14+ Best Things To Do In Idaho

Last updated August 26, 2025

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Idaho is among the top destinations to visit if you want to spend the majority of your day outdoors.

Referred to as "Gem State" due to its natural marvels, Idaho is home to amazing tourist destinations and holiday locations, and there are certainly numerous things to do here.

Regardless of whether you want to enjoy good food, see animals, create art, engage in science, watch sports, or enjoy nature, this article has many fun things for you.

So, go ahead and develop a love for the arts, engage with the natural environment, and explore the remarkable heritage and traditions of Idaho.

Here are 14+ best things to do in Idaho!

1. Shoshone Falls Park

This park is undoubtedly among the most stunning locations to explore in Idaho.

Its massive waterfall surpasses Niagara Falls in height.

Shoshone Falls stands several hundred feet high and broad, which makes it part of the largest waterfalls in America.

It is really a lovely view to admire, and in order to enable a greater number of individuals to appreciate it, specific zones in the Falls are accessible for wheelchair users.

The waterfalls are significant for the regional economy and agriculture, and they have served as a salmon source for the native communities.

Between March and September, anticipate a minor vehicle charge of $5 here for each vehicle.

The ideal moment to see the waterfalls is during the spring after the gorgeous snow has liquefied, expanding the Falls water capacity.

So, if your household is on spring vacation, don't forget to take them with you to Shoshone Falls, which is among the top waterfalls globally.

2. Discovery Centre of Idaho

This center is the ideal location for your kids to turn into young researchers.

Established in 1988, this discovery center offers numerous engaging activities and exhibits designed for kids to explore concepts in mathematics, geology, biology, physics, design, engineering, and artistry.

Located in the capital center, thousands usually gather in this Discovery Center annually.

Among the exhibited artifacts here are dinosaur bones, objects from the submerged Titanic, and scaled LEGO replicas.

In fact, featuring more than 150 displays, your family and friends are assured to enjoy a great time here.

There is another area designated for younger kids to ensure they have the chance to completely appreciate the museum.

This center additionally provides STEM camps and initiatives to guarantee enjoyment throughout the year.

Its STEM shop provides a variety of exciting science toys and kits to nurture inquisitiveness.

Be sure to also take something with you for your children to continue with their learning when they get home as well.

Spanish translators are even available in the center to assist in overcoming certain language obstacles.

3. Seven Star Alpaca Ranch

This stands as a family-operated ranch and Idaho’s most stunning alpacas reside here.

They are quite amicable and a lot of fun to engage with.

The ranch provides both guided and self-guided tours for those who are interested in familiarizing themselves with this amazing ranch.

Even, despite being called an “Alpaca Ranch”, the location also houses various types of animals including llamas, cows, goats, equines, fowls, and asses.

They additionally own mini horses which are truly charming.

If you wish to stick around, they also provide a private cottage over one hundred years old where your household can reside.

Simply go to their own Airbnb listing in order to make a reservation so you can relish those amusing creatures for days on end.

You will also have the opportunity to feed the animals at specific times - how enjoyable is that?!

In case your family wishes to take a souvenir back home, then check out their country shop. They offer premium products crafted from alpaca wool.

They also offer toys like adorable, small plush alpacas to entertain your little ones, and they provide hats and socks to ensure you stay warm in the cold times.

They likewise offer adorable gift baskets in case you wish to spread the affection with loved ones and closest friends.

4. Wallace District Mining Museum

Established in 1956, this museum offers an enjoyable and learning opportunity for the whole family.

Spanning more than 7000 square feet, this museum hosts over 5000 artifacts displayed in more than 50 exhibitions.

They have images, charts, records, clips, instruments, safety gear, and artworks concerning the history of mining.

In fact, you’re sure to discover a lot here!

To keep your children engaged and prevent boredom, the museum also provides enjoyable treasure hunts and interactive practical tasks.

