bigtravelbuzzIdaho is a state located in the western region of the United States. It is known for its scenic beauty, with a diverse landscape that includes mountains, forests, rivers, and lakes. Here are some things to do and see in Idaho:
Yellowstone National Park: While the majority of Yellowstone National Park is located in Wyoming, a small portion of it spills over into Idaho. The park is home to geysers, hot springs, and abundant wildlife.
Sun Valley: Located in central Idaho, Sun Valley is a popular year-round destination for outdoor recreation, including skiing, snowboarding, hiking, and mountain biking.
Boise: Idaho’s capital city is located in the southwestern part of the state and offers a variety of cultural attractions, including museums, galleries, and theaters.
Shoshone Falls: Located near Twin Falls, Idaho, Shoshone Falls is a stunning waterfall that is often referred to as the “Niagara of the West.”
Craters of the Moon National Monument: Located in central Idaho, Craters of the Moon National Monument is a unique geological area that features volcanic craters, lava flows, and caves.
Sawtooth National Recreation Area: Located in central Idaho, the Sawtooth National Recreation Area offers a variety of outdoor recreation opportunities, including hiking, fishing, and camping.
Hells Canyon: Located on the border of Idaho and Oregon, Hells Canyon is the deepest river gorge in North America and offers spectacular views of the surrounding landscape.
These are just a few of the many things to do and see in Idaho. Whether you’re interested in outdoor recreation, cultural attractions, or natural beauty, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful state.
Places to Visit in Idaho
Idaho is a state in the Northwestern United States known for its natural beauty, rugged wilderness, and stunning landscapes. Here are some of the top places to visit in Idaho:
Yellowstone National Park: The park is located in the northwest corner of Wyoming but has entrances in Idaho as well. The park offers visitors the opportunity to see incredible geysers, hot springs, and wildlife.
Sun Valley: This resort town is located in central Idaho and offers year-round activities, including skiing, hiking, biking, and fishing.
Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve: This unique landscape of volcanic craters, lava flows, and cinder cones was formed over 15,000 years ago and is located in south-central Idaho.
Sawtooth National Recreation Area: This stunning wilderness area in central Idaho features rugged mountains, alpine lakes, and a variety of outdoor recreation activities, including hiking, fishing, and camping.
Boise: Idaho’s capital city is known for its vibrant downtown area, historic architecture, and outdoor recreation opportunities along the Boise River Greenbelt.
Shoshone Falls: Known as the “Niagara of the West,” this 212-foot waterfall on the Snake River is located in southern Idaho.
Hells Canyon National Recreation Area: This wilderness area in western Idaho offers visitors the chance to explore rugged terrain, including North America’s deepest river gorge, the Snake River.
Lake Coeur d’Alene: This picturesque lake in northern Idaho is a popular destination for boating, fishing, and outdoor recreation.
Silverwood Theme Park: This amusement park located in northern Idaho features roller coasters, water rides, and other attractions.
Idaho Botanical Garden: Located in Boise, this 33-acre garden features a variety of plant species and hosts concerts, events, and educational programs throughout the year.
Best Time To Visit Idaho
The best time to visit Idaho depends on what activities you want to do and what kind of weather you prefer. Generally, the summer months of June, July, and August are the most popular for visitors due to the warm weather and abundance of outdoor activities. This is also the peak tourist season, so expect higher prices and crowds.
If you enjoy outdoor winter activities such as skiing or snowmobiling, then the best time to visit Idaho would be from December to March when the snowfall is heaviest. However, be prepared for cold temperatures and winter storms.
For those who prefer milder weather and fewer crowds, the shoulder seasons of May and September are also good times to visit Idaho. During these months, you can still enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and boating, but with more comfortable temperatures and lower prices.
Ultimately, the best time to visit Idaho depends on your personal preferences and what you want to do during your visit.
Things to Do in Idaho
There are plenty of things to do in Idaho, from outdoor adventures to cultural experiences. Here are some top things to do in Idaho:
Explore Yellowstone National Park: Idaho is home to the west entrance of Yellowstone National Park, one of the most popular national parks in the country. Enjoy breathtaking natural beauty, geysers, hot springs, and wildlife sightings.
Visit Sun Valley: Known for its world-class skiing and snowboarding, Sun Valley is a popular destination for winter sports enthusiasts. In the summer, it offers hiking, mountain biking, and golfing.
