Idlewild is an unincorporated community in Boone County, Kentucky, United States.

Idlewild is located at the junction of Kentucky Routes 20 and 338, 5 miles (8.0 km) northwest of Burlington.

[2] The Gainesville name was based upon the Gaines family, who owned a great deal of land in Boone County.

[2] In the late 19th century, Idlewild had several businesses, a general store and three blacksmith shops.

[2] A carriage shop also existed, which was operated by a charter member of the Wells Fargo stage delivery route, Fred Pfalzgraf.