Things To Do
in Moscow
Moscow, Idaho is a charming university town on the Palouse known for its tree-lined streets and the University of Idaho campus. The city blends student energy with small-town warmth, offering galleries, bookstores, cafes, and a thriving farmers market in the warmer months. Surrounded by rolling farmland, Moscow serves as a gateway to scenic hikes and agricultural landscapes.
Year-round, visitors enjoy cultural events, outdoor recreation, and a welcoming, community-focused vibe.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the historic district of Moscow, where you can explore charming shops and local cafés. Grab a coffee and a pastry to fuel your adventure as you take in the beautiful architecture and laid-back atmosphere of this quaint town. Don't forget to stop by the Moscow Farmers Market, held every Saturday, for fresh produce and local crafts.
Spend the afternoon strolling through the University of Idaho campus, known for its beautiful grounds and iconic buildings. Consider taking a guided tour to learn about its history and enjoy the scenic views of the surrounding landscapes. Afterward, relax at one of the nearby parks or take a leisurely walk along the Palouse River.
As the sun sets, head to downtown Moscow for dinner at one of the many local restaurants offering a variety of cuisines. Enjoy live music or a cultural event at the Kenworthy Performing Arts Centre, which showcases everything from films to theater productions. End your day with a walk around the vibrant streets, absorbing the lively atmosphere.
Begin your day with breakfast at a local diner before immersing yourself in the artistic side of Moscow. Visit a couple of art galleries, including the Moscow Contemporary Arts Center, where you can appreciate the works of regional artists. Take your time to engage with the art, and maybe even meet some of the creators during special exhibit openings.
In the afternoon, explore the Latah Trail, a beautiful path perfect for walking or biking, offering picturesque views of the green landscape. Enjoy a picnic by one of the trailside benches while soaking in the nature that surrounds you. The trail also provides a great opportunity to meet locals who share your love for outdoor activities.
For dinner, try a farm-to-table restaurant that highlights the rich agricultural heritage of the area. Spend your evening at a local brewery or wine bar sampling some of the best craft beverages Moscow has to offer. Wrap up your day by attending a community event or enjoying a quiet evening under the stars.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Cup of coffee at a café | $3-5 |
| 🏡One-bedroom apartment (monthly) | $800-1200 |
| 🧺Groceries per week | $50-80 |
| 🚗Gasoline (per gallon) | $3-4 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Compact, walkable downtown with easy campus access
- Scenic Palouse surroundings and abundant outdoor activities
- Strong local culture and farmers markets
- Limited public transit outside town center
- Winters can be cold and snowy, with occasional road closures
Places to Visit in Moscow
Visit one of these nice places.
Beautiful historic buildings and tree-lined paths ideal for portraits and campus photography.
Panoramic Palouse views from the summit, especially striking at sunrise or sunset.
Charming storefronts, murals, and a cozy small-town vibe perfect for street photography.
Waterways and golden wheat fields provide reflective landscapes during golden hour.
Food in Moscow
Moscow Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Potato-forward dishes like baked potatoes, potato soups, and hash browns appear on many menus around town.
Must-Try!
Seasonal bowls featuring wheat, barley, and local produce sourced from nearby farms.
Treats made with Palouse-region huckleberries when in season.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market on Main Street offering local produce, breads, cheeses, and ready-to-eat options (summer months).
Casual options around downtown providing fresh pastries, sandwiches, and quick bites.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A friendly greeting and small talk are common in stores and around campus.
Respect campus property and quiet hours in residential areas; be mindful of studying students on campus.
Safety
Tipping in Moscow
Ensure a smooth experience
Standard US tipping: 15-20% at restaurants; tip bars and cafes accordingly.
Most places accept cards (Visa/MasterCard/AmEx) and mobile wallets; carry cash for farmers markets or quick bites.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Cold temperatures with occasional snow; layer up and be prepared for slick or icy sidewalks and hills.
Mild days with blooming wildflowers; rain showers are common, so carry a light waterproof layer.
Warm days with long daylight hours; perfect for farmers markets, outdoor concerts, and hikes.
Cooler temperatures with colorful foliage; ideal for scenic drives and harvest events.
Moscow at Night
Hiking in Moscow
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Popular 2-3 mile round-trip hike with expansive Palouse views.
Network of forested trails with varying difficulty, suitable for a half-day outing.
Short, scenic overlooks with a waterfall and dramatic canyon views.
Airports
How to reach Moscow by plane.
Small regional airport serving the Palouse; flights to Seattle area; short drive to downtown Moscow.
Major hub with frequent flights; about a 75-mile drive east of Moscow.
Regional airport in Lewiston area; useful for shorter regional trips; roughly 50 miles from Moscow.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A large share of residents are students, faculty, and staff, contributing to a vibrant campus culture.
Surrounding neighborhoods host families and retirees seeking a quieter pace with access to urban amenities.
Long-time locals who contribute to downtown culture, farms, and community events.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Idaho Vandals games are a community focal point and offer a lively college atmosphere.
Strong programs and local clubs leveraging the Palouse terrain.
Hilly Palouse routes attract cyclists for scenic, challenging rides.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Moscow.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most downtown restaurants offer vegetarian options; look for vegetable-forward plates and dairy-free choices; ask about substitutions.