best places to visit in idaho in september

20 Best Places To Visit In Idaho (The Travelers Guide)

Idaho is an incredible state with a breathtaking array of scenery, from the Snake River Valley to the Sawtooth Mountains and many more stunning spots.

The beauty of Idaho is so appealing that it has earned the nickname “Gem State”! With an abundance of tourist attractions and vacation spots, there’s no shortage of amazing sights to discover in this beautiful state.

You can marvel at its majestic mountain ranges, revel in its glistening lakes and rivers, explore lush forests and rolling hillsides – or simply enjoy its vibrant culture filled with unique attractions that everyone will love.

When it comes to beauty and diversity among states in the US, Idaho stands out as one of the most impressive places for exploration!

Whether you’re visiting with family or friends or just looking to get away from it all for a while, Idaho has something spectacular waiting for you.

So come explore! Here are some of the best places to visit in Idaho.

Best Places To Visit In Northern Idaho

If you’re looking for natural beauty and outdoor recreation, Northern Idaho is the perfect destination. From sprawling national forests to serene lakes and rivers, there are plenty of amazing places to visit in this stunning region.

Here are some of the top spots in Northern Idaho that you won’t want to miss:

Coeur d’Alene Idaho (Known As One Of The Best Idaho Destinations)

Situated in Idaho’s panhandle, Coeur d’Alene is famous for its lakes. All 55 of them in fact, making this one of the best places to vacation in Idaho.

The area is well known for its vast array of water sports from boat cruises to white whitewater rafting. For kids Coeur d’Alene is one of the favorites.

With not one but two massive theme parks full of adventure. Maybe it’s time to perfect your swing at one of the world famous golf courses. Finally, for skiers you can chase pow at one of three different ski resorts with more than 120 runs.

Sandpoint Idaho (Great Vacation Spot)

Sand Point, Idaho, nestled between 3 mountain ranges, is one of the best places to visit in Idaho and offers visitors stunning mountain views, fishing opportunities, hiking trails, skiing, camping grounds, and more! This charming town is situated right on the edge of Lake Pend Oreille and is the perfect destination for an outdoor getaway.

The nearby  Farragut State Park  offers a plethora of activities like boating, swimming, biking, picnicking, fishing, birdwatching, and much more. Additionally, there are some amazing boat tours available that will take you out onto the lake for an unforgettable experience.

If you’re looking to hit the slopes, head to Schweitzer Mountain Resort, which is just a short drive from Sand Point. Here you can experience some of the best skiing, snowboarding, and tubing in Idaho and enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding mountain range.

Wallace Idaho

Wallace, Idaho is a charming town located in  Northern Idaho ,  near the Idaho/Montana border; this area is known for its incredible scenery and recreational opportunities. 

Enjoy the underground mine tours, mine museums, seeing the “Center of The Universe,” and wandering downtown. You’ll find plenty of places to get a bite to eat or something to drink in downtown Wallace.

Another notable thing to do in the Wallace area is the Hiawatha trail, a breathtaking 15-mile ride through stunning forests and past sparkling rivers  with ten train tunnels and seven sky-high trestles .

A couple of our favorite places to get a bite to eat or drink are:

• The Fainting Goat

Cogs Gastro Pub

Best Place To Visit In Central Idaho

Central Idaho is home to some of the most stunning landscapes in the US, making it a great destination for outdoor-lovers. The Sawtooth National Forest offers plenty of hiking, camping, fishing and other outdoor activities, while the Salmon River meanders through rugged canyons teeming with wildlife. Payette Lake is a popular spot for swimming, boating, and fishing.

Payette Lake is a popular spot for swimming, boating, and fishing.

For something a bit different, head to Hells Canyon National Recreation Area. This unique landscape is the deepest river gorge in North America.

Stanley Idaho and The Sawtooth Mountains

Stanley within the Sawtooth National Recreation area has that small-town feel, and why not? The population is barely up to 100 people. However, this little town is renowned for its pristine wilderness and natural landscapes at the Sawtooth Mountains’ foot.

The town is an excellent choice for mountain biking, hiking, and climbing. But also famous for its fly fishing and river rafting along the Salmon River.

If you need to escape the cold, Stanley is home to some amazing  hot springs , even one right in town!

While visiting Stanley, don’t miss a summer day at Red Fish or Stanley Lake. Both of these places are great places to enjoy the beauty of the Sawtooths from a crystal clear, refreshing (yet cold) lake.

McCall Idaho – Home of Payette Lake and Brundage Mountain

Another mountain town, McCall, is situated on the shores of Payette Lake in Idaho’s Payette National Forest and has the highest average snowfall in Idaho. This resort town is lovely all year round and is known for its lakeside camping, hiking trails, and recreational activities such as kayaking, biking, boating, and fishing.

In the summer months, enjoy some relaxation by taking a boat ride or Paddleboarding on one of McCall’s many stunning lakes, or head to Ponderosa State Park to hike among some towering pines.

But that isn’t all McCall has to offer. Once the winter hits, the town is transformed into a winter playground for skiers and snowmobilers. Winter enthusiasts enjoy Brundage Mountain Ski Resort, Little Ski Hill, or Tamarack for skiing and boarding.

The nearby city of McCall has plenty to offer in terms of restaurants, shopping, nightlife, and more!

While visiting the area, don’t miss getting a beer at one of McCalls three breweries,  Salmon River Brewery,   McCall Brewery , or Broken Horn. If beer isn’t your thing consider hitting up the  Bistro 45  or Ruperts for some yummy food.

Hells Canyon National Recreation Area

Hells Canyon sits along the Oregon-Idaho border and is arguably the deepest water gorge in North America. The Canyon provides excellent fishing and whitewater rafting opportunities along the Snake River.

Hikers will also enjoy exploring the myriad backpacking and hiking trails around the area.

If you’re a history buff, take a minute to explore the Kirkwood Historic Ranch to get a glimpse of what ranch life was like in the 1930s.

Salmon Idaho

Salmon, a city located in Lemhi County, is renowned for its nickname – “Whitewater Capital of the World”. Salmon, Idaho is a picturesque town nestled on the edge of the Frank Church-River of No Return Wilderness Area – an area that many people see as their gateway to adventure.

Situated roughly 30 miles from the Continental Divide, Salmon offers beauty and opportunity for exploration like no other place in America. It is here that adventurers embark on journeys to explore mountain lakes and streams, rivers and national forests.

Salmon serves as the major gateway to these beautiful landscapes.If you’re looking to explore the backcountry, there are various guides and outfitters offering specialized services such as hunting, fishing, rafting and horse-packing.

The town of Salmon is situated in an ideal wild river region for fishermen; Lewis & Clark even gave this area its nickname – “River of No Return”!

This mighty salmon river stands out among North America’s few undisturbed rivers. From June to September, countless Chinook salmon make their way through the gravel beds of the river – although these numbers have been dwindling in recent years. Moreover, rainbow trout and steelhead also thrive here!

In wintertime, tourists can take part in snowmobiling or cross-country skiing with plenty of trails surrounding the town.

Best Places To Visit In Southern Idaho

Southern Idaho offers a multitude of great places to explore. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures or cultural and historic experiences, Southern Idaho is a fantastic destination. Here are some of the best places to visit in Southern Idaho:

Shoshone Falls, Twin Falls (The Niagara Of The West)

Often referred to as the Niagara of the West, Shoshone Falls is even higher than its more famous cousin, Niagara Falls. The breathtaking waterfall is situated in the Shoshone Falls Park.

Which provides tourists with various facilities, including picnic areas, scenic playgrounds, hiking trails, and a boat ramp. The Shoshone Falls area also has lush grassy spots ideal for viewing the waterfall.

More great adventures in Idaho: 45 Idaho Hot Springs Maps and Guides ​​10 Unforgettable Fire Lookout Rentals in Idaho 19 Idaho Ski Resorts That Make Idaho a Premiere Ski Destination

Twin Falls Idaho

Twin Falls is a great place to visit for outdoor enthusiasts. As mentioned above, this scenic town is home to the world-famous Shoshone Falls, located on the Snake River.

Twin Falls has plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy, including rafting, kayaking, hiking, fishing, camping, and searching for waterfalls.

As well as outdoor activities, Twin Falls is home to many restaurants and other local attractions, such as the Perrine Bridge,  Herrett Center for Arts and Science , and loads of shops.

Be sure to check out the Centennial Waterfront Park with its picturesque views of the Snake River. And don’t forget to visit one of the breweries in town for a unique experience.

Twin Falls is certainly a great place to visit if you are looking for an outdoor adventure or just a quiet weekend away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Craters Of The Moon National Monument

Craters of the Moon  would be the closest thing to Mars – if Mars were made entirely out of lava. This unique landscape stretched over 500 miles and was formed between 15,000 and 2,000 years ago.

While there aren’t any lava flows today, the crusty, alien-like terrain will take you back to when rivers of lava flowed along the Snake River Plain.

It is a must-visit destination in Idaho and a favorite spot during winter for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.

Boise City Of Trees

Boise is a big city with a small-town charm and is your go-to place for lots of outdoor activities. The city sits right on the Boise River and is an excellent choice for many outdoor activities.

Check out Hyde Park for some north end charm at the base of the foothills. Escape for a quick hike or bike ride before indulging on some amazing food and drink. Did you know Boise is one of the fastest growing cities in the country?

Hagerman Fossil Beds National Monument

The Hagerman horse was an Ice Age Mammal that existed thousands of years ago. The Hagerman Fossil Beds National Monument has the single largest concentration of these horses.

The monument has an international significance, housing the hundreds of fossil deposits from the Pliocene Age. In addition to the Hagerman Monument, visitors can enjoy hiking, fishing, or boating at the Lower Salmon Falls Reservoir.

Idaho Falls

Located alongside the magnificent Snake River, Idaho Falls presents a welcoming and genuine small-town atmosphere with year-round activities.

Nature lovers are drawn to the nearby Yellowstone National Park, Grand Teton National Parks, tranquil hot springs, and fly fishing along the Snake river or visiting Mesa Falls’s majestic cascades.

Regardless of what season it is outside—you’re sure to find something that interests you in this beautiful city!

Whether you’re a family looking for kid-friendly attractions like zoos, aquariums,  museums , and riverfront activities; or a foodie or culture lover in search of delicious local dining options and shopping opportunities in preserved historic buildings – Idaho Falls offers something to make everyone smile.

Plus, this four-season destination is the perfect place for your next year-round getaway – come explore the second-largest city in all of Idaho!

Yellowstone National Park-Yes A Tiny Sliver Of The Park Is In Idaho

The world’s most famous Park is just barely located in Idaho, like 1% of it. Regardless, it’s an extraordinary wilderness that stretches for thousands of miles made famous by hot springs and geysers. Yellowstone National Park is also famous for its thick forests teeming with elk, bison, antelope bears, and wolves.

Situated on the Snake River Plain alongside the Portneuf River, Pocatello is Idaho’s fifth-largest city. Home to Idaho State University, it offers a multitude of recreational activities such as golf, skiing, mountain biking and fishing that will surely be appreciated by any outdoor enthusiast.

Moreover, its rich culture and history can be explored through various museums in addition to nearby Native American and Oregon Trail landmarks!

Lava Hot Springs

Lava Hot Springs Idaho is a small town located in southeastern Idaho, and it’s home to some of the best hot springs in the state. The area offers several natural hot springs, which are perfect for soaking after a long day of traveling or exploring.

In fact Lava Hot Spring is an unexpected gem on any Yellowstone and Glacier NP Road Trip, located in the southeast corner of Idaho, just 35 minutes from Pocatello and 1 hour 15 minutes south-east of Idaho Falls. It’s only 2 hours 45 minutes away from Jackson Hole, as well as two hours north of Salt Lake City – making it an ideal vacation destination for everyone!

Lava Hot Springs is not only a hot spring, but it is an idyllic summer destination. Not to mention the outdoor water park and river for floating down! With sunny grassy areas perfect for basking in the sun and of course, its renowned hot springs – Lava has something adventurous to offer everyone in your family this summer.

Lava Hot Springs is the perfect destination for a leisurely stroll, as everything in town can be reached within a few blocks. Here you’ll find grocery stores, restaurants, and plenty of accommodation options conveniently located at the center of it all.

Silver City Mining Town

The rugged and picturesque Silver City is one of the few old mining towns that has not been destroyed by fire or become commercialized.

The 8,000 feet-high Owyhee mountains surround Silver City which sits at an elevation of 6,200 feet. Visiting the town is like taking a step back in time.

With about seventy-five structures dating back from 1860’s to the early 1900’s there’s and immense amount of history here. One of the main buildings, the Idaho Hotel stands nearly unchanged as it did 100 years ago.

You will find a few modern amenities like restaurants and even a hotel which gives you an even better feel for the town.

Bruneau Sand Dunes State Park

Boasting one of the most extended camping seasons within Idaho’s Parks system, Bruneau Dunes State Park provides a myriad of camping options throughout the whole year.

Let your curiosity take you to Bruneau Dunes Park, home of the highest single-structured sand dune in all of North America – standing at an awe-inspiring 470 feet tall!

Go on a thrilling adventure and explore these magnificent dunes with a pair of sturdy hiking boots or rent yourself a sandboard from the Visitor Center.

However, please note that off-road vehicles are only allowed on the main road. If you’re looking for a fishing adventure, the lakes found at the base of these dunes offer plenty of bluegill to catch!

Embark on a breathtaking journey and uncover the secrets of the desert through an exhilarating hike or thrilling horseback ride.

For many, the pinnacle of their visit to Bruneau Dunes is a trip to the incredible Bruneau Sand Dunes Observatory. It offers some of the best stargazing opportunities around!

The observatory welcomes visitors from early April until mid-October on Friday and Saturday nights for an enchanting experience of stargazing.. Bruneau Sand Dunes Observatory tours and solar viewing starts about an hour before sunset.

Then there is a short program about space and then you can use the telescopes at the observatory.

Sun Valley And Ketchum

Sun Valley is a popular resort city located in central Idaho, not far from the Sawtooth Mountains. The region is known for its amazing views of mountain peaks and lush valleys that draw visitors year round.

In wintertime, Sun Valley Ski Resort offers awesome skiing and snowboarding terrain, while summer brings activities like mountain biking, fishing, hiking and more.

Sun Valley is also home to many luxury resorts, fine restaurants, bars and other attractions like the Ketchum Arts Festival, Galena Lodge and Trail Creek Cabin .

If you’re looking for a place with a little bit of something for everyone, Sun Valley is definitely worth checking out!

Is There A Difference Between Sun Valley And Ketchum?

To put it simply, the city boundaries of Ketchum and Sun Valley overlap. Ketchum contains parts of an old mining town grid and is considered a main area in this region.

It also extends to cover Warm Springs Canyon and River Run base areas for Bald Mountain skiing opportunities.

In contrast, Sun Valley houses the original resort village and golf courses, in addition to the Elkhorn and Dollar Mountain base area neighborhoods.

Moreover, this beautiful valley also encompasses Hailey and Bellevue to its south – two towns that you are likely to fly or drive through on your way there. Though people often refer collectively to these locations as ‘Sun Valley.’

Thousands Springs State Park

Before I begin, let me clarify that Thousand Springs State Park is a tricky place to navigate. Unlike the typical state or national park where you enter and signs guide your way, this one requires more of an exploratory approach.

Get ready for a unique adventure!

Don’t be fooled by the sheer magnitude of this park! It’s composed of several different “units” that are connected via towns and public roads.

This means it might not necessarily fit your preconceived idea of what a “park” should look like – but rest assured, its complexity is what makes it great!

Thousand Springs State Park is composed of six distinct “units” , each with its own name: Malad Gorge, Kelton Trail, Billingsley Creek, Ritter Island, Earl M. Hardy Box Canyon Springs Nature Preserve and Niagara/Crystal Springs (which some sites combine).

Adding these up gives us a grand total of six areas in the park!

Here are some more great things to do in Idaho 11 Idaho Ghost Towns You’ll Never Forget 15 Boise Attractions You Can’t Go Wrong With Coeur d’Alene In Winter – Best Things To Do In A Winter Wonderland

Get Out And Explore The Best Places In Idaho

There you have it – a comprehensive guide to the top places to visit in Idaho.

From the breathtaking natural wonders of Hells Canyon National Recreation Area and Craters of the Moon National Monument, to the cultural attractions in the city of Boise and Sun Valley , there’s something for everyone in Idaho.

Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventure or a chance to explore history and culture, Idaho provides it all. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your next great getaway to the beautiful Gem State today!

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10 Of The Most Beautiful Fall Destinations In Idaho

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Fall is an amazing time to explore Idaho’s natural beauty. It’s during this time of year that something pretty magical happens to the Gem State’s landscape — the leaves begin to change, the air becomes crisp, and everything becomes a little more vivid. We compiled a list of ten destinations that make up some of the most beautiful fall destinations in Idaho. Don’t miss out on what the fall in Idaho has to offer and start thinking of which ones you would like to add to your bucket list!

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What other beautiful fall destinations would you add to this list? Please let us know in the comments below what you would add! Fall in Idaho just can’t be beaten. Fill out a nomination form for the fall attractions you love most, and you may see them featured here soon!

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

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Fall in idaho.

What are some fun things to do during fall in Idaho?

All year long, the Gem State offers a long list of incredible activities. However, Idaho in October is one of our favorite times of the year. During this time, the weather is cool enough to enjoy time outdoors but it’s not so cold that you need your heavy winter gear. You may want to grab your family and head to a local pumpkin patch. Here, you can find the best pumpkins to carve or place as decorations around your house. Many of these pumpkin patches also offer additional activities like train rides, corn mazes, petting zoos, and more for you to enjoy. Check out our list of several charming pumpkin patches in Idaho that you’ll definitely want to visit on a cool fall day.

Fall in Idaho is also one of the most beautiful. The bright orange, yellow, and red leaves create a scene that is breathtaking. While there are scenic drives around the state where you can view some of this incredible fall foliage, we also created a gorgeous fall foliage road trip that will help you experience fall in Idaho like never before.

What is one of the best scenic drives in Idaho for viewing fall foliage?

As mentioned previously, there are dozens of scenic drives you can take in Idaho where you can view incredible fall foliage. However, one of our favorites is along the Teton Scenic Byway . This scenic drive in Idaho will take you along the western slopes of the Teton Mountains. You will drive approximately 70 miles and if you explore this route when fall foliage is at its peak, you are in for an incredible experience. Make sure to bring your camera along for the journey!

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Explore Idaho

Top 15 Places to Visit in Idaho: Bucket List Destinations

The state of Idaho didn’t impress me with its bucket list destinations at first. I spent hours upon hours reading articles that promised to satisfy my wanderlust and show the best places to visit in Idaho. Unquestionably, there were plenty of interesting destinations. From quintessential cities and towns to striking remote areas, the state assured an amplitude of thrilling adventures and cultural treasures. None of these places, however, inspired me to visit Idaho right away.

Things certainly changed. As much as wanted to credit those articles for providing me with an extended list of the top places to visit in Idaho, the state itself did the job. It eagerly unrolled its diverse landscapes, never eluding its hidden gems and constantly impressing with its impeccable destinations.

When we started our road trip from Boise to Yellowstone and drove across southern section of the state, the area looked rather plain. Southeastern Idaho, however, looked completely different. It reminded us of rolling hills and mountainous rural regions of Switzerland .

Apparently, I was wrong. There was a myriad of incredible places to visit in Idaho. The Gem State clearly showed what I already knew. Pictures not always do justice to real destinations. In case of Idaho, you need to get outside and visit its abundant cities and explore its secluded rural places before making any decisions. 

Bucket List Destinations: The Best Places to Visit in Idaho

Yet I have contradicted myself and compiled the list of the top places to visit in Idaho. For some, it might be enough to embark on their own adventures of exploring the vast roads and bountiful destinations of the Gem State. Others might need to visit all these remarkable places before falling in love with Idaho just like I did. Regardless of which category of the travelers you fall into, use these top 15 places to visit in Idaho as your guideline. Furthermore, feel free to add your own bucket list destinations if for some reasons I left them out.  

1. Top Places to Visit in Idaho: Boise

Surprisingly, I didn’t even insist on exploring Boise through and through. With so many places we hoped to visit in Idaho, it looked like we wouldn’t have time to experience its capital. It was a mistake. Boise turned out to be an irresistible must-see destination.

Being the capital, Boise is the largest city and one of the most popular places to visit in Idaho. Set on the Boise River, it dazzles with a compelling blend of cultural and natural attractions. The “City of Trees” is what locals nickname their capital. Indeed, the presence of large green spaces in the area complies with Idaho’s drive to keep its residents active, healthy, and as close to nature as possible. For that reason, Boise’s ample parks brimmed with hiking and biking trails allow to escape the bustling city in the blink of an eye.

Impeccable food scene is another reason to add Boise to the list of the top places to visit in Idaho. From authentic Northwestern culinary traditions to mouthwatering dishes from European cuisines, the city allures gourmands from all regions. Interestingly, the travelers compare the capital of Idaho to Portland and Seattle , two of the best places to visit in the United States for foodies.  

READ MORE : Boise Travel Guide and Day Trips from Boise, Idaho

2. Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve 

The Gem State boasts an array of unique destinations that none of the other states has. Craters of the Moon certainly joins their ranks and falls into the category of the best places to visit in Idaho. Formed by molten lava fields approximately 15 million years ago, the area maintains its preternatural moon-like terrain up to this day. Exploring this wondrous bucket list destination feels like landing on another planet, a place that only a few daring travelers and locals of Idaho risk to visit. 

