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Hey there, fellow adventure-seekers! Are you planning a trip to Idaho Falls and wondering what fun activities to do and what places to visit? You came to the right place! I’ll be sharing 20 fun things to do in Idaho Falls that are sure to make your trip a memorable one.
Idaho Falls in Bonneville County, Idaho – USA, is a gateway to outdoor adventure and so much more. This slice of heaven is not only for nature lovers. Known as a city that celebrates art, culture, and history, you’ll find museums in town that will satisfy your curiosity.
If you are traveling solo, as a couple, or with your family you are sure to be kept entertained. From exploring the picturesque River Walk and the zoo to visiting the Museum of Idaho, the city has something for everyone, trust me.
This guide about the best things to do in Idaho Falls is divided into sections.
The first one is about where to stay in Idaho Falls so you can make the most of your tour time there.
The second is what to do in Idaho Falls, attractions, places to visit, and even free things to do.
The third is about things to do near Idaho Falls and day trips you can plan from there. And we finish with a quick guide about getting to the city and around.
And then we gonna talk about getting there. But before we start our guide, here is an important piece of travel advice, especially if you are planning any outdoor activities in Idaho Falls:
Travel Advice:
Don’t forget your Travel Insurance! You don’t want anything to ruin your trip, right? So don’t take the risk! Reliable travel insurance can help you in case of travel issues, from accidents to health problems, travel delays, and lost luggage.
There are many insurances in the market, our picks are HeyMondo and SafetyWing. We used both and always had a good experience. Click on the insurance names to get a quote.
Best places to stay in Idaho Fall
With so many epic things to do in Idaho Falls and its surroundings, you won’t be left wondering what to do on your visit. And you will definitely need a good hotel to rest and be ready for your days filled with adventure.
Read all our guides about US destinations by clicking here!
Where to stay in Idaho Falls?
Here are our top picks of hotels in Idaho Falls that will give you a good night of sleep.
Here are our suggestions for accommodation in Idaho Falls.
Home2 Suites by Hilton Idaho Falls
Are looking for a comfortable and convenient place to stay in Idaho Falls? Then Home2 Suites by Hilton is for you.
It offers spacious suites equipped with all the amenities you could need, including a fully-equipped kitchen, comfortable living area, and Wi-Fi. It also has a fitness center, indoor pool, and outdoor patio with a fire pit, so you can stay active and relaxed during your stay.
The hotel location is good! Just a short walk to the Love Lock Pier View at River Walk and a variety of shops and restaurants.
Home2 Suites by Hilton Idaho Falls is a good hotel for families.
SpringHill Suites by Marriot Idaho Falls
The SpringHill Suites by Marriott is one of the best hotels in Idaho Falls as it offers spacious and comfy suites that are perfect for both business and leisure travelers, and especially couples.
The rooms have everything you need: a good bed, Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, mini-fridges, and microwaves.
The best thing about staying at the SpringHill Suites by Marriott is its location. The hotel is just a short walk from Idaho Falls River Walk and from the Art Museum of Eastern Idaho. There are also plenty of shops, restaurants, and attractions nearby to explore.
The hotel offers complimentary breakfast each morning, so you can start your day off right. And you can enjoy the fitness center, the indoor pool, and the hot tub.
It’s a stylish and budget-friendly hotel in Idaho Falls. It offers modern and colorful rooms that are perfect for solo travelers or couples. With amenities like free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, and mini-fridges, you’ll have everything you need to visit Idaho Falls city in comfort.
The hotel is situated just a short drive from downtown Idaho Falls and is within walking distance of the popular Snake River Landing, where you can find a variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options.
You can enjoy the hotel’s 24-hour fitness center and the complimentary breakfast buffet. But what really sets Tru By Hilton apart is its fun and social atmosphere. The hotel’s lobby features a pool table, board games, and a large-screen TV, making it a great place to relax and meet other travelers.
Motel 6-Idaho Falls, ID – Snake River
Motel-6 is located in Idaho Falls, along the Snake River (they have the same motel in different locations, be careful when booking). It is close to several restaurants, shopping centers, and tourist attractions.
It’s one of the budget-friendly motels in Idaho Falls with simple and basic amenities. The rooms are equipped with free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, mini-fridges, and microwaves.
