Its strategic access to the Snake River and Jackson Hole make Idaho Falls an international hub for outdoor adventure.
Throughout the northwestern region of the United States, this city is well known for the river walk that offers miles and miles of scenic attractions on either side of the Snake River.
There are also a variety of places around the city that celebrates its art, culture, and history. There’s definitely something for everyone in Idaho Falls and here’s a list of places to see and things to do in Idaho Falls when you visit the northwest.
10 Things To Do in Idaho Falls, Idaho
1. Idaho Falls Zoo at Tautphaus Park
Tautphaus Park is among the biggest and oldest parks in this city, and definitely one of the best places to see in Idaho Falls. It is crammed with attractions that you could probably spend a day here.
It’s mostly lush green spaces and lots of trees, spread on baseball diamonds, picnic areas and an amusement park that has waterslides and fun rides.
The most popular attraction in this park though his the Tautphaus Park Zoo, which is also known as the Idaho Falls Zoo. This zoo is home to a variety of animals from all over the world and hosts interesting events from March to October when it’s open to visitors.
Some of the most interesting and adorable animals you’ll see here are snow leopards, lions, and penguins. If you happen to visit during non-operating seasons, the zoo has an event called ‘Boo at the Zoo for some spooky Halloween fun.
2. Idaho Falls River Walk & Greenbelt
The stunning Idaho Falls River Walk and Greenbelt spans five miles and surrounds most parts of the Snake River.
This walk showcases some of the most stunning sceneries in the area, with lots of lush green spaces that are well landscaped and are a haven to cyclists, hikers, runners and those who simply want to enjoy a leisurely stroll.
Definitely one of the best things to do in Idaho Falls, this is also where you get to somewhat experience being a local, as you’ll most likely see residents on their way to and from work every day.
This picturesque River Walk links some of Idaho Falls’ best attractions such as th Art Museum of Eastern Idaho and Sportsman Park.
3. Japanese Pavilion
An Asian inspired rural retreat tucked in the Snake River area, the Japanese Pavillon is one of the best places to visit in Idaho Falls. It’s the ideal place to relax, take a much-needed respite from all the walking and exploring.
Enjoy a leisurely stroll along its wooden bridges and walkways lined with stones. Walkthrough the garden’s foliage where you’ll encounter streams and stepping stones that seem to float over the waters.
The Japanese Garden is considered a hidden gem in the Snake River, definitely, a must-visit if you need a bit of relaxation in between exploring Idaho Falls.
4. Walk Around and Get To Know Idaho Falls
This city is pretty walkable, and one of the best things to do in Idaho Falls to take a walk through some of its most interesting or picturesque areas.
As mentioned earlier, there’s the stunning Snake River Greenbelt, where you get to see mot just the river and amazing scenery but the locals and the ducks or geese as well.
You can also walk along Idaho Falls Downtown, a historic area where you’ll find some quirky windows and interesting benches as well as great restaurants, eateries, and shops.
Then there’s the Idaho Falls Temple, which actually belongs to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. The grounds are lovely any time of the year but especially during summer, and a great place to just leisurely walk around in.
5. Hell’s Half Acre
One of the most unique things to see in Idaho Falls is the lava field called Hell’s Half Acre situated on the Snake River Plain.
Dating back to 2,000 years ago, this massive area of hard lava is a favorite spot among hikers despite its many obstacles like huge open cracks and jagged rocks.
The 68,760 acres comprising this area has also been recognized as a wilderness study area. The hiking trails if the Hell’s Half Acre lead to a low hill, which is said to be where the lava broke thousands of years ago.
6. Museum of Idaho
Located in the downtown area, The Museum of Idaho is home to an impressive 25,000 artifacts and items on display. One of Idaho Falls’ attractions, the museum is a great place to get to know more about the city and state’s art, geography, history, and culture.
Known for its detailed information and changing exhibits, the Museum of Idaho attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors each year.
Its permanent displays are as interesting though, and when visiting, be sure to check out those exhibits featuring the original residents of Idaho, as well as Lewis and Clark’s Journey. The museum also hosts events for kids and adults alike, as well as classes and camps.
7. Collector’s Corner Museum
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One of the more unique places to visit in Idaho Falls or anywhere else is the Collectors’ Corner Museum, which showcases a massive amount of rare items and collectibles that spans decades.
It is located in a building in a quiet street, and owned by a couple that’s been married for over fifty years and has collections that are even years older.
All items are either protected behind glass panels or inside pull-out drawers. This museum has an eclectic mix of memorabilia that includes countless stamps, tools, scale models, Barbie dolls and even figurines of famous personalities.
The displays at the Collectors’ Corner Museum gets bigger every year as contributors from people are added, which means that there will always be something new when you visit.
8. Idaho Brewing Co.
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Located by the picturesque Snake River, Idaho Brewing Company is among the Idaho Falls attractions that should be in your itinerary. Here’s your chance to taste some of the area’s craft beer selections, that usually vary per season.
Typical of the craft heer process, there’s a lot of creativity and balance involved in every flavor and brew. Their rotating selection often features some interesting creations such as Oak Aged Scotch Ale.
Perhaps you want to sample their Wolf’s, Oatmeal Stout? Idaho Brewing Company doesn’t run out of new ways to make craft beer so visit this place at any season and surprise yourself.
9. The Art Museum of Eastern Idaho
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As with most attractions in Idaho Falls, the Art Museum of Eastern Idaho is located in the scenic walkway that runs along the Snake River. It was established in 2002 as a means to promote the arts through a variety of exhibits that are centered on art education.
It is the only art museum in Eastern Idaho and features a wide range of artists locally and internationally, as well as upcoming artists in the area.
Send a day here, as there’s a lot to see. Browse the five galleries, or take part in an art class or workshop. It’s a must when you’re in Idaho Falls as this is another opportunity to get to know it’s culture.
10. Idaho Potato Museum
You’re probably one of those who hear ‘potato’ when someone says Idaho and that’s understandable. The state is known globally for its potatoes, that there just has to be a potato museum somewhere and it’s right here in Idaho Falls.
Housed in an early 20th-century building, the Idaho Potato Museum has displays and exhibits that showcase the history and significance of the potato industry for both the state and region.
One of the top points of interest in Idaho Falls, the museum also features some interesting items on exhibit. These quirky displays include the world’s largest potato chip, an ancient (1,500 years old) Peruvian container designed specifically for storing potatoes, a fascinating timeline of America’s potato consumption and a lot more.
The museum is also home to the Potato Station Cafe that serves unique food made with potatoes such as chocolate coated potato chips.
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The potato museum is actually in Blackfoot….not Idaho falls