10% discount at Nectar, the Woodlands’ restaurant directly across the street, round-out the perks.
Interior of a suite at Monarch Motel. Courtesy of Lauren Mowery.
Hattabaugh Hotel
Best for: Historic boutique in downtown Moscow
Location: Moscow
Price: $$
North Stars:
Built in 1890, the Hattabaugh Building stands as one of Moscow’s most recognizable historic structures. Inside, a four-room boutique furnished in contemporary pieces with bright colors, stocks locally sourced, eco-friendly amenities and puts guests walking distance from the best dining, coffee, and shopping on Main Street. Small, independent, and easy to overlook from the street, yet the kind of spot that feels like a find.
Grenache room. Courtesy of Hattabaugh Hotel
Andriëtte’s Bed, Book & Bicycle
Best for: Historic downtown stays
Location: Downtown Moscow
Price: $$-$$$
North Stars:
Built in 1915 in Moscow’s historic Fort Russell neighborhood, two blocks from downtown, Andriette’s Bed, Book & Bicycle is an award-winning independent guesthouse ideal for families visiting the University of Idaho. The four-bedroom Upper House sleeps eight or more, with hardwood floors, a six-burner commercial kitchen, washer and dryer, outdoor deck with BBQ, and garden patio. Rooms can also be rented individually; weekly and monthly rates available.
Andriëtte’s Bed, Book & Bicycle. Courtesy of Andriëtte’s.
Rivaura Ridge House
Best for: Private home with incredible views
Location: Juliaetta, 25 miles SE of Lewiston
Price: $$-$$$
North Stars:
Owned by the Hewett family, whose roots in the Lewis-Clark Valley span more than a century, Rivaura Ridge House sits above the estate vineyards with views of the Clearwater River. The private rental, a four-bedroom, three-bath house which sleeps up to ten, features a kitchen, laundry, and parking. The terrace begs for an evening lingering over a bottle of Lewis-Clark AVA wine while taking in the ancient landscape below.