This museum holds a significant position in research, education, and safeguarding an essential aspect of American culture and heritage.

You can even explore the past using their simulated mine walk-through and discover more about the historic Coeur d’AleneMining District that supplied valuable metals like silver and gold for more than a century.

They also provide public access for free to their archives and research databases, so whenever your kids receive a mining project, you understand where to bring them.

5. Craters of the Moon Monument and Preserve

This is a USA national monument that is genuinely an extraordinary experience.

Established in the year 1924, this 343000-acre reserve is blanketed by stone and lava fields.

You can explore the various paths in the reserve, including several that are accessible to wheelchairs.

And if you’re finding it difficult to choose a definite route, you can go to their information centre for assistance.

Ensure you download the Park Service application prior to visiting so you can have a definite strategy of what to do when you get there.

While hiking the park, you will encounter a variety of terrains including caves, hills, and massive stone structures.

The park also contains the deepest world's open rift fissure.

In fact, it’s more than simply a collection of stones that you’ll see because this park is full of flora and fauna.

Numerous species of resilient plants exist here, including stunning blossoms thriving among the stones.

Multiple insect species are also here, along with countless other species of animals such as rodents.

You may even come across a toad too.

Then, for year-round enjoyment, don’t hesitate to try crosscountry skiing during the winter.

Also, if you can't get enough from the park yet, consider camping in order to fully discover this remarkable otherworldly place and savor the gorgeous evening sky.

This is definitely among the most thrilling locations to explore in Idaho.

6. Museum of Clean

Do you have an obsession with cleanliness? This museum is the perfect place for you!

It houses thousands of exhibits, all connected to cleaning's past and traditions.

These artifacts include vintage horse-driven vacuums, global artworks, a bronze skewer spanning more than a millennium, a large library, and a unique toilet collection.

You'll also discover an area named "Kid Planet" that features plenty of things for your kids to enjoy.

There are additionally educational initiatives in the museum aimed at children to instruct them regarding waste reduction and recycling efforts.

Also, there is an OldEnglish City space where visitors can learn more about the earth without cleanliness, overflowing with illness and pests, and the tales of people who endured.

Indeed, if you're keen on discovering history, this location should be among your leading options in Idaho.

Also, if you care about the environment, you'll be glad to know that the museum is very welcoming to the surroundings.

They utilize energy-efficient lighting and a solid solar panel, and they have also received the PollutionPrevention Champion Award.

They are additionally specialists in recycling. This museum features a lovely, small garden filled with plants that clean the air visitors inhale.

Several of these plants possess healing qualities as well, so prepare for a soothing walk.

Museum of Clean is without a doubt an exceptionally unique museum that'll be an enjoyable, invigorating experience for your household.

You won't really discover another tourist spot similar to it. It is among the 10 best museums to see in Idaho!

7. Bird Aviation Museum & Invention Center

The 10000 square foot aviation museum features aircraft from various eras that will enable you to travel across time.

The museum is situated close to a runway, allowing you to hear the aircraft taking off, which adds another aspect to your visit.

You can likewise join in a scavenger hunt here to fully engage yourself in the aviation industry.

They also organize educational activities for children to instruct them on how to become small aviators.

The Bird Aviation & Invention Center is additionally a museum that pays tribute to modern inventors who contributed to advancements in contemporary technology, leading to various innovations displayed within it.

This museum was created by Forrest Bird, an American inventor, thus the museum bears his name.

You can discover more about other skilled inventors and him on the museum's website.

The highlight here is that entry is always free, so make sure you don’t pass it by.

It is definitely among the most fascinating spots to explore in Idaho.

8. Redfish Lake & Sawtooth National Area

Located in the heart of Idaho, this place ranks among Idaho's most stunning natural attractions.

Redfish Lake exists within the Sawtooth NationalRecreation Area.

It is suitable for various outdoor activities including hiking, camping, fishing, cycling, mountaineering, kayaking, rafting, and fishing so you can connect with nature.

