Places to Visit in Idaho
If you’re planning a trip to Idaho, you may be wondering where to begin. There are several places to see in this state. These include Stanley, Sun Valley, Sandpoint, and the capital city, Boise. The places listed in this article are all excellent places to visit during your vacation in Idaho. There’s something for everyone in Idaho. Here’s what to do in these locations. Once you’ve selected your destinations, consider taking the time to see the surrounding areas and make plans to return.
Boise
For families, there are several great places to visit in Idaho. A family can go to the Museum of Idaho to see a diverse collection of natural history and animals. Or, take the kids to Butterfly Haven to see a variety of butterflies and the state’s largest butterfly house. Kids can participate in experiments, play games, and dress up. This is a perfect family day out in Idaho. And while they’re at it, they can also take in a movie or visit the Black History Museum.
While in Idaho, families will also enjoy the state’s ski slopes. The area is also known for its abundant geothermal activity. The first national park in the country, it features geothermal activity and several types of wildlife. There is plenty to see in Sandpoint, including great restaurants, museums, and historic railroading. In addition to the beautiful outdoors, visitors can experience Idaho’s modern culture with many unique art galleries, museums, and other activities.
Boise, Idaho’s state capital, offers plenty of indoor and outdoor activities. Boise has several museums and theatres that showcase local art. The state capitol building is open year-round for group tours or self-guided tours. Boise also hosts the Gene Harris Jazz Festival, which is held annually. Whether you choose to see local art or take in the state’s history, the state capital will have something for everyone.
Sandpoint
Located on Lake Pend Oreille, Sandpoint is an idyllic northern Idaho city. In addition to ski slopes, the Schweitzer Mountain Resort offers terrain parks, bike trails, and footpaths around the lake. Visitors can also explore the area’s Native American artifacts at the Bonner County History Museum and Kinnikinnick Native Plant Society arboretum. If you’re looking for a more relaxed pace, Sandpoint offers plenty of dining options, a small downtown, and an array of activities.
Visitors will be delighted with the beautiful scenery of this postcard-perfect city. The region’s many outdoor activities are a must-do when visiting Sandpoint. Visitors can ski, hike, bike, and kayak at the Schweitzer Mountain ski and board resort and explore the town’s local arts scene. Whether you’re planning a long weekend in Sandpoint or a day trip from Spokane, the city has a unique flavor.
The town’s economy is driven partly by the start-ups that have sprung up in the area. One of them, Kochava, has 50 employees, including 10 people from nearby Coldwater Creek. The offices of a former bank are home to more than 100 Sandpoint residents. The town’s economy is a testament to its residents’ entrepreneurial spirit and its hard-won success. The town’s survival may depend on the pebbles in their shoes.
Stanley
If you are looking for a place to go on your next vacation, Stanley, Idaho is the place for you. Located in Custer County, Stanley is one of the oldest towns in Idaho and was incorporated in 1905. In 2000, it was the center of Idaho’s population. In 2010, it had a population of 116. However, it is now a small town with a booming economy.
Visitors can take advantage of the numerous activities that Stanley has to offer. You can rent bikes, go hiking or even go fishing! During the fall, Stanley is less crowded and cooler than during the rest of the year. It is a peaceful place for outdoor activities and provides excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing. Visitors can also enjoy fishing and sightseeing. There are several nearby commercial hot springs, as well as roadside primitive soaking areas.
Stanley is located at the intersection of three scenic byways and is home to the Sawtooth Mountain National Recreation Area. The region boasts forty mountains over ten thousand feet and hundreds of high alpine lakes. Stanley’s scenic surroundings make it one of the best places to visit in Idaho. The city is also home to Stanley Lake, a hidden gem in the backcountry of the state. Compared to Redfish Lake, Stanley Lake rivals it in beauty and is less crowded.
Sun Valley
There’s plenty to do in Sun Valley, Idaho. Its two ski resorts, Bald Mountain and Dollar Mountain are the biggest attractions, but the town also offers miles of mountain trails, equestrian paths, and meadows. You can also hike around town or head up Proctor Mountain. This scenic town is perfect for both families and adventure seekers. In addition to skiing, hiking, and equestrian riders, the town has many other outdoor activities.