Some guests have praised the motel for its clean and comfortable rooms, while others have mentioned the noise level and lack of amenities. As usual, you get what you pay for. But overall, Motel 6 Snake River is a decent option for travelers looking for a convenient and affordable stay in Idaho Falls.
20 Fun things to do in Idaho Falls, ID
So without further ado let’s get straight into what to do in Idaho Falls. From tourist attractions in Idaho Falls to free things to do, there is a whole world of adventure that awaits you.
Pick a few that grab your attention, or just add all of them to your Idaho Falls itinerary and let your exploring begin.
The below list will detail all the exciting things you can see and do in Idaho Falls, and trust me – every single one is worth a visit.
Best things to see in Idaho Falls
It’s no secret that there are lots to see and do in Idaho Falls, so let’s dive into exactly what you will be getting up to on your vacation.
1 – Art Museum of Eastern Idaho
The Art Museum of Eastern Idaho is an exciting cultural outlet in the city. The museum has 5 gallery displays representing international as well as local talent.
There is also an interactive art area to keep the kids entertained. If you’d like to test your artistic abilities, keep an eye out for special events and classes. Things you can expect are portrait painting and watercolor classes, as well as poetry slams.
Top tip: Entry into the museum is free on the first Saturday of every month.
2 – East Idaho Aquarium
If you are looking for things to do in Idaho Falls with kids, this one you can’t miss. Spy on the colorful fish and underwater species as you learn all about them and their aquatic ecosystems at the East Idaho Aquarium.
This non-profit organization thrives off eager families keen to take part in their interactive activities. From feeding birds and admiring stingrays and bearded dragons, and even getting up close with sharks in their tanks – you’re in for an adrenaline rush when you visit this aquarium.
This is a great place to add to your list of things to do in Idaho Falls, Idaho. And if you are a local it’s a great place to host a kids’ birthday party or private event.
3 – Idaho Falls Zoo
Located not far from the aquarium, you’ll find the Idaho Falls Zoo. Why not head there next and continue with your animal-centered day?
The zoo offers sightings of diverse animals from all around the world. Spot lions from Africa, snow leopards from Asia, and wallabies from Australia. If that doesn’t excite you and your kids, over 300 other species of animals live in the zoo that surely will fascinate you.
The zoo is located in Tautphaus Park, allowing the animals to have spacious, natural enclosures. It is considered one of the best small zoos in the country and is a great way to learn about various animal species that inhabit different continents. Plus the zoo has many educational programs for all ages.
Tautphaus Park is one of the oldest and largest parks in Idaho Falls, and it was also the address of Funland Amusement Park, which is closed now. The amusement park was one of the iconic attractions in Idaho Falls, and they are working on a project to restore and reopen it.
4 – Watch a baseball game at Melaleuca Field
For those who like sports or are baseball fun, spending an afternoon or evening in Idaho Falls, catching a baseball game at Melaleuca Field is a must!
Melaleuca Field is a beautiful stadium located right in the heart of the city. The views of the surrounding mountains are stunning, and the atmosphere inside the stadium is electric. Trust me, there’s nothing quite like the experience of watching a baseball game live.
But it’s not just the ambiance that makes Melaleuca Field a must-do in Idaho Falls. The Idaho Falls Chukars, the local minor league baseball team, always put on a great show. From the players’ great skills to the hilarious team mascot, Charlie the Chukar.
Watching a Chukars game is always lots of fun.
So whether you’re a die-hard baseball fan or just looking for a fun and unique way to spend a day in Idaho Falls, be sure to put Melaleuca Field on your itinerary.
5 – Wilderness Ridge Trail Llamas
Searching for unique and fun things to do in Idaho Fall? This one’s for you. Explore all that the city and region have to offer with a llama as a companion!
Yup, you read that correctly – you can rent a llama from the Wilderness Ridge Trail Llamas to accompany you on your guided mountain hiking adventure. From hikes lasting a few hours to overnight hikes and more, you’ll have loads of options to choose from.
If you aren’t up for venturing so far with one of these animals, you can also visit the llamas and learn more about them at the ranch.
6 – Idaho Falls Brewing Company
After a long day of sightseeing and exploring, you are most probably going to feel like a drink. Grab an award-winning craft ale or lager and enjoy the views from the deck overlooking the Snake River at the Idaho Falls Brewing Company.
