Idaho Falls, located in eastern Idaho near the Snake River, has become a popular place to live and visit. It is named after a man-made waterfall that is a central attraction. The city is an important hub for the local economy and culture.
As the second-largest city in the state, there are plenty of things to do, such as exploring interesting museums, historic sites, and cultural landmarks. The downtown area is particularly enticing, with its abundance of local shops and restaurants.
The highlight of Idaho Falls is the beautiful Greenbelt, which stretches along both sides of the Snake River. This scenic area includes parks and nature spots that are connected by a delightful riverside trail.
Although the city itself offers ample opportunities to enjoy nature, many people choose to use Idaho Falls as a base or starting point for visiting Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks.
12. East Idaho Aquarium
Surprisingly, even though the city is far from the coast, it has a really great aquarium. In addition to tanks filled with fish and interactive exhibits, there are also colorful birds, reptiles, and snakes to see. The aquarium was established in 2013 and is located on the northeastern outskirts of town.
It has different sections that focus on different creatures like crabs, eels, jellyfish, octopuses, and tropical fish. There are also cool animals like an albino boa constrictor, bearded dragons, iguanas, and turtles.
In addition to learning about the fish and aquatic animals found in Idaho’s lakes and rivers, you can also explore the world of sharks and alligators. The best part, though, is the touch tank where visitors can touch and stroke stingrays as they swim around.
11. Collectors’ Corner Museum
The Collectors’ Corner Museum is a hidden gem that many people describe as fascinating. It is located in Idaho Falls and has a wide variety of collectibles. The museum started as a personal project over sixty years ago and has grown into a place filled with coins, clowns, hubcaps, and commemorative plates.
The owners, Jim and Nida, are happy to show you around and point out rare and unique items. The museum is housed in a former grocery store and its rooms are filled with a mixture of items like Barbies, troll dolls, stamps, model trains, and mechanical monkeys. With over 125 collections on display, you can spend hours exploring the diversity.
Moreover, the owners are delightful to chat with and they have stories about their favorite items that are truly special.
10. Japanese Friendship Garden
The Japanese Friendship Garden is a beautiful part of the Greenbelt that you should visit. It is located on a small rocky island in the Snake River and has paths, stone lanterns, and other decorative features to explore. The garden was created with love and was finished in 2011 to celebrate the friendship between the city and Tokai-Mura in Japan.
In addition to a traditional Torii gate, there is a wonderful pavilion, water features, and a viewing platform that provides breathtaking views of the river. The island holds historical significance as it was the location of the first bridge to cross the Snake River in Eastern Idaho.
Despite being close to the city center, the garden offers a peaceful atmosphere that feels far away from the busy downtown area.
9. River Walk & Greenbelt
To experience the city to the fullest, a great idea is to walk, run, or bike along the beautiful River Walk. This scenic pathway follows the Snake River and connects several parks and green spaces that together form the stunning Greenbelt.
The Snake River is one of the significant waterways in the Pacific Northwest, and it flows peacefully through the heart of the city. Along its course, you’ll find some gentle rapids and waterfalls, surrounded by lush green lawns and gardens.
As you explore, you can visit various parks like Freeman Park, the Japanese Friendship Garden, and South Central Park. Besides enjoying the serene river views and strolling by the banks, there are also captivating art installations to discover along the River Walk.
Additionally, you’ll come across interesting museums, historic sites, and the vibrant downtown area while following this pathway.
8. Freeman Park
Freeman Park, located next to the Snake River in Idaho, is a beautiful park with extensive green spaces. It is conveniently connected to the city center by the River Walk and offers various amenities like paths, picnic areas, and playgrounds for both locals and visitors.
As part of the city’s Greenbelt, the park is characterized by neat lawns, leafy trees, a band shelter, baseball fields, and a disc golf course. One of its notable features is the impressive Vietnam Veterans Memorial, which provides a lovely view of the river.
Besides engaging in activities like baseball and frisbee, visitors can also enjoy walks, runs, jogs, or bike rides on the scenic paths available in the park. Overall, Freeman Park is an excellent choice for nature enthusiasts looking for a nearby escape.
7. Lava Trail
The incredible landscapes and lava tubes of Hell’s Half Acre are located very close to town, west of Idaho Falls. In just thirty minutes, you can be surrounded by its unique terrain and hike along the Lava Trail.