Famous residents of Sun Valley include Ernest Hemingway, who wrote “For Whom the Bell Tolls” in the area. Guests at the legendary Sun Valley Lodge include Clark Gable, Gary Cooper, and Ingrid Bergman. The area has also been the setting for a number of Hollywood movies, including Bus Stop and Pale Rider. The region’s scenic beauty inspired the films and TV shows that have come out of Sun Valley.
Foodies will appreciate the range of dining options available in Sun Valley. From authentic street tacos to elegant steakhouses, you’ll find a menu that suits your tastes. If you’re a foodie, don’t miss the Pioneer Saloon, which serves local specialties with western-themed decor. If you’re looking for classic French cuisine, head to Michel’s Christiana. Both places are great for a romantic meal or a date with your significant other.
Coeur d’Alene
A city in northwest Idaho, Coeur d’Alene is best known for the water sports on Lake Coeur d’Alene and hiking trails on Canfield Mountain Natural Area, part of the Coeur d’Alene National Forest. There are several parks and playgrounds in the city, including McEuen Park, which features a grassy lawn and the trailhead for the neighboring Tubbs Hill. A museum traces the region’s history and outlines local and regional history.
Despite its small size, Coeur d’Alene is also surprisingly temperate compared to many other parts of the country. It is pleasantly temperate, with a mild climate, and receives only 24 inches of rain annually. This area is also home to more than 30 motels, with over 1,500 rooms. Throughout the 1980s, the city added more tourist infrastructure to accommodate the increased number of tourists.
During the fall, you can enjoy a holiday festival in this city. The Coeur d’Alene Christmas Lighting Ceremony kicks off after Thanksgiving. This celebration includes a parade, fireworks, and special holiday candles. A bike race is also a popular event in the city. The distances range from 15 to 108 miles. In addition to bike racing, cyclists can also try out the challenging swim crossing across the Coeur d’Alene. For those looking for a little more activity, you can always try the Coeur d’Alene Crossing, an annual cycling challenge that takes place in the city. In addition to the cycling trails, the city also has a renowned fly shop, Northwest Outfitters, in downtown Coeur d’Alene. You can even get durable sportswear from these stores.
Silver City
Visit the ghost town of Silver City, Idaho, which is on the National Register of Historic Places. This former gold and silver mining town was home to 2,500 people and 75 businesses in the 1880s. Today, the town is a ghost town, but it has enough charm and history to warrant a visit. Here, you can explore the city’s ruined buildings and learn more about its past. Here, you’ll find out about its colorful past.
A historic town, Silver City, is located in southwest Idaho. While this is not a tourist destination, it’s a great place to learn about the town’s mining past. The historic Silver City Hotel still stands as it did 100 years ago, and the town’s Old Church has ornate stained-glass windows and a unique chapel. You can shop for souvenirs and books at Pat’s What Not Shop and pick up local mineral samples in their gift shops. Backroom bargain-hunters will find art at the Silver City Fire and Rescue Store.
The town was a pioneer town, building the first telegraph and daily newspaper in the territory. It served as the county seat from 1866 to 1934. At one time, the town had twelve ore processing mills, and about $40 million in silver was mined from the hills. Now, the Idaho Hotel is being renovated by Roger and Jerri Nelson, a couple from Utah. In the 1930s, the town still didn’t have electricity, so they use a solar system and 12-volt lights to illuminate the 13 rooms. You won’t find outlets, elevators, televisions, or bathrooms, but there are a few modern amenities that you’ll appreciate.
Hagerman Fossil Beds National Monument
If you’re looking for a unique vacation in Idaho, you should consider a visit to Hagerman Fossil Beds. This site contains the largest concentration of Hagerman Horse fossils in North America. It also houses the Hagerman Horse Quarry. If you’re looking to see some of the area’s more unusual fossils, you can take a day trip from Boise to Hagerman.