Craters of the Moon occupies nearly 53,500 acres filled with volcanic formations and lava flows. The national preserve in the Snake River Plain was created on May 2, 1924. Despite its, what it looks like, barren terrain, the region is packed with wildlife . Foxes, bobcats, mountain lions, owls, bats, and other small desert rodents thrive in this strange environment, occasionally surprising the human visitors with their presence. 

As one of the most intriguing places to visit in Idaho, Craters of the Moon surely knows how to keep their guests’ attention. The area offers a few epic trails that let you further explore the terrain and even see a few underground lava tubes . A permit for this activity, however, it required. You can get one free of charge at the visitor center located near the entrance.

3. Places to Visit in Idaho: Shoshone Falls

While reading all those detailed articles, I couldn’t not notice one natural gem. It looked like the majority of the travelers and locals agreed that Shoshone Falls was one of the must-visit places in Idaho. Gigantic, stupendous, awe-inspiring… I could see why they thought so. I must admit Shoshone Falls became one of my favorite places to explore in Idaho as well.

The famous waterfall sits on the outskirts of Twin Falls. Being the largest natural fall in the area, it makes not only Idaho, but the whole country proud. The size of the waterfall undisputedly sets it apart from other remarkable places one should visit in the state of Idaho. At 212 feet tall, Shoshone Falls is even higher than world-famous Niagara Falls. Taking this into account, the locals refer to their natural wonder as the “Niagara of the West” .

You can visit Shoshone Falls in southern Idaho all year round. The dam-controlled waterfall, however, changes its flow depending on the season. So, spring is the best time to appreciate the natural beauty of the site. Fueled by melted snow and rain, Shoshone Falls restores all its power by this time. The waterfall looks significantly thinner and fragile in fall. But even at this time, one of the most famous places in Idaho is as stunning as ever, proving that it’s worth a visit again and again.

READ MORE :  How to Visit Shoshone Falls, Idaho

4. Thousand Springs State Park

One of the most gorgeous places in Idaho sits in the Magic Valley and enhances each and every visit to the area with panoramic views and ample outdoor adventures. The area was created in 2005, combining a few small parks that together form Thousands Springs State Park. As the name suggests, springs, streams, and waterfalls reign in this part of southern Idaho. 

The park encompasses 7 sections that sit a short drive from each other. Each of the unites of Thousand Springs State Park brings something new, irresistible, and enticing. Whether you visit the iconic Oregon Trail or explore scenic hikes at splendid Malad Gorge , the area is eager to impress with the most magnificent places in Idaho.

Those who long for different kinds of activities, should saddle a horse in an indoor arena at Billingsley Creek . Ritter Island invites you to tour its historic agriculture structures while Crystal Springs Lake wins the hears of all fishing enthusiasts. The best views and the most incredible places to visit in this section of Idaho yet hide in Niagara Springs State Park . Housing the 350-foot-deep Snake River Canyon, the area astounds with picturesque streams and secluded sites.

5. Places to Visit in Idaho: Soda Springs

Idaho is dotted with small towns that offer the most extraordinary places to visit in the region. Soda Springs is certainly one of them. Often overlooked by the majority of the travelers, the place has long won approval of the locals. The main attraction here is Soda Springs , the world’s only captive geyser. For the local population, though, is not just another hydrothermal feature. It’s their pride and honor, their own “Old Faithful”.

The geyser was discover by accident when drilling for a pool in the late 1930s. The natural wonder has been captured and timed since then. Today, Soda Springs is one of the most unique and lesser-known places you can ever visit in Idaho. The geyser erupts approximately every hour and reaches heights up to 100 feet. 

Apart from the predictable geyser in southeastern Idaho, the city’s guests enjoy soaking in natural hot springs at Octagon Springs Park and visit the historical Pioneer Museum . 

6. Idaho’s Bucket List Destinations: Bruneau Dunes State Park 

Idaho tests your tolerance for risky adventures by offering to visit some of the most unusual places one can find in the country. After the moon-like terrain of Craters of the Moon, the state surprises you with its deserted landscape. It’s up to you to give this area a try or venture to the next Idaho’s bucket list destination. 

For those who decide to explore another unique terrain, Bruneau Dunes State Park prepares a wide range of daring adventures. The place is known for the tallest single-structured sand dune in North America . The famous landmark rises 470 feet above the desert floor. Apart from this remarkable natural wonder, the park prides itself on having one of the longest camping seasons in Idaho . 

Things to Do in Bruneau Dunes State Park

Threatening at first glance, the irresistible desert invites you to climb its sandy mountains. Hiking, horseback riding along with swimming and fishing at the foot of the dunes is another fun way to visit one of the most astounding places in Idaho. Stars also seem to look down at Bruneau Dunes State Park. You can get a closer look at these shining dots above the dunes at Bruneau Dunes Observatory .  

Entrance fee is $5 per car. While you can drive around the park, no vehicles are allowed to drive up the dunes.  

7. Places to Visit in Idaho: Twin Falls

Home to Shoshone Falls, Twin Falls deserves its own spot among the best places to visit in Idaho. The city is small, but the amount of natural and cultural attractions it offers greatly exceeds its size. From paddling the Snake River to BASE jumping and chasing waterfall , the city keeps you on your toes. Every corner of Twin Falls brims with local treasures and unique places one must visit when traveling through southern Idaho. 

After the Snake River, the Snake River Canyon is the main landmark of the city. Spreading over 50 miles, the gorge connects Twin Falls and Jerome Counties and offers bountiful outdoor adventures and panoramic views. 

The 0.25-mile-wide canyon has long served as a source of inspiration for local daredevils. So in 1974, Evel Knievel attempted to “jump” across the Snake River from a dirt ramp on the canyon wall. Although the stunt wasn’t successful, Twin Falls still remembers this brave man and keeps his legacy alive. The dirt ramp, now called Evel Knievel Jump Site , belongs to the most interesting places to visit in southern Idaho. 

READ MORE:   Visit Twin Falls: First-Timer’s Guide & Top Things to Do in Twin Falls

8. Lake Coeur d’Alene

Lake Coeur d’Alene might skip the thrilling adventures typical for the desert and moon-like terrains. Yet, the area is rightfully included in the list of the most stunning places to visit in Idaho. The natural dam-controlled lake nestles in the northern region of the state. Spanning 25 miles in length, it boasts more than 100 miles of shoreline. This extended area, in its turn, entices with ample parks, campgrounds, beaches, and trails. 

The second largest lake in North Idaho , Lake Coeur d’Alene takes your breath away with its remarkable scenery. Surrounded by majestic mountains, it dismisses any doubts one might have when deciding whether to add this area to his or her Idaho itinerary. 

Things to Visit in Idaho: Lake City

The pristine location allures the locals as well. With time, one of the largest cities in Idaho was established on the shore of the lake. The state’s residents refer to it as the “Lake City ”. The area houses an array of sandy beaches, hiking trails, and volleyball courts. Several companies offer watercraft rentals, enabling beachgoers to paddle or jet ski . One of the most stunning places in Idaho also caters to non-adventurous travelers, inviting them to visit its shores and book a tour boat cruise .

From November through February, you can observe bald eagles, migrating to the lake to feed on salmon in Wolf Lodge Bay. Swans, ducks, and geese flock to the area in spring and summer. 

9. Places to Visit in Idaho: Idaho Falls

A few things set Idaho Falls apart from other astounding places to visit in the state. While city’s rich cultural heritage allures many locals and travelers alike, 600-foot-wide waterfall on the Snake River is always the center of attention. Hiking and biking trails along the Idaho Falls Greenbelt further introduce the guests to city’s green spaces, downtown, market, and the famous waterfall.

Art and history enthusiasts look for inspiration at the Art Museum of Eastern Idaho and the Willard Arts Center . The Pavilion for Japanese Art unveils secrets behind Japanese gardening traditions while the Idaho Falls Zoo invites to meet some of local inhabitants. 

Moreover, Idaho Falls’s location allows you to visit a myriad of interesting places nearby and learn more about the state of Idaho. So, the Idaho Potato Museum in Blackfoot sits just 30 minutes away. Natural hot springs of Lava Hot Springs are mere 1 hour 15 minutes away.  

10. Hells Canyon National Recreation Area

Another remarkable attraction on our list of the top places to visit in Idaho occupies northeastern Oregon and western Idaho. The Hells Canyon National Recreation Area is known as the deepest river gorge in North America . Spanning 125 miles, the place offers endless adventures along with astounding natural wonders. From scenic vistas to splendid mountain peaks and secluded areas for hiking and horseback riding, the Hells Canyon is truly one of the most remarkable places you can visit in Idaho. 

The popular activity in the canyon is hiking . A myriad of scenic trails, ranging from easy to moderate, wind the area. The major trailheads are located near Riggins, Idaho. Here you can find the Heaven’s Gate Trailhead, Snake River Trailhead, Black Lake Campground, Windy Saddle Trailhead, and Windy Saddle Horse Camp. 

Places to Visit in Idaho: Seven Devils Mountains

The Snake River is responsible for the distinctive terrain and unique shapes of the Hells Canyon. While you can visit lower elevation on the Idaho side and be stunned by its rather barren and steep places, the high country completely transforms itself. Alpine lakes and towering peaks of the Seven Devils Mountains reside here.

The legend has it that the mountain range was named for a vision of seven dancing devils that appeared to a strayed Native American. At 9,000 feet above sea level, the mountains could indeed look like otherworldly creatures. Even their names, “He Devil”, “She Devil”, and “Twin Imps”, imply the mystical origin of this Idaho’s bucket list destination.

Places to Visit in Idaho: Hells Canyon Scenic Byway

Luckily, Idaho doesn’t push you to visit and explore its remote places on foot or by riding a horse. The visitors are welcome to drive the Hells Canyon Scenic Byway and admire the remarkable scenery from the convenience of their cars. The 213-mile loop runs through both Idaho and Oregon, presenting epic mountains, canyon, and small towns.

Last but not least, the Hells Canyon National Recreation Area surprises the daring visitors with whitewater rafting. It might be dangerous, but the thrill and adrenaline rush are guaranteed. 

11. Yellowstone National Park

Similar to Montana, Idaho owns only a small section of world-famous Yellowstone National Park. The rest of the unique territory sits in Wyoming. The locals, however, agree that Yellowstone must top the list of the best places to visit in Idaho.

Yellowstone National Park is unlike any other bucket list destinations. Known for its hydrothermal features such as geysers and hot springs, the place entices nearly four million visitors from all over the world. The highlights of the park are Old Faithful , one of the most predictable geysers in Yellowstone, and Grand Prismatic Spring . The latter has gained its fame as the largest hot spring in the United States and the third largest hot spring in the world.  

READ MORE:   Your First Visit to Yellowstone & Things You didn’t Know about Yellowstone

12. Places to Visit in Idaho: Sandpoint 

We were debating on whether to add Sandpoint to this list of the top places to visit in Idaho. An incredible location along with plentiful outdoor and indoor activities spoke in favor of this gorgeous city and we had to give in. The place nestles between 3 mountain ranges on Lake Pend Oreille and the foot of Schweitzer Mountain Resort. Famous for its year-round events, the city astounds with its rich cultural heritage, authentic shops, and culinary scene. 

Each season brings its own unique activities to this beautiful place in northern Idaho. In summer, the visitors enjoy boating across Lake Pend Oreille, hiking, rock climbing, mountain biking, and fishing. Schweitzer Mountain is in charge of entertaining the tourists that visit these remote places in Idaho in winter. From downhill skiing to snowboarding and cross-country snowmobiling, the area competes with some of the renowned ski resorts in the state.  

13. Sawtooth National Forest

Known for its rugged terrain, natural hot springs, and ample scenic trails, Central Idaho enhances your visit with the most beautiful places in the Gem State. The locals affectionally call this area the “crown jewel” of Idaho. The Sawtooth National Forest is indeed the epitome of beauty and daring adventures.

The region is divided into four areas: the Sawtooth National Recreation Area, the Ketchum Ranger District, the Fairfield Ranger District, and the Minidoka Ranger District. Each of these sections offers a wide array of outdoor activities ranging from hiking, biking, paddling, fishing, skiing, and hunting. 

Places to Visit in Idaho: Sawtooth Scenic Byway

Similar to other popular places you must visit in Idaho, the Sawtooth National Forest allows for a convenient way of exploring this vast territory. Spanning 115.7 miles from Shoshone to Stanley, the Sawtooth Scenic Byway takes you through the forest’s pristine meadows and majestic mountains. The most significant places to visit while driving this road in rural Idaho are Black Magic Canyon, Sun Valley Resort, Ernest Hemingway Memorial, Galena Summit, and Redfish Lake. 

14. Lesser-Known Places to Visit in Idaho: Driggs

While the majority of the tourists visit Jackson to admire majestic mountains and explore many other places in Grand Teton National Park , Driggs, a small town in eastern Idaho, enables you to enjoy the scenic views without the maddening crowds.

The city sits in Teton County, about 25 miles from Jackson Hole, Wyoming. With less than 2,000 residents, the place is rather small. Nevertheless, it never ceases to offer quite an impressive amount of things to do and Idaho’s bucket list destinations to tick off. From backpacking to fishing and rafting on the Teton River, Driggs knows how to keep its visitors busy.

Cinema lovers should definitely check out the Spud Drive-In Theater where time seems to stop and movies are still projected onto a large outdoor screen. For a change of scenery, head to Mesa Falls , located about one hour north of Driggs.

15. Best Places to Visit in Idaho: Kirkham Hot Springs

Idaho is one of the best places to visit in the United States to soak in hot springs. The Gem State has approximately 130 mineral pools, which is more than any other state. The natural springs adorn Idaho’s remote regions as well as roadside areas.

The Kirkham Hot Springs , though, is one of the most popular natural hot springs in the state. The place consists of several soaking pools and small streaming waterfalls at the bottom of a wooden staircase. A campground with parking sits near the site, allowing for convenient experience.

You can access the Kirkham Hot Springs via the Ponderosa Pine Scenic Byway running through the Boise National Forest. This Idaho’s bucket list destination is open all year round and usually gets busy on weekends especially in the summer months. 

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America From The Road

27 Best Things To Do In Idaho: Bucket List Experiences

If you’re looking for the best things to do in Idaho , then you have come to the right place because you are going to be getting the inside scoop from an almost local!

An almost local? Ha! What’s that? Fortunately for us we are lucky enough to live near Idaho’s border over in Eastern Washington so Idaho has become our stomping grounds over the last several years.

Since it is our FAVORITE destination, we’ll take any excuse to visit. Whether it’s Memorial Weekend, Fourth of July holidays, summer vacation, or a ski trip, you’ll more than likely find us in the Gem State! We even once spent three months roaming around the entire state in our campervan.

Every chance we get to visit Idaho we take. And I’m going to share some of the incredible things to do here so that you can see why you need to visit too.

What is so special about Idaho? Idaho is a place with an abundance of natural beauty; from its least visited unspoiled forests in the panhandle, sparkling alpine lakes, and colorful wildflower-filled meadows in the central parts, to the dramatic canyons and dusty deserts in the south, this state will constantly surprise you with its variety of pristine landscapes.

Idaho is truly under-appreciated but this is probably what has kept it such a special and surprising place to visit.

Map Of Things To Do In Idaho

And it’s not just the landscape that is beautiful here, but the residents too. Idaho has some of the friendliest and welcoming people in the country, and we have made some lifelong friends here just from camping trips or visiting a local bar.

If you’re looking for a state that can offer adventurous activities, Idaho is the perfect place for you. There are endless hiking, mountain-biking, horseback riding, fishing, and white-water rafting opportunities to name a few.

Would you prefer to take it easy? Then you’ll be pleased to know there are numerous lakes to relax by, incredibly beautiful campgrounds, and hot springs galore!

Anyway, let’s get to this list of things to do in Idaho. It has been broken up into things to do in Southern Idaho first, followed by things to do in Central Idaho, and then things to do in Northern Idaho so you can skip to the section you plan to visit.

Best Things To Do In Southern Idaho

Visit shoshone falls.

Shoshone Falls might just be Idaho’s most famous and loved attraction. This waterfall is synonymous with the Gem State, a little bit like how Yosemite Falls is akin to California, how Multnomah Falls is analogous with Oregon, or how Havasu Falls comes to mind when people think of travel in Arizona, and well, you get my drift.

The impressive waterfall might even be one of the most visited places in Idaho probably because it is located just off Interstate-84 between Salt Lake City and Boise therefore a popular detour for motorists heading north to Portland or south to Utah.

So what makes Shoshone Falls so special? Well, Shoshone Falls is the largest waterfall not only in Idaho, but one of the largest waterfalls in the United States. This waterfall is actually higher than Niagara Falls and even referred to as the Niagara Falls of the west!

Shoshone Falls is one of the top places to visit in Idaho and a great introduction to the southern part of the Gem state. You can visit Shoshone Falls at Shoshone Falls State Park or if you are the adventurous type and happen to be visiting during summer, you can kayak or paddleboard to this waterfall from Twin Falls.

Hike Down To Box Canyon and Take A Dip In The Cool Blue Water

Hidden amongst the flat farmland and dairy pastures just outside of the city of Twin Falls is a secluded canyon where crystal clear water seeps from rock walls into a brilliant blue pool.

The color of the water is truly magical and really must be seen to be believed! What’s even more impressive is that this spring-fed pool sits at the bottom of a wide chasm surrounded by lush vegetation which is in stark contrast to the featureless farmland above.

The sparkling pool is a result of spring water discharged from the Snake River Plain Aquifer. This spring flows at a rate of 180,000 gallons per minute making it the 11th largest spring in the USA.

While it is incredible just to see the beautiful pool from above at the canyon overlook, it is even more satisfying to hike down into Box Canyon where you can swim in the crystal clear pool and stream that flows out to the Snake River. There is even a secret waterfall that you will stumble upon along the hiking trail.

This hidden gem is a favorite among locals but hard to find much information on outside of local knowledge so I have written a guide to where you can find Box Canyon, how to hike down, and where to swim. See the link below if you are interested in visiting this natural Idaho wonder.

>> Read: How To Hike Down To Box Canyon & Where To Swim

Spend A Weekend In Twin Falls

Twin Falls has become one of our favorite destinations to visit in Idaho. It has come as a complete shock to my husband and I that we would love this place so much, especially considering we both grew up on the coast and never imagined we could enjoy anywhere not near the ocean.

While you won’t find any beaches, mountains, or even forests in Twin Falls, what you will find are a plethora of hidden natural wonders that will have you wondering how the heck is this in Southern Idaho!

I’m talking about impressive canyons, soothing hot springs, and waterfalls the color of ice blue glaciers.

There are so many waterfalls you can find near Twin Falls that you could spend an entire day visiting them.

Besides natural attractions, the city of Twin Falls has plenty of great restaurants, a range of accommodation options to suit all budgets and styles of travel, and best of all, super friendly locals that will make your stay a delight.

We have visited Twin Falls numerous times and usually stay at this hotel in Jerome or camp at Banbury Hot Springs .

In my opinion, spending an entire weekend in Twin Falls is necessary if you want to see all of this destination’s highlights, or at the very least, try to dedicate an entire day to exploring Twin Falls and the surrounding area.

>> Read: 20 Really Cool Things To Do In Twin Falls, Idaho

Walk Across The Perrine Bridge

The Perrine Bridge is the star attraction in Twin Falls. If you only have time to visit one thing in Twin Falls, make sure you stop by to see this man-made wonder!

At 68,000 feet tall, the Perrine Bridge is one of the highest bridges in the United States. Visiting the bridge is one of the top things to do in Twin Falls and I would say worthy of being on every Idaho bucket list .

Not only is the steel structure itself very cool to see, but the views of the Snake River Canyon seen from on the bridge are nothing short of spectacular.

Yes, pedestrians are allowed to walk across the bridge to take in the views, however I must say, walking across this bridge was a somewhat terrifying experience for me as someone who is afraid of heights. The bridge literally shakes every time a vehicle rolls across it which makes walking across an even more scary situation.

You needn’t walk across the bridge to enjoy the views of the Snake River Canyon though as there are viewing platforms from both sides of the bridge.

There is a Visitors Center adjacent to the Perrine Bridge that has all sorts of information about attractions in Twin Falls and the surrounding area.

Drive Thousand Springs Scenic Byway

Thousand Springs Scenic Byway is an idyllic stretch of road that follows the Snake River through south-central Idaho leading motorists through farmland, small towns, and some incredible geological features.

Some of the places we thought were impressive to see on this road trip was Malad Gorge , a chasm with multiple waterfalls, and Ritter Island which is a wetland oasis where you can swim and picnic.

There are also opportunities to hike (although not that much) and kayak or canoe on the Snake River.

We loved this drive and were surprised by how much there was to see in such a small area. The byway is only 67 miles and while the drive time is less than two hours, you should set aside approximately four to five hours to visit all of the highlights on this road trip.

>> Read: Thousand Springs Scenic Byway – Road Tripping Through Southern Idaho

Explore Craters Of The Moon National Monument

Craters Of The Moon National Monument is Idaho’s most well-known federally protected destination notable for its strange moon-like landscape.

The entire national park is a vast ocean of lava flows and random cinder cones so it isn’t quite what the typical idea of beautiful is, however this place is still lovely, just in a very unusual way.

The best way to explore the park is along the scenic 7 Mile Loop Road which will lead you to many of the park’s best attractions such as Devil’s Orchard and Inferno Cone .

There are many opportunities to pull over and view or photograph the park, and if you would like to get some physical activity in, there are several easy to moderate hiking trails that can be found along the way.

Another unique feature of Craters Of The Moon is its caves which were formed by underground rivers of lava. Visitors are allowed to explore some of these caves, however you will need to obtain a permit from the Visitor Center beforehand.