Go white water rafting: Idaho has some of the best white water rafting in the country, with numerous rivers and rapids to choose from.
Visit the Sawtooth National Recreation Area: This area is a stunning wilderness area that includes over 700 miles of hiking trails, mountain lakes, and hot springs.
Go fishing: Idaho is home to a variety of fish species, including rainbow trout, cutthroat trout, and steelhead. There are many fishing opportunities, from rivers and lakes to mountain streams.
Visit Boise: Idaho’s capital city offers a vibrant downtown, cultural attractions, and outdoor activities such as biking and hiking.
Visit Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve: This unique park features volcanic formations, lava tubes, and other geological wonders.
Enjoy Idaho’s hot springs: Idaho is home to numerous hot springs, including some natural and undeveloped ones.
Attend a rodeo: Idaho is known for its rodeos, and attending one can be a fun and exciting experience.
Visit the Idaho Botanical Garden: This garden features a variety of plants and flowers, including a meditation garden and a children’s garden.
How to get around in Idaho
Getting around in Idaho largely depends on your location and the mode of transportation you prefer. Here are some ways to get around Idaho:
Car rental: Renting a car is a popular way to get around Idaho, especially if you plan on visiting multiple destinations or exploring remote areas. Car rental companies are available in major cities and airports.
Public transportation: Some cities in Idaho have public transportation systems, including buses and light rail trains. The largest public transportation system is in Boise, which offers bus and shuttle services.
Taxi and rideshare services: Taxi and rideshare services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in most urban areas of Idaho.
Bicycle: Idaho is a bike-friendly state, and many cities have designated bike lanes and paths. Bike rentals are available in some areas, including Boise.
Walking: Walking is a great way to explore Idaho’s urban areas, especially in downtown areas with pedestrian-friendly streets.
RV or camper: If you plan on exploring Idaho’s wilderness areas or national parks, renting an RV or camper can be a convenient way to travel and camp.
Air travel: If you need to travel long distances in Idaho, air travel is an option. There are several airports throughout the state, including the Boise Airport, which is the largest airport in Idaho.
Where to eat in Idaho
Idaho offers a diverse food scene with plenty of options for all tastes and budgets. Here are some recommendations on where to eat in Idaho:
Fork: Located in downtown Boise, Fork offers a farm-to-table dining experience with an emphasis on locally sourced ingredients and creative dishes.
Chandlers Steakhouse: This upscale steakhouse located in downtown Boise features live jazz music and a variety of steak and seafood options.
Barbacoa: Another popular restaurant in downtown Boise, Barbacoa offers Latin-inspired cuisine with a unique twist.
The Roosevelt Market: This sandwich shop and market in Nampa serves up delicious sandwiches and salads made with locally sourced ingredients.
Diablo & Sons Saloon: Located in downtown Boise, Diablo & Sons Saloon is a trendy spot offering Tex-Mex dishes and an extensive selection of tequila and cocktails.
Snake River Grill: This fine dining restaurant in Jackson Hole, Idaho, offers a seasonal menu featuring locally sourced ingredients and innovative dishes.
Syringa: Located in Moscow, Idaho, Syringa offers authentic Lebanese cuisine, including shawarma, falafel, and tabbouleh.
Trillium: This cozy restaurant in Hood River, Idaho, offers a farm-to-table dining experience with a focus on Pacific Northwest cuisine.
Big Jud’s: Located in Boise and Idaho Falls, Big Jud’s is a popular burger joint known for its massive, juicy burgers and tasty shakes.
Pioneer Saloon: This historic saloon in Ketchum, Idaho, offers classic American fare in a rustic setting, with an emphasis on locally sourced ingredients.
Famous street stalls in Idaho
Idaho isn’t particularly known for street food or street stalls, but there are a few notable food trucks and carts that are worth checking out. Here are some famous street stalls and food trucks in Idaho:
B-Town Bite: This food truck in Boise serves up a variety of burgers, sandwiches, and salads, with many options for vegetarians and vegans.
Rice Works: Located in Boise, this food cart offers Asian-inspired dishes, including rice bowls and sushi rolls.
P. Ditty’s Wrap Wagon: This food truck in Boise specializes in wraps made with fresh, local ingredients.
Off The Grid Pizza: This food truck in Hailey serves up wood-fired pizza made with locally sourced ingredients.