One of the most famous fossils in the world came from this area, which is located in southern Idaho. This site is known for the Hagerman Horse, which was named Idaho’s state fossil. The site contains fossils of more than 200 species, including a rare one-toed equine, which was the ancestor of today’s horse.
The site represents a full paleontological ecosystem, which was once home to a variety of animals and plants. The most famous fossil from this site is the Hagerman horse (Equus simplicidens). But there are more than 200 different species of animal and plant fossils found here. You can see partial fossils of many of these creatures, such as the Hagerman Horse, as well.
Best Sightseeing in Idaho
If you’re looking for the best sightseeing in Idaho, then you’ve come to the right place. This article will give you information on Shoshone Falls, Heyburn State Park, and Lava Hot Springs. You can also learn about Coeur d’Alene Lake. You might be surprised at how diverse Idaho’s landscape is. This state is home to a variety of attractions, from mountains to zoos and hot springs.
Lava Hot Springs
If you’re looking for the best sightseeing spots in Idaho, look no further than Lava Hot Springs. The city is situated in Bannock County and is part of the Pocatello, Idaho metropolitan area. Its population is around 407, down from 521 in 2000. The town is popular with travelers who come to experience the city’s thermal springs. You can visit it during the summer or fall to soak in the mineral-rich waters.
The mineral pools in Lava are the main attraction of this town, so plan your visit early in the morning or evening to enjoy the soothing water. A trip to Lava wouldn’t be complete without dining at the Portneuf Grille & Lounge. The casual restaurant serves regional and Northwest-style dishes and has an extensive wine and beer list. You can also enjoy seasonal desserts during lunch and dinner.
There are plenty of activities to enjoy in the area. The natural hot springs are an incredible attraction for the entire family. The area also offers beautiful lava rock trails and a number of waterfalls. Even if you’re not a hiker, Lava Hot Springs is close enough to civilization that you’ll barely feel isolated from civilization. It’s also a great place to see wildlife.
Shoshone Falls
If you are planning a trip to Idaho, one of the most popular places to visit is Shoshone Falls. This magnificent waterfall is located seven miles from Twin Falls and is a popular tourist destination. To get to Shoshone Falls, drive down Champlin Road (which becomes Shoshone Falls Grade after a half-mile). After you’ve descended the steep road, you’ll reach the park.
From Twin Falls, take Champlin Road. It’s a steep, winding road that eventually changes to Shoshone Falls Grade, a steep canyon that is approximately one mile down. Then, turn left at the second winding highway. Follow the signs to the Shoshone Falls State Park. There is a primary parking area, which can be crowded during peak season, but there is also an alternate parking area up a hill.
You can also check Shoshone Falls’ CFS (cubic feet per second) level online. The photo above shows Shoshone Falls at 400 CFS. The higher the CFS number, the more impressive the falls are. However, you should remember that the flow can fluctuate due to the dam upstream. In general, springtime is the best time to visit, but the view is great all year round.
When you plan to visit Shoshone Falls, make sure to get there early. The closest airport is Twin Falls, about 12 miles away. From there, you can take a bus or a rental car and explore the area. Alternatively, you can fly into a Twin Falls airport and drive to the park. Regardless of the route you choose, make sure to allow enough time to see the falls and other interesting places in the area.
Heyburn State Park
Heyburn State Park is an outdoor public recreation area in Idaho, almost entirely in Benewah County and extending into southern Kootenai County. Founded in 1908, it is the oldest state park in the Pacific Northwest. You will find a number of trails, waterfalls, and more. Heyburn State Park is also known for its unique wildlife, including wolves and elk.
If you’re looking for a picturesque location with a unique history, Heyburn is a great place to visit. There are three campgrounds on the park’s 8,000 acres, as well as many designated hiking and biking trails. The park is also home to the largest concentration of senior citizens in the Pacific Northwest. The park has a rich history, dating back to ancient Coeur d’Alene Indians.
