Just a couple hours from Boise, McCall is one of those places that makes you wonder why you don’t visit more often. It’s an easy drive, but once you’re there, it feels like a totally different world. Think pine trees, peaceful lake views, and that slow-down-and-breathe kind of energy. My husband and I snuck away for a quick trip and it ended up being one of our favorite little getaways yet.
First stop? Brunch, obviously.
We kicked things off at The Den, which you might remember as Brunchette on the Lake. They’ve given the place a fresh new name and a cozy upgrade. The food was amazing, the portions were huge, and the service was so welcoming. They're currently renovating their patio and once it's finished, it's going to have one of the best lake views in town. One of my favorite little touches? They have a bookshelf inside, so you can borrow a book while you sip your coffee or wait on your meal. It’s such a cute, unexpected detail.
Next up, lakeside wandering.
After brunch, we wandered around town, taking in the views and checking out some of McCall’s local landmarks. One of our favorite finds was the old McCall City Jail. Built in 1930 for just $650, it’s tiny, charming, and full of character. You can still walk right up to it, read about its wild past (drunk tank and all), and imagine what this town must’ve looked like back in the day. We also stopped by some of the historical plaques and the Veterans Memorial Wall, learning about McCall’s roots while sipping coffee and soaking in the sunshine.
Cutest stop of the day? Barn Owl Books & Gifts.
This local shop is a must. Between the curated book selection, local gifts, and fun little finds, I could’ve spent all afternoon browsing. I picked up a few new reads and some trivia cards, but the real treat was meeting Indie, the resident cat. She was sweet, cuddly, and honestly felt like she belonged in a Hallmark movie.
Last stop, birthday vibes.
To cap off our perfect day, we stopped by Salmon River Brewing. The bartender found out my birthday was coming up and handed me the biggest beer ever, completely on the house. It was such a thoughtful, small-town moment that made me feel so celebrated.
If you’re looking for a quick reset with great food, cozy charm, and a little slice of Idaho history, McCall is it.
Cheers to good eats, mountain air, and unexpected birthday beers.
XOXO,
The Boise Socialite
Hi, I’m Cait—your go-to Boise gal sharing hidden gems, local eats, and fun things to do around Boise.