>> Read: Best Things To Do At Craters Of The Moon National Monument

Go On A Foodie Crawl Through Boise

If you are a foodie then you will no doubt love Boise because this city has a thriving culinary scene with lots of great restaurants to explore. The restaurants in Boise have a farm to table emphasis with menus that are creative and experimental.

Eating out in this city is always an exciting ordeal, and a good opportunity to sample authentic northwest fare if you’re not from these parts.

What is northwest fare you ask? Dishes that include trout, salmon, mushrooms, asparagus, berries, and basically any ingredients that are local to the area.

>> Read: 12 Best Places To Eat In Boise: Ultimate Foodie Guide

Explore Boise’s Brewery Scene

While Boise doesn’t yet have a reputation as being a beer destination like Milwaukee, Portland, or Bellingham , that might change soon as dozens of breweries have popped up here over the past several years.

The lineup of breweries in Boise is quite impressive, and so far there are at least seven of them in just the downtown area alone. Some of the breweries in downtown include 10 Barrel Brewing, Woodland Empire Brewery, and Boise Brewing. If you enjoy sour beers though, you should head to Barbarian Brewing.

Our favorite brewery in Boise is Payette Brewing who offer a nice range of IPAs, stouts, porters, and seasonal beer. My personal favorite here is their Mexican chocolate stout which is absolutely delicious!

One advantage Boise has over other cities is that the downtown area is quite small so it is relatively easy to visit multiple breweries in one day without having to drive between all of them.

Visit Bruneau Sand Dunes State Park

Here’s a little fact most people are unaware of – Idaho holds the record for having the tallest sand dune in North America! Yep, there is a mammoth-sized sand dune that towers 470 feet above the desert floor in the state of Idaho. It is bigger than the sand dunes in Death Valley and the massive beach dunes on the Oregon coast.

You can see this record holding sand dune at Bruneau Sand Dunes State Park which is only an hour south of Boise. At the state park you can not only climb the sand dunes, but also rent a sandboard from the Visitor Center and ride down them too!

Besides sandboarding you can hike, fish, swim, or camp, here. Another cool experience you can have at this state park is being able to star gaze using the onsite Observatory’s collection of telescopes.

The star gazing program is available on Friday and Saturday nights throughout summer. Tickets are limited to the first eighty people so be sure to arrive early on the weekend as it is first come first served only. Programs begin at 9pm with an indoor presentation followed by telescope viewing.

Since Bruneau Sand Dunes are located only an hour from Boise, this place makes a great day trip from Boise or a fun detour if your driving between Salt Lake City and Portland, Oregon.

Best Things To Do In Central Idaho

Visit pettit lake.

Pettit Lake is a stunning alpine lake that sits at the foot of the impressive Sawtooth Mountains. This pristine lake is the perfect destination for you if you’re looking to go off-grid for a few days since the area is undeveloped and offers a more peaceful camping experience than other lakeside destinations.

There is a first-come first-served campground at the north end of the lake and it is very popular during the summer. If you have your heart set on camping here, you should plan to arrive early in the morning to increase your chances of getting a campsite!

The Tin-Cup Trailhead located next to the campground is a popular jumping off point for backpacking trips into the Sawtooth Wilderness. From this trailhead you can also hike to two very beautiful lakes; Alice Lake and Toxaway Lake. Or if you’re up for the challenge, you can hike to both lakes on the Alice and Toxaway Loop Trail , but keep in mind this is a very long day hike!

>> Read : Best Lakes In Idaho For A Summer Vacation or Camping Holiday

Tour Yankee Fork Gold Dredge

Yankee Fork Gold Dredge is one of the best preserved gold dredges in the United States! It is located in the central mountains of Idaho on the Yankee Fork River, a tributary of the beautiful Salmon River.

This gold dredge was built in 1940 by a company from New York who after surveying the area, was told there was an estimated eleven million dollars of gold in their five mile claim.

The gold dredge was in operation until 1953, but sat lonely and abandoned after that when the company ran out of their mining claim. Vandals began destroying the dredge by breaking its windows and stealing anything they could.

Fortunately in 1966, the gold dredge was donated by the owner to the U.S. Forest Service who made the necessary repairs to save the dredge from deterioration. The gold dredge is now open to the public and visitors can exlore the Yankee Fork Gold Dredge on self-guided tours.

>> Read : Visit Yankee Fork Gold Dredge: One Of The Best Preserved Gold Dredges In The United States!

Custer Ghost Town

Custer Ghost Town is one of the most popular ghost towns in Idaho to visit on a road trip. This abandoned mining town is one of the best preserved ghost towns in the United States and a place that needs to be on your Idaho bucket list!

Custer was established in 1879 after the discovery of gold at the General Custer Mine, the mother lode of the Yankee Fork. This mining district hit its peak population in 1896 but when the easy gold began to dry up, residents of Custer started leaving until there was noone left by 1910.

If you’d like to experience what life was like in a 19th-century prospecting town , a visit to Custer will certainly give you some insight. This ghost town is filled with clues of its former activity. You’ll find rusted mining equipment and machinery scattered throughout the old mining district.

Several of the buildings have been restored to their former glory such as the schoolhouse, the Empire Saloon, and a few private cabins. During the summer, volunteers from Friends of Custer Museum are onsite to provide visitors with historical information.

>> Read : Visit Custer Ghost Town: The Most Popular Ghost Town In Idaho

Find A Hot Spring

Most people are unaware that Idaho is littered with hot springs. Seriously, there are hundreds of hot springs in this state. If you enjoy soaking in natural warm springs then Idaho is the perfect place for you!

Whether you prefer soaking in springs at developed facilities, or prefer natural surroundings, more than likely a hot spring won’t be too far from wherever you plan to visit in this state.

The largest concentration of hot springs can be found in Central Idaho. Some of the coolest hot springs in Idaho (or should I say hottest?) include Mountain Village Hot Spring and Kirkham Hot Springs.

Visiting hot springs in Idaho is something you can do at any time of the year including summer. Since the weather in Idaho can still be quite cool in the evenings even during July and August, soaking will not be an uncomfortable experience.

>> Read: 5 Awesome Hot Springs Near Stanley, Idaho

Hike In The Sawtooth Mountains

Idaho holds some of the most majestic mountain scenery in the country, a fact most domestic and international travelers are unaware of.

Although there are several mountain ranges in the state of Idaho that are contenders for the title of most beautiful like the White Clouds or the Pioneer Mountain Range, in my opinion the Sawtooth Mountain Range is the clear winner!

In fact, I would even go as far as to say they easily rival the beauty of the mountains found in Glacier National Park or Grand Teton National Park.

The Sawtooth Mountains actually look very similar to the Tetons yet lack the huge crowds that the national park status draws so if you’re looking for somewhere outdoors to escape the crowds, plan a visit to this wilderness area.

You can view the Sawtooth Mountains along the Sawtooth Scenic Byway but the best way to get acquainted with the beauty of these mountains is to hike among them!

Some of the most popular hiking trails around here include the hike to Sawtooth Lake and the hike to Alice Lake which are both quite challenging but really worth the effort.

Take An Epic Central Idaho Road Trip

The best way to discover Idaho’s stunning landscape is via a road trip. And since Central Idaho is the most beautiful region in the state (in my opinion anyway), driving through this area should be at the top of your list of things to in Idaho.

There are quite a few incredible drives through Central Idaho that are possible depending on how much time you have and where you prefer to begin and end your road trip.

For example, you can take Ponderosa Pine Scenic Byway from Boise to Stanley which offers lots of outdoor recreational opportunities such as hiking, hot springs, and camping, or take the Sawtooth Scenic Byway from Twin Falls to Stanley for awe-inspiring mountain views, gorgeous lakes, hiking, and fly-fishing.

If you happen to be on a longer road trip and traveling between Utah and Montana, consider getting off the Interstate and driving through Idaho’s glorious central region.

You can undertake this epic Central Idaho road trip like we did that combines the Sawtooth Scenic Byway and the Salmon Scenic Byway. This is the perfect driving itinerary for road trippers heading to or from Glacier National Park and Utah’s national parks .

Visit Bayhorse Ghost Town

Between Stanley and Challis are several ghost towns you can visit at Land Of The Yankee Fork State Park like Bonanza and Custer but our favorite along this stretch of road is Bayhorse Ghost Town.

Like many of the ghost towns in Idaho , Bayhorse was once a boomtown in the late 1800s for silver and gold mining. The first mineral deposit was discovered here in 1864 but it wasn’t until 1877 when a major lead-silver vein was uncovered that a rush to the area began.

Bayhorse reached its peak in 1888 but that would be the last year that the mines here would operate at full capacity. A number of tragedies occurred in 1889 including a fire which destroyed several buildings. This, coupled with the decline of silver and lead prices eventually lead to the closure of the Bayhorse mines in November.

At Bayhorse you can walk down the narrow, dusty main road through the town that once was and see historical buildings including the original mill which stands imposingly on a hillside.

One of the things that makes visiting Bayhorse so exciting is its location nestled inside a stunning canyon in the mountains. The drive out to this ghost town is quite spectacular so if you are driving through the area be sure to take the short detour to visit.

>> Read: Ghost Towns In Idaho Worth Visiting On A Road Trip

Go Horse Riding In The Sawtooth Mountains

If you’re looking for something memorable to do while you’re in Idaho, take a guided horse riding trip in the Sawtooth Mountains. It’s a fun way to explore Idaho’s majestic landscape and to see some beautiful destinations without having to hike to them!

Mystic Saddle offer several different trail rides for all skill levels from a two hour loop ride around Little Redfish Lake to all day adventures in the Sawtooth Mountain backcountry.

Every year we try to do a different trail with them and we are never disappointed with the places we have been taken to. So far we have done the ride to Little Redfish Lake, the four hour ride to Bench Lakes, and an all day ride to Marshall Lake.

Advanced bookings are recommended for all day rides but you can turn up to the Redfish Corrals at Redfish Lake for the two hour tours without a reservation and see if there is space.

Best Things To Do In Northern Idaho

Spend a weekend in sandpoint.

Sandpoint is a beautiful city in the panhandle of Idaho. This place is a popular summer vacation destination with Idaho and Washington residents and it’s not hard to see why.

Situated on the shores of Lake Pend Oreille, Sandpoint offers stunning lake views and a ton of water activities. The whole area is surrounded by towering mountains so there are incredible views every which way you look.

The downtown area is filled with nice restaurants, cafes, and bars, as well as public art displayed on buildings.

There is a small city beach holiday makers can sunbathe and swim at, and if you are looking to get out on the water, a nearby marina provides boat rentals along with kayaks and paddleboards.

Many of the motels and resorts are located right on the waterfront which is only a few short steps away from the downtown area.

If you are looking for a relaxing place to spend a weekend getaway or scouting for future summer vacation destinations, Sandpoint might be the place you are looking for.

>> Read: These Affordable Lakeside Vacation Homes In Sandpoint Will Make Your Northern Idaho Experience That Much Better!

Take A Ski Trip To Schweitzer Mountain

If you are planning a winter trip to northern Idaho, you simply must visit Schweitzer Mountain! In fact, even if you aren’t planning a trip to Idaho in the winter, it is something you may want to consider doing if you enjoy skiing or snowboarding.

Schweitzer Mountain is Idaho’s premier ski destination and offers all of the first class amenities of the top ski resorts in other states but with MUCH LESS visitors.

This mountain is huge with lots of terrain and it often feels like you have many of the runs all to yourself. This almost certainly will be the case if you can plan a trip mid-week.

Even if you don’t ski or snowboard, it is still worth the drive up the mountain for the outstanding views of Lake Pend Oreille in winter. There are a number of nice restaurants and shops on Schweitzer Mountain as well as slope-side lodging.

Camp At Farragut State Park

Farragut State Park is a peaceful destination located on the southern tip of Lake Pend Oreille near Athol. It is situated between Coeur D’Alene and Sandpoint so it makes a good place to stop and break up the drive but is also somewhere worth considering if you are looking for a beautiful place to camp.

The 4,000 acre state park offers a range of outdoor opportunities like hiking, mountain biking, swimming, fishing, and boating. Other watersports such as kayaking and paddle-boarding are also possible however you would need to bring your own equipment.

We haven’t had time to do much hiking here but have strolled along a portion of the lake’s shoreline which was very scenic. There is also a road that travels through the park right beside the lake which offers spots to stop and enjoy lake views.

Along this road we noticed that there were many vacation homes overlooking Lake Pend Oreille including houseboat rentals and thought it would be so nice to be able to rent a place around here the next time we come back.

You may want to keep this area in mind if you are looking for somewhere nice to stay while you explore northern Idaho.

Visit Wallace

Wallace is a charming town that we had the pleasure of stumbling upon during a road trip between Spokane and Glacier National Park . As we were driving along the Interstate 90 we first noticed the Victorian homes perched on the side of the mountain and then the quaint downtown area beside the freeway and made a last minute decision to take the exit and explore.

What we found was a place full of colorful history and handsome buildings dating back to the late 1800s. There were a number of really cool boutique stores, cute cafes, and several museums.

The Wallace District Mining Museum looked interesting as we walked by so we decided to pop in and see what it was all about. We ended up leaving with so much knowledge about the fascinating history of Wallace thanks to the informative exhibits and the very friendly and knowledgeable volunteer staff.

We learnt that Wallace was a hard-drinking, brawling mining town that was, and still is, the biggest producer of silver in the United States, and that the entire town was almost demolished to put in the Interstate freeway if it were not for the passionate local residents who fought hard to get Wallace listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

This destination should be on the top of your list of places to visit in Idaho because it is such a unique place and unlike anywhere else you’ll find in the U.S. or around the globe.

While one day is enough to see the main downtown area, a whole weekend in Wallace would be much better so you can explore the numerous outdoor attractions nearby.

Spend The Day At Silverwood Theme Park

Silverwood Theme Park in Northern Idaho is one of the biggest and best amusement parks in the Pacific Northwest! This amusement park has several high intensity rollercoasters that thrill seekers will enjoy including two old-school wooden rollercoasters.

The scariest rollercoaster of them all is the Aftershock, a rollercoaster that stands 191-feet tall that will take you forwards through a cobra roll and inverted loop, and backwards as well!

There are plenty of family-friendly rides too such as a ferris wheel, carousel, merry-go-round, bumper boats, whitewater rafting boat rides, and many more.

In addition to the rides, you’ll also find a waterpark here called Boulder Beach . The waterpark features several waterslides, two huge wave pools, and a lazy river. Admission to the waterpark is included with your entry ticket to Silverwood.

There is certainly enough entertainment here for the entire day so if you think you might want to visit Silverwood Theme Park, be sure to plan for an overnight stay in the area.

Fortunately there is an RV Park and Campground adjacent to the amusement park that is open from May through September. If you would prefer to stay in a hotel room or vacation home, you’ll need to look for lodging in Bayview , Sandpoint or Ponderay .

More Idaho Travel

Best Lakes In Idaho For A Summer Vacation Or Camping Holiday

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45 Fun Things To Do & Places To Visit In Idaho

By: Author Jerric Chong

Posted on Published: June 29, 2021  - Last updated: October 17, 2023

If you’re looking for an interesting vacation spot, Idaho is a wonderful option for you!

If you’re wondering about what to do in Idaho, we’ve got you covered.

Although Idaho isn’t as busy and bustling as New York, it’s still one of the best places to go if you’re looking to spend most of the day outside.

Rightly nicknamed the “Gem State” because of its natural wonders, Idaho is filled with incredible tourist attractions and vacation spots so there are definitely many things to see!

Home to scenic landscapes and flourishing wildlife, there are many breath-taking places to visit in Idaho.

When you’re here, you won’t need to worry about what to do, where to visit, and what to see in Idaho if you have this list handy and ready to go!

Idaho isn’t just about hiking, trails, and sightseeing, this north-western state is known for its outdoor recreational areas, and potatoes!

Yep, although Idaho is known for its potatoes, there’s a lot of stuff to do when you’re here.

Whether you’re an animal lover, foodie, artist, scientist, sports fan, or nature-enthusiast, this list has something for you!

Immerse yourself in nature, gain an appreciation of the arts, and learn about the wonderful culture and history of Idaho through these attractions.

Table of Contents

1. Bruneau Dunes State Park

Sam Strickler / Shutterstock

If you’re looking to experience the unique, natural beauties of the state, Bruneau Dunes State Park should certainly be one of your places of interest.

The 4,800-acre park has the tallest sand dune structures in North America that are hundreds of feet tall.

The park is filled with sand dunes, little lakes, prairies, and marshes. 

There are many sports you can partake in during your time here.

You can walk over the sand barefoot.

Feel free to either hike or horseback the trails.

You can even rent a sandboard to slide down the dunes like a pro.

If you’re planning to stay longer in this wondrous environment, feel free to camp or rent a cabin.

If you’re planning to bring a horse, there’s an overnight area for them available at the park.

You can also fish in the small lakes scattered throughout the park.

Feel free to birdwatch as you’ll see dozens of desert animals in the vicinity.

They also offer guided tours where they’ll teach you the plant and animal life that call this park home, adding an educational but fun component to your trip here. 

If you’re here at night, check out their star observatory where you can witness the beautiful starry, night sky which is definitely a must-do when you are here.

There are also campsites available if you want to sleep in the great outdoors.

Address: 27608 Bruneau Sand Dunes Rd, Bruneau, ID 83604, United States

2. The Peregrine Fund’s World Center For Birds of Prey

The Peregrine Fund’s World Center For Birds of Prey

The Peregrine Fund’s World Center For Birds of Prey will be a wonderful adventure for you and your family.

There are a variety of different birds of prey including vultures, hawks, falcons, owls, eagles that are sure to excite visitors.

The center offers an exquisite selection of birds of many colors, shapes, and sizes.

You can get yourself a guided tour if you’re not sure where to start.

You can also find many rare and endangered birds.

This center is a research facility that works on conservation efforts so you can be rest assured that your funds are going towards a good cause.

Your family can have a chance to get up close and personal with these birds.

Knowledgeable handlers will come in with live birds and teach about their importance.

At special times in the Fall, you can also get to watch live bird flight shows.

Imagine having the chance of seeing a huge eagle fly over your head!

If you’re a lover of learning, then it’s highly recommended that you check the art, artifacts, and library they have related to bird history and care.

There’s so much to learn.

You can also take a trip to their website where they have tons of info related to these magnificent birds of prey. 

Once you’re finished, consider visiting their amazing gift shop where you can buy pieces of jewelry and handmade goods to add to your collection. 

This experience will truly leave you with a greater appreciation of these wonderful birds.

Address: 5668 W Flying Hawk Ln, Boise, ID 83709, United States

3. Saint Joe River

OLya_L / Shutterstock

Situated in the Idaho Panhandle, the beautiful Saint Joe River , a 225-kilometers tributary is lined with beautiful plant life and dotted with fascinating animals.

Take a hike and you will find many species of trees and loads of different animals.

You might be lucky enough to meet a cute deer.

There’s plenty of birds to see if you’re into birdwatching.

You can take a picnic with your family and enjoy the mountain landscapes and breathtaking scenery around you.

There are also many camping spots for you to spend the night with nature.

Make sure to be careful so you don’t attract any bears!

In certain regions, you can fish, float, or boat in the clear, flowing rivers and witness the variety of fish that live there.

This is a place to make wonderful memories.

Address: ID, United States

4. Redfish Lake and Sawtooth National Recreation Area

chasehunterphotos / Shutterstock

Found in Idaho’s center, Redfish Lake and Sawtooth National Recreation Area is one of the top natural beauties of Idaho.

Redfish Lake is found inside the Sawtooth National Recreation Area.

The area is available for several outdoor sports such as hiking, camping, hunting, biking, rock climbing, whitewater rafting, kayaking, and fishing to allow you to immerse yourself in nature.

You’ll come across a wonderful array of wildlife such as bobcats, mountain goats, and snakes.

There’s a wide variety of birds to see as well such as kingfishers, falcons, and hummingbirds.

Near the lake, you’ll find the Redfish Lake Lodge .

Your family can spend a beautiful night in their cabins and spend the day relaxing at their sandy beaches.

They also have bike and boat rentals if you’re interested.

You can ask for a tour of the lake where you can enjoy the beautiful trees, mountains, and their reflections on the lake’s crystal clear water.

Be sure to visit Redfish Lake because it’s one of the most beautiful places to see in Idaho, and one of the best places to go !

5. Museum of Clean

karenfoleyphotography / Shutterstock

Are you a neat freak?

Well, then the Museum of Clean is perfect for you!

The Museum of Clean is home to thousands of artifacts all related to the history and culture of cleaning.

These include antique horse-powered vacuums, beautiful international paintings, a bronze toothpick over a thousand years old, an extensive library, and an interesting toilet collection.

You’ll also find a special section called the “Kid Planet” which has loads of activities for your little ones to partake in.

There are also educational programs for children that teach them about recycling and reducing waste.

There is also an Old English City section where you can learn about the horrific world without cleanliness, rampant with disease and vermin, and the stories of those who suffered.

If you’re interested in learning more about history, then this place should be one of your top choices.

If you’re an environmentally conscious individual, then you should be happy to hear that this museum is also very friendly to the environment!

They use energy-saving lights, have a solar panel system, and have also won the Pollution Prevention Champion Award.

They’re also experts on recycling.

The museum is also home to a beautiful, little garden with plants purifying the air you breathe.

Some of the plants also have medicinal properties.

Get ready for a relaxing stroll! 

This is a very unique museum that will be a fun, refreshing treat for the family.

You’ll never quite find another tourist attraction like this one!

This is one of the top 10 museums to visit in Idaho!

Address: 711 S 2nd Ave, Pocatello, ID 83201, United States

6. Wallace District Mining Museum

Wallace District Mining Museum

Founded in 1956, the Wallace District Mining Museum is a fun and educational experience for the family.