Another great attraction at Heyburn State Park is the Bird Aviation Museum and Invention Center. This 10,000-square-foot museum is located near a flight runway and is great for families with children. There are also a variety of educational activities for kids and a section devoted to contemporary inventors. In addition, the park hosts many festivals and events related to art, capitalism, and ecology. You can also visit the museum’s lovely garden and see some of the world’s most beautiful butterflies.
While visiting Heyburn State Park, be sure to rent one of its three cottages. You’ll find them year-round with three-night minimums during weekends. The cottages feature full-size bedding, a kitchen, a living room, and a fireplace. The campground also has two 12-foot x 12′ sleeper cabins with bunk beds. During the winter, the cottages are heated and have air conditioning.
Coeur d’Alene Lake
The city of Coeur d’Alene is surrounded by the majestic landscapes of the Selkirk Mountains and a large glacial lake of the same name. It is a hub for outdoor activities and offers hiking, skiing, water sports, casinos, and museums for visitors to enjoy. And if that wasn’t enough, you can even get married at the Fort Sherman Chapel. The North Idaho Centennial Trail, a vehicle-free trail, is another great place for a wedding.
Located adjacent to Coeur d’Alene City Park, the Museum of North Idaho is a museum that offers multimedia exhibits on the history of the region. The exhibits cover topics such as logging, explorers, local Native Americans, and Scandinavian settlement. The museum also oversees the historic Fort Sherman Chapel. Located in Coeur d’Alene, this historical landmark has been a landmark for visitors for more than 100 years.
Another popular attraction is the beautiful Coeur d’Alene Resort. It offers many amenities to its visitors, including championship golf courses, horseback riding, cross-country skiing, and snow sports. There are also many activities, such as art galleries, theatres, and shopping. The Coeur d’Alene Resort is an ideal spot for enjoying the lake and mountains. Whether you are a golf fan or simply want to enjoy a day on the shore, you can get the best views here.
Snake River Canyon
The best sightseeing in Idaho isn’t just at the scenic vistas. The canyon itself offers plenty of natural beauty, from deep pools of cool, clear water to unique geologic formations. Whether you’re visiting during the summer or on a gray December day, the canyon is sure to please. Read on for some of the best sights to see. In addition to scenic vistas, the canyon is also a great place to hike and camp.
In southern Idaho, visitors will find Craters of the Moon National Monument. This area is one of the best-preserved basalt flood areas in the Lower 48 states. In fact, NASA astronauts used this area for training during the Apollo moon landing mission. You’ll need to bring a flashlight and plenty of water, and a flashlight for exploration of lava caves. You can take a walk on the Oregon Trail, which skirts portions of the park.
While exploring the canyon, you can take advantage of the river’s many activities. For those who enjoy outdoor activities, the canyon is also home to numerous waterfalls, hiking trails, and BASE jumping. For more adventurous types, there are also numerous opportunities for kayaking and fishing in the area. If you prefer a slower pace, you can also take a boat tour through the canyon. Afterward, you can visit one of the many beautiful lodges and resorts along the way.
Shoshone Bannock Tribal Museum
One of the most spectacular places in Idaho is Shoshone Falls Park. The Shoshone River flows through the park, and the waterfall itself is over 100 feet high and wide. The museum features exhibits on Chinese mining history, a meteorite museum, and the artifacts and rock formations of the Native American people. Aside from the falls, there are also some interesting lectures and fun events to be had inside.
The Shoshone-Bannock Tribal Museum is located near the old Oregon Trail in Fort Hall and is the perfect place to learn about the native lifestyle. Inside, you can browse tribal artifacts and photographs, and even take a taxidermied bison named Boris. Afterward, you can purchase Native American literature and reminisce about your own heritage.
The museum is a great place to take the kids. A children’s section features an interactive cabin, a mountain, and a cave. There are also experiments, books, and puzzles to keep your kids occupied. While this museum is not for everyone, it is an educational experience for children and adults alike. The museum is aimed at educating the public and preserving the history of the Native American people.
