4 Star Places To Visit in Idaho, United States (50)
4.5Shoshone Falls(2.015 reviews) - Running full force, spectacular. Waterfalls
What a great show. We purchased tickets for the the light show. They may have over sold because there was an enormous crowd however organizers managed the traffic well. I’m sure glad we had a handicap plaqard as my mom is elderly and unable to walk distances. The light show was pretty. We decided to come back in the early morning 8:00 AM to see the falls in daylight. I’m glad we did. Only a few people were there, we had the place to ourselves and the falls were spectacular.See more..
4.0Silverwood Theme Park(1.360 reviews) - Good rides and slides- but long lines Wednesday: Spent More than 3 hours Amusement & Theme Parks • Water Parks
Located in beautiful North Idaho, Silverwood Theme Park has over 65 rides, slides, shows and attractions, including four roller coasters, Boulder Beach Water Park, a steam engine train, live entertainment, restaurants, and more...See more..
4.5Craters of the Moon National Monument(1.280 reviews) - go visit if you are in the area Wednesday: 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM National Parks • Nature & Wildlife Areas • Geologic Formations
An ocean of blackened lava flows holds opportunities to relax, explore, and enjoy for all ages and abilities. The monument is an easy day trip from Boise, Sun Valley, and Idaho Falls. Click on the link below to learn more about this unearthly landscape and start planning your visit today.See more..
4.5Old Idaho Penitentiary(1.001 reviews) - Deep dive into prison history Wednesday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Historic Sites
In 1872 the Idaho Territorial Prison opened its doors to some of the most desperate and mean criminals the West could offer. In 1973 the Idaho State Penitentiary closed to inmates. Now our doors are open for visitors to explore over 100 years of Idaho's unique prison history. Open year-round, visitors of the Old Idaho Penitentiary can walk through solitary confinement, cell blocks, and the gallows. Visit today and relive the Old Pen's exciting past of daring escapes, scandals, and executions. Call for more details about special events, educational programs and guided tours.See more..
This bridge is very cool and even on a weekday we got to see base jumpers. The bridge is easily accessed from the Twin Falls Visitor center. It can also be accessed from the Best Buy / Home Goods parking lot. The visitor center has spots designated for RVs.See more..
Offering a taste of the wilderness in downtown Coeur d'Alene, this self-guided two-mile trail loop has historical points along the way as well as several great viewing areas.See more..
4.5Idaho State Capitol Building(751 reviews) - Beautiful building Wednesday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Monuments & Statues • Government Buildings
Architects were John E. Tourtellotte and Charles Hummel. Tourtellotte was a Connecticut native whose career began in Massachusetts and skyrocketed further when he moved to Boise. Hummel was a German immigrant who partnered with Tourtellotte in 1903. The final cost of the building was just over $2 million; it was completed in 1920. The architects used varied materials to construct the building and their design was inspired by Classical examples. Tourtellotte and Hummel used four types of marble: red marble from Georgia, gray marble from Alaska, green marble from Vermont, and black marble from Italy. Architectural inspirations included St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome, St Paul's Cathedral in London and the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C. The most prominent feature of the capitol is its dome.See more..
4.5World Center For Birds of Prey(725 reviews) - Family visit to Fall Flights Wednesday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Nature & Wildlife Areas
Experience birds of prey eye-to-eye and explore the mysteries of their flight, survival, and relationship with humans. Live bird demonstrations and interactive exhibits complement hands-on experiences for all ages. Enjoy panoramic views of the Treasure Valley from the interpretive trail and gazebo, or browse the gift shop. Admissions and purchases support conservation programs worldwide. Reservations are available online or purchase in-person at the gift shop.See more..
4.5Lava Hot Springs(686 reviews) - Public hot springs pools in Lava Hot Springs, Idaho Wednesday: 9:00 AM - 10:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Hot Springs & Geysers
Year round world class hot pools! Open 363 days a year! Relax in the odor free, chemical free, no sulfur all natural hot mineral water that bubbles directly into the bottom of the soaking pools at 112 cooling to 102 degrees F. Over 2 1/2 gallons of water flow through the pools in 24 hours. 5 outdoor pools with gravel or rock bottoms, 2 of them with jets. Dressing rooms, coin-operated lockers, heated floors. Gift Shop with drinks, snacks and souvenirs.See more..