On colder days, there is also a cozy indoor space where you can relax and indulge.
Visit the tasting room and take your pick between 18 different styles of beers on tap, which give even the best NYC breweries a run for their money. Or, you can take an informative tour of the brewery, learning all about the beer-making process.
The Idaho Brewing Company is not only about beer, they also serve food. From classic pub dishes with a modern twist.
7 – Museum of Idaho
Anyone interested in history, science, and culture should visit the Museum of Idaho in downtown Idaho Falls. It also attracts people of all ages and interests as its exhibits are very diverse.
One of the museum’s main attractions is the T.Rex: The Ultimate Predator. This exposition features one of the world’s most complete T.Rex skeletons, as well as interactive exhibits that shows the life and habits of this predator.
In addition, the museum has permanent exhibits on the history of the city, as well as rotating exhibits on topics ranging from space exploration to ancient civilizations.
The cool thing about the Museum of Idaho is its hands-on exhibits and learning experiences. Visitors can participate in a variety of activities, such as digging for dinosaur bones or testing their skills as an astronaut in a space simulator.
So go there with time and explore all its corners, I’m sure you gonna have fun and learn a bunch of new things. It’s a family-friendly attraction in the city of Idaho Falls, so you can’t miss it if you are traveling with kids.
8 – The Colonial Theater
The Colonial Theater is a restored theater located in the heart of the historic downtown. It originally opened in 1919 and has been a beloved part of the community ever since.
You can watch different types of performances at the theater throughout the year, including Broadway shows, concerts, dance performances, and more.
But the beauty of The Colonial Theater’s interior is already a reason to visit. It has stunning Art Deco architecture and intricate details throughout the space. The theater has been beautifully restored to its original glory, and visiting it feels like taking a step back in time.
Before visiting Idaho Falls check out the theater events calendar so you might add a show or a performance to your list of unique things to do in Idaho Falls.
Free things to do in Idaho Falls
Are you traveling on a tight budget or just looking for some activities that won’t break the bank? Well, you can find wonderful things do to in Idaho Falls that won’t cost a single cent. Let’s check them out!
9 – Idaho Falls River Walk & Snake River Greenbelt
This is one of the best things to do in Idaho Falls and it’s completely free! Winding along the Snake River for 5 miles, the Idaho Falls River Walk and Snake River Greenbelt trail will treat you to exquisite scenery in the area.
The spots along the paved trail are extremely well-maintained and you’ll pass local restaurants and the famous 600-foot-wide waterfall. It also connects you to some of the main attractions in Idaho Falls such as the Art Museum Idaho Falls and Sportsman Park (which you’ll talk more about later).
You can walk, run or cycle along the paths and this is a wonderful way to experience the natural beauty that characterizes the city.
10 – Idaho Falls Farmers Market
If you are traveling to Idaho Falls between May and October, you must visit Idaho Falls Farmers Market. During this period it’s open every Saturday from 9 am-1 pm, and it’s in the downtown area at the intersection of Memorial Drive and D Street, next to the Snake River Greenbelt.
Why you should go there? Well, it’s THE place to taste the best local food. It has a wide variety of fresh and locally grown produce, including fruits, vegetables, herbs, baked goods, and more.
In addition to fresh produce, the market also features handmade crafts, artisanal products, and unique gifts. On top of that, a visit to the Farmers Market is always fun, with live music and gathering of locals and tourists.
11 – Idaho National Laboratory
If you are knee into cybersecurity, renewable energy, science, and technology, then you must visit the Idaho National Laboratory.
You might ask, but what to do there? My answer is: to learn about a lot of cool stuff from cutting-edge research in areas such as nuclear energy, security, and energy production.
Visitors can learn about the lab’s history and see examples of some of the technologies being developed there. Also, the Idaho National Laboratory (INL) has the Experimental Breeder Reactor No. 1, which was the world’s first nuclear reactor to generate electricity.
Whether you’re a student, a researcher, or simply curious, there’s something to see and learn at the INL. And the good thing is that some tours are free, but the rules to get there are quite restricted, so check all the info here before planning your visit to Idaho National Laboratory.