There are several other places that are worth seeing in Eastern Idaho. The Black History Museum is open to the public, and it accepts donations. It offers information on this lost history. Butterfly Haven is the largest butterfly house in the state. It’s family-owned, and home to many species of butterflies. This is an excellent way to spend a day in Eastern Idaho. If you visit the museum, be sure to read the guidelines of each business.
Fun Things to Do in Idaho
There are many fun things to do in Idaho, from Stanley and Boise to Craters of the Moon, the Old Idaho Penitentiary, and more. In this article, we’ll highlight some of these places. For additional ideas, read our travel guide to Idaho. Then, plan a trip to your favorite Idaho attractions. This is the state’s second-largest city, and the state’s most populous, so you’ll definitely find plenty of things to do on your trip.
Boise
If you’re a fan of history, you should definitely visit the Museum of Idaho. The museum features 14,000 years of history and includes exhibits about Native Americans, discrimination, and more. For kids, there’s a fun area where they can play with puzzles and experiments. During the day, the museum offers special events and activities for families. In the evening, the museum looks completely different. But no matter which attraction you choose, you’re sure to have a great time in Idaho.
While you’re in town, visit the Idaho Museum of Natural History. With rotating exhibits, this museum is a great place to learn about Idaho’s history. You’ll also enjoy the museum’s exhibits, which combine art and technology. In addition to the museum, you can also explore the Boise Art Museum, the Idaho Black History Museum, and Zoo Boise. At the State Historical Museum, you can learn about different cultures and discover artifacts. You can also check out the museum’s “After-Dark” series. There’s also a Discovery Trunk, a tour, and classes.
If you’re a history buff, don’t miss the Idaho Potato Museum. There’s a lot to learn about the history of the potato, and the museum’s exhibits are sure to leave you feeling informed and entertained. You can also visit the Spud Seller Gift Shop for souvenirs and hot baked potatoes. And while you’re there, don’t forget to stop for a hot meal at the Potato Station Café.
Stanley
Stanley, Idaho is a town in Custer County, Idaho, United States. Its population is estimated to be 116 at the 2020 census. In the 2000 census, the town was the center of population in Idaho. The city is in the Sawtooth Valley. For more information, visit the Stanley, Idaho website. This article will provide you with some interesting facts about the town. You might be surprised to learn that Stanley is one of the oldest towns in Idaho.
Visitors to Stanley, ID can enjoy the outdoors to the fullest. There are hundreds of miles of hiking trails, backcountry to explore, and beautiful natural scenery to enjoy. The town sits at the base of the Sawtooth Mountains, an impressive rugged mountain range that is home to wildflower-filled meadows and pristine alpine lakes. While visiting Stanley, be sure to pack your hiking boots. There are many outdoor gear and sporting goods stores in Stanley, which is a great place to go horseback riding. You can also shop for souvenirs, clothing, and other items in the area.
The best time to visit Stanley is July through September. The shoulder seasons will also be less busy, and winter is the best time to visit if you prefer solitude. The town sits 130 miles from Boise and is close to the Sawtooth, Salmon River, and Ponderosa Pine Scenic Byways. As the town is a popular tourist destination, there are plenty of things to see and do in Stanley. Below are some of the top things to do in Stanley, Idaho.
Craters of the Moon
Craters of the Moon in Idaho is a U.S. national monument and preserve located in central Idaho. It is located on US 20 between the towns of Carey and Arco. It averages 5,900 feet in elevation. Its volcanic rock formations are a stunning sight. Whether you’re interested in observing wildlife or taking photos of the amazing landscape, Craters of the Moon is a must-see.
You’ll be amazed to see the wildlife in Craters of the Moon, including bobcats, mountain lions, skunks, and foxes. Even owls and nighthawks are common in the area. Craters of the Moon also harbor unique creatures like Lava Tube Beetles, which can only be found in lava tubes in eastern Idaho. Once you’ve enjoyed the views, you’ll definitely want to return to explore this stunning region.