4.0Zoo Boise(619 reviews) - Everything I Want in a Zoo Wednesday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Zoos
I really enjoyed this zoo! I was nervous about going because of some of the negative reviews here, but I found that most of those negative comments were, to me at least, not true. The animals seemed well taken care of, and the enclosures seemed appropriate (it’s a zoo, the animals are going to be in enclosures!). We went first thing in the morning, so many of the animals were lively after having just eaten breakfast - while some of them we got to witness eating their breakfasts! We even had the cutest crane (her name was Claudia) do a dance for us! There are a lot of interactive exhibits as well, with opportunities to feed a couple of the animals, a butterfly garden, a petting zoo, and a fun playground for kids. The only thing I was somewhat disappointed about was that the boat ride was not open. Other than that, I had a really great time seeing and interacting with the animals.See more..
4.0Yellowstone Bear World(603 reviews) - Great place to visit. Wednesday: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM Amusement & Theme Parks • Zoos
Idaho's #1 wildlife attraction. A drive through wildlife park featuring North American wildlife including: rocky mountain elk, bison, white-tail deer, rocky mountain goats, moose and of course american black bear, grizzly bear and gray wolves. Wildlife are free roaming in natural habitats as your drive through in the comfort and safety of your personal vehicle or RV. Park also includes: bear cub exhibit, interactive petting zoo, fish feeding deck, amusement rides, cafe and gift shop. Guided tours and bear cub feeding experiences also available.Open daily Mid-May through Mid-0ctober.See more..
4.5Snake River Greenbelt(521 reviews) - Fantastic, free city amenity. Spent < 1 hour Points of Interest & Landmarks
Wow, Idaho Falls has really created a gem with its greenbelt. Fantastic place to walk or bike. The civic groups and city have built beautiful gardens and the falls themselves are a vision of sustainable energy production. See more..
4.5Idaho Botanical Garden(405 reviews) - Small but packed with beauty Wednesday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Gardens
Cultivate. Educate. Celebrate. Enhance your community and enrich your life. The Idaho Botanical Garden is a lush 15-acre tapestry of dappled shade and vibrant splashes of color. A peaceful haven nestled in the Boise Foothills, located in the heart of Old Penitentiary Historic District. The Garden promotes gardening in the Treasure Valley using native and domestic plants that are adapted to the intermountain region.See more..
4.5Schweitzer(371 reviews) - Lunch at The Nest Bar and Grill Mountains • Ski & Snowboard Areas
Considered by many as the best skiing in Idaho and the best family-friendly resort in the Pacific Northwest, Schweitzer is independently owned and proud of it. The resort ranks as one of the nation’s top winter destinations with 2900 acres of amazing terrain thanks to two massive bowls and renowned tree skiing. Not to be overlooked is Schweitzer's robust summer season with miles of hiking and mountain biking trails and a variety of other activities making it the hub for outdoor recreation in the area. Located in the rugged Selkirk Mountains of the northern Idaho panhandle, and only 80 miles from Spokane, WA, Schweitzer overlooks the quaint lakeside town of Sandpoint, ID and offers breathtaking views of three states, Canada and the impressive Lake Pend Oreille.See more..
4.5Redfish Lake(370 reviews) - So much fun its worth going back and staying at the cabin! Bodies of Water
Resort lake in the Sawtooth National Recreation Area.See more..
4.0Idaho Potato Museum(337 reviews) - Quirky, Informative and Fun Wednesday: 9:30 AM - 5:00 PM Spent < 1 hour Speciality Museums
We stumbled on this after finding it on the Road Trippers app. It's quirky to have a museum dedicated to potatoes but it details the history of the potato along with how it's shaped agriculture in Idaho. There is also a restaurant there. We didn't eat there as we'd already had lunch but the food looked delicious. You can preorder a baked potato with all the good stuff like butter and bacon. It's a great place to stop on a road trip to stretch your legs and learn a bit about the potato.See more..
4.5Museum of Idaho(321 reviews) - Genghis Khan exhibition! Wednesday: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Speciality Museums • Natural History Museums • History Museums
The Gem State's premier history and science center, immersing visitors in interactive exhibits on Idaho's cultural and ecological history, alongside world-class traveling exhibits, a children's discovery room, and a full calendar of programs and events for all ages. Accommodations available for those with mobility, visual, and hearing impairment and sensory sensitivities. Open October 1, 2022, through January 29, 2023, reminisce and play in Toytopia, an interactive exhibit all about the history of toys and games. Play the "Big" piano with your feet, build with Lego and Potato Head toys, walk through the life-size dollhouse, and challenge your friends to classic '80s arcade games. Visit our website to learn more and plan your visit.See more..