Over 7,000 square feet, the museum is home to over 5,000 artifacts in over 50 exhibits.

They have photographs, maps, documents, videos, and paintings related to mining history, techniques, tools, and safety equipment.

You’re bound to learn many things here!

To make sure your little ones don’t get bored, the museum offers fun scavenger hunts and engaging hands-on activities.

The museum plays an important role in education, research, and preserving a vital part of American history and culture.

You can dive into the past with their mock mine walk-thru and learn about the Coeur d’Alene Mining District which provided precious metals such as gold and silver for over a hundred years.

They’re also free public access to their research databases and archives so if your children ever have a mining assignment, you know where to take them!

Address: 509 Bank St, Wallace, ID 83873, United States

7. Discovery Center of Idaho

Discovery Center of Idaho

The Discovery Center of Idaho is the perfect place for your children to become little scientists!

Founded in 1988, the center has many interactive activities and exhibitions for children to learn about math, geology, physics, biology, engineering, design, and art.

Situated at the heart of the capital, thousands flock to the center each year.

Among the artifacts displayed are dinosaur skeletons, items from the sunken Titanic, and scale LEGO models.

With over 150 exhibits, your family is sure to have a blast!

There’s also a separate section for smaller children so that they still have the opportunity to fully enjoy the museum.

The center also offers STEM camps, programs, and events to ensure year-round fun. 

The STEM gift shop offers many cool science kits and toys to foster curiosity.

So make sure to bring something along so your children can continue their learning at home too.

There are also Spanish translators to help overcome some language barriers.

Address: 131 W Myrtle St, Boise, ID 83702, United States

8. Yellowstone Bear World

Yellowstone Bear World

Yellowstone Bear World is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that allows you to get up close and personal with bears!

The attraction offers a drive-thru tour (all vehicles allowed) where you’ll come across free-roaming bears, mountain goats, deer, bison, moose as you are driving through the designated roads.

With an additional fee, you can also have a chance to bottle-feed the baby bear cubs!

The center is only open from April to October due to the bear’s hibernation.

With another additional fee, you can also take part in the Wildlife Excursion where you can feed the adult bears alongside a professional animal keeper.

Feeding bears is one of the most exhilarating things to do in Idaho.

They also have a petting zoo available for you to interact with many different birds and barnyard animals including baby deer.

There is also a selection of fun amusement rides (for ages 3 and up) to bring the experience to a whole new level!

Once you’ve exhausted your energy, consider purchasing a refreshment at the Three Bears Gift Shop where you can taste delicious fudge in over 20 flavors!

The shop also offers gifts, toys, collectibles, and much more!

Don’t miss out on enjoying Yellowstone National park as it’s one of the most famous places in the world!

They’re only open for a limited time so think about coming here this weekend.

Address: 6010 S 4300 W, Rexburg, ID 83440, United States

9. Silver Mountain Resort

Kirk Fisher / Shutterstock

This awesome ski resort is open 24 hours for unlimited fun!

Situated in Kellogg, Idaho, the Silver Mountain Resort  is home to 73 trails, 1,600 acres of skiable area, 760 cm of snowfall, and Idaho’s largest indoor waterpark!

During the winter, this is the perfect vacation spot for skiing, snowboarding, and snow tubing.

These winter sports are one of the most exciting things to do in Idaho.

They also offer lessons to help you learn the ropes.

Biking and golf are fun favorites during the summer months.

They also have mountain bike, snowboard, and equipment rentals for anyone who needs one.

The ski resort is also home to the longest gondola ride in North America.

You definitely don’t want to miss out on this opportunity to check out the spectacular views!

There are numerous amenities available to you if you are planning to stay the night or for even a week.

They offer lavish lodging for any family size and a selection of delicious restaurants nearby. 

The Northwest Gifts Shop has mugs, magnets, postcards, and much more to commemorate your fun-filled visit.

You can come by all-year-round as it’s one of the ultimate vacation spots for both summer and winter.

Address: 610 Bunker Ave, Kellogg, ID 83837, United States

10. Seven Stars Alpaca Ranch

Gregory Johnston / Shutterstock

The Seven Stars Alpaca Ranch is a family-owned ranch and home to the most beautiful alpacas in the state!

They are very friendly and so much fun to interact with.

If you’re interested, the ranch offers self-guided and guided tours to acquaint you with this wonderful ranch.

Even though it’s named the “Alpaca Ranch”, this place is home to several different kinds of animals such as llamas, cattle, goats, horses, chickens, and donkeys.

They also have miniature horses that are just absolutely adorable.

If you’re looking to stay, they also offer an over 100-year-old private cottage that your family can live in.

Just simply head over to their Airbnb listing to book.

Now you’ll be able to enjoy these fun animals for days at a time.

You’ll also get a chance to feed them at certain times. Now, how fun is that?!

If your family wants to bring a souvenir home, well then take a look at the country store.

They have high-quality items made from alpaca fur.

They have socks and hats to keep you warm during the colder times.

They have toys such as cute, little stuffed alpacas to keep your little ones happy.

They also have cute gift baskets if you want to share the love with your family and best friends.

Address: 2885 S Folsom Ridge Rd, Coeur d’Alene, ID 83814, United States

11. Big Red’s Barn Indoor Animal Experience and Education

Big Red’s Barn Indoor Animal Experience and Education

The Big Red’s Barn Indoor Animal Experience and Education is a farm that’s quite unlike others.

This year-round attraction is home to many domestic and exotic animals such as cows, horses, snakes, lizards, goats, wallabies, sheep, capybaras, donkeys, tarantulas, tortoises, ferrets, and birds.

It’s a huge list, isn’t it?

All the animals are bound to keep the whole family entertained.

Their food source is also licensed by USDA, so this is why they prohibit visitors from bringing their own food to feed the animals.

But, not to worry!

The barn has food cups you can purchase from them to feed the animals.

This way they can keep track of what their animals are being fed.

This is not a traditional zoo where you simply look at the animals from a distance.

This place allows you to pet, hold, and make wonderful friends with the animals.

Trained and knowledgeable staff make this a very fun and educational experience! 

Come on over to the barn as interacting with animals is one of the most interesting things to do in Idaho.

Address: 7397 N Government Way, Coeur d’Alene, ID 83815, United States

12. Bird Aviation Museum and Invention Center

Bird Aviation Museum & Invention Center

This 10,000 square feet aircraft museum has airplanes from many different time periods allowing you to fly through time.

The Bird Aviation Museum and Invention Center is also near a runway so you can also hear planes lifting off adding another dimension to your stay.

You can also partake in a fun scavenger hunt to really immerse yourself in the aviation world.

They also host educational events for kids to teach them to be little aviators.

This is also a museum honoring contemporary inventors who helped improve modern technology, so you’ll find different invention exhibits found throughout it.

The museum was made by late American inventor Forrest Bird, hence the museum being named after him.

You can learn more about him and other talented inventors in the museum and also on their informative website.

Best part, admission is free so be sure to not miss out on this!

This is one of the coolest places to visit in Idaho!

Address: 2678 W Cessna Ave, Hayden, ID 83835, United States

13. Craters of the Moon National Monument & Preserve

Kelly vanDellen / Shutterstock

Craters of the Moon National Monument & Preserve is a 24-hours American national monument and truly an out-of-world experience.

Founded in 1924, this 343,000-acre park is covered with lava fields and rock making it look exactly like the moon!

You can hike the many trails at the park including some that are wheelchair accessible.

If you’re having trouble choosing a clear path, you can visit the visitor information center for help.

Make sure to download the National Park Service app before your visit so you have a clear plan of what you’re doing before you go.

During your hike, you’ll discover diverse landscapes, hills, caves, and giant rock formations.

The park is also home to the deepest open rift crack in the world. 

Now, it’s not just a bunch of rocks that you’ll be seeing.

The park is filled with plant and animal life.

There are hundreds of species of hardy plants including beautiful flowers growing amongst the rock.

There are thousands of species of insects and many other animal species including rodents.

You might even find a toad.

For year-round fun, feel free to go cross-country skiing in the winter. 

If you can’t get enough of this place, consider camping to fully experience this must-see otherworldly experience and enjoy the beautiful night sky.

This is surely one of the most exciting places to visit in Idaho.

Address: Idaho, United States

14. Shoshone Falls Park

Benny Marty / Shutterstock

The Shoshone Falls Park is certainly one of the most beautiful places to visit in Idaho.

This enormous waterfall is taller than Niagara Falls and that explains why it’s named the “Niagara of the West”.

Shoshone Falls is hundreds of feet tall and wide making it one of the biggest falls in America.

It’s truly a sight to behold.

To allow more people to enjoy it, there are certain areas that are wheelchair accessible.

This will also be an educational experience for you.

The falls play an important role in the local economy and farming (irrigation).

The falls have also been a source of salmon for the indigenous peoples.

From March to September, you can expect a small vehicle fee of $5 per car.

The perfect time to witness the falls is in the spring after the snow has melted increasing its water volume.

 If your family is ever on spring break, remember to bring them along to Shoshone Falls Park, one of the best falls in the world.

Address: 4155 Shoshone Falls Grade, Twin Falls, ID 83301, United States

15. Heyburn State Park

Heyburn State Park is the oldest state park in Idaho with tons of different activities to do.

The park has 16 miles of trails you can bike, hike, or horseback on.

You can enjoy the gorgeous waters by fishing or renting a canoe.

This is the perfect place to connect with nature.

You can take a guided tour where you’ll be introduced to the calm waters, beautiful flowers, and the tall pine trees that are hundreds of years old.

If you want to relax and enjoy your time here, you are free to camp, picnic, birdwatch, rent a cabin, or take a peaceful stroll on the boardwalk. 

This park is very important to the native peoples.

This is a perfect opportunity for you to teach your family about respecting nature. 

The park encompasses thousands of acres of land, so you’ll never get bored and always find something to do.

Address: 57 Chatcolet Lower Rd, Plummer, ID 83851, United States

16. Old Idaho Penitentiary Site

David R. Daniel / Shutterstock

Old Idaho Penitentiary Site is one of the most interesting places to visit in Idaho.

These buildings served as a prison for over a hundred years and then closed near the end of 1973 after riots broke due to the poor conditions the prisoners were experiencing.

Now, this defunct prison serves as a tourist attraction and museum.

The facility received thousands of male and female prisoners and they even helped build some parts of the over 500-acre prison.

You can explore dozens of historic buildings including the solitary confinement area. 

There are also many fascinating events taking place to give you insight on what it was like being a prisoner here.

You can take a night tour of the prison to get a spookier feel.

They also have a cemetery tour to unlock the mysteries of those who have died at the prison.

This might give you goosebumps!

There’s a museum attached that offers interesting artifacts that are thousands of years old.

Many of them are ancient and antique tools and weapons.

This visit will truly be an awesome history lesson as well. 

Now, we’ve talked about many, different gift shops, but this one is truly unique.

The prison offers various merchandise including a cookbook serving recipes and stories from prisons.

Now that’s something you should consider buying if you’re looking for something fascinating. 

This is a truly odd and unique experience and is one of the best places to go see in the city.

Address: 2445 Old Penitentiary Rd, Boise, ID 83712, United States

17. Boise Art Museum

CamEQ, Facade of Art Museum designed by Trout Architects and Mark Mack in 1988 , Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

Located in the state’s capital, the Boise Art Museum is home to a vast collection of thousands of magnificent pieces ranging from Native American textiles to Japanese ceramics to contemporary American art.

They house artwork from famous and emerging artists.

Guided tours are offered if you’re not sure where to start.

The museum also offers summer camps and classes for your children to learn from.

This is a must-do if you want to teach them to have an appreciation of the arts.

You can also partake in their many classes, events, and programs that they have to enrich your knowledge of the arts.

After your tour, you can visit their wonderful gift shop where they offer fine jewelry, textiles, bags, kitchenware, toys, stationery, and paints.

There’s bound to be something for each member of the family. 

Also feel free to check out their beautiful, online art collection on their website to get a feel of what they have to offer.

You’ll soon find out that this art museum is surely one of the state’s treasures.

Address: 670 Julia Davis Dr, Boise, ID 83702, United States

18. Idaho Botanical Garden

Charles Knowles , CC BY 2.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

The Idaho Botanical Garden is one of the most beautiful places in Idaho, if not one of the most beautiful places in the US !

The garden is divided into 50 smaller gardens and exhibits for your family to enjoy.

Some trees in the garden are decades old and were planted by some of the prisoners who used to reside at the Penitentiary State until it became defunct.

Some gardens display the native wildlife of the state including their hardy drought-tolerant and fire-resistant plants.

There’s also a beautiful water garden with lilies and koi fish.

There’s also a lovely rose garden for you to enjoy.

The garden has a beautiful mix of plant and animal life.

You will also find their children’s adventure garden where they can experience the different plants and also learn about the frogs found there.

The garden is also home to an art gallery with interesting art pieces made by many different artists.

These will surely inspire the budding artist and gardener within you.

There is also a gift shop that offers seeds and decor for your own garden. 

If you can’t remember all the gardens to go to, don’t worry!

The garden offers guided tours for those who are interested.

They also offer events and gardening classes where you can pick up some tips and tricks.

Make sure to check out their website for an event calendar.

Address: 2355 N Old Penitentiary Rd, Boise, ID 83712, United States

19. Idaho Museum of Natural History

Abbaby , CC BY-SA 3.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

One of the most underrated Idaho attractions is the Idaho Museum of Natural History .

Situated on the University of Idaho campus, the Idaho Museum of Natural History houses over 500,000 artifacts from ancient fossils and minerals to modern-day animal remains.

Different collections offer you to learn about the different animals and plants native to Idaho, both extinct and living, including those that lived during the Ice Age.

There are also many materials that represent Native American history and culture.

The Shoshone people are a prominent indigenous group living in Idaho.

The museum can be found in the city of Pocatello which is named after Chief Pocatello who was the leader of the Shoshone people.

University students often use the museum as a source of information and research.

So if you have older children, this will be quite the educational experience for them. 

There is also a discovery center for children that is filled with interactive displays for children.

Your young family members can look into microscopes as well as examine animal remains and resins. 

There is definitely lots to learn and things to see here!

Address: 698 E Dillon St, Pocatello, ID 83201, United States

20. Museum of Idaho

Jcarr29 , CC BY-SA 4.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

The Museum of Idaho is a fairly young museum that was founded in 2003.

The artifacts displayed here represent 14,000 years of history!

From skeletons to artifacts on nuclear energy, there’s so much to learn from this museum.

The museum offers a children’s area where they can interact with different puzzles and experiments as well as play dress-up.

This will help foster creative and imaginative play in your children.

There are displays of mammoth fossils taken from the deserts of the state.

There is also a great emphasis on the state’s and city’s history, native peoples, settlers, and history of discrimination. 

When you’re leaving, remember to pick up a book or educational toy to continue the journey of learning.

Address: 200 N Eastern Ave, Idaho Falls, ID 83402, United States

21. Idaho Potato Museum & Potato Station Cafe

Michael Vi / Shutterstock

When you think of “Idaho”, the first thing that should come to mind are “potatoes”.

Idaho is famous for its potatoes after all.

Idaho potatoes make up almost one-third of America’s potato production.

So it’s no surprise that you’ll find a potato museum here in Idaho!

The largest potato crisp in the world is actually home to the Idaho Potato Museum & Potato Station Cafe , a very impressive feat even recognized by the Guinness Book of World Records.

The museum has many interesting potato-related artifacts and also houses a cinema where you can watch potato-related short films.

You and your family can also partake in some exciting potato-related science experiments at the Potato Lab.

As you can see, this is a very specialized museum!

Once you’re done with your tour, come take a scrumptious bite at the Potato Station Cafe where you can enjoy an array of items including baked potatoes with a variety of toppings, chocolate-dipped potato chips, french fries, potato salad, potato cupcakes, and potato ice cream.

These items will surely give your taste buds a wild ride!

There’s also a fascinating gift shop you can visit offering cookbooks, swag, potato peelers, playing cards, and much more.

If you’re a foodie, this museum is a must-see for you!

Also, head to the museum’s website if you want to learn a couple of interesting facts about the potato industry, history, farming, and development.

Address: 130 NW Main St, Blackfoot, ID 83221, United States

22. Shoshone Bannock Tribal Museum

Shoshone Bannock Tribal Museum

The Shoshone and Bannock are two Native American tribes home to Idaho and neighboring states.

The Shoshone Bannock Tribal Museum , owned by the tribes, teaches the rich culture and history of these peoples and this place is a must-see if you’re interested in learning more about America’s diverse community.

You’ll see beautiful Native artwork, crafts, and traditional clothing.

Many of the artifacts will also teach you more about Chief Pocatello.

From the artifacts and photographs, you’ll learn so much about their history, tribal government, and how these resilient people were affected by outsiders and treaties.

Address: 30 East Ross Fork Rd Bldg 2, Pocatello, ID 83202, United States

Planning a trip to Boise? Here’s our list of some of the best things to do in Boise !

23. North Fork Clearwater River

Real Window Creative / Shutterstock

If you’re looking for a nice, quiet spot, make sure you come over to the North Fork Clearwater River .

This 2400 square miles area has so many things to do and animals to see, you’re sure to have an exciting time. 

You’ll find daring animals like bears, wolves, and cougars.

Or you might come across a gentle deer.

Make sure to bring your binoculars because you might also find some osprey.

No need for a boat as you can step into the water to fish.

There are limits on how many fish, where, and what species you can catch, but the waters are open all year-round.

There are even giant rocks you can sit on while fishing. 

If you’re planning to bring a recreational vehicle (RV), then this is a perfect spot for you.

There are also picnic tables and tent sites to make yourself at home.

You’ll be surrounded by such beautiful things to see and breathtaking views of forests, rivers, and mountains that you won’t want to leave.

This is such a beautiful, hidden gem.

24. Appaloosa Museum & Heritage Center

Appaloosa Museum & Heritage Center

If you’re a horse lover, then the Appaloosa Museum & Heritage Center is the best place to visit as it’s dedicated to the Appaloosa horse breed including its history and care.

This specialized museum has paintings and artifacts that are sure to pique your interest.

For example, you’ll learn about a special bird species that use horsehair to make its nests.

They also have lots of information on horse breeding and racing.

They also have a children’s area with hands-on experiences that will make sure to keep your little ones engaged. 

This museum is free to visit.

However, they’re a non-profit organization and will accept donations.

 Their gift store with fine art, prints, jewelry, books, and home decor all related to the majestic beauty of these horses.

Address: 2720 Pullman Rd, Moscow, ID 83843, United States

25. Crystal Gold Mine

Orin Blomberg / flickr

The Crystal Gold Mine offers guided tours of a gold and silver mine where you’ll be able to see and touch these precious metals still embedded in the underground walls.

The mine was lost for over a hundred years and then later rediscovered.

The identity of those who originally built the mine are still a mystery.

You can witness the crystal stalactites and pools of water with fish.

There are different underground trails to follow.

Your tour guide will also teach you how to sift out gold from the dirt.

You can enjoy this fascinating mine in the winter and summer and feel free to bring your RV along.

They also have an underground gift shop with souvenirs you can buy to commemorate your visit.

Address: 51931 Silver Valley Rd, Kellogg, ID 83837, United States

26. Shoshone Ice Caves

Shoshone Ice Caves

The Shoshone Ice Caves are beautiful lava caves with ice stalactites.

The 1,700 feet long caves offer tours to immerse yourself in this cool experience.

There are thousands of tons of ice in this cave.

So remember to bring a jacket with you because it can get pretty chilly down there regardless of the temperature outside.

There are lights installed inside the cave so that you can see everything clearly.

This can also be great exercise due to the many stairs in the cave which also may not make it suitable for strollers and wheelchairs. 

Outside the cave you’ll find a free rock and artifact museum, picnic areas, and a statue of Chief Washakie of Shoshone that you can take pictures with. 

Remember to also check out the gorgeous gift shop with beautiful geodes and crystals.

This is definitely an experience you don’t want to forget.

Address: 1561 State Hwy 75, Shoshone, ID 83352, United States

27. Idaho’s Mammoth Cave & Shoshone Bird Museum Of Natural History

Idaho’s Mammoth Cave & Shoshone Bird Museum Of Natural History

Idaho’s Mammoth Cave & Shoshone Bird Museum Of Natural History is the largest public-accessible volcanic cave on Earth.

Open seven days a week, you’ll absolutely enjoy the self-guided tour of this beautiful cave.

The walls have bright, warm hues due to their colorful mineral deposits.

Make sure to bring your camera!

Bones of bears, horses, and buffalo have been found in the caves.

You can also find the names of early settlers inscribed on the cave walls.

Next to the cave, you’ll find a private collection museum filled with wonderful artifacts.

You’ll find bones, fossils, taxidermied animals, ancient pottery, gemstones, and stone artwork.

You’ll also find many peacocks here as well! 

You can stay here as long as you want.

Address: 251 W Thorn Creek St, Shoshone, ID 83352, United States

28. Lochsa Historical Ranger Station Museum

Lochsa Historical Ranger Station Museum

Found on the Lochsa River, the Lochsa Historical Ranger Station Museum was formerly a ranger station that has now turned into a museum.

It’s a wonderful place to stop by and take a break from the chaos of our everyday lives.

In the past, there were park rangers that would live in the station and perform various duties such as looking out for fires.

The buildings at the station are now a historical museum that offers self-guided tours.

There are many different things to do in the surrounding grounds such as taking a relaxing stroll or having a picnic.

They also have a wood stove available should you ever need one.

The wildlife consists of beautiful trees, fruits (might not be edible), and hummingbirds. 

If you’re taking a long road trip, this is a perfect rest stop with bathrooms, water fountains, and parking for four RVs.

The staff is known to be very friendly.