The Craters of the Moon Wilderness is divided into several areas. A four-mile scenic drive is the main road through the area, while a visitor center and campground are also located within the preserve. You can hike or bike a short distance through the Craters, or hike to Wapi Flow, a detached section of lava near the Snake River. While some of the lands are under the control of the National Park Service, many are managed by the Bureau of Land Management as national monuments.
If you’re looking for something more interesting to see while hiking in the Craters of the Moon Wilderness, you should visit Tree Molds. This area is where lava flowed over a forest, creating molds. There are many kipukas in the area, which are small islands of remnant vegetation that protect surrounding lava flows. These act as oases for native plants and animals.
Old Idaho Penitentiary
The Old Idaho Penitentiary opened in 1872. It housed a variety of criminals who were desperate to escape a life behind bars. Today, the Old Pen is home to 30 historic buildings and special exhibits. One exhibit displays a collection of historic weaponry. The facility also hosts regular events and programs. To learn more about this important part of Idaho’s history, visit the Old Pen. It’s worth the visit!
The Old Idaho Penitentiary is located just east of Boise, Idaho. It served as a functional prison for nearly 20 years, from 1872 to 1973. Originally just a single cell house, the prison grew into several distinct buildings surrounding a 17-foot-high wall. Prisoners worked in the rock quarries to construct the walls. The prison was closed for major state holidays, so visitors should plan their trips accordingly.
The Old Idaho State Penitentiary opened for tours in the year it was added to the National Register of Historic Places. It is a historical site that was used to house more than 13,000 prisoners. At its peak, it could hold more than 600 inmates at a time. Today, the prison is home to a fifty-acre botanical garden created by the nonprofit Idaho Botanical Garden. During the tour, guides and visitors have described eerie feelings and strange sounds. In the 5 House, the gallows, and the solitary confinement cell are the most haunted buildings.
Sun Valley Museum of Art
Founded in 1971, the Sun Valley Museum of Art is one of the oldest arts organizations in central Idaho. It has grown from a small group of people giving classes to over 25,000 visitors attending events each year. More than half of the attendees were free. If you have never visited, it’s definitely worth the trip. There’s something for everyone at the Sun Valley Museum of Art. Here are just a few reasons why you should visit this unique venue:
The Sun Valley Museum of Art is a multidisciplinary arts organization that grew from a group of volunteers to a professional arts organization serving more than 40,000 visitors a year. The museum’s origins can be traced to the 1964 deed of the Sun Valley Company. The six-acre property, along Trail Creek, was originally used for kennels for sled dogs when the Union Pacific Railroad owned Sun Valley. Today, the museum is a popular destination for artists and has hosted high-level art residencies.
The SVMoA is a non-profit organization that works in conjunction with the Blaine County School District and local nonprofits. It hosts many distinguished visitors including E. O. Wilson, Michael Pollan, and Henry Louis Gates Jr., who formerly worked for the National Endowment for the Arts. The Museum is free to visit and offers after-school art classes for children, as well as scholarships. The only fundraiser is a Wine Auction, which raises money for the museum’s programs and services.
Hagerman Fossil Beds National Monument
For something a bit different, you might want to visit the Hagerman Fossil Beds, a National Monument located in the town of the same name. These beds contain the largest collection of Hagerman Horse fossils in North America. The monument also includes the Hagerman Horse Quarry. To get the most out of your visit, you should spend a full day exploring this area.
The monument contains more than 200 different species of fossilized animals, including the famous Hagerman Horse. There are two official viewing platforms at the monument, and they are free to visit. The first viewpoint, located south of the museum, is undoubtedly the best one. It is also the trailhead for the Emigrant Trail, a six-mile round-trip hike connecting the two viewpoints. The trail was originally used by Native Americans as a fishing spot, and today you can still walk on these paths.
If you’re looking for a unique view of the bluffs above the Snake River, this is the place for you. Just a short walk from the parking area, this viewing platform offers panoramic views of the Snake River and its fossil-rich bluffs. It also features a vault toilet and covered picnic tables. You can explore the bluffs from the park’s other viewpoints, including a paved trail that follows the gorge.