You will also encounter a fantastic variety of wildlife here like mountain goats, bobcats, and serpents.

There’s additionally a diverse range of birds here to observe, including kingfishers, hummingbirds, and falcons.

By the lake, you will discover the Red Fish Lake Lodge.

You can enjoy a lovely evening in the cabins and unwind on their sandy shores.

They also offer rentals for bikes and boats if you are interested.

You're even free to request a lake tour so you can savor the stunning mountains, trees, and their images mirrored on the clear crystal water of the lake.

Definitely, make sure to check out Redfish Lake while you are in Idaho as it ranks among the most stunning locations to visit here.

9. Big Red’s Barn

This is an exquisite farm that is distinctly different from others.

This all-season place houses a variety of local and foreign creatures like cattle, equines, reptiles, iguanas, billy goats, kangaroos, sheep, capybaras, mules, tarantulas, turtles, ferrets, and avians.

The farm's food is approved by the USDA, which is the reason why they forbid guests from bringing along their own snacks to give to the animals.

They also offer food cups available for purchase to provide sustenance for the creatures.

In this manner, they can monitor what the animals are consuming.

Big Reds isn't a conventional zoo where you'll merely observe the creatures from afar. They let you stroke, cuddle, and form amazing bonds with the creatures.

Their skilled and informed personnel also make here highly enjoyable and knowledgeable.

So, go ahead and head over to this barn as engaging with animals remains among the most captivating activities to engage in while in Idaho.

10. Saint Joe River

This river, located in the iconic Idaho Panhandle, is a 225-kilometer waterway that is adorned with stunning vegetation and sprinkled with captivating creatures.

Go for a hike here and you'll encounter plenty of creatures and various types of trees.

You could even be fortunate enough to encounter an adorable deer.

Also, if you're interested in birdwatching, there are many birds to observe here.

You can have a picnic together with your friends and family too and relish the mountain's surroundings and stunning views all around you.

Numerous camping locations are also available for visitors to stay overnight with nature, but be cautious to avoid attracting bears.

In some areas, you can even cast a line, drift, or paddle in the transparent, moving rivers and observe the diverse fish species that inhabit the area.

Indeed, Saint Joe is a great location to create amazing memories.

11. Silver Mountain Resort

This incredible ski resort operates all day for endless enjoyment.

Located in Kellogg, the resort features 73 trails, snowfall of 760 cm, a skiable area of 1600 acres, and the biggest indoor waterpark in Idaho.

In the winter, it is an ideal destination for skiing, snow tubing, and snowboarding, and these winter activities are among the most thrilling to engage in Idaho.

The resort also provides classes to assist you in mastering the basics.

Then, cycling and golfing are enjoyable pastimes in the summer season.

They also offer rentals for mountain bikes, snowboards, and other equipment for anyone in need of one.

Their ski area features the lengthiest gondola journey in the Northern United States.

Certainly, you do not want to overlook the chance to explore this exciting place.

There are also many facilities accessible here for you if you're considering spending a week or the night.

They provide luxurious accommodations for families of all sizes and a variety of tasty eateries close by.

The Northwest Gift Store offers mugs, postcards, magnets, and many more items to celebrate your trip.

You can visit Silver Mountain Resort year-round since it’s among the top getaway destinations for both winter and summer.

12. Peregrine Funds World Center

Peregrine Funds is an amazing destination in Idaho for your family and you.

A diverse range of raptors exists here, including vultures, falcons, hawks, eagles, and owls that are certain to thrill guests.

The center provides a delightful variety of birds in numerous colors, forms, and dimensions.

Even, if you're uncertain about where to begin, you can opt for guided tours.

Numerous endangered and rare bird species can also be discovered in this center.

The center is an amazing facility dedicated to conservation efforts, therefore, you'll be confident that your money is directed towards a beneficial purpose.

Here, your family has the opportunity to connect intimately with avians.