Beautiful walk along the river. We were staying nearby after visiting Yellowstone and decided to walk around in the morning before leaving; really glad we did. The views of the river, falls, and downtown are all amazing. They also have a lot of unique/weird benches and sculptures around the river walk.See more..
4.5Sun Valley Resort(300 reviews) - Sunny days Points of Interest & Landmarks • Ski & Snowboard Areas
Whether it's an exciting day on the slopes of Bald Mountain, or a relaxing sleigh ride or round of golf, Idaho's famous year-round resort promises a variety of recreation for outdoor enthusiasts.See more..
4.5Ponderosa State Park(297 reviews) - Unspoiled beauty Wednesday: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM State Parks
Located just 1.5 miles from downtown McCall, Ponderosa State Park is a year round destination park. Covering a thousand-acre peninsula that juts into Payette Lake, this picturesque state park offers guided walks with naturalists, campfire programs and camping facilities. During winter months the park has groomed Nordic Ski trails and snowshoe trals.See more..
We found this by accident when we were riding our bikes on the Green Belt. It is a great outdoor tribute to human rights. There is an amazing statue of Anne Frank standing on a chair, carefully looking out of the window of the house where she was hiding. You can walk on both sides of this display and get a small sense of her frightening situation. There are many quotes about human rights, places to sit and contemplate and rest. There is a lovely water fountain. There are recorded messages you can play to learn more about human rights. Very well done and in a beautiful spot along the Boise River.See more..
4.5Kathryn Albertson Park(282 reviews) - Beautiful Nature Preserve in midst of downtown! Wednesday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM Parks
As we continue to explore the Boise area (having just moved here last month), we loved this beautiful place right next to downtown. We especially liked the ponds with lilies as well as the vibrantly colored wildflowers along many of the paths. We also loved the ducks, frogs, fish, dragonflies, etc. There were plenty of trails and benches from which to ponder the many beauties of nature. Calming sounds of a fountain bring peaceful thoughts and help mask traffic noises. It's a place that I'm sure we'll visit again.See more..
4.5Idaho Falls Zoo(272 reviews) - Small but good! Temporarily closed - Closed until Apr 10, 2023 Spent 1-2 hours Zoos
With more than 300 individual animals representing 130 species from around the globe, the Idaho Falls Zoo is known as the "best little zoo in the west." The first zoo in Idaho to be accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, Idaho Falls Zoo currently participates in over 40 Species Survival Plans.See more..
4.5Museum of Clean(265 reviews) - Absolute must see an amazing fun museum Wednesday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Speciality Museums
We planned a stop on a driving trip out west and my only regret was not allowing more time. There was so much history around cleaning things. The displays are so well done and it’s three stories worth of exhibits. If you have kids there is a large play area. Mr. Aslett was there and talked with us and he has an incredible story. It is an informative and fun museum to visit. Don’t miss it.See more..
4.5Warhawk Air Museum(259 reviews) - Top Notch Museum Wednesday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Speciality Museums
The mission of the museum is to teach and educate about the cost of freedom and honor those who paid its price.See more..
4.5Julia Davis Park(258 reviews) - A Very Nice Too Short Visit Parks • Gardens
For a midweek day in October, there was plenty of parking available. Since we were just two adults (grandson napping at home), we opted to skip the zoo. I'm not a big fan of roses, as flowering plants go, but for early October I thought the Rose Garden was spectacular. We discovered a small bridge over the Boise River. There, we followed the Greenbelt for a mile or so before we turned around and headed back to the car. Unfortunately, we were on a time schedule. I know there's a lot more to explore in Julia Davis Park, and we're saving that for our next visit to Boise.See more..
The National Oregon/California Trail Center is at the junction of US 89 at 320 North 4th Street. The Trail Center Depicts the 2000-mile trek on the Oregon Trail in "Living History Tours." A wagon master guides visitors through an interactive tour that includes a ride in a simulated covered wagon ride. The rails and trails museum within the center displays artifacts, diaries, relics and pioneer memorabilia of Bear Lake Valley.Living history tours 10-5, May-September or by appointment in groups of 15 or more.See more..
