Idaho is a state known for its natural beauty and outdoor recreation opportunities. From scenic drives to outdoor adventures, the state offers a variety of things to do for tourists. In this guide, we will help you discover the best stuff to do at tourist spots in Idaho, including natural wonders, historic sites, and fun attractions. Whether you are looking for a relaxing vacation or an adventure-packed trip, Idaho has something for everyone.
Yellowstone National Park
Yellowstone National Park is a must-visit destination for anyone visiting Idaho. As you explore the park, you’ll witness its many wonders, including geysers, hot springs, and other geothermal features. You can take a hike around the many trails, or simply drive through the park and take in the breathtaking views. Keep an eye out for the abundant wildlife that call Yellowstone home, including grizzly bears, wolves, and elk. You can even take a guided tour of the park to learn more about its unique geology and natural history.
If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also camp in Yellowstone and truly immerse yourself in the park’s natural beauty. Yellowstone National Park has endless activities with over 2M acres.
- Contact Information: (307) 344-7381 or visit the Yellowstone National Park website for more information
- Address: Yellowstone National Park, WY 82190
- Other Relevant Information: Yellowstone National Park is open year-round, although some roads and facilities may be closed during the winter months. Entrance fees apply and vary depending on the season.
- https://www.nps.gov/yell/index.htm
Sun Valley
Sun Valley is a world-famous ski resort that is well worth visiting. Ski or snowboard to your heart’s content, or learn from expert instructors, at the resort’s slopes.
You can enjoy the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains comfortably from your lodge if you prefer a more relaxed experience.
During the summer months, Sun Valley also offers plenty of outdoor activities, including hiking, mountain biking, and fishing.
Aside from skiing and outdoor activities, Sun Valley also has a rich cultural scene. You can take in a performance at the Sun Valley Pavilion, which hosts concerts, plays, and other events throughout the year. And if you’re a history buff, you can explore the Sun Valley Museum of History to learn more about the area’s fascinating past. With so much to see and do, Sun Valley is a destination that you won’t want to miss.
- Contact Information: (800) 786-8259 or visit the Sun Valley Resort website for more information
- Address: Sun Valley Resort, 1 Sun Valley Rd, Sun Valley, ID 83353
- Sun Valley is a ski resort that is open during the winter months, typically from November to April. The resort offers a variety of winter sports and activities, including skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing.
- https://www.sunvalley.com/
Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve
Located in central Idaho, the Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve is a unique and otherworldly destination that is sure to leave a lasting impression. Volcanic features, including cinder cones, lava fields, and lava tubes, dominate the landscape of the park. You can take a hike through the park and explore these features up close, or even venture underground and explore the caves and tunnels formed by ancient lava flows.
In addition to its natural wonders, Craters of the Moon also has a rich cultural history. The area has been inhabited by humans for over 13,000 years, and you can explore the park’s many historic sites and learn about the people who have lived here over the centuries. Do not miss Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve, as it is a fascinating destination for both geology and human history enthusiasts.
- Contact Information: (208) 527-1335 or visit the Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve website for more information
- Address: Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve, Arco, ID 83213
- Although some areas may be closed during winter months, Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve is open year-round. Entrance fees apply and vary depending on the season.
- https://www.nps.gov/crmo/index.htm
Shoshone Falls
Known as the “Niagara of the West,” Shoshone Falls is a breathtaking natural wonder located in southern Idaho. The falls are over 200 feet high and 900 feet wide, and they are truly a sight to behold. You can take a hike along the many trails that wind around the falls, or simply relax and take in the view from one of the park’s many observation points.
In addition to the falls themselves, Shoshone Falls Park also offers plenty of other outdoor activities, including fishing, boating, and picnicking. The nearby Shoshone Falls Power Plant, which was one of the first hydroelectric power plants in the Pacific Northwest, can be explored if you are interested in local history. Whether you’re looking for natural beauty or outdoor adventure, Shoshone Falls is a destination that is sure to impress.
- Contact Information: (208) 736-2265 or visit the Shoshone Falls Park website for more information
- Address: Shoshone Falls Park, 4155 Shoshone Falls Grade, Twin Falls, ID 83301
- Although open year-round, the best time to visit Shoshone Falls is during the spring when the snowmelt creates the most impressive falls. Admission fees apply and vary depending on the season.
- https://www.tfid.org/288/Shoshone-Falls
City of Rocks National Reserve
Located in southern Idaho, the City of Rocks National Reserve is a fascinating destination for rock climbers, hikers, and history buffs alike. A unique formation of granite spires and monoliths rise from the surrounding landscape in the park, creating a stunning and otherworldly scene. You can take a hike through the park and explore these formations up close, or even try your hand at rock climbing on some of the park’s many routes.
In addition to its natural wonders, the City of Rocks also has a rich history. The area was a popular stopping point for pioneers traveling along the California Trail, and you can explore the many historic sites and learn about the people who passed through here over the years. The City of Rocks National Reserve is a destination that is well worth exploring, whether you are interested in outdoor adventure or local history.
- Contact Information: (208) 824-5901 or visit the City of Rocks National Reserve website for more information
- Address: City of Rocks National Reserve, Almo, ID 83312
- City of Rocks National Reserve is open year-round, although some areas may be closed during the winter months. Admission fees apply and vary depending on the season.
- https://www.nps.gov/ciro/index.htm
Sawtooth National Recreation Area
The Sawtooth National Recreation Area is a vast and beautiful wilderness area located in central Idaho. The park is home to over 700 miles of trails, including the famous Sawtooth Wilderness Trail, which winds through some of the park’s most scenic areas. You can hike, bike, or horseback ride along these trails and take in the stunning views of the surrounding mountains, forests, and lakes.
In addition to its many outdoor activities, the Sawtooth National Recreation Area also has a rich cultural history. Humans have inhabited the area for over 13,000 years, and you can explore the park’s many historic sites and learn about the people who lived here over the centuries. The destination of Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve is fascinating and not to be missed, whether you are interested in geology or human history.
- Contact Information: (208) 737-3200 or visit the Sawtooth National Recreation Area website for more information
- Address: Sawtooth National Recreation Area, 5 North Fork Canyon Rd, Ketchum, ID 83340
- Other Relevant Information: Sawtooth National Recreation Area is open year-round, although some areas may be closed during the winter months. Entrance fees apply and vary depending on the season.
- https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/sawtooth/recarea/?recid=5818
In conclusion, Idaho is home to many tourist spots such as Craters of the Moon National Monument, Yellowstone National Park, and the beautiful city of Boise. Idaho is a hidden gem with endless opportunities for adventure and relaxation. The state offers a variety of tourist spots, including natural wonders, historic sites, and fun attractions. We hope that our guide has helped you discover the best stuff to do in Idaho and plan your next adventure. So pack your bags and head to Idaho, where adventure and beauty await you!
READ MORE HERE: 12 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Idaho