If you’re already on the road, think about stopping here this weekend.

Address: US-12, Kooskia, ID 83539, United States

29. Julia Davis Park

KMD Photos / Shutterstock

This beautiful 43-acre park is the main attraction in the state’s capital, Boise .

The Julia Davis Park can be your one-stop shop because it itself is home to many other tourist attractions.

Located downtown of the state’s capital, you and your family will have a wonderful time exploring the memorials, statues, gardens, bridges, and sculptures that decorate this park.

There’s a beautiful pond with fish that you can enjoy by renting a paddleboat for a small fee.

The park is open all year round and you often find people playing tennis and chess together.

There’s also a playground to enjoy. 

The park contains the Boise Art Museum, the Idaho Black History Museum, Zoo Boise, and the Idaho State Historical Museum.

Zoo Boise has many different animals and amusement rides.

The Idaho State Historical Museum has artifacts that portray and teach about different cultures.

The Boise Art Museum has collaborated with Julia Davis Park for different art in the park events.

Be sure to visit this amazing park as its one of the most interesting things to do in Idaho

Address: 700 S Capitol Blvd, Boise, ID 83702, United States

30. Idaho Museum of Mining and Geology

Idaho Museum of Mining and Geology

The Idaho Museum of Mining and Geology is a free museum that houses rocks, minerals, and indigenous-related artifacts.

Prepare for your eyes to be dazzled.

They offer a variety of exhibits to learn about the state’s mining history, Chinese mining history, types of mining and processing, glowing fluorescent minerals, and also fragments of meteorites fallen from space.

There’s so much to learn about geology at this museum.

They even have a special station to track earthquakes.

They also have artifacts of animals that lived millions of years ago.

The museum also has an online collection with mind-boggling photos of gorgeous gemstones.

They also have a YouTube channel that you can watch to continue learning at home.

The museum offers fun events and interesting lectures to enrich the educational experience.

They also have a gift shop with crystals, toys, jewelry, puzzles, and fossils that you might want to start your own little museum at home.

It’s a wonderful opportunity to learn about the gems that are home to the Gem State

Address: 2455 Old Penitentiary Road next to Old Penitentiary Entrance, Boise, ID 83712, United States

31. Idaho Black History Museum

Karakorum90 , Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

Idaho’s Black history and culture is unfortunately not quite well-known but it needs to be!

Idaho Black History Museum is the oldest of its kind in the state.

The building was the first Black church in Idaho and was later turned into a museum to preserve African American art, history, culture, and resilience.

Located on the outskirts of Julia Davis Park, this cozy museum has artifacts and photographs relating to Black slaves, teachers, workers, athletes, activists, politicians, and artists.

The museum also offers lectures, films, and workshops to engage the community.

The museum also houses paintings and a large, spectacular mural with notable Black figures. 

The museum is only open on weekends and has free admission.

They accept donations so if you can, please help out. 

The museum offers lots of information to learn about this lost history.

Consider coming this weekend as this is one of the most meaningful places to visit in Idaho.

Address: 508 Julia Davis Dr, Boise, ID 83702, United States

32. The Butterfly Haven

The Butterfly Haven

The Butterfly Haven is the state’s largest butterfly house and is family-owned.

There are many different butterfly species that make their home here including monarchs, viceroys, admirals, painted ladies, and swallowtails.

This is truly a unique experience!

They are open for part of the year due to the butterflies’ migration patterns so make sure to come by before they close.

This is a beautiful butterfly garden with blooming flowers and birds.

There are many beautiful sights to see.

This is a wonderful educational experience for the whole family where you can learn butterfly science, conservation, and host plants.

The hosts are known to be amazing and knowledgeable. 

The museum also offers butterfly-themed birthday packages if you’re interested in adding something unique and special to your next birthday.

They also offer special discounts on mother’s and father’s days so remember to come by on those days! 

If you’re lucky you might have the chance to have a butterfly land on your hand!

This is truly one of the most magical places to visit in Idaho.

Address: 1462 W 200 S, Pingree, ID 83262, United States

If you’re planning a visit to Twin Falls, here’s our list of Twin Falls attractions you shouldn’t miss out on!

33. Children’s Museum Of Idaho

Children’s Museum Of Idaho

If you’re looking for places to go with kids, you can’t go wrong with the Children’s Museum Of Idaho .

Rightly termed as one of the best Idaho attractions, visitors are encouraged to not use their devices and fully immerse themselves in the imaginative world of play.

This will surely be an awesome treat for your little ones! 

There are hundreds of different toys to play with and many are associated with special exhibits.

Your child can be a scientist examining animal fur, an architect designing a city, an astronaut taking a trip inside a spaceship, a pilot driving a plane, a teller working at a bank, a paleontologist excavating a dinosaur dig, explorers visiting a cave, a gourmet chef cooking dishes, and much more.

There are many teamwork games at the museum which can allow your child to make some new friends.

This is a wonderful opportunity for your child to learn through play and exploration. 

There are multiple, different buildings each with their own unique experiences.

Your child can also have lots of fun in the outside play area. 

The museum offers fun scientist demonstrations, summer camps, events, and parent-child playdates to allow yourself to really connect with your child.

You’ll love it here as this is one of the best points of interest in the city.

Address: 790 S Progress Ave, Meridian, ID 83642, United States

34. Swan Falls Dam

Hank Shiffman / Shutterstock

Swan Falls Dam has an old and new version.

The new one is currently in use as a hydroelectric dam.

The old dam is a museum.

This is an interesting spot to enjoy spending time with family. 

You can book a tour of the museum to learn how hydroelectricity works and view the dam’s different levels.

As with many Idaho attractions, this is a perfect spot to connect with nature.

The dam is built on the Snake River and has colorful canyons along its side.

The river is available for canoeing and fishing. 

There are trails to walk and drive on as well as areas to camp and picnic.

Bring along a pair of binoculars for sightseeing and birdwatching.

You might be lucky enough to find a falcon or eagle nesting.

Address: Murphy, ID 83650, United States

35. Sun Valley Museum of Art

Sun Valley Museum of Art

Founded in 1971, the Sun Valley Museum of Art offers events related to arts and how it can be connected to immigration, capitalism, wildlife, international art, mining, and the Idahoan landscape and history. 

The museum houses pieces from emerging but promising and world-renowned artists.

They often host writers, performers, and artists who come to foster a creative community.

The museum also offers acting and family art workshops.

These experiences will help you really connect with your inner artistic self. 

With thousands of visitors and many free programs, there is bound to be something that interests you.

The museum also offers free art classes in English and Spanish to help overcome any language barriers.

Address: 191 5th St E, Ketchum, ID 83340, United States

36. Boise Art Glass

jurra8 / Shutterstock

Found in the state’s capital, this is a beautiful privately-owned art gallery featuring blown glass art and items with a spectacular array of colors.

Come in and learn a new skill!

Boise Art Glass offers classes for glass blowing with great teachers for anyone 8 years or older.

You can also come in to watch live demos and rent equipment.

The teachers are known to be incredibly friendly and talented.

The gallery has beautiful items to purchase that can really add some pizzazz to your home and office.

They offer a wide selection of sculptures, jewelry, houseware, gorgeous art, olive oil dispensers, honey pots, pans, bowls, perfume bottles, paperweights, and business cardholders.

They basically have everything you need to properly add some interesting shapes and colors to your life.

This is one of the best points of interest in Boise.

Go check out their online shop today!

Address: 1124 W Front St, Boise, ID 83702, United States

37. City of Rocks National Reserve

CSNafzger / Shutterstock

The City of Rocks National Reserve is home to a diverse range of wildlife.

As your first stop, make sure to come to the visitor information center so that they can first answer any questions you may have.

It’s possible that the park might have some venomous snakes so make sure you have the information you need to be safe.

The center offers souvenirs as well.

The Native Americans would traditionally hunt buffalo here.

There are many other animals you can locate here as well such as coyotes, bison, toads, owls, and hawks.

There is also extensive plant life and you’ll find flowers in many different shades of colors. 

You’ll find giant rock formations and people rock climbing.

A variety of activities are permissible on the campgrounds such as horseback riding, mountain biking, photography, hiking, and camping.

You can also find camping sites and lodging nearby. 

This is a perfect opportunity for you to get rid of your devices and connect with nature.

Address: Almo, ID 83312, United States

38. Idaho Falls River Walk – Greenbelt Trail

Idaho Falls River Walk – Greenbelt Trail

The Idaho Falls River Walk – Greenbelt Trail has 5 miles of trails that can give you a spectacular view of the Idaho Falls and the natural beauty that surrounds it.

You’ll find sculptures, bridges Japanese stone lanterns, signs with wildlife information, a Chinese friendship garden, beautiful flowers, and benches along your walk, all of it picture-worthy.

The area is home to many events and facilities such as the Farmers Market, festivals, competitions, and playgrounds.

The site is also a place to view fireworks.

The Art Museum of Eastern Idaho and different restaurants can be found nearby as well.

You can also enjoy the waters by boating and fishing.

Remember to keep a good stock of bait because they are many areas to fish here in Idaho!

Make sure to stop by as this is one of the best points of interest in the city.

Address: 525 River Pkwy, Idaho Falls, ID 83402, United States

While you’re here, check out some of the top things to do in Idaho Falls !

39. Hiawatha Mountain Bike and Hike Trail

Nature’s Charm / Shutterstock

The Hiawatha Mountain Bike and Hike Trail is straight out of a fairy tale!

While traveling the “Hall of Fame” trail, you will have your breath taken away from you when viewing the surrounding areas.

The lakes, green mountains, falls, and streams will surely give you a sense of peace and calmness.

The facility offers bikes to rent (reservations strongly recommended) and there’s also a bike patrol if you ever need help.

The trails also include tunnel-like caves that you can bike through.

A shuttle can take you back to the starting point if you’re feeling too tired. 

You can discover rare birds and signs with info on local history along the trails.

You’ll learn as you enjoy your ride.

Make your reservation today!

Address: 1-90 I-90, Mullan, ID 83846, United States

40. Black Cliffs Rock Climbing

The Black Cliffs Rock Climbing is home to beautiful volcanic basalt rock cliffs that are perfect for rock climbing and photography.

The site is available all year round and is not usually crowded.

Rock climbing can be a fun challenge for all experience levels.

There are numerous hand and foot holds you can use to climb.

The cliffs have routes with different levels of difficulty depending on your skill.

You might also encounter some spider friends as you trek your way up to the top.

Located on the Boise River, this is close to Idaho’s capital.

Bring along the Boise Climbs guidebook as many rock climbers find it useful. Come to the cliffs for a unique experience as rock climbing is one the most exciting things to do in Idaho.

Address: Boise, ID 83716, United States

41. Map Rock Petroglyphs Historic District

Tamanoeconomico , CC BY-SA 4.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

Petroglyphs are carved, not painted, inscriptions made on rock.

Discovered in 1872, the Map Rock Petroglyphs Historic District is an eight-acre area housing many rocks that contain very intricate markings with circles, zigzags, swirls, and lines.

It is believed that these inscriptions on rock were made by the Native Americans.

It is possible that these markings depict a Snake River Valley and might be the oldest maps in the world.

These may also represent pieces of artwork.

This is also an important spiritual site for the Native Americans. 

The area is also available for hiking, sightseeing, and birdwatching if you want to enjoy the surrounding nature. 

The inscriptions are very unique and you may have never seen anything like this in your life before.

If you’re interested in history, this should be one of your top choices!

Address: Nampa, ID 83686, United States

42. Idaho Falls Zoo at Tautphaus Park

Thomas and Melody Banneck / flickr

The Idaho Falls Zoo at Tautphaus Park will be an adventure for your family!

There are many different animals found here in the zoo including local fauna and exotic animals like lions, macaws, and zebras.

You can hear the different sounds of the animals including the singing New Guinea dogs and the laughing kookaburras.

Their many exhibits will allow you to travel the world.

In addition to the admission fee, you can also interact with the penguins up close for 15 minutes.

They also have a “Meet a Zookeeper” program where you can watch them feed different animals.

They also have a children’s zoo where you can feed and pet the sheep and other cute animals.

Behind-the-scenes tours are offered where you can learn more about the work that’s done to keep the zoo running.

This is a perfect opportunity for your family to learn more about the work of a zookeeper.

They also run many other youth programs and events.

The funds go towards supporting conservation efforts.

One unique perk of this museum is that the exhibits have short distances between so you can spend more time enjoying the animals than walking to find where they are.

Address: 2940 Carnival Way, Idaho Falls, ID 83402, United States

43. Melaleuca Field

Melaleuca Field

This award-winning baseball stadium in Idaho Falls is for the local minor league baseball team.

The Melaleuca Field has very unique features such as seating for 3,400 people, a picnic area, luxury suites, natural grass grounds, and a souvenir shop.

Here’s a bit of history for you.

The stadium was formerly known as McDermott.

The renovation cost millions of dollars and you’ll see the names of the donors engraved on plaques.

The new stadium opened in 2007. 

If you’re into baseball, you don’t want to miss this as baseball is one of the greatest things to do in Idaho.

The stadium also offers a variety of snacks you can munch on.

Check out their online schedule for match dates.

There might be a match today!

Address: 900 Jim Garchow Way, Idaho Falls, ID 83402, United States

44. ARTitorium on Broadway

ARTitorium on Broadway

The ARTitorium on Broadway is a must-see family attraction.

Situated in downtown Idaho Falls, it offers art education, interactive displays, family art nights, art contests to win cool prizes, special times for toddlers, parent playdates, scavenger hunts, and a great variety of different events and programs.

This facility features various exhibits to engage children in creative play such as a green screen, arts and crafts, and a station for stop-motion animations.

The center takes a unique approach to merging art and technology together.

The center also offers art kits you can take home featuring different projects that change every month.

You can also book private sessions with an art teacher for groups.

They also have a 136-seat theatre for various performances. 

This is a wonderful opportunity to connect with your child and help them nurture their inner artist.

This is one of the most fun things to do in Idaho so make sure to join their mailing list for updates on classes and events.

Address: 271 W Broadway St, Idaho Falls, ID 83402, United States

45. Eagle Rock Fountain

Emerson / flickr

Added in 2006, the Eagle Rock Fountain is a giant fountain and beautiful work of art.

It is an interesting sightseeing point of interest and landmark in Idaho Falls. 

Officially called “The Protector”, make sure to take a picture with this amazing sculpture to commemorate your journey to Idaho.

In the summer, you will see beautiful flowers surrounding the sculpture and in the winter, you’ll see it has a snowy touch. 

The sculpture exhibits two eagles flying across a rocky cliff with streams of water pouring down along with a sculpture of a lion at the bottom.

This is an awe-inspiring example of skilled craftsmanship and is one of the most beautiful things to see in the city.

Address: S Utah Ave, Idaho Falls, ID 83402, United States

Start Planning Your Trip To Idaho

So, there you have it, folks!

A detailed description of the fun things to do and places to see in Idaho.

Now you don’t have to worry about what to do and things to see in this amazing state.

Some of the Idaho attractions are free so make sure to benefit from them.

As you’ve noted, some of the best things in Idaho are non-profit organizations looking for new, innovative ways to support their communities.

Many of the tourist attractions showcase Idaho’s rich culture, diversity, history, and gorgeous natural beauties.

Whether you’re looking to relax, learn something new, or spend some quality time with your family, this list surely has something for you.

Remember to check the timings and schedules because some tourist attractions have limited hours and months of services, so make sure to check when they are open before you visit.

Happy travels.

Touropia Travel Experts

Discover the World

10 Best Places to Visit in Idaho

Idaho’s nickname is the Gem State. This is very apt, since the 43rd state is truly a gem among states. In the north along Interstate 90, you’ll find lush green forests, picturesque lakes and the historic silver mining town of Kellogg. In the south along Interstate 84, you’ll find deserts and history – the Oregon Trail that brought pioneers to the West passes through here.

In-between, you’ll find Highway 12, a scenic byway that parallels the Clearwater River that Lewis and Clark followed on their expedition to the Pacific.

Map of Places to Visit in Idaho

You’ll also find great recreational opportunities among the best places to visit in Idaho: great skiing and golfing, camping and hiking, and some great mountain biking in the Hiawatha Trail that starts at the Montana border and ends 17 gorgeous, graveled miles later.

10. Sandpoint

Sandpoint may have less than 8,000 residents, but it’s a major economic hub in northern Idaho. Two national businesses, women’s wear retailer Coldwater Creek and salad dressing manufacturer Lighthouse Foods have their national headquarters here.

Nestled in the mountains, Sandpoint sits on the shores of Lake Pend Oreille, (pronounced “pond oh ray”) Idaho’s largest lake with swimming, boating and fishing. Bing Crosby’s family once had a large stone home on the lake shore. Nearby is Schweitzer Mountain, Idaho’s largest ski resort. No wonder this charming place was named a Most Beautiful Small Town in 2011.

9. Lava Hot Springs

Lava Hot Springs is a popular vacation resort in Southern Idaho situated near Pocatello on the old Oregon Trail route. The town isn’t very big – a tad over 500 souls – making it a good place to chill out away from the crowds.

“Chill out,” however, may be a misnomer as you’ll find five hot springs pools here. Water temperatures range from 102° to 112° constantly, even though water is constantly flowing to the Pontneuf River at the rate of 250 million gallons a day. When you tire of soaking, cool off by floating the river on inner tubes.

8. Hells Canyon National Recreation Area

Many travelers look at Hells Canyon National Recreation Area that divides Idaho and Oregon as a scenic and recreation area. That it is, no doubt about it: At nearly 8,000 feet deep, Hells Canyon is the deepest river gorge in North America and can be explored on countless hiking trails.

Running through the middle of it is the Snake River that combines with the Clearwater River to the. Hells Canyon is also an important archaeological district, with indications humans lived here 15,000 years ago. Early explorers also passed through here, so you’ll find historic sites on both sides of the canyon.

7. Idaho Falls

The falls at Idaho Falls may not be very deep, but they’re plenty wide. The falls in downtown Idaho Falls only drop 22 feet (7 meters), but they stretch 600 feet (180 meters) across the Snake River. They’re best viewed from the Snake River Greenbelt, a six-mile round trip over a paved path.

The greenbelt, the city’s top attraction , is popular with bikers and strollers as well as those who climb down the rocks for a little fishing. The town itself is the best city in eastern Idaho. It is the economic, arts and cultural center for the region.

6. Coeur d’Alene

Just 30 miles east of Spokane, Washington , Coeur d’Alene rules the Idaho Panhandle. The largest city in northern Idaho, the city sits on the shores of the scenic Lake Coeur d’Alene. If you’re a golfer, you might want to play a few rounds at the Coeur d’Alene Resort course that’s famous for its 14th Hole, a green that sits in the lake, floating along on an underwater cable.

Coeur d’Alene is one of the best places to visit in Idaho throughout the year, from its Christmas lights cruise on the lake to summer’s Iron Man competition.

5. Shoshone Falls

Q: What falls in the United States is higher than the mighty Niagara Falls?

A: Shoshone Falls in Twin Falls, Idaho. The water falls on the Snake River drop 212 feet (65 meters), Niagara only falls 167 feet (51 meters). Still, Shoshone Falls are sometimes called the “Niagara of the West.” The falls were an important fishing and trading spot for Native Americans, including the Shoshone for which they’re named. The best place to view the falls in a city park that has swimming, picnic and play areas, hiking trails and a boat ramp.

4. Craters of the Moon National Monument

Craters of the Moon National Monument is an eerie place in southern Idaho. The lava formations make it appear desolate; it is one of the best preserved basalt flood areas in the Lower 48 states. Thought to resemble the Moon’s surface, NASA astronauts trained at the lava field as they prepared for their moon landing. Once there, they discovered the Moon was different from Craters of the Moon.

A flashlight is a must if you plan on exploring the lava caves; water also is essential in the summer. The Oregon Trail skirted parts of the monument.

3. Sun Valley

Sun Valley is Idaho’s premier ski and summer vacation resort, with many celebrities owning homes in the area. Located in central Idaho, Sun Valley is nestled among mountains that provide great skiing, ice skating and snowboarding in the winter, and golf, horseback riding, hiking and fly fishing in the summer.

It is a year-round family tourist destination. Sun Valley has hosted World Cup ski races, while Olympic ice skater Sonja Henie filmed Sun Valley here. Noted writer Ernest Hemingway wrote For Whom the Bell Tolls here.

Located in southwest Idaho, Boise is not only the state’s largest city, but also its capital. Part of Idaho’s Treasure Valley, Boise (pronounced “BOY-see”) was a stop along the Oregon Trail. The city’s 8th Street through downtown is now a pedestrian zone.

It’s here you’ll find the Basque Block where you can learn about Boise’s Basque heritage. Boise’s North End has older homes and tree lined streets; the American Planning Association named it one of America’s 10 Great Neighborhoods in 2008. If you’re a jazz fan, don’t miss the annual Gene Harris Jazz Festival.

1. Yellowstone National Park

America’s most loved park, Yellowstone , is not only America’ first national park, but the first national park in the world. It’s a wonderful place to visit, with spectacular scenery and plenty of geothermal activity (don’t miss seeing Old Faithful erupt).

It’s also a good place to see wild animals in their native habitat – buffalo rule here, so don’t be surprised if you get stuck in traffic caused by a buffalo sauntering down the road. Remember, these animals are wild, so keep your distance. Yellowstone is located mostly in Wyoming; only one percent of the park is in Idaho.