Experienced trainers usually arrive with birds to instruct visitors on the birds’ significance.

Also, on certain occasions during the Fall season, you can see live birds in flight displays. Picture witnessing a massive eagle soaring above you.

Then, if you have a passion for learning, it’s strongly advised that you examine the artwork, objects, and library materials they have that relate to avian care and history.

Indeed, there is a great deal here to discover.

You can additionally visit the center's website, which has plenty of details concerning these impressive birds.

Then, once you complete your visit, think about stopping by their gift shop. Here, you can purchase jewelry and handcrafted items to include in your assortment.

Without a doubt, this place will genuinely provide you with an enhanced appreciation for these amazing birds.

13. Heyburn State Park

This is Idaho's ancientest state park and it offers various activities to engage in.

The park features trails of 16 miles suitable for biking, hiking, and horseback riding.

You can also relish its beautiful waters by renting a kayak or going fishing.

Also, you can join guided tours that will introduce you to the stunning blossoms, calm lakes, and the towering pine trees which are centuries of years in age.

Even, if you wish to have more fun and unwind here, you're welcome to camp, have a picnic, observe birds, book a cabin, and enjoy a tranquil walk on their boardwalk.

Heyburn Park really holds significant value for the indigenous communities.

It is an ideal chance to educate your household about honoring the environment.

The park covers lots of acres, ensuring that you’ll never feel uninterested or bored.

14. Bruneau Dunes Park

If you want to witness the distinctive, natural wonders of Idaho, this state park ought to be among your top sights of attraction to visit.

The park, spanning 4,800 acres, features North America's highest sand dune formations with heights reaching lots of feet.

This park is packed with sandy hills, small ponds, grasslands, and swamps.

Numerous sports are also available for you to engage in while you are here.

You're free to stroll on the sand without shoes, and you can choose to ride a horse on the trails or hike.

You can also hire a sandboard in order to glide the dunes just like an expert.

Even, if you intend to remain for an extended time in this amazing location, you're free to rent a nice cabin or camp.

Note that if you intend to bring along a horse, there is a place for their overnight stay that can be accessed at this park.

You're also free to fish inside the little lakes that are spread all through the park.

You'll even encounter numerous desert creatures in the neighborhood.

The park additionally provides guided tours which they will use to educate you about the wildlife and plants that reside here, providing a learning experience that is enjoyable and important for your journey.

If you visit at night, make sure to explore the star observatory. Here, you can experience the stunning night star-filled sky, an essential activity to engage in.

There are likewise camping spots accessible if you wish to rest outdoors.

15. Yellowstone Bear World

This place offers a unique opportunity that lets you experience an intimate encounter with bears.

It features a drive-through tour (open to all types of vehicles) where you'll encounter mountain goats, bison, deer, moose, and bears wandering freely while you are traveling along the marked routes.

For an extra charge, you can get the opportunity to feed the little bear cubs.

Note that the center operates exclusively from April - October because of the bear’s dormancy.

Also, for an extra charge, you can join their Wildlife Tour where you'll feed the grown bears next to an expert animal caretaker.

Feeding bears ranks among the most thrilling activities in Idaho.

A lovely petting zoo is also available here for visitors to engage with various birds and farm animals including fawns.

There is additionally a range of enjoyable amusement rides to take your experience to an entirely new level.

Then, when you’ve depleted your energy, buy a snack at the ThreeBears Gift Shop so you can sample tasty fudge available in more than 20 varieties.

The store also provides presents, collectibles, toys, and a lot more.

Conclusion

There you go, my best must-dos and fun activities, and locations to visit in Idaho.

Note that certain of these attractions in Idaho are free therefore be sure to take advantage of them.

Most of them also highlight Idaho’s vibrant culture, past, and stunning natural landscapes.

So, whether you are seeking to unwind, spend some valuable moments with family, or acquire new knowledge, Idaho definitely has a lot for you!