4.5McEuen Park(254 reviews) - Wonderful! Wednesday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM Parks
This is a great park with so many different areas for families and kids to relax and play. The park offers great views of the lake and many benches to relax. There is even a restaurant with a bar on the edge of the park with views of the lake.See more..
4.5Freak Alley Gallery(245 reviews) - Amazing murals and graffiti-inspired artwork Wednesday: 12:00 AM - 11:59 PM Spent 1-2 hours Points of Interest & Landmarks • Historic Walking Areas • Architectural Buildings • Scenic Walking Areas
Freak Alley Gallery is the largest outdoor mural gallery in the Northwest. It's free and open to the public 24/7. We also have an Indoor Gallery that promotes our local Art and Artists; all proceeds from sales support the project and keep the lights on. Be sure to visit our website for detailed information on the indoor and outdoor events. You can even watch the progression of this Boise landmark.See more..
Once a World War II-era naval training station, this 4,000-acre park now provides camping opportunities with 223 individual sites, 10 camping cabins, and 7 group camps. Located on the southern tip of Lake Pend Oreille in the Coeur d’Alene Mountains of northern Idaho, Farragut State Park offers unique scenery, history and an abundance of recreational opportunities, including disc golf, a radio-controlled airplane field, fishing, hiking, biking, equestrian facilities and World War II history — don’t miss the Museum at the Brig during your visit.See more..
We visited Boise in July and was happily surprised to find so many summer activities happening at Bogus Basin. We rode the mountain roller coaster and one of the ski lifts, both of which were very fun. It seemed to be priced a bit high (roller coaster was $25 for one person in a car + $15 for a second person and $15 per person for the ski lift), but it was enjoyable. The views from the top of the ski lift were great and the roller coaster was certainly memorable. Each car can be controlled individually by the driver with a brake so if you get going too fast, the driver of the car can slow it down. Other activities were mountain bike trails with plenty of bikers enjoying the paths and jumps as well as a small hill where kiddos got to ride inner tubes.See more..
We walked the section of the Canyon Rim Trail from Shoshone Falls Park to the Evel Knievel Jump Site. Many of the views were stunning, but it was also very hot! Probably better to get an earlier start and carry lots of water. (I could easily have consumed 2 liters while walking.)See more..
4.5McCall Lake Cruises(226 reviews) - Relaxing and enjoyable experience Boat Tours
The 2 hour cruise was very relaxing, the music nostalgic, and the lakeside homes beautiful. We did not partake of the drinks, but a steward seemed always available to clear out empty glasses and such. We were informed of the history of the homes as well as the lake. Although it was quite warm before sunset (mid June) the wind was very cold after sunset. Thankful we brought jackets.See more..
There is not much to see in Arco, but if you are driving through this is worth the stop. Arco was the first town "atomic powered" town and the history is well presented at the museum. You can wait for a tour or walk yourself through and they do provide a nice opportunity to explore after the tour. It is open daily - but ONLY Memorial Day to Labor DaySee more..
The triple play family fun park was great. So many options to choose from from bowling to bumper cars to bumper boats to go carts and to a whole myriad of games. Laser tag and the rope course couldn’t be beat. Everyone really enjoyed the go carts and it was always interesting to see who would choose the fastest carts on the course. And even for those who did not want to participate in a given activity, observing those playing was even enjoyable. So if you’re in the Coeur d’Alene area and you’re looking for a great way to spend the day this is the place to go. In addition they have the raptor reef indoor waterpark and the hotel on site offers package deals. The rooms in the hotel we’re comfortable.See more..
4.5Roaring Springs Waterpark(221 reviews) - A day well spent Wednesday: 11:00 AM - 8:00 PM Water Parks
Roaring Springs is the Northwest’s largest waterpark and features attractions for every member of the family, including a wave pool, float river, two family raft ride, bowl slide, racing slide, tube slides, kiddie play area, and coming in 2013 a new 6-story speed slide! Roaring Springs also has four restaurants and a gift shop (no outside food or drinks). Roaring Springs is located five miles west of Boise, at I-84, exit 44, Meridian. Roaring Springs is connected to Wahooz Family Fun Zone, featuring go-karts, mini golf, bumper boats, laser tag, 100 game arcade, and the new 24-lane Pinz Bowling Center. Twice the Fun combo tickets to Roaring Springs & Wahooz are available in summer.See more..