This lava field was created thousands of years ago and is made up of basalt rock formations and volcanic vents, spread across a wide plain. There are two trail options to choose from, with one being a full-day hike and the other a shorter loop that only stretches half a mile.
Along the trails, you’ll pass by beautiful scenery and informative plaques about the lava flow, as well as the plants and animals that can be found there. The paths are mostly flat and paved, making this National Natural Landmark accessible to everyone. The fissures, lava tubes, and jagged rocks are an impressive sight no matter the time of year.
6. Idaho Falls Zoo
If you’re looking for incredible animals instead of being outside, then the Idaho Falls Zoo is the perfect place for you. It is located in Tautphaus Park and has more than 300 animals from all over the world. Many people consider it the best small zoo in the western region.
The zoo has spacious areas for lemurs, lions, snow leopards, and sloth bears. Some parts of the zoo focus on Africa and Asia, while others take you to places like Patagonia and Australia, showcasing about 130 different species. Families love the zoo because it also has a charming section specially designed for children.
Here, guests can pet and feed friendly animals. The zoo also has playgrounds and picnic areas spread among the exhibits featuring animals, birds, and reptiles.
5. Yellowstone National Park
Yellowstone National Park is located just north of Grand Teton in Northwest Wyoming. This national park, established in 1872, is known for its beautiful volcanic landscape, which includes hot springs, mud pots, and geysers. The west entrance to the park is about a two-hour drive northeast of Idaho Falls, making it a popular base for visitors.
The park features lush forests, rugged mountains, canyons, and rivers, along with a massive geothermal area. The most famous attractions within Yellowstone are Old Faithful and Grand Prismatic Spring, which are both stunning and frequently photographed.
In addition to outdoor activities, such as hiking and camping, visitors may also have the chance to see moose, grizzly bears, and wolves in the park’s remote and untamed areas.
4. Museum of Idaho
The Museum of Idaho is a great place to learn about the history of the state. It is located in downtown and has a lot of artifacts and exhibits. The collection covers the different people and places that have shaped Idaho. The museum opened in 2003 and is in a modern building that connects to the historic Carnegie Library and Masonic Temple.
The displays and dioramas in the museum show the early origins and geology of the state, as well as trappers, traders, and modern technology. There are interactive exhibits and activities for children to keep them engaged. The museum also regularly hosts traveling exhibits and has educational and outreach programs.
3. Grand Teton National Park
Grand Teton National Park, located just two hours’ drive east of the city, is a must-visit destination for its breathtaking scenery. The park, situated in Northwest Wyoming, is renowned for its majestic mountains, sparkling lakes, and diverse wildlife.
Established in 1929, the park gets its name from the highest peak in the range, which stands at an impressive height of 13,775 feet. The park’s rugged slopes are adorned with unspoiled forests, rushing rivers, and occasional rock formations and ravines.
With its natural beauty, Grand Teton is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts offering excellent opportunities for hiking, biking, and camping. Apart from the chance to spot moose, bison, and bears, visitors can engage in activities like swimming, rock climbing, and kayaking amidst the awe-inspiring landscapes.
2. Giant Eagle Waterfall Nest
A short walk down the river is a popular attraction called the Giant Eagle Waterfall Nest. Despite its unfortunate location in the middle of a roundabout, it is a magnificent monument that is perfect for photography and sightseeing.
This sculpture is one of the largest of its kind in the United States and shows two large eagles protecting their nest and baby birds from a mountain lion below. The level of detail is extraordinary, and the scene looks very realistic as water splashes below the rocky mountain top roost.
The sculpture stands 26 feet tall and was designed by Vic Payne in 2006. Since the roundabout is not an ideal place to spend time, most people take a few pictures and then continue walking along the River Walk.
1. Idaho Falls Temple
The Idaho Falls Temple is a beautiful building that stands tall above the river. It is located in lush grounds and gardens, about ten minutes away from downtown. The temple was built between 1940 and 1945, and its white structure with a single spire looks stunning when the sun shines on it.
The interior of the temple is just as appealing, with marble, hardwood, and murals in its ceremonial rooms. Visitors can also see scenes and important stories from the church’s scripture. The Visitor Center provides information about the temple and the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
Afterward, you can take a leisurely stroll in the temple’s gardens, which are filled with beautiful flowers, and along the banks of the winding Snake River.
