Planning A Trip? Here Are The Best Places To Visit In Idaho

Looking for some new ideas on how to spend your weekends? Well, you're not alone. That same question troubles many people, and the answer isn't as simple as it once was. With more emphasis on work-life balance than ever before, how you spend your free time should come second to none. So what are the best ways to achieve that? Well, we think getting out of town might be the answer. And plenty of places in Idaho are perfect for a weekend getaway. 

From outdoor activities like hiking and camping to relaxing spa retreats and unique museums or vineyards, there are plenty of things to do in Idaho that will blow your mind. Here is a list of some of our favorite places within Idaho that we recommend exploring if you want to have a perfect weekend.

1. Teton Village

Teton Village is a unique resort village in the Teton Valley that sits at the foot of the Teton Mountains. Nestled between the two leading lakes in the area, the Village is the perfect spot for a weekend getaway. Here you can walk around the many shops, explore the many hiking trails, or head out on a mountain biking expedition. The Village is home to the Granite Springs Hiking Trail, which features beautiful turquoise blue ponds, the Hunter Creek Trail, which takes you to the Hunter Creek Fish Hatchery, and the Gingrich Bike Trail, which brings you to the Gingrich Ranch. Alternatively, you can relax at the open-air SkyBar, or head over to the nearby Teton Pines Golf Course.

2. Idaho Falls

Idaho Falls' waterfalls may not be particularly deep, but they are wide. Despite only having a 22-foot (7-meter) drop, the falls in the center of Idaho Falls span 600 feet (180 meters) across the Snake River. The Snake River Greenbelt, a six-mile roundtrip over a paved trail, offers its best views. The city's most outstanding feature, the greenbelt, is a favorite among bikers, strollers, and people who descend the rocks to go fishing. 

3. Silver Falls State Park

Silver Falls State Park is a beautiful park located in the Silver Valley in Southeast Idaho. The park is made up of a variety of outdoor activities and trails, including hiking, mountain biking, and trail running. You can also fish in the nearby Silver River, go horseback riding, or go canoeing if you'd prefer. You can also relax in one of the many fall-form ponds. This park is unique because it is home to 10 different waterfalls, making it a waterfall lover's dream. You can camp out or stay in one of the nearby cabins.

4. Boise Ruins and the Idaho Memory Trail

The Boise Ruins and the Idaho Memory Trail are a must-visit if you're a history buff. The ruins are a collection of buildings that sit on the site of the original State Capital and the nearby Idaho Penitentiary. You can explore the nearby landmarks, including the Old Idaho State Pen, the Old Boise High School, and the Old Idaho State Library. You can also walk through the nearby Greenbelt Park. Alternatively, you can explore the Memory Trail, a collection of unique pieces of art that sit along the pathways around the city. This trail features over 20 pieces, each representing a unique aspect of Idaho's history.

5. The Basque Hotel and Cultural Center

If you're looking for a unique place to stay in Boise, The Basque Hotel and Cultural Center is the place for you. Here you can explore various exhibitions and cultural displays, including the Basque Exhibit, the History of the Basque in Idaho, and the Idaho Wool Exhibit. Alternatively, you can enjoy the nearby Basque Rodeo, a traditional celebration of Basque culture. The Basque Hotel and Cultural Center is a great place to stay if you want to learn more about Idaho's history.

6. Yellowstone National Park

In addition to being the first national park in the United States, Yellowstone is also the first national park in the entire world. Don't miss seeing Old Faithful erupt; it's a beautiful spot to visit with stunning landscapes and lots of geothermal activity.

Buffalo is the dominant mammal in this region, so don't be shocked if you get caught in traffic because one is strolling down the road. Keep your distance from these creatures because they are wild. It's also an excellent spot to watch wild animals in their natural habitat. Only 1% of Yellowstone Park is in Idaho; most of the park is in Wyoming.

7. BEND Fest and the Boise Co-op Market

Boise, situated in southwest Idaho, is the state's largest city and capital. Boise, pronounced "BOY-see," is a city in Idaho's Treasure Valley and was a station on the Oregon Trail. The city's downtown 8th Street is currently a pedestrian area.

If you're in the mood for something a little more relaxing, BEND Fest and the Boise Co-op Market are the perfect places. BEND Fest is a great way to relax and explore the local arts. You can explore the area's unique foods and drink vendors at BEND Fest. Alternatively, you can check out one of the many nearby art exhibitions. Similarly, the Boise Co-op Market is great for exploring the local food scene. Here you can sample food from various Mexican, Indian, Thai, and Italian restaurants. 

8. Lake Cascade Resort and Marina

If you want to experience some of the best outdoor activities in the state, Lake Cascade Resort and Marina is a great place to do it. You can explore a wide range of activities at the resort, including rock climbing, mountain biking, and hiking. Alternatively, you can relax at the nearby Lake Cascade, the largest artificial lake in the state. This resort is a great place to go if you want to experience some of the best outdoor activities.

9. Sandpoint

Despite having less than 8,000 population, Sandpoint is an important economic center in northern Idaho. Here is the national headquarters for two different companies: salad dressing producer Lighthouse Foods and women's clothing shop Coldwater Creek.

Sandpoint is tucked away in the mountains and is located on the banks of Lake Pend Oreille, the largest lake in Idaho for boating, swimming, and fishing. A vast stone residence on the lake's edge previously belonged to Bing Crosby's family. The biggest ski resort in Idaho, Schweitzer Mountain, is close by. 

10. Sun Valley

The best ski and summer vacation destination in Idaho is Sun Valley, where many famous people have houses. In the center of Idaho, Sun Valley is surrounded by mountains that offer fantastic winter sports like skiing, ice skating, and snowboarding, as well as summer activities like golf, horseback riding, hiking, and fly fishing.

It is a popular family vacation spot all year round. World Cup ski competitions have been held in Sun Valley, and Olympic ice skater Sonja Henie filmed Sun Valley here. For Whom the Bell Tolls was written by renowned author Ernest Hemingway.

Wrapping up: Final Thoughts

There are few things in life better than spending a relaxing weekend away from home. Whether you're with friends or family, exploring new locations, tasting unique cultures, or trying exciting new activities, an ideal weekend getaway will leave you feeling relaxed, refreshed, and ready to take on the world again. Indeed, having a perfect weekend is an elusive goal for many people, but it's worth pursuing. So get out there, explore, and have fun! Just remember that the perfect weekend is whatever you make of it. Follow leisure.com for more travel inspiration and trip suggestions.