Entry No. 46 — the Coeur d'Alene file — filed under: roadside-oddity

Center of the Universe Manhole Cover

Embedded in the downtown street is a special sewer-access cover stamped 'Center of the Universe,' ringed by a compass rose and the symbols of Wallace's historic mining companies. In 2004 the mayor formally proclaimed the town the literal center of the universe, reasoning that since no one could prove otherwise, it must be true. It was a tongue-in-cheek jab at the EPA, which had labeled the area a Superfund site over 'probable' pollution.

The move: Drive the scenic I-90 hour east to Wallace, take a photo standing dead-center on the universe, then wander the preserved Victorian mining-town main street for lunch.

📍 Before you go About 50 miles east on I-90; the marker is in an active downtown intersection, so watch for traffic when you step out for the photo.

• 📍 Wallace, Idaho
• 💸 Free
• ⚡ Up for anything
• 🌗 Outdoors

Where: Corner of Bank Street & Sixth Street, Wallace, ID

Hours: Added 2026-06-24 — confirm current hours before you go.

Plan a visit & invite your people →

Proof: source 1 · source 2 · source 3 · source 4

last checked: 2026-06-24