Discovering Idaho Falls, Idaho: A Comprehensive Travel Guide
Introduction
Idaho Falls, Idaho is a hidden gem in the western United States. This small city offers a wealth of natural beauty, outdoor adventures, historical landmarks, and cultural experiences. Whether you’re a nature lover, history buff, or art enthusiast, Idaho Falls has something to offer. In this travel guide, we’ll explore the top attractions, hidden gems, food scene, budget-friendly tips, and much more.
Top Attractions
Idaho Falls River Walk
The Idaho Falls River Walk is a scenic trail that runs along the Snake River. This 5-mile trail offers stunning views of the river and the surrounding mountains. It’s a great place to go for a walk, run, or bike ride. You can also rent kayaks or paddleboards and explore the river.
The Museum of Idaho
The Museum of Idaho is a must-visit attraction for history buffs. This museum offers exhibits on the history of Idaho Falls, as well as exhibits on dinosaurs, Lewis and Clark, and the American West. It’s a great place to learn about the history of the region.
The Idaho Falls Zoo
The Idaho Falls Zoo is a family-friendly attraction that kids will love. This zoo features over 300 animals from around the world, including lions, tigers, bears, and monkeys. They also offer special events throughout the year, such as Zoo Boo in October and Christmas Zoo Lights in December.
Hidden Gems
The Greenbelt
The Greenbelt is a beautiful park that runs along the Snake River. This park offers walking trails, picnic areas, and views of the river. It’s a great place to relax and enjoy the outdoors.
The Art Museum of Eastern Idaho
The Art Museum of Eastern Idaho is a hidden gem for art enthusiasts. This museum features exhibits on local and national artists, as well as workshops and classes for adults and children. It’s a great place to see some beautiful art and learn a new skill.
The Idaho Falls Farmers Market
The Idaho Falls Farmers Market is a great place to find fresh produce, handmade crafts, and delicious food. This market runs from May to October and is a great way to support local farmers and artisans.
Food Scene
Jakers Bar and Grill
Jakers Bar and Grill is a popular restaurant in Idaho Falls that offers a wide variety of dishes, including steak, seafood, and pasta. They also have a great selection of cocktails and wine.
The Sandpiper Restaurant
The Sandpiper Restaurant is a local favorite that has been around since 1963. They offer classic American dishes, such as burgers and fries, as well as seafood and steak. They also have a great selection of beer and wine.
The Celt Pub and Grill
The Celt Pub and Grill is a unique restaurant that offers Irish-inspired dishes, such as shepherd’s pie and fish and chips. They also have a great selection of beer and whiskey.
Budget-Friendly Tips
Visit the Free Attractions
There are many free attractions in Idaho Falls, such as the Idaho Falls River Walk and the Greenbelt. These are great places to enjoy the outdoors without spending any money.
Eat at Local Cafes
There are many local cafes in Idaho Falls that offer delicious food at affordable prices. Check out places like The Cocoa Bean Cupcake Cafe and The Grecian Key for tasty and budget-friendly meals.
Take Advantage of Happy Hour
Many restaurants in Idaho Falls offer happy hour specials on food and drinks. Check out places like Red Robin and Jakers Bar and Grill for great deals.
Outdoor Adventures
Hiking in the Teton Mountains
The Teton Mountains are a short drive from Idaho Falls and offer some of the best hiking in the country. With trails ranging from easy to difficult, there’s something for every level of hiker.
Rafting on the Snake River
The Snake River is a great place to go rafting. There are many local companies that offer guided rafting trips, including Teton Whitewater and Mad River Boat Trips.
Fishing on the Snake River
The Snake River is also a great place to go fishing. There are many local outfitters that offer guided fishing trips, including WorldCast Anglers and Three Rivers Ranch.
Family-Friendly Activities
The Museum of Idaho
The Museum of Idaho is a great place to take kids. They offer interactive exhibits and hands-on activities that kids will love.
The Idaho Falls Zoo
The Idaho Falls Zoo is also a great place to take kids. They offer special events throughout the year, such as Zoo Boo and Christmas Zoo Lights.
The Wes Deist Aquatic Center
The Wes Deist Aquatic Center is a fun place for kids to cool off in the summer. They offer a lazy river, water slide, and swimming pools.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
The Idaho Potato Museum
The Idaho Potato Museum is a quirky attraction that celebrates the potato. They offer exhibits on the history of the potato, as well as a gift shop that sells potato-themed souvenirs.
The Eagle Rock Art Museum
The Eagle Rock Art Museum is a small museum that features exhibits on local and national artists. It’s a great place to see some beautiful art.
The Yellowstone Bear World
The Yellowstone Bear World is a unique attraction that allows visitors to get up close and personal with bears. They offer guided tours through the park, as well as a petting zoo and gift shop.
Natural Wonders
The Shoshone Falls
The Shoshone Falls are a spectacular waterfall that is often called the “Niagara of the West.” They offer stunning views of the Snake River and the surrounding landscape.
The Craters of the Moon National Monument
The Craters of the Moon National Monument is a unique landscape that was created by volcanic activity. It offers hiking trails and scenic drives through a surreal landscape.
The Grand Teton National Park
The Grand Teton National Park is a stunning natural wonder that offers some of the best views in the country. With mountains, lakes, and wildlife, it’s a must-visit destination for nature lovers.
Vibrant Nightlife
The Celt Pub and Grill
The Celt Pub and Grill is a great place to go for a night out. They offer live music and a great selection of beer and whiskey.
The Yellow Brick Cafe
The Yellow Brick Cafe is a cozy coffee shop that offers live music and poetry readings in the evenings. It’s a great place to relax and enjoy some local talent.
The Frosty Gator
The Frosty Gator is a fun bar that offers live music and karaoke. It’s a great place to let loose and have some fun.
Local Markets
The Idaho Falls Farmers Market
The Idaho Falls Farmers Market is a great place to find fresh produce, handmade crafts, and delicious food.
The Snake River Landing Farmers Market
The Snake River Landing Farmers Market is another great market that offers local produce and handmade goods.
The Eagle Rock Artisan Guild
The Eagle Rock Artisan Guild is a local market that features handmade crafts and art. It’s a great place to find unique souvenirs.
Beaches and Mountains
The Teton Mountains
The Teton Mountains offer some of the best hiking and skiing in the country. With stunning views and a variety of trails, it’s a must-visit destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
The Island Park Reservoir
The Island Park Reservoir is a great place to go fishing, boating, or swimming. With crystal clear water and beautiful views, it’s a great place to relax and enjoy the outdoors.
The Bear Lake
The Bear Lake is a beautiful lake that spans the border of Idaho and Utah. With crystal-clear water and sandy beaches, it’s a great place to go swimming, boating, or fishing.
Cultural Immersion
The Idaho Falls Symphony
The Idaho Falls Symphony is a local orchestra that offers concerts throughout the year. It’s a great way to experience some beautiful music and support local artists.
The Colonial Theater
The Colonial Theater is a historic theater that offers plays, concerts, and movies. It’s a great place to experience some local culture.
The Idaho Falls Arts Council
The Idaho Falls Arts Council is a non-profit organization that promotes the arts in the community. They offer exhibits, concerts, and workshops