Contains exhibits and collections that provide a look at the Basque heritage, history and culture.See more..
4.0Silver Mountain Resort(209 reviews) - Water park-awesome, tubing not so much Mountains • Ski & Snowboard Areas
Close to Coeur d'Alene, Silver Mountain offers nature trails, biking, skiing and an annual microbrew festival on August 3.See more..
4.5Route of The Hiawatha Trail(209 reviews) - So Fun, Even for Novices Spent More than 3 hours Biking Trails
The Hiawatha was the reason for us coming to the panhandle of Idaho. However, as flatlands from Texas, we weren't sure how we'd do at elevation and with tunnels and trestles. It turned out to be no worries. The bikes we rented from the operators of the local ski lift worked great, as did the helmets and lights. The lunch they packed and the ride back to the top of the mountain in their bus were value-added and really worth the minimal extra charges.See more..
4.0Gold Fork Hot Springs(207 reviews) - Paradise Found Wednesday: 12:00 PM - 9:00 PM Hot Springs & Geysers
What a wonderful hidden gem! This place is beautiful! We are so lucky that the owners are willing to share with us so we can also enjoy this piece of paradise. It’s $10.00 cash plus proof of vaccination over two weeks ago, and photo ID to get in. There are five pools, we tried them all and believe there would be a perfect pool for everyone. One pool even has a white sandy bottom.See more..
4.5City Of Rocks National Reserve(199 reviews) - Rock scramblers’ paradise! Spent More than 3 hours National Parks • Nature & Wildlife Areas • Parks
Numerous granite formations, some 70 stories tall, attract world-class rock climbers. The Reserve protects 6.2 miles of the California National Historic Trail, and features emigrant signatures written in axle grease. Idaho's only pinyon pine forest is within the 14,407-acre Reserve. Activities include camping, climbing, hiking, horseback riding, photography, birding, wildflower watching, hunting, and geological and historical discovery. The Reserve is a unit of the National Park System and is managed on site by the Idaho Department of Parks and Recreation. The visitor center is located in the gateway village of Almo,which provides food, gas, lodging, hot springs, and authentic, rural wester charm. Castle Rocks State Park is also located within a few miles.See more..
4.5North Idaho Centennial Trail(183 reviews) - Very quiet and growing Biking Trails • Nature & Wildlife Areas • Hiking Trails
This 22-mile paved trail is part of the Idaho Centennial Trail, which passes through 11 national forests and extends 1,200 miles from Nevada to the Canadian border.See more..
4.5Brundage Mountain Resort(173 reviews) - Fireworks Wednesday: 9:30 AM - 4:30 PM Spent More than 3 hours Ski & Snowboard Areas
Located high in the mountains of Central Idaho, Brundage Mountain is best known for its powder-packed glades and luxuriously wide groomed runs. Blessed with over 320 inches of snowfall annually, Brundage has an undisputed reputation for the Best Snow in Idaho™. 1,920 acres of terrain and 1,921 feet of vertical make Brundage Mountain an independently-owned ski resort worth the trip!See more..
4.5The Springs(169 reviews) - Way to Soak. Bodies of Water
Even on the last day of the water cycle, the pool was clean, the water clear and warm, and very pleasant. It’s a good thing that they book only a set number of people each hour. The dressing rooms can be a little crowded, if it’s busy. Nothing like that natural hot water!See more..
Beautiful Lake Pend Orielle cruise, was able to spot some eagle nests and an couple eagles on the tour and ended with an interesting lake history. The tour group was the right size were it wasn't too many people with snacks and full bar available. Our daughter's favorite part was helping the captain steer the boat. Overall well worth the price and would recommend the tour.See more..
4.5The Flicks(169 reviews) - Great Indy/Foreign Film House Wednesday: 4:00 PM - 9:30 PM Movie Theaters
I love this place, great movies, beer, and cookies. Nice small theaters that show great films, they also have a nice selection of rental DVDs.See more..
4.5Discovery Center of Idaho(167 reviews) - Exciting rotating exhibits for scientists of all ages Wednesday: 10:00 AM - 4:30 PM Science Museums
Hands-on math/science/technology exhibits for all ages.See more..