Moose Juice: This food truck in Boise serves up fresh, healthy smoothies and acai bowls.
Tiki Teriyaki: Located in Meridian, this food cart offers Hawaiian-style teriyaki bowls and other Pacific Islander dishes.
The Kilted Kod: This food truck in Pocatello serves up classic American fare, including burgers, hot dogs, and fries.
The Funky Taco: Located in Boise, this food truck offers a variety of tacos with unique, funky twists, such as the “crunchy hippie” taco made with falafel.
The Curb Mobile Bar and Grill: This food truck in Nampa serves up a variety of classic American dishes, including burgers, fries, and mac and cheese.
Bittercreek Alehouse: This restaurant in downtown Boise has a street-facing patio where patrons can enjoy a variety of pub-style food and drinks.
Where to stay in Idaho
Idaho offers a range of accommodation options, from luxurious resorts to rustic cabins in the wilderness. Here are some recommendations on where to stay in Idaho:
Sun Valley Resort: Located in Sun Valley, this luxurious resort offers a range of accommodation options, including hotel rooms, condos, and private homes. The resort features world-class skiing, golf, and other outdoor activities.
The Coeur d’Alene Resort: This resort located in Coeur d’Alene offers stunning views of Lake Coeur d’Alene and luxurious accommodations, including suites with lake views and private balconies. The resort features a golf course, spa, and a variety of outdoor activities.
Hotel 43: This boutique hotel located in downtown Boise offers luxurious accommodations and a range of amenities, including a fitness center and an on-site restaurant.
Redfish Lake Lodge: This rustic lodge located in Stanley offers cozy cabins and rustic hotel rooms near the scenic Redfish Lake. The lodge features a variety of outdoor activities, including fishing, hiking, and kayaking.
Teton Springs Lodge and Spa: Located in Victor, this luxurious lodge offers spacious suites and villas with mountain views and access to a golf course, spa, and outdoor activities.
Triple Creek Ranch: This luxurious adults-only ranch located in Darby offers luxurious cabins and a range of amenities, including a spa, gourmet dining, and a variety of outdoor activities.
Shore Lodge: Located in McCall, this lakeside lodge offers luxurious accommodations and access to a variety of outdoor activities, including boating, fishing, and skiing.
The Modern Hotel and Bar: This stylish hotel located in downtown Boise offers comfortable rooms with a modern design and an on-site bar serving craft cocktails and small plates.
Salmon River Lodge Resort: This rustic resort located in Riggins offers cozy cabins and a range of outdoor activities, including fishing, whitewater rafting, and hiking.
Mountain Home Inn: This cozy inn located near the Sawtooth Mountains offers comfortable rooms and access to a variety of outdoor activities, including skiing and hiking.
Travel Tips Idaho
If you’re planning a trip to Idaho, here are some travel tips to keep in mind:
Visit during the shoulder season: Summer is the peak season in Idaho, so if you’re looking to avoid the crowds and high prices, consider visiting in the shoulder seasons of spring and fall.
Rent a car: While there are public transportation options in Idaho, renting a car will give you more flexibility to explore the state’s many attractions, especially if you plan on visiting national parks and other outdoor destinations.
Pack for the weather: Idaho’s weather can be unpredictable, so be sure to pack clothing for a variety of temperatures and conditions. Layers are always a good idea.
Plan outdoor activities: Idaho is known for its outdoor recreation opportunities, so plan to spend some time hiking, fishing, or skiing depending on the season.
Try local cuisine: Idaho has a variety of delicious local cuisine, including potatoes, huckleberries, and trout. Be sure to try some of the local dishes while you’re there.
Respect wildlife: Idaho is home to a variety of wildlife, including bears and wolves. Be sure to keep a safe distance from any wildlife you encounter and follow all posted signs and regulations.
Be prepared for altitude: Many parts of Idaho are located at high elevations, so if you’re not used to altitude, be sure to take it easy and drink plenty of water to avoid altitude sickness.
Book accommodations in advance: Especially during the peak season, it’s a good idea to book your accommodations in advance to ensure availability and avoid high prices.
Bring sunscreen and insect repellent: Idaho’s high altitude and sunny days mean that sunscreen is a must, and insect repellent can help ward off pesky mosquitoes and other bugs.
Be respectful of local culture: Idaho is home to a variety of cultures and communities, so be sure to be respectful of local customs and traditions.