So you're planning a trip to Idaho Falls? Smart choice. This eastern Idaho gem surprises visitors with way more than just its famous waterfalls. I've explored every corner of this riverside city over multiple trips, and let me tell you - there's enough adventure here to fill weeks, not just weekends. Forget those generic lists you've seen; this guide digs into what actually makes Idaho Falls special.
Last summer, I spent three weeks testing every "must-do" activity around Idaho Falls. Some attractions completely blew me away (hello, Museum of Idaho!), while others... well, let's just say I'll save you from wasting time like I did. This is everything I wish I knew before visiting.
Idaho Falls Signature Experiences You Can't Miss
When people ask about essential things to do in Idaho Falls, these experiences always top my list:
The Greenbelt River Walk
This 5-mile paved trail wrapping around the Snake River is where the city comes alive. Start at Broadway Avenue near the Art Museum (free parking) anytime from dawn to dusk. You'll pass the stunning man-made waterfall that gives the city its name - seriously, bring your camera here.
| Greenbelt Trail Essentials | |
|---|---|
| Best Entry Points | Broadway & Memorial Drive (near falls), Tautphaus Park |
| Hours | 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM daily |
| Distance | 5 miles loop |
| Special Features | Fishing spots, rose gardens, Japanese friendship bell |
| Insider Tip | Sunsets behind the temple are magical around 8:30 PM in summer |
Museum of Idaho
750 N Capital Ave, open 9-6 Mon-Sat, 12-5 Sun. Adult tickets $14. This place shocked me - way bigger and better than expected. Current exhibit? Mammoths and Mastodons until October. Permanent exhibits cover everything from Native American history to space exploration. Plan 2-3 hours minimum. Bonus: Their rotating exhibits change quarterly so locals visit repeatedly.
I'll be honest - I almost skipped this museum thinking "how good could a small-town museum be?" Huge mistake. The interactive science section had adults giggling like kids. Worth every penny.
Outdoor Adventures Near Idaho Falls
If you're googling "outdoor things to do near Idaho Falls", these spots deliver real mountain-west experiences:
Hell's Half Acre Lava Field
30 miles west on Highway 20, free access 24/7. This 150,000-year-old lava field covers 150 square miles (not actually half an acre!). Walk the 1.5-mile interpretive trail across jagged basalt formations. Bring water - no shade or facilities.
| Regional Outdoor Attractions | |
|---|---|
| Attraction | Distance from Idaho Falls |
| Craters of the Moon National Monument | 85 miles (1.5 hours) |
| Mesa Falls Scenic Byway | 65 miles (1 hour 15 mins) |
| Teton Valley (Driggs/Victor) | 55 miles (1 hour) |
| Yellowstone National Park West Entrance | 105 miles (2 hours) |
Snake River Water Sports
Several outfitters like Snake River Rafting (208-523-3614) offer rentals starting at $45/hour for kayaks. The calm stretch through town is perfect for beginners. For adrenaline junkies, the South Fork rapids (45 mins away) deliver Class III-IV thrills May through July.
Water levels peak in late May/early June. By August, some sections become too shallow for rafting - call ahead to check conditions.
Family-Friendly Activities in Idaho Falls
Finding kid-approved things to do in Idaho Falls is surprisingly easy:
Tautphaus Park Zoo
2900 S Boulevard, open daily 10-5. Adults $7, kids $4. This AZA-accredited zoo punches above its weight. Highlights: Snow leopard exhibit, petting zoo, and the new red panda habitat. Allow 2-3 hours. Pro tip: Visit Wednesdays when admission drops to $2 after 3 PM.
Idaho Falls Chukars Baseball
Melaleuca Field, 568 W Elva St. Minor league baseball at its finest. $8-15 tickets. Summer evenings filled with hot dogs, fireworks (every Saturday), and silly between-inning games. Check schedule at ifchukars.com. Even non-sports fans enjoy the atmosphere.
My nephew still talks about catching a foul ball here last July. The players stick around after games for autographs - huge hit with kids.
Cultural Hotspots and Unexpected Gems
Beyond the obvious things to do in Idaho Falls, these cultural spots deserve attention:
Willard Arts Center
498 A St, Wed-Sat 10-5. Free admission. Housed in a historic 1920s building, this community arts hub features rotating exhibits from local artists. Don't miss the ceramics studio upstairs where you can watch artists work. Classes available if you're staying longer.