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12 Best National & State Parks in Idaho

25 Most Beautiful Places in America

10 Best Places to Visit in Washington State

12 Best Cities to Visit in Idaho

25 Top Tourist Attractions in the USA

18 Best Things to Do in Idaho

10 Best Places to Visit in Wyoming

10 Best Cities to Visit in Washington State

14 Best Things to do in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho

17 Best Things to Do in Boise, Idaho

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Advise for September visit to Idaho - Idaho Forum

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Advise for September visit to Idaho

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Hello joclair, Here are a few suggestions based on your interests. It will depend on what route you decide to take, but these are all located in southern Idaho. Twelve to fourteen days will give you several options to choose from. Charley 48 or the Sun Valley Chamber will be very helpful with the Sun Valley area. You could head north instead and choose a multitude of other options. D0bby can help you with that.

Craters of the Moon spans 750,000 acres. Hike the North Crater Flow trail, Spatter Cones and Devil's Orchard Trails. Hike to Big Craters and explore Indian Tunnel (Requires a free cave permit). Hike the Broken Top Loop or Tree Molds Trails.

There are over 30 miles of paved pathways and services available in Ketchum and Sun Valley. These trails are perfect for exploring the area that stretches between Hailey, Ketchum, and Sun Valley.

Stanley is surrounded by three scenic byways: the Ponderosa Pine, Salmon River, and Sawtooth Scenic Byways. Hike Bench Lakes Trail (Start your trek at Redfish Lake which is just 15 minutes outside of Stanley). Fishhook Creek Trail (a much shorter, mellower hike, and stems from the same trailhead as Bench Lakes).

Frenchman's Bend Hot Springs only a short drive from Ketchum. Goldbug Hot Springs located South of Salmon, Idaho and north of Challis. The trail to the hot springs is well traveled and very easy to follow– it's 2 miles in, and 2 miles out.

Explore Thousand Springs by a kayak, canoe or SUP located between Mountain Home and Twin Falls . Gorgeous views as thousands of gallons of water flow from below ground down volcanic cliff faces. 

Bruneau Dunes just an hour outside of Boise . There’s a six-mile self guided trail that has amazing views.

Yes, i can help..i live in the area and drive to all the locations!!

Then go up to Stanley and rent a Danners Cabin (hard to get, but say you heard it in TA) (slice of heaven..google Stanley Idaho) and you can take your loop trail from there. Stanley bakery has the best breakfast/lunch..and they own the Sawtooth Hotel, where i had a wonderful dinner on Sunday.

Stay there for 3/4 nights, and drive up the road to Salmon..hike to Goldbug hot springs..( hot springs in Stanley, too)..and come back and go back to Boise on highway 21 or D0bby can help with a longer loop up north and then back to Boise..LEt us Know if we can be of more help..

Thank you for the detailed recommendations. Very helpful information!

Charley48, great information! I'll check into these recommendations, may be back with more questions later.

Absolutely. Anything I can do to help. I have been known to climb around and see what the VRBO is eally like!!

Here's a few more options, just in case you want to see some different Idaho scenery. Since you're from NC, I imagine you have lots of green places, so if you would like some non-green places yet interesting and geologically fascinating, this route would help you enjoy the first couple days. You can look them all up on google to see if it suits your interests!

-Bruneau Sand Dunes

-Malad Gorge/Malad Gorge State Park & Devils Washbowl

-Balanced Rock and Balanced Rock State Park (we think this is awesome!)

-Perrine Bridge (could be lucky to see some basejumpers off the bridge) and could kayak in canyon

If you want another day, from Twin Falls you could drive down to City of Rocks National Reserve and Castle Rocks State Park for some nice hiking, with huge boulders. September should be quite nice there too.

From Twin Falls, then head north to the Sun Valley area. This gives you a nice variety of Idaho landscape and some awesome sights you won't see elsewhere!

After your hiking in the Sun Valley area, I also recommend to head north to Stanley, maybe Challis. Beautiful country and plenty of outdoors activities. Then west back to Boise .

Happy planning and travelling :-)

Thank you, Diver Mom. I am interested in seeing a variety of landscapes while in Idaho. Thanks for these additional suggestions.

This topic has been closed to new posts due to inactivity.

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Idaho Hotels and Places to Stay

• Last Minute

25 Best Idaho Destinations

Last Updated By VacationIdea Staff on March 13, 2024

Basque Block accounts for the city’s Basque heritage. As you stroll through downtown, check out the imposing Idaho State Capitol, the Boise Art Museum, renowned classic Egyptian Theatre, and verdant Julia Davis Park with Zoo Boise , strolling paths, and picnic areas. Don’t miss a visit to the unique blue field of the Albertsons Stadium located on the BSU campus, home to the football team the Boise State Broncos.

The venues for the performing arts include the Colonial 7 in its beautiful Greek neoclassical building and the Actors' Repertory Theatre of Idaho at the Phoenix Theatre, which offers a series of award-winning shows every year. Local and visiting outdoor enthusiasts have 35 parks and green spaces with playing fields and trails. The popular five-mile Idaho Falls Greenbelt found on both sides of the Snake River is perfect for walking or biking. If you are looking for cool places in Idaho, Idaho Falls is the place to go.

Take the kids to the Silverwood Theme Park for one of 70 slides, rides and attractions. There is a special event every month of the year, and Art Walk, which covers seven galleries in a seven block downtown area, takes place every month. Enjoy a show at the Coeur d'Alene Summer Theatre or Coeur d'Alene Arts & Culture Alliance. The Art Spirit Gallery will fascinate you with artworks produced by local artists.

Today, Pocatello has a rich cultural life thanks to the Palace Playhouse theatre, Westside Players Dinner Theater located in Pocatello's Historic Warehouse District, and the Old Town Actors Studio. The Idaho Museum of Natural History features collections in anthropology, life sciences, and earth sciences, while the Shoshone-Bannock Fort Hall Reservation showcases the area’s tribal history. In the winter, The Mink Creek Nordic Ski Complex has trails for everyone, and when the snow melts, there is hiking, biking, golf, fishing, bird watching, and so much more.

Salmon is a small Idaho town on the edge of the vast Frank Church-River of the No Return Wilderness and is a gateway to some of the best fishing, hunting, and outdoor recreation. It was built by intrepid Western explorers and a short way from downtown Salmon are the Lewis and Clark Back Country Byway, the Salmon River Scenic Byway, and the Sacajawea Historic Byway. Outdoor adrenaline junkies flock from all over the world to raft the fast middle fork of the River Salmon. The surrounding Salmon and Lemhi Valley ranges also invite exploration and there is skiing, ice skating, ice fishing, and snowboarding in the winter. Biking is a very popular sport in Salmon and there are miles of scenic trails for bikers.

Another unique market place is the Cedar Street Bridge Public Market with a series of shops, restaurants, and seasonal events happening on the bridge over Sand Creek right in the downtown Sandpoint. Art lovers can easily find something to satisfy their interest with two-dozen galleries all over town; one great example is Hallans Gallery. Kids will love Silverwood Theme Park with 60 rides, attractions, and shows. You can learn about the city past at the beautiful Bonner County Historical Society and Museum, and when it comes to skiing, it is difficult to beat the award-winning Schweitzer Retreat.

Bruneau Dunes State Park, with 470 feet tall sand dunes towering above two small lakes, offers very different picture of the area. Learn about the area history at the Mountain Home Historical Museum or visit historic Silver City, established in 1864, where you can imagine the way of life of the early settlers and even pan for gold yourself. Enjoy the lush green Three Island Crossing State Park on the Snake River and visit the Oregon Trail History & Education Center located in the park to learn about the early pioneers and Native Americans living in the area at the time.

There are seventeen public parks in the city, the most popular of which is the Meridian Settlers Regional Park where free movies are shown during the summer. The true heart of the city is the Village at Meridian, large outdoor shopping mall with shops, ice rink, theater, arcade, a playground, and a fountain. There is a music and light show every hour in the playground.

Celebration Park, located on the Paiute Indians’ wintering ground, is the city ‘s most popular park, and it features unique 12,000 years old Indian art. Deer Flat National Wildlife Refuge includes beautiful 11,000-acre Lake Lowell, and it is a popular spot for watching wildlife, hunting, fishing, and environmental education.

Ketchum has nine major art galleries, and there is the annual Art Walk, when all galleries are open. The best place to learn about the city’s history is Ketchum Sun Valley Historical Society. Ore Wagon Museum celebrates the city’s mining origins and has a great collection of original 1880's ore wagons used in the historic Wood River Valley. If you come in the winter and love to ski, a visit to the Sun Valley Resort is a real treat. In the summer, don’t miss visiting magical Sawtooth National Forest.

Sun Valley has a thriving art scene, and the best way to explore it is during the monthly Gallery Walks. The Sun Valley Museum of History brings the past of Sun Valley to life, and Forest Service Park will delight you with weekly free live concerts. Sun Valley has its own opera and October Jazz Festival and the Sun Valley Writers’ Conference, which brings writers and readers together.

The two major skiing mountains are Little Ski Hill and Brundage Mountain with five chairlifts. If you get tired of the constant adrenaline rush, visit Central Idaho Historical Museum to learn about the area’s history, take the kids to the PLAYLive McCall gaming center, dip into the natural Burgdorf Hot Springs, or take a leisurely cruise on the magnificent Payette Lake. More hot springs in Idaho

During the last eruption about 2,000 years ago, two smaller lava fields – Wapi and Kings Bowl – formed near the Great Rift. The eruptions in this active area are expected to continue in the future along the weak Crater of the Moon area, where the lava is close to the surface of the earth. The volcanic activity created fantastic formations that are popular with adventure seekers and offer great hiking opportunities to explore the lava tubes, wild animal watching, and camping in the wilderness. Craters of the Moon are protected under the designation of National Monument and Reserve.

Since the falls are created by seasonal runoff from Snake River as it carves its way through the basalt canyon on the way to Colombia River, the best time to see it is when the flow is at its peak, from April to July. The falls are a popular recreation area, and there are playgrounds, picnic areas, hiking trails, swimming areas, and a boat ramp. The best spot to watch the falls is a scenic overlook.

It is paradise for both wild animals and animal watchers – you can see bison, bears, wolves, elk, antelope, and much more. The best way to see the park is on foot, so put on a good pair of hiking boots and enjoy more than 1000 miles of trails, with twelve campgrounds to rest in. You can also bike, boat, and ski, depending on the season.

You can hike around the small lakes, enjoy a lake-side picnic or try your luck fishing for bluegill. There is also a ramp for boating – electric motor boats only. Bruneau Dunes State Park has an observatory on-site which you can visit on weekend nights to learn all about the stars, and do some serious star-gazing through their powerful telescopes. Other activities include kite-flying and going on guided educational walks. In winter you can enjoy downhill skiing and sledding on the dunes, and the campsite is open all year round.

The mighty Snake River provides for some world-class white-water rafting along the floor of the canyon and adventure-seekers can enjoy a thrilling experience with Hell's Canyon Adventures, who also arrange jet-boat tours and fishing charters in the heart of the deepest gorge in America. For something a little less strenuous you can have hours of fun and relaxation exploring the smaller rivers in the area by canoe, kayak, paddleboard or raft. There are several camping areas in the Hell's Canyon National Recreation Area where you can park your RV or set up camp surrounded by pristine forest, and the Windy Saddle Horse Camp has special facilities for visitors who bring their horses with them.

On Ritter Island you can take a self-guided tour of the historic ancient barn and walk to the beautiful Minnie Miller Springs. History buffs can enjoy exploring the Kelton Trail portion of the park where you can still see deep wagon gouges in the rocks, testimony to the historic Kelton Stage Coach, which used to ferry passengers and freight between Boise and the Kelton railhead. The crystal clear waters that you can see gushing out of the rock face provide the perfect habitat for trout and you can spend many happy hours fly-fishing in one of the best trout fishing areas in America.

Avid fishermen can try their hand at fishing in some of the many ponds and lakes or try casting a line into a stream or river to catch their dinner. Other popular summer activities are wildlife watching (there is a great variety of wildlife in the forests including wolves, many species of deer and various small mammals), photography and canoeing, rafting and kayaking along the scenic waterways. Children (and adults) can attend various educational programs at the Learning Center or participate in ranger-led activities. In winter, the entire Sawtooth National Recreation Area is blanketed in snow and becomes a hotspot for winter sport fanatics, and you can try downhill skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing and snowmobiling throughout the area.

At the Harriman State Park (just 11miles north) you can enjoy hiking, fly-fishing, horse-riding and excellent wildlife viewing, and if you venture a little further to Island Park, you can choose from a great variety of outdoor pursuits including off-road vehicle trails and boating and fishing on Park Reservoir or Henry's Lake. You can pitch your tent or park your RV at several campgrounds in the area.

You can pitch your tent or park your RV at a serviced campsite and enjoy cooking your food over the outdoor fire-pits, or rent one of the six fully-equipped cabins. The campsites are closed in winter, but there is plenty of accommodation in McCall. In winter, the entire area is blanketed in snow and the focus changes to winter sports, including Nordic skiing on one of two USSA-certified cross-country courses. You can explore over 12 miles of groomed trails which range from recreational to challenging. You can also enjoy snow shoeing on-site and snowmobiling, snow tubing and many other snow sports in nearby McCall.

Both adults and children can learn about the environment by visiting one of the Visitor's Centers such as the Redfish Lake Visitor's Center (in summer) to take part in daily activities which include evening campfire programs. In winter there are various activities including ranger-guided snowshoe hikes and much more.

More ideas: Idaho RV parks

The main activity revolves around riding the dunes in a wide variety of off-road vehicles, and you can rent one on-site from Adventure Dune Rentals, if you do not have your own. There are dunes for all levels of experience ranging from gentle slopes for beginners to really challenging near-mountains of up to 425 feet high that require skill to conquer. Other fun activities you can enjoy on the dunes include sand-boarding, hiking, nature observation (you will be amazed how much life the apparently barren dunes support) and horse-riding. There are several nearby attractions that you can visit for a change of pace including the dramatic Mesa Falls on the Snake River and Yellowstone Bear World (for self-drive wildlife viewing).

The Cove Recreation Site is another place where you can fish, swim, hike and enjoy both motorized and non-motorized water sports in addition to wildlife viewing and picnicking, and you can set up your tent or park your RV at the camping facility on the south shore of the C.J. Strike Reservoir. At Swan Falls Dam you can see the historic old hydroelectric plant, go fishing and have a picnic.

• 1. Boise, Idaho
• 2. Idaho Falls, Idaho
• 3. Coeur d'Alene, Idaho
• 4. Pocatello, Idaho
• 5. Salmon, Idaho
• 6. Sandpoint, Idaho
• 7. ID Places to Visit: Mountain Home
• 8. Places to Visit in Idaho: Meridian
• 9. Idaho Destinations: Nampa
• 10. Places to Visit in Idaho: Ketchum
• 11. Places to Visit in Idaho: Sun Valley
• 12. ID Places to Visit: McCall
• 13. Craters of the Moon National Monument & Preserve
• 14. Idaho Destinations: Shoshone Falls
• 15. Places to Visit in Idaho: Yellowstone National Park
• 16. Places to Visit Near Me: Bruneau Dunes State Park
• 17. Hell's Canyon National Recreation Area
• 18. Places to Visit in Idaho: Thousand Springs State Park
• 19. Places to Visit Near Me: Sawtooth National Recreation Area
• 20. Idaho Destinations: Mesa Falls
• 21. Places to Visit in Idaho: Ponderosa State Park
• 22. Sawtooth Wilderness, Idaho
• 23. Idaho Destinations: Lewiston
• 24. St. Anthony Sand Dunes, Idaho
• 25. Morley Nelson Snake River Birds of Prey National Conservation Area

More Features

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25 Best Things to Do in Coeur d'Alene, Idaho

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THE BEST TIME TO VISIT IDAHO: All Four Seasons Explored

Post Summary: A breakdown of the best time to visit Idaho and what all four seasons are like in the gem state.

Wondering about the best time to visit Idaho ? You’re not alone! Idaho has started to gain steam as a fantastic outdoor getaway. Idaho is piquing the interest of visitors from all over the country who are curious about what there is to do in Idaho .

As someone who lives in the Gem State, the best time to go to Idaho depends on what kind of traveler you are, your ideal weather, and what you hope to do.

I’ll break down all four seasons in Idaho to give you a good idea of what kind of weather you’ll be dealing with, along with my recommendations for the best time to visit Idaho.

READ MORE ARTICLES ABOUT IDAHO 51 Of The BEST Things To Do In Idaho 57 Idaho Facts You’ll Want To Know 6 Stunning National Parks In Idaho An Idaho Packing List For All Four Seasons

Best Time To Visit Idaho

Generally, the high season for Idaho tourism is during the winter holidays and all through the summer months. Come wintertime, everyone flocks to Idaho’s multiple ski resorts to enjoy skiing and snowboarding, while summertime brings families and adventurers who want to hike, camp, or play on the thousands of lakes and rivers spread throughout the state.

My personal recommendation on the best time to visit Idaho is late spring to early fall. The weather is sublime, and the outdoors are bursting with fun recreational activities. That being said, I’m a sun worshipper who always wants to be in the water. So…I like the summer.

If you love winter recreation, like skiing, snowboarding, cross-country skiing, winter yurts, hot springs, and snowshoeing, Idaho offers phenomenal experiences. The best part is that if you visit outside of the winter holidays and come in January or February, even the most popular places will be relatively uncrowded compared to other huge ski resorts in other states.

I could also argue that June and September are the best months to visit Idaho if you’re looking for uncrowded hiking trails, clear waterways, comfortable weather, and vibrant green forests .

Let’s dig a little further into the weather in Idaho and each season to get a feel for the best time to go to Idaho that works for your unique likes and needs.

Weather In Idaho

When breaking down the weather in Idaho, it’s  important to remember that Idaho is a long mountainous state, so there will be differences between Northern and Southern Idaho.  Southern Idaho has a high desert climate with HOT summers and cold winters, and northern Idaho has hot summers and COLD winters. So while it could be a cool 40 degrees with one inch of snow in Boise, it could be a freezing 25 degrees with 9 inches of snow in Couer d’Alene, Idaho.

Idaho has various climates that are determined by topography, elevation, and location. To get a better idea of the weather in Idaho, let’s look at the climate averages of Boise, located in the southwestern part of the state, and Coeur d’Alene, located in the northern part of the state.

Average Weather In Boise and Coeur d’Alene

As you can see, Boise has a pretty standard four seasons with little rain, cool winters, and hot summers. Boise is a high desert city that averages 12 inches of rain a year and 20 inches of snow a year.

Now, let’s take a look at Coeur d’Alene all the way up in the panhandle of Idaho.

In contrast to Boise, Coeur d’Alene has more moisture with an average of 27 inches of rain a year and 42 inches of snow a year. Summers are hot, with a few days that top out in the high 90s.

Let’s look at each season in Idaho to see the pros and cons of visiting in that season.

THE BEST TIME TO GO TO IDAHO

Summer in idaho.

Summer in Idaho is glorious. Think of long days out on the lake with your family and backcountry camping with your closest friends . From late June to early September, Idaho becomes a giant playground for those who love activities like camping, kayaking, hiking, paddle boarding, mountain biking, and more. With temperatures ranging from the 80s to 90s (and more than a few scorching hot days in Southern Idaho), the most popular thing to do is get out and explore Idaho’s ample waterways like Lake Pend Oreille in Sandpoint , the Boise River in Boise, or Payette Lake in McCall

With school out and visitors coming into the state, you can expect that crowds will be at their highest. Make your camping reservations EARLY and book your hotels ahead of time.

Even if the outdoors isn’t your first passion, Idaho in the summer still offers bustling farmers markets, u-pick farms, outdoor concerts, summer festivals, wild foraging, craft beer tastings, and more.

The drawback to visiting Idaho in the summer is that crowds are at their highest, hotels will be more expensive, and it’s fire season. There’s no way to predict how bad of a fire season it will be, but you’re always taking a chance that the air will be unhealthy with a grey covering of smoke. It’s not pleasant and can surely ruin a vacation. Some summers are glorious, and you get only three or four days of smoke, but sometimes it ends up being like the summer of 2020, where the air was smoky and grey for the entire month of August.

5 Fantastic Things To Do In Idaho In Summer

• Tubing the Boise River
• Kayak to Blue Heart Springs
• Lake life in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho
• Craft Beer in Boise, Idaho
• Biking the Route of the Hiawatha

Fall in Idaho

Fall is a wonderful time to visit if you don’t want hot weather and aren’t interested in water activities. Hiking trails will be open and dry, so it’s a great time to get out and explore Idaho’s most famous mountain tops , like Borah Peak and Scotchman Peak , or to enjoy the last days of pleasant weather while camping in Idaho’s fantastic state parks.

While the weather will be temperate, evenings will be cold, so you’ll need to dress in layers.

If you’re interested in leaf peeping, eastern and northern Idaho offer fantastic fall colors, with the colors typically at their peak in mid to late October. Southern Idaho peaks just a little later, and you can enjoy the display of red Maples and yellow Tamaracks in late to early November.

Fall in northern Idaho can often get cut short with freezing weather and snow coming as early as late October. The most ideal time to visit Idaho in the fall is from late September to early October.

5 Fantastic Things To Do In Idaho In Fall

• Backpacking the Sawtooth Mountains
• Walk amongst the giant trees at the Roosevelt Grove Of Ancient Cedars
• Drive the Mesa Falls Scenic Byway for fall foliage
• Sand surfing at Bruneau Dunes State Park
• Sip Idaho’s finest on the Idaho Sunnyslope Wine Trail

Winter In Idaho

Winter in Idaho is a dream for powder lovers. With 18 ski resorts to choose from, each with its own unique flavor, you’re bound to find a ski hill that speaks to you. While Sun Valley is the most famous resort, there are plenty of other under-the-radar spots with acres and acres of crowd-free skiing . Grand Targhee , anyone? Okay, technically, Grand Targhee is in Wyoming, but you can only access it through Idaho, so I’m counting it people! Ski season is dependent on weather, but it typically runs from late November to April.