12 – Collectors Corner Museum
If you are an antique and vintage goods lover, don’t miss a visit to the Collector’s Corner Museum. As you step foot in the door you’ll feel as though you’ve been transported back in time.
The museum was opened in 2003 by a passionate couple that has been collecting eclectic memorabilia for many years. On display, you’ll find Barbie dolls, stuffed animals, presidential figurines and so much more in this quirky space.
Each year more items are added to the museum, including personal items from the public. So there will always be something new to see.
Don’t bother to search online about Collector’s Corner Museum, you probably won’t find their website, but here is their address so you can add it to your list of places to visit in Idaho Falls.
📍Collector’s Corner Museum
900 John Adams Pkwy, Idaho Falls, ID 83401, USA.
13 – Russ Freeman Park
Russ Freeman Park is a charming place to spend a family day in nature or for a picnic with your loved one. With different activities on offer from hiking trails, access to Snake River, and an abundance of green space for loads of outdoor activities, you can’t go wrong.
There is also an 18-hole disc golf course for those wanting to try something different. With baseball fields and horseshoe pits as well, you’ll have an abundance of activities for the whole family to enjoy.
Top Idaho Falls attractions you must visit
Idaho Falls is well known for some of its main attractions and you’ll find them below. From breathtaking national parks and sentimental friendship gardens, you are going to want to check out all of them on your visit.
14 – Japanese Pavilion in Sportsman Park
The Japanese Pavilion celebrates the relationship with Idaho Falls’ sister city, Tokai-Mura in Japan. The Pavilion is located on a small island park called Sportsman Park, and it’s surrounded by Snake River. It can easily be accessed from the River Walk.
At this stunning spot, you’ll find a traditional Japanese garden gate with manicured surroundings and a viewing platform.
At the center of this Japanese friendship garden is a large stone lantern that was gifted by Tokai-Mura. This is a lovely place to make memories with loved ones in a picturesque setting.
15 – Ice skating Joe Marmo/Wayne Lehto Ice Arena
If you have ice skated before, you how fun it is. If you haven’t this is a great opportunity to try.
Ice skating at Joe Marmo/Wayne Lehto Ice Arena gathers people of age, locals, and tourists. It’s an affordable and good indoor activity in Idaho Falls.
It doesn’t matter how the weather is outside, the arena is open year-round, so you can enjoy ice skating even during the summer months.
In addition to public skating sessions, the ice arena is also home to the Idaho Falls Amateur Hockey Association and the Idaho Falls Sabres Junior Hockey team. Watching a professional hockey game can be a thrilling and exciting experience, making it a great option for sports fans.
16 – Willard Arts Center
It’s a vibrant hub of culture and creativity, The Willard Arts Center has two galleries that feature rotating art exhibitions throughout the year. The venue is also home to a theater that hosts performing arts events, including plays, musicals, concerts, and more.
The art center also offers a variety of classes and workshops for people of all ages and skill levels. Whether you’re interested in painting, pottery, or dance, there’s a class or workshop for you at the Willard Arts Center.
17 – Snake River boat tour
By now you probably already notice that most of the Idaho Falls activities and attractions are by the Snake River, near it, or related to it. So, of course, one of the fun things in Idaho Falls must be going on a boat tour through the city’s beloved river.
The views from the boat tour are beautiful, a mix of nature and the city, which includes the majestic Teton Mountains in the background. If you are lucky you might have a wildlife encounter. The Snake River is home to bald eagles, river otters, beavers, and more animals.
There are different types of boat tours on the Snake River, including guided river tours, kayak and canoe rentals, and even dinner cruises. Check out the Snake River Ferry website for the timetable.
Unmissable things to do near Idaho Falls
18 – Hell’s Half Acre
Okay, this one is a little further out of the city but is one of the top things to do near Idaho Falls. Hell’s Half Acre is a lava plain located on the Snake River Plain. You’ll need to drive 25 miles/40 km from Idaho Falls to experience this hard lava field full of open cracks and jagged rocks.
You’ll have to do a bit of hiking to see this lava rock natural wonder. But luckily you can opt for an easy 30-minute option. Or there is a full-day hike that passes other volcanic remnants for the more adventurous ones.
19 – Yellowstone National Park
Easily accessed from Idaho Falls in under 2 hours (by car) this stunning US National Park is worth a visit when in the area. Characterized by hot springs, wildlife, and some of the best hiking trails in the country, you won’t be disappointed with your day trip to Yellowstone National Park.
Yellowstone is one of the most beautiful parks on the West Coast and with over 2 million acres of land to explore, it can be pretty daunting. Take a tour with a local guide or check out the best hiking trails before your trip so you know which entrance you’ll be entering.
Pack your hiking boots and some snacks and enjoy an adventurous day out in the wild.
20 – Grand Teton National Park
First of all, The Grand Teton National Park is in one of the most beautiful mountain ranges in the US. Second, the park is only 2 hours drive away from Idaho Falls, making it the perfect destination for a day trip.
You can drive there, or go on a guided tour.
The Grand Teton National Park is famous for its breathtaking landscapes, pristine alpine lakes, and verdant forests. You can go for scenic drives, hiking, and even camping. And be ready for wildlife watching as the park is home to a diverse array of animals, including elk, moose, bison, grizzly bears, and wolves.
Keep in mind that the park is open year-round, although some roads and facilities may be closed during the winter months.
How to get to Idaho Falls and around
Now that you know the best hotels in Idaho Falls, things to do there that are interesting and free, plus places to visit nearby, let’s talk about transportation.
If you are traveling from any other destination in the US, you can get to Idaho Falls by car, flying, or bus.
Getting to Idaho Falls
Flying: Idaho Falls Regional Airport (IDA) is the main airport serving the city. Several airlines, including Delta, United, and Alaska, offer daily flights to and from cities such as Salt Lake City, Denver, and Seattle.
Depending on your starting location, you may need to take a connecting flight to reach the city. You can find the best flight deals on Skyscanner!
Once you arrive in the city, you can rent a car or take a taxi to your hotel.
If you plan to rent a car, I would say to do it in advance to get the best deals. Check out RentalCars’ website for it, there you can compare prices and choose the best option for your Idaho Falls vacation.
Driving: If you have your own vehicle, driving to Idaho Falls is an easy option. The city is located just off Interstate 15, which runs north-south through Idaho. Major cities within driving distance include Salt Lake City, Utah (about a 3.5-hour drive) and Boise, Idaho (about a 5.5-hour drive).
By Bus: You can find busses to Idaho Falls departing from all major cities in the western part of the US. Depending on where you are coming from you might need a connecting bus to reach the city. The Greyhound station is located downtown, within walking distance of several hotels and attractions.
If you are traveling from abroad and coming straight to the city then you have two options:
1st – Fly to a major international airport in the United States such as Los Angeles, San Francisco, or New York, and then take a connecting flight to the Idaho Falls Regional Airport (IDA).
2nd – You can fly to one of the airports near Idaho Falls, for example, Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC), which is about a 3-hour drive from Idaho Falls. From there, you can rent a car or take a shuttle service bus. The direct bus from the Salt Lake City Airport to the city runs 5 times a day and takes around 4h 30 minutes.
As we mentioned before you can search for the best flight deals on Skyscanner!
Getting around Idaho Falls
Getting around Idaho Falls is easy as it’s a relatively small city, and many of its attractions are located within walking distance of each other.
Walking: it’s a great way to explore the downtown area and see the city’s historic architecture.
Public transportation: Idaho Falls has a bus system called “Bonneville Transit” that provides public transportation throughout the city. You can purchase your bus ticket at several locations, including the Transit Center.
Cycling: the city has an extensive bike path system that connects many of the attractions. You can rent a bike from several shops and also check out the Idaho Falls Bike Share program.
Car rental: If you are staying outside the city or planning to do day trips to nearby parks, then renting a car is a good idea. There are many car rental agencies available at the Idaho Falls Regional Airport, and you can also find rental options in the downtown area.
I suggest you book in advance to get better prices and arrange the pick point according to your arrival. Compare the prices of car rentals here.
Discovering things to do in Idaho Falls
With so much to see and do in Idaho Falls, you’ll want to keep coming back again and again, especially with you like the outdoors and a good adventure.
Whether you want to kick back and relax with a book in Russ Freeman Park or test out the daredevil in you with a hike on a llama, Idaho Falls caters to the whole family.
So, what are you waiting for? Pack those bags and get ready for a vacation in a city with so much to offer.