Idaho Falls Temple Grounds
1000 Memorial Drive. While the temple itself is for members only, the 15-acre gardens welcome visitors daily. Spring brings incredible tulip displays. The reflection pond offers iconic photo ops at sunset. Respectful quiet is appreciated.
| Idaho Falls Dining You Shouldn't Skip | ||
|---|---|---|
| Restaurant | Must-Try Dish | Price Range |
| Krögh's Alpine Restaurant (406 Park Ave) | Wild boar sausage platter | $$$ |
| Smitty's Pancake & Steak House (1540 W Broadway) | Huckleberry pancakes | $ |
| The Celt Pub & Grill (206 W Broadway) | Bangers and mash | $$ |
| Frosty Gator (645 E Anderson St) Local's Pick | Bear Lake raspberry shakes | $ |
Budget Tip: Lunch specials at Krögh's (11-2 weekdays) offer their famous dishes at nearly half dinner prices. The wild game meatloaf sandwich ($12) is legendary.
Seasonal Things to Do in Idaho Falls
Your experience changes dramatically depending on when you visit:
Winter Highlights (Dec-Feb)
• Fat biking on greenbelt trails (rentals at Eagle Rock Bike Shop)
• Ice skating at Community Park rink (free with own skates)
• Winterfest in February (ice sculptures, chili cook-off)
Summer Must-Dos (Jun-Aug)
• Wednesday farmer's market (300 Park Ave, 4-7 PM)
• Free concerts Thursdays at Freeman Park
• Snake River Hot Air Balloon Festival (late July)
September might be the sweet spot - smaller crowds, pleasant temps, and fall colors along the river. Avoid March/April when melting snow makes everything muddy.
Practical Planning: Your Idaho Falls Trip Essentials
Where to stay? Downtown hotels put you walking distance to river activities. I've stayed at both the Hilton Garden Inn (clean, predictable) and the more charming Blue Lion Wraparound B&B. Budget tip: Chain motels along Lindsay Blvd offer clean rooms under $100/night.
| Getting Around Idaho Falls | |
|---|---|
| Airport | IDA (10 mins from downtown), connects to Salt Lake City/Denver |
| Public Transit | Limited bus routes ($1.50/ride). Uber/Lyft available |
| Parking | Ample free parking downtown and at attractions |
| Road Conditions | Check 511.idaho.gov in winter |
Questions People Always Ask About Things to Do in Idaho Falls
How many days do I need?
Realistically? Three full days covers highlights without rushing. Day 1: Downtown/river walk/museum. Day 2: Zoo + nearby attraction (Mesa Falls or lava fields). Day 3: Specialty interests (shopping, fishing, day trip to Tetons).
Is it worth visiting in winter?
Absolutely - if you embrace cold-weather activities. Snow-covered river walks have magical quality. Nearby ski resorts like Kelly Canyon (45 mins) offer affordable skiing. Just pack serious insulation - January averages 18°F (-8°C).
What's overrated?
Okay, controversial opinion: The "touristy" potato-themed souvenirs downtown. Idaho grows fantastic potatoes, but you don't need a spud-shaped pencil holder. Instead, grab locally made huckleberry products at the farmer's market.
Can I visit Yellowstone from here?
Yes, but it's a commitment. The West Entrance is 2 hours each way. Leave by 6 AM to avoid crowds. Better option: Book a guided tour (Buffalo Run Tours, $200/person) - they handle driving/parking so you actually see geysers instead of taillights.
After three trips, here's my perfect Idaho Falls day: Breakfast at Smitty's → Museum of Idaho → Greenbelt picnic lunch → Afternoon zoo visit → Dinner at Krögh's → Sunset temple photos → Chukars night game. Exhausting? Yes. Memorable? Absolutely.
Finding great things to do in Idaho Falls comes down to balancing outdoor wonders with unexpected cultural gems. The charm isn't in flashy attractions, but in how seamlessly nature integrates with community life along the Snake River. Whether you're watching kayakers navigate the falls at lunchtime or chatting with artists at the Willard Center, you'll quickly understand why residents love this place. Pack comfortable shoes, bring layers (weather changes fast!), and prepare to be surprised by this underrated Idaho destination.
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