Even if you’re not a skier, you can enjoy snowshoeing, sleigh rides, dog sledding, winter festivals, and my personal favorite…natural hot springs. Southern Idaho is teeming with natural hot springs , and in the wintertime, the brave will trek through slippery ice to enjoy a steaming waterfall and a hot soak next to a snow-drenched mountain. Hot springs can be enjoyed year-round, but wintertime is one of the most magical times to experience the natural wonder.

Winters are cold and brutal for anyone who isn’t adequately prepared with high-quality winter gear. Read our post on what to wear in Idaho so you can actually enjoy your time in the snow.

If you’re looking to avoid crowds, you’ll want to visit outside of the winter holidays when tourism is at its highest.

5 Favorite Things To Do In Idaho In Winter

• Winter Carnival in McCall, Idaho
• Skiing at Schweitzer Mountain
• The Ice Palace in Rigby, Idaho
• Holiday Light Show at the Coeur d’Alene Resort
• Snowshoeing in Ponderosa State Park

READ NEXT: 19 Winter Adventures in Sandpoint, Idaho 17 Things To Do In Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, in the Winter

Spring In Idaho

Spring means it’s waterfall and wildflower season! While the spring equinox is on March 21, you can expect to see typical spring weather in Idaho starting in April and sometimes even as late as May in eastern and northern Idaho. If you’ll be doing any hiking, you’ll want to bring waterproof boots that you don’t mind getting muddy since it’s the beginning of the rainy season, and many trails at higher elevations will have snow all the way into early June.

That being said, late spring is perfection, with the weather sitting at the 70s and 80s and wildflowers pushing their way up through the soil. It’s also the best time to see Idaho’s famous waterfalls at their fullest. Shoshone Falls and Mesa Falls bring in thousands of visitors, but lesser-known waterfalls will be just as full and less crowded.

Spring is also one of the most adventurous times for white water rafting. With snowmelt gushing down the mountain, Idaho’s rivers will be flowing at full blast. Here’s a fun fact about Idaho , it has more miles of runnable whitewater than anywhere else in the US!

With rain and increased moisture in the air, it’s also the beginning of mosquito season, so don’t forget your bug spray.

5 Fantastic Things To Do In Idaho In Spring

• Treefort Music Fest in Boise
• Whitewater Rafting the Salmon River
• Craters of the Moon National Monument to see small wildflowers popping up between the hard lava beds
• Leaf peeping on the Mesa Falls or Wild Horse Scenic Byway .
• Foraging for mushrooms

So now the question isn’t what’s the best time to go Idaho…it’s when are you coming to Idaho!?

See you on the trails.

PIN IT FOR LATER

Hi, we’re Christina and Brad, Idaho based writers and photographers who live to explore. We did a short stint of traveling full time with our two year old and discovered we're much happier as part time nomads. What does that mean? We travel a lot! And then we go home. We love helping fellow parents and everyday adventurers discover new places and experiences.

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Best places to visit in september 2024.

With fall just settling in and the hassles associated with summer travel dwindling, September is the perfect time for a getaway. By now, most tourists will have made their way out of popular destinations, and airfare and hotel rates will start to slide. U.S. News took into account these factors and more, including expert analysis and traveler sentiment, to come up with the best places to visit in September. Whether you're an adventure traveler looking for that next great trail to hike or an urbanite looking for a new city to buzz about, we've got a destination for you. Have a favorite? Cast your vote below to have a say in next year's list.

Sequoia National Park

Gros morne national park, honolulu - oahu, whitsunday islands, mount rainier national park, guilin and lijiang river national park, grand canyon national park, fiordland national park, the berkshires.

Moab, Utah, is a good choice for travelers seeking adventure and unparalleled natural beauty on their next vacation. Arches National Park sits a mere 5 miles north of town, making Moab a great home base for activities like hiking, horseback riding and canyoneering. Or, crank up the tunes on a scenic drive through the park. September is warm in the 70s and 80s, which makes other outdoor pursuits like rafting, biking and stargazing ideal.

With average temperatures sitting in the 70s and 80s in September, the Greek island of Santorini entices travelers with favorable weather, sunny skies and warm waters, perfect for swimming at some of Greece's top shorelines like Red Beach and Kamari Beach. After sipping vino at one of the region's top-notch wineries, dine alfresco along Amoudi Bay or take in the island's stunning natural beauty on the roughly 6-mile hike from Fira to Oia. Plan your vacation for mid-September to catch the Ifestia Festival, an annual event paying respect to the island's volcanic history through live music and a fireworks display.

September is the sweet spot for visiting Sequoia National Park – summer crowds thin as kids go back to school and temperatures remain comfortable in the high 60s, but roads and services have not yet closed for the winter season. This makes popular activities like hiking through the Giant Forest and driving the Kings Canyon Scenic Byway even more enjoyable. Arrive on the fourth Saturday of September to take advantage of National Public Lands Day, one of the National Park Service's free admission days.

Adventurous travelers will be enamored with Gros Morne National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site located on the Canadian island of Newfoundland. Not only can visitors sail past a glacier-carved fjord on a boat tour of Western Brook Pond, but they'll have the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to walk upon the Earth's exposed mantle in the Tablelands. While summer is a popular time to travel to Gros Morne, a September visit brings added benefits like vibrant fall colors, crowd-free trails and active wildlife.  

Oahu is Hawai'i's most-visited island and Waikiki is one of America's most popular beaches , so if you want ample room to spread out on its famous shores, visiting during the fall shoulder season is your best bet. In September, the island sees fewer tourists but still offers hot, dry weather and warm water ideal for swimming and surfing. The discounted rates in September will also make your vacation that much more relaxing, and you'll be able to experience one of Hawai'i's biggest cultural events, the Aloha Festivals.

Situated off the coast of Queensland, Australia, this chain of 74 islands are loved for their postcard-worthy beaches and proximity to the Great Barrier Reef. Base your stay on popular Hamilton Island, which features an array of adults-only resorts, or camp under the stars on Whitsunday Island, home to the popular Whitehaven Beach. Must-do activities in the Whitsundays include lounging on the sand, snorkeling, scuba diving and sailing. Luckily, travelers who visit in September will be treated to low humidity and consistently sunny skies with average temperatures resting between the high 70s and low 80s.

Although September technically falls within this Washington park's shoulder season, travelers will still find plenty to love about an autumn visit to Mount Rainier National Park. Depending on your elevation, average temperatures can range from the mid-50s to the low 70s in September, and the region's beautiful fall colors make it a perfect time for leaf peeping . Take advantage of the pleasant conditions by hiking the popular Skyline Trail or admiring the stunning views of Mount Rainier from Sunrise, the highest point of the park that can be reached by car.

One of the world's most impressive national parks , Guilin and Lijiang River National Park in southern China is downright magical in September. The weather is cool and dry, making it easy to enjoy the park's mist-covered karst mountains and rice terraces, along with other highlights like the Reed Flute Cave and Elephant Trunk Hill. And while you'll surely want to explore on foot, a guided boat cruise down the Li River is no doubt the best way to soak up Guilin's stunning scenery.

Visiting Arizona's Grand Canyon during its peak summer season can be risky (high daytime desert temperatures and steep hikes don't mix well). September not only offers a slightly cooler climate but fewer crowds to contend with now that the kids will be back in school. The park's South Rim, which is usually bustling with tourists in summer, sees fewer visitors come September, making it a great time for hiking traveler-approved paths like the Rim Trail. What's more, destinations like the highly underrated North Rim are still open throughout the month.

The capital of Wales is a beautiful destination year-round, but September's mild temperatures (think: highs sit in the mid-60s) and colorful fall foliage make this an ideal time to plan a trip. Foodies will love dining on delicious Welsh cuisine at annual events like the Amgueddfa Cymru Food Festival, held at the open-air St Fagans National Museum of History, and the Abergavenny Food Festival, which is hosted by the nearby town of Abergavenny. When you're not enjoying Cardiff's culinary specialties, spend your time exploring Roath Park or taking a guided tour of the historic Cardiff Castle.

Located on New Zealand's South Island, Fiordland National Park draws travelers with its stunning yet dramatic landscapes . While the weather in the park can be unpredictable in September (a spring month in the Southern Hemisphere), Fiordland typically sees daytime temperatures that hover in the 50s. These cool but comfortable days are when Fiordland's marine life, including penguins, fur seals and dolphins, tend to be most active, so be on the lookout while cruising or kayaking through jaw-dropping Milford Sound. Also save time for hiking one of the park's three Fiordland Great Walks trails.

The capital of South Korea is especially lovely come September. Temperatures are warm in the high 70s, and hotel and airfare prices have begun to drop after the busy summer season. Plus, with smaller crowds, it will be easier to enjoy top destinations like Bukchon Hanok Village and Bukhansan National Park. Travelers who plan their getaway for the end of the month can also experience Chuseok, a three-day harvest festival known as Korean Thanksgiving.

September is one of the best times to travel to this northern Morocco city, renowned for its well-preserved architecture and vibrant culture. Not only will you avoid summer's sweltering heat, but visiting in the offseason means you won't have to worry about rubbing elbows with hordes of other tourists. Spend your visit strolling through the magnificent Medina of Fez, a must-visit UNESCO World Heritage Site, and remember to set aside time for a peaceful walk through the Jardin Jnan Sbil public gardens.  

This mountainous area of western Massachusetts offers a mix of outdoor activities and must-see cultural attractions. September brings crisp fall weather to the Berkshires (think: average temperatures in the high 60s) that is perfect for touring the grounds of the region's museums and historical sites. Plus, the pleasant temps make it possible to comfortably hike Mount Greylock or Monument Mountain's trails, which offer an up-close look at the beautiful fall foliage that starts appearing in September. A fall getaway also brings fun seasonal events like the Housatonic Heritage Walks and the Lenox Apple Squeeze.

Occupying about 90 miles of the California coast, Big Sur draws travelers with its dramatic cliffs and picturesque beaches. Visit in September to take advantage of the warm, dry weather lingering from summer without dealing with the peak season's crowds. Must-do activities here include hiking through state parks like Julia Pfeiffer Burns and Andrew Molera, snapping pics of Pfeiffer Beach's impressive rock formations and surfing at Sand Dollar Beach. September is also an ideal time for whale watching, so keep an eye out for migrating blue and humpback whales.

Vote to Add these Destinations to the Rankings

Pigeon Forge

Scottish Highlands

Glacier National Park

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Best Places to Visit in Idaho That Will Totally Surprise You

By Helene Sula

Idaho is a state of jaw-dropping landscapes and an astonishing diversity of natural beauty. From snowcapped mountains to red rock canyons and lush parks (yes, even in the desert!), Idaho’s scenery will totally surprise you. I've got 10 places to add to your travel list as well as an itinerary and guide for your next trip.

With the shocking blue water in Blue Heart Springs, panoramas of Craters of the Moon National Monument, to the awe-inspiring views at Sun Valley Resort, there are so many places in this state that will leave you breathless.

When you think of Idaho you probably think of potatoes. And they embrace it. It's emblazoned on their license plates and all. But it's safe to say Idaho is so much more than potatoes.

Whether you want to go skiing or snowboarding in the winter or hike through some of America’s most stunning landscapes during summertime, there is something here for everyone. With such an incredible variety of things to do and see, we guarantee your time spent exploring Idaho will be unforgettable.

Why Visit Idaho

Best time of the year to visit idaho, sun valley and ketchum, twin falls and shoshone falls, craters of the moon, coeur d'alene, hells canyon, idaho one to two week itinerary.

Idaho isn’t the first place that comes to mind when you think about a vacation destination. Shh… I have a secret. Idaho is one of the least visited states in the USA. Which is honestly… awesome. Because that means the entire state is a hidden gem.

It's the second least populous state in the U.S., and it ranks as one of the least visited states too! But don't let that deter you from exploring this amazing place. There are some beautiful natural wonders, fascinating history, great wine country, and tasty food to discover! We've put together a list of Idaho's most underrated places to visit for your next vacation destination!

Let's talk about potatoes. Why? Because it's what put Idaho on the map. You might not know it by looking at it, but Idaho used to be mostly desert. That was until in the 1930s when they used the Snake River to irrigate much of the land and create a beautiful, green, and agriculturally significant oasis for farmers.

Jack Simplot saw a demand for potatoes and created the first commercially viable frozen french fries, supplying the potatoes for McDonald's own french fries!

Idaho is filled with amazing scenery and fun activities for people of all ages. In fact, Idaho has more hot springs on public land than any other state! From hiking, biking, fishing, and whitewater rafting to visiting museums and shopping in charming downtowns – there’s something for everyone!

If you're looking to escape the heat (like I was in Texas!) then summer is typically a great time to visit Idaho. The summers are gorgeous with long days and warm weather, but they are some of the busiest months for vacationers. The best time for a trip to Idaho is May through September when, it's not too hot and there's plenty of daylight to explore.

The resort town of Sun Valley and Ketchum are famous for skiing but there's another reason for its fame. This is where Ernest Hemingway spent a good amount of time and even wrote some of his most classic literature, “For Whom the Bell Tolls.” Hemingway loved fishing and hunting which are a big part of the culture in Sun Valley. Hemingway is buried here and you can also visit Trail Creek Camp where he wrote.

Sun Valley is located on the edge of Bald Mountain and Dollar Mountain and has some incredible hiking, off-roading, and mountain biking trails plus fun attractions like Sun Valley Resort and Red Fish Lake.

Walk around the European style resort (it really reminded me of the ski resorts in the Austrian Alps) of Sun Valley. In 1936, Averell Harriman, chairperson of the Union Pacific Railroad decided to establish the first ski resort in North America and wanted it to model it after European ski areas. He enlisted count Felix Schaffgotsch, an Austrian ski instructor. First, he found the mining town of Ketchum and met Roberta Brass who’s father owned 3200 acres of ranch land that would be come sun valley.

Then, Charles Proctor designed ski runs hence calling the mountain “Proctor Mountain.” He also invented the world’s first chairlift. And, to top it off, Sun Valley is USA’s first destination ski resort.

For dinner, I recommend a step back in time and to eat at Pioneer Saloon. There's tons of history- read the menu!

If you're into off-roading or want to rent a side by side, you can check out Boulder Creek road.

We camped in the Sawtooth National forest Wilderness Area at Murdoch camp ground and loved our proximity to Sun Valley and Stanley!

Stanley Lake is a glacial lake located south of the Sawtooth Mountains. This is an incredibly beautiful place that captures your attention with it's deep blue waters surrounded by jagged mountain peaks and hiking trails.

I recommend hiking at Redfish Lake . For $14 you can take a high-speed boat across the lake and hike the “Bench Lakes” Trail to head back to the beginning. The water looks like a beach, it's so crystal clear.

After that take a dip at Stanley Lake and relax on the beach after your hike.

The town of Stanley is tiny, but fun, so save some time to explore!

I loved Boise. Like, Michael and I talked about moving to Boise it was so nice! Great restaurants, interesting history, and tons of outdoor activities.

To kick off our time in Boise we took a bike tour where we learned tons about the city. There are some incredible parks and public spaces that are a testament to the city and it's people. Everything is sparkling clean and well maintained.

This is in part to Idaho's billionaire Jack Simplot. After making lots of money selling potatoes to McDonald's for French fries, he donated much of his money back to the city of Boise.

In fact, over one third of Idaho's labor income comes from potatoes! So it's no surprise they celebrate this heritage with Potato Drop each year in downtown Boise on New Year's Eve.

But don't just eat fries. Although I do recommend checking out Boise Fry Company for a variety of fries, burgers, and sauces. One thing Boise has to offer that might surprise you is the food scene. I was blown away by all the variety that Boise has to offer.

My favorite restaurant in Idaho has to be Fork in downtown Boise. Every dish we had was divine but the mushroom starter (I don't even like mushrooms) was out of this world.

Interestingly, the biggest Basque population outside of Europe resides in Boise! This is due to Basque shepherds who migrated to the area in the 1800's. The Basque population occupies a relatively small area of land that rests on the border of France and Spain where the Pyrenese Mountains meet the Bay of Biscay. 

You can visit the Basque Market and Basque Museum, go to a traditional Basque dinner (I recommend just to grab food at the market – it was delicious!) and even take a class at the Basque Center.

There's also an amazing brewery called Payette Brewing that's dog friendly!

Just outside of Boise, my favorite thing to do is head to Bogus Basin . It's a ski area about 30 miles outside of town that you can easily visit for the day. You will pass many pretty landscapes along the way and get a great view of downtown.

Once at Bogus Basin you can rent skis or snowboards and head to the top of the mountain where there are some fun mountain biking trails. But my favorite activity was the alpine mountain coaster! Get an unlimited pass so you can ride it as many times as you want!

Shoshone Falls was my first introduction to Idaho after driving up from Colorado through Utah. I had no idea what to expect. It's safe to say I was blown away. Shoshone Falls is the second highest waterfall in America and there's an excellent view of it from a hike up to Grand View Point. The falls are on the Snake River as it tumbles over an enormous basalt cliff into a deep canyon, forming a horseshoe-shaped waterfall which is 1,000 feet wide and plunging 212 feet. 

We almost didn't go to Blue Heart Springs . We actually had to go back to Twin Falls and decided to go for it since we were back in the area. OMG, Blue Heart Springs is incredible. Rent some canoes and paddle around the canyon. You could easily spend hours here exploring.

You'll rent kayaks at Banbury Springs (they also offer a pool), and I recommend renting for 4 hours.

On your way out make sure to stop at Clover Leaf Creamery for the best ice cream in Idaho!

Not far from Twin Falls is Craters of the Moon, a national monument. You can hike around lava tubes, explore the black cinder covered cones dotted with flowers, and wander through caves.

The gnarled, crusty ground that was frozen in time traces the tale of rivers of lava that gushed from fissures across the Snake River Plain known as the Great Rift.

Trails are interactive and have information along the way. We particularly liked learning about the spatter cones that you can peer through after a short walk up.

Sandpoint, once named America’s Most Beautiful Town, is in the northern tip of Idaho. This charming town feels almost beach like with a number of waterfront shops and restaurants. Watch out for moose on the road!

Walk near the water, grab a bite to eat, and make time for Schweitzer Mountain , an excellent ski area for all levels.

One thing that will definitely surprise you is the castle at Schweitzer Mountain! A Hogwarts inspired castle is actually a private residence and you can stay in the next door Château de Melusine.

There are tons of trails to explore and it's dog friendly, so bring your pup with you!

The northernmost city in Idaho is Coeur d'Alene and it's a playground for golfers, but there's plenty to see and do in area. Walk along the lakefront and have a gooey's sundae at the resort. Pro tip: go at sunset and head to “Whispers” and sit outside near a fireplace. You can order drinks or sundaes here!

Downtown there are tons of galleries, shops, and restaurants. I recommend heading to Jimmy's Round the Corner for their famous, Guy Fieri approved, pecan roll.

Coeur d'Alene offers a wide array of water-based activities including lake cruises and sailing as well as whitewater rafting, kayaking etc.

Lastly, you must bike the Hiawatha ! This 15 mile leisurely bike ride is all down hill! You'll head to “Lookout Pass” and bike through a mile and a half tunnel and then meander down the mountain with beautiful views.

On your way back to Coeur d'Alene stop by the cute town of Wallace and grab a bite to eat at Fainting Goat. Make sure to check out the “center of the universe” while you’re there! It’s in the middle of the street in the town!

Hell's Canyon is a picturesque river gorge located along the Idaho and Oregon border. This is the deepest river gorge in North America, with the Snake River running through it.

I recommend taking a half day Jet Boat Tour to get to see the canyon up close and learn more about the history.

I was shocked to see beautiful sandy beaches dotting the canyons. You'll also see deer, big horn sheep, and bald eagles! Hells Canyon got it's name from the earliest white explorers. Many people have tried to control the Snake River with boats and ferries, but few have been successful. Apparently, it was utter “hell” to try and meander down the river. The term “Hells Canyon” was first used in a book published in 1895, and it has become known as this ever since.

After Hells Canyon, stop by Lewiston, which traces its history to the Lewis and Clark Expedition in 1805, and is found along the Clearwater River in northern Idaho.

Lewiston is home to excellent fish and chips served up at the local pub as well as tons of breweries, restaurants, and shopping.

It's also an easy drive from Spokane and Coeur d'Alene making it an easy stop.

I thought we had seen the best of Idaho, and then we went to McCall. I loved this laid-back town with great resorts and a buzzing downtown.

There are tons of outdoor activities including water sports on Payette Lake, fishing at Lucky Peak, and hiking at Cascade Reservoir.

My favorite hike is Boulder Lake. It starts out easy and gets a bit more challenging as you make your way up to the lake. The scenery is beautiful and you'll meander through beautiful trees.

If you decide to spend the night at one of the resorts, I recommend checking out The Lodge at Sun Valley Resort for live music and dancing on Saturday nights!

Lastly, take the short drive to Gold Fork Hot Springs for the perfect hot springs experience. These beautiful, well manicured stone pools heat up to 102 degrees. Best part? It's only $10 to get in.

If you have one week in Idaho, here’s my suggested itinerary.

If you’re flying in, you’d fly into Boise. I’d allow 2-3 days here. You can also head south for a half day trip for Twin Falls and Blue Heart Springs. Make your way east to Sun Valley and Stanley Lake. If you only have a week in Idaho then try and squeeze everything in 1-2 days. If not, extend your time to at least 3 days.

Next, go north to McCall. Further north you’ll find Lewiston and Hells Canyon. Then at the top of Idaho you’ll go to Couer d’Alene, Hiawatha, and Wallace. Then head back south to Boise!

If driving, start from Twin Falls and go to Blue Heart Springs. From there just head all the way north and follow the route for a one to two week trip as laid out above.

Idaho has something for everyone, and that’s what makes it such a special place. Whether you want to explore in the summer or wintertime, there are plenty of things to do across all four seasons. From skiing and snowboarding during the winter months, to hiking through some of America’s most stunning landscapes during warmer weather, we guarantee your time exploring this beautiful state will be unforgettable!

MEET THE AUTHOR

Helene Sula

I believe that one trip can change your life. It did for me. I'm a self proclaimed home body that quit her job, moved abroad, and more often than not, lives out of a carry-on bag. If I'm not traveling, I'm most likely re-reading Harry Potter or watching "Midnight in Paris" while snuggling my dogs. I'm a digital marketing expert who turned my love of travel into a full-time career. And I help others do it too.

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25 Amazing Things To Do in Southern Idaho: Hiking, Kayaking & More Outdoor Fun

January 7, 2024.

Southern Idaho is an incredible region with a wide variety of outdoor adventures. From volcanic landscapes to alpine lakes and waterfalls, there is no shortage of beauty. This list includes 25 amazing outdoor adventures all over Southern Idaho.

Whether you recently moved to Idaho or are taking a Southern Idaho road trip, let this list be your guide to discover the best places to visit. This blog is based on my experience spending a month in Southern Idaho in summer 2022.

Table of Contents

When to visit southern idaho, how to get to southern idaho, this list is divided between 4 regions:, 1. hike or bike in bogus basin, 2. ride the alpine coaster at bogus basin, 3. sleep in a potato, 4. hike to table rock, 5. explore the boise freak alley, 6. walk or bike the boise river greenbelt, 7. hike or bike in camel’s back, 8. hike to an abandoned mine, 9. kayak to shoshone falls, 10. walk behind perrine coulee falls, 11. take in the view of perrine memorial bridge, 12. paddle to blue heart springs, 13. hike into box canyon state park, 14. see the balanced rock, 15. take a scenic drive around malad gorge, 16. visit lemmon falls, 17. go white water rafting, 18. explore stanley, idaho, 19. soak in a hot spring, 20. hike in the sawtooth mountains, 21. kayak on redfish lake, 22. explore craters of the moon, 23. camp in the city of rocks national reserve, 24. take in the view of bruneau overlook, 25. hike to the teepee rocks, final thoughts, more idaho travel guides:.

Some of the outdoor activities on this list are only seasonally available, such as white water rafting and kayaking. I recommend visiting Southern Idaho between May and September to take advantage of water activities and nice hiking weather. May and September will be the best times to avoid the worst heat and enjoy fewer crowds.

In the winter months, Southern Idaho is still beautiful and is a great time to enjoy skiing, hot springs and more. Your trip will just look different.

If you’re flying to Southern Idaho, I recommend flying into Boise and renting a car. Stanley is 3 hours from Boise and Twin Falls is 2 hours away.

There is also an airport in Twin Falls but flights are limited and only available via Delta.

• Boise and Nearby
• Twin Falls and Nearby
• Southern Idaho Desert
• Sawtooth Mountains

Please make it a priority to Leave No Trace when exploring the outdoors. This includes leaving nothing behind, respecting wildlife, minimizing campfire impacts, respecting those around you, planning ahead and traveling on durable surfaces. For more details, read about the seven principles at lnt.org.

The Best Outdoor Adventures Near Boise

The Bogus Basin Mountain Recreation Area is a ski resort in the winter and a destination for hiking, biking and more in the summer. As you hike or bike up the trails, there are some beautiful views of the surrounding area to find. I hiked portions of the Deer Point and Elk Meadows trails and especially enjoyed the meadows full of wildflowers. Be prepared to share the trails with hikers and bikers.

Ride the only alpine coaster in Idaho! Glade Runner is a mountain coaster at Bogus Basin that runs in the summer and during the winter holidays. You get to control your own speed but are also safe from flying off the tracks. Either one or two people can ride down in each car. You’ll wind through trees with some great views of the surrounding hills. The coaster can go quite fast and is a lot of fun.

Prices vary but are typically $19 for a single rider or $29 for two riders. You can also get a day pass and ride as many times as you want!

Stay in the most unique accommodation in Idaho at the Big Idaho Potato Hotel! This potato toured the country on the back of a trailer for the Big Idaho Potato campaign. After retirement, it was repurposed into a gorgeous Airbnb with a bright interior and thoughtful details.

The property has a beautiful bathhouse just a few yards away and even a friendly cow named Dolly who lives on the property and loves attention. The inside of the potato includes a fridge, air conditioning, a record player and some potato-themed candy and toys such as a Mr. Potato Head.

The bathroom is especially impressive and includes robes, a fireplace, a skylight and a tub. The home is located about a half hour outside of Boise, out in the country, so bring some food to enjoy a picnic.

This has to be one of the unique places I’ve ever stayed and is definitely worth the price! Add it to your Idaho bucket list if you enjoy unique accommodations. Rates are typically $250 a night and it often books up a couple months in advance.

The Table Rock trail is the most popular trail near Boise for good reason! Hiking to the top of this rock provides amazing views of the city and surrounding foothills. It’s a great spot for sunset.

The trail to reach the top is about 3 miles round trip and you can add on some other trails to explore further. The hike is steep at times and has very little shade, so make sure to bring plenty of water.

Interestingly, there is a giant cross on top of the rock. The story behind the cross is a bit controversial. It was built in 1956 to honor a mailman. The land belonged to the Department of Correction at the time. Then in 1971, the land was sold to the United States Junior Chamber (known as Jaycees). Therefore, it was considered to be private land. In 1994, the ACLU argued (and lost) that the sale of the land should be void. Later in 1999, Rob Sherman, a human rights activist, gave an impassioned speech at BSU where he threatened to bring down the cross. This led to over 10,000 people marching to save the cross. It still stands today, with a nearby sign to explain its history.

No matter your thoughts on the cross, it’s a beautiful hike with some great views of the foothills and the city.

Talk a walk among murals at Freak Alley in Downtown Boise. The gallery is the largest open-air, multi-artist mural gallery in the northwest. This alleyway encomposses a block of murals that are consistently in transition. One iconic piece reads “Breaking Boise” in the form of the Breaking Bad logo and other pieces incorporate music, animals, plants and more. The gallery changes every year so you never know what you may discover.

There are several great restaurants near the alley. I recommend Barbarian Downtown Beer Bar, Bittercreek Alehouse and Fork.

Tip: Boise is the largest Southern Idaho city and a great place to base yourself for adventures!

The Boise River Greenbelt is a 25-mile path that follows alongside the Boise River. It is the perfect place for walking or biking. Along the way, there is plenty of shade as you pass through various parks and take in views of the river.

Some stops to make along the Greenbelt include the Boise Art Museum, the Boise Rose Garden, the Idaho Anne Frank Human Rights Memorial, Payette Brewing Company and the Bernardine Quinn Riverside Park.

Camel’s Back Preserve is just a few minutes from downtown Boise and a wonderful place to hike or mountain bike near town. You can take in the views of the surrounding foothills and enjoy the desert landscape as you explore.

I hiked the Red Cliffs Nature Preserve trail (a little over 3 miles) and enjoyed the mix of views. There is a small area of the trail that includes red rock cliffs as well.

This area is also popular for mountain biking. Sometimes there are regulations for hikers and bikers to split up between even and odd number days, so check ahead of time for details.

For a unique trail right outside of Boise, hike up to an abandoned mine! The Adelmann Mine was formerly used to mine gold in the early 1900s. Gold was the primary ore, but records also indicate that silver, lead and quartz was also found.

Today, a 4.7 round trip hike will bring you up close and personal with the mine and amazing views along the way. The trail leading up to the mine is wide and easy to follow, but steep at times.

When you arrive at the trailhead, you’ll park outside of the gates of the Boise River Wildlife Management Area headquarters. There are just a few parking spots available. Walk past the headquarters and you’ll follow what seems to be a former road.

The hike has no shade so be sure to bring plenty of water. Also be prepared for many grasshoppers and watch out for the possibility of rattlesnakes.

When you reach the mine, do not enter it, as it’s very dangerous. Admire it from the outside and take in the amazing foothill views surrounding you.

The Best Outdoor Adventures Near Twin Falls

Shoshone Falls is known as the ‘Niagara Falls of the West.’ At 212 feet tall and 900 feet wide, Shoshone Falls is actually taller than the real Niagara Falls! You can and should take in the views of the waterfall from above at Shoshone Falls Park. But if you’re looking for more of an adventure, I highly recommend paddling out to the base of the waterfall.

The paddling trip to the waterfall is 8 miles round trip and includes a 200 yard portage. Before your trip, it is important to check water levels and wind conditions for safe passing. AWOL Adventure Sports offer rentals or tours if you’d like to go with a guide.

On your way to the waterfall, you’ll cross under the Perrine Bridge (look for BASE jumpers!), see Pilar Falls (this is where you’ll portage the kayak) and enjoy incredible canyon views throughout the journey. The whole journey will take 4-6 hours and is a lot of fun as long as you have some paddling experience.

Perrine Coulee Falls is a beautiful waterfall located not far from where you’ll begin your paddling trip to Shoshone Falls. The waterfall is about 200 feet tall with a trail leading you behind the falling water to the other side.

There is limited parking along the road right next to the waterfall, or you can hike up from a trail beginning along Canyon Springs Road. Either way, it’s a relatively easy trail and a quick walk to see the waterfall up close. This is a beautiful quick stop on your way to or from kayaking the Snake River.

The Perrine Memorial Bridge is one of the most famous landmarks in Idaho. It's a 486 feet tall bridge that happens to be the eighth highest bridge in the United States. The bridge is not only scenic, but popular for BASE jumping. In fact, it is known as the only man-made structure in the United States where BASE jumping is allowed year round with no permit.

To see the bridge, you can walk along the Snake River Canyon Rim Trail and even walk across the bridge. I recommend parking at the Twin Falls Visitor Center where you can also learn more about the area and buy a souvenir. If you’re thirsty, there is also a Swig located next door where you can enjoy a refreshing “dirty soda.”

Another stop you can make while exploring the area is the Evil Knievel Jump Site. This is where Evil Kneival tried to jump across the Snake River Canyon in a steam-powered rocket in 1974. He failed the jump, but survived the landing.

The Blue Heart Springs hold some of the most beautiful blue water I’ve ever seen. This natural spring is shaped like a heart from above and tucked away in a cove below towering canyon walls along the Snake River. In my opinion, this is definitely a must-see in Idaho.

The closest place to rent a kayak or paddle board to reach the spring is from Blue Heart Kayaking. You can also rent from Banbury Hot Springs which is just a bit further.

From Blue Heart Kayaking, it is a ¾ mile paddle to the spring. Note that it will take longer to kayak back than it will to reach the spring due to the current.

We went first thing in the morning on a Sunday and was glad to be some of the first people there. By the time we left, the spring was much more crowded.

The water here is stunning but expect it to be cold if you plan to swim! This was one of my favorite spots in Idaho and should definitely be on your bucket list.

Box Canyon is a beautiful place to hike or swim and it’s located just down the river from Blue Heart Springs. From the parking lot, you’ll have a great view looking down into the gorge. At the bottom there is a natural spring that produces bright, blue water flowing out of the canyon and into the Snake River.

While you have great views from above, the best way to explore this park is by hiking down into the canyon. I did a 3 mile loop hike that descended down into the canyon on a steep trail and back out of the canyon on a dirt road. Either way you hike down, you’ll reach a swimming area, see a waterfall and enjoy the views.

Depending on the time of day, there is little shade, so be sure to bring plenty of water and be prepared for a strenuous hike.

The Balanced Rock is a very impressive roadside stop where you can admire a 40 ton rock that has been carved by wind to stand precariously on a narrow pedestal. The rock is 48 feet tall and the pedestal it sits upon is only 3 feet by 17 inches.

The rock pedestal was actually reinforced with cement in the 70’s to protect it from vandalism. It was reported in the 1920’s that someone had tried for years to chip away at the rock using a pickaxe.

To reach Balanced Rock, navigate to Balanced Rock Park and keep going just past the park. You get a great view of the rock from the road and there is an area for parking and a covered picnic table.

To get a closer look, you can take a very short but slightly steep trail up to the rock. As you climb up, you can hike up behind it for a better vantage point.

This unique rock is definitely worth a quick stop on an Idaho road trip.

Malad Gorge is a branch of the Thousand Springs State Park and offers a great scenic drive with multiple views. While you can hike along the rim of the canyon, this park is more about driving between different views than hiking.

When you arrive, pick up a map at the entry gate and you’ll have some information on the six stops around the park. You’ll see a waterfall directly below the highway bridge that flows into an area known as the “Devil’s Washbowl,” aqua blue water flowing through the canyon, rare plants and more.

There is a pedestrian bridge directly over the major waterfall, making it hard to see directly from above. After crossing the bridge over the Devil’s Washbowl, I recommend walking about a quarter mile up the trail to see the waterfall from further away. You’ll get a better view this way!

While the nearby highway and powerplant at the bottom of the canyon take away from the natural beauty here, it’s definitely worth a quick stop if you’re in the area.

Lemmon Falls is a beautiful waterfall located across from Ritter Island, a branch of the Thousand Springs State Park. It is a very short walk to reach the waterfall and take in the views. If it’s open, you can also walk across the bridge onto Ritter Island where there are historic sites and more waterfall views.

The Best Outdoor Adventures in the Sawtooth Mountains

White Water Rafting on the Payette River is so much fun on a summer day! There are areas of the river for all experience levels and multiple outfitters that offer rafting trips. I went on a half day trip with Bear Valley River Co and traversed a section of the river that included Class III and IV rapids. It was my first time white water rafting and was quite the thrill!

A rafting trip makes for a great day trip from Boise or is a perfect adventure to do on your way up to the Sawtooth Mountains. Rafting trips typically occur from May to September. In addition to Bear Valley River, other outfitters include Cascade Raft, Idaho Whitewater Unlimited and Payette River Company. Be sure to make a reservation ahead of time.

Stanley is a small town in the Sawtooth Mountains that is the perfect base for outdoor adventure. Visit nearby hot springs, explore the surrounding hiking trails, go white water rafting and enjoy the food in town before and after your adventures.

I recommend breakfast at the Stanley Baking Company and dinner at Stanley Supper Club or Papa Brunee’s. For a casual place to stay nearby, I loved the Stanley RV + Basecamp Lodge.

Soaking in a hot spring is one of the best things to do in Idaho! There are several hot springs to explore in the Sawtooth Mountains and each one is special in its own way. They are especially nice to visit in the colder months, but if you visit in the summer, I recommend soaking early or late in the day.

Right on the edge of the town of Stanley, you can visit Valley Creek Hot Springs. There is a large pool to soak in and you’ll get to take in beautiful views of the mountains in the distance with Valley Creek flowing nearby.

Near Lowman, Idaho , you can visit Pine Flat Hot Springs or Kirkman Hot Springs. Pine Flat Hot Springs requires a short and easy hike. When you reach the springs, you’ll find an area of several pools right along the river and even discover a hot spring waterfall. You’ll park at the Pine Flats Campground and pay a $5 fee (or display your America the Beautiful pass ) for this hot spring.

Kirkman Hot Springs is popular so go early to beat the crowds. There are a few hot springs right along the Payette River and another waterfall. In the summer months, this is a great place to relax and swim in the river in addition to soaking in the springs.

Other hot springs in the mountains include Boat Box Hot Springs, Sunbeam Hot Springs and Cove Creek Hot Springs.

There are hiking trails for every ability in the Sawtooth Mountains. Personally, I love anything with an alpine lake so I was especially in love with Goat Lake and Alice Lake.

The hike to Goat Lake is 8.1 miles with 1,768 feet of elevation gain. The last half mile of the hike is difficult to navigate and involves climbing up (and back down) loose scree, so make sure you’re prepared with proper shoes, trekking poles and reliable navigation. The reward is a lake of bright blue water framed with mountains behind it.

Alice Lake is often done in combination with other lakes as a backpacking trip. However, I hiked to Alice Lake as a 12-mile day hike. The hike has 1,630 feet of elevation gain and is rated hard. On your way to the lake, there is no difficult rock scrambling but you should plan on multiple river crossings. Alice Lake is stunning and a gorgeous place to have a picnic and admire the surrounding mountains.

If you’re looking for something shorter and easier, I enjoyed the Fishhook Creek trail. This trail is 4.5 miles with 288 feet of elevation gain and rated easy. It will lead you through a forest to a small but picturesque lake.

Be sure to pay attention to trailhead signage and obtain permits for hiking when needed (this is done for free at the trailheads) and always be sure to carry the 10 essentials and check current conditions for any hike.

While you’re exploring the Sawtooth Mountains, one of the best things to do is to get out on the water on Redfish Lake. This is the largest lake in the Sawtooth National Recreation Area and there are opportunities for kayaking, swimming, boating, fishing and more.

Redfish Lake Lodge marina offers rentals of kayaks, canoes, pontoon boards, paddle boards and more. If you have enough time, paddle to the other end of the lake (it is 4.5 miles long) and take in the views of the mountains overlooking the water.

If you don’t want to get out on the water, you can also relax at the beach area and enjoy some ice cream or food from the grill next to the Redfish Lake Lodge.

The Best Outdoor Adventures In the Southern Idaho Desert

Craters of the Moon National Monument is a must-stop if you’re traveling through Idaho! This unique park is full of volcanic landscapes and made up of lava rocks, cinder cones, caves and more.

There are several stops you can make in one day in Craters of the Moon. Obtain a permit to climb into the caves, hike up the Inferno Cone, explore Devil’s Orchard, see the Spatter Cone and the Snow Cone, and hike the North Crater Trail.

There is a relatively short loop trail around the park and the stops are not far apart. This means you can see a lot in a day or less. No matter how long you have, you’ll be amazed by the wild landscapes here.

The park costs $20 per vehicle for 7 days or is included if you have an America the Beautiful pass. Craters of the Moon is located about 2 hours from Twin Falls and about 3 hours from Boise, but it’s definitely worth the trip.

City of Rocks is a world class rock climbing destination that is incredible for hiking, camping, climbing and enjoying the scenery.

I camped at site 38 and was so impressed that I could walk directly out onto the rocks for an incredible view of the jagged rocks that surrounded me. I was also extremely close to the “Window Arch,” which is a unique and beautiful rock formation.

This park is a rock climbers paradise, but if you’re not a rock climber, I recommend hiking the South and North Trails for some wonderful views. On the North Fork Circle Trail, you’ll get an amazing view overlooking the various rock faces.

Along with longer hikes, there are some interesting rocks to see right off of the road. You can climb on top of Bath Rock, stop at Elephant Rock, Treasure Rock and more.

The road through the reserve is unpaved and may have some potholes, but most cars should be okay as long as you take it slow and pay attention.

Fun Fact: City of Rocks is one of only two ‘national reserves’ in the United States!

The Bruneau Canyon Overlook provides an amazing view of a deep and narrow canyon. There is a small viewing area that includes signage, a pit toilet and a short path along the rim.

Nearby, you can also explore the sand dunes at Bruneau Dunes State Park.

I highly recommend reaching the overlook by coming from the North and driving though Bruneau and Hot Springs first. I made the mistake of taking many miles of 4x4 roads coming from the east.

This very unique natural area requires a remote, rough drive and a bit of extra planning. To reach this spot, you’ll drive an unpaved, bumpy road about 10 miles into the national forest where there is little to no cell reception. Make sure to download offline maps ahead of time and have the ability to self rescue. I recommend having a 4x4, high clearance vehicle but it is not explicitly necessary as long as the road is not wet.

When you reach the spot, there is a very small parking area. You’ll then hike about a mile on an ATV road to reach the unique rock formations. The large cone-shaped rocks are stunning and surrounded by sand. This unique landscape is mind blowing.

After visiting most of the United States, Southern Idaho offers some of my favorite destinations. I am in awe of the beautiful landscapes and the wide variety of activities. Refer to this list as you plan your perfect Idaho road trip.

• The Best Things To Do in Lowman, Idaho
• How To Spend 3 Days in Boise
• The Best Things To Do in Stanley, Idaho

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13 Must-Visit Small Towns in Idaho

Idaho isn’t known for skyscrapers or big cities. However, this Midwest state does boast some incredibly charming small towns! If you’re looking to take a road trip around the great state of Idaho, you’ll certainly want to visit some of these adorable spots. They house cool museums, delicious restaurants, and more. No matter where you go, you’ll be certain to meet some of the welcoming locals from the state. So let’s check out the 13 must-visit small towns in Idaho!

One of the many small towns in Idaho worth a visit is the town of Kellogg. Kellogg has only a population of 2,374 residents, but there’s a lot to see around this cute spot. This city was a mining town and now boasts a rich history. It’s also near some incredible natural sights.

2. Priest River

Another great small town in Idaho is the town of Priest River. Priest River is home to only 1,742 residents, but it has unmatched beauty! It’s located in northern Idaho and is home to a long list of opportunities for outdoor fun, like fishing and hiking.

3. Island Park

Located in Fremont County, Idaho is one of the smallest cities in the state: Island Park. As of the most recent census, there are only 193 residents within Island Park’s city bounds. While the town sits near Yellowstone, it’s also close to a few great state parks like Harriman State Park.

4. Sugar City

Though it’s centered between some larger spots, the small but sweet Sugar City has a measly population of 2,616 residents. The town is rich in history, and was once home to a big sugar beet factory!

5. St. Maries

Like many of the must-visit small towns on this list, St. Maries has a population of under 3,000 residents. As of 2021, the town was home to just over 2,400 people. It’s a town full of many retirees, and residents are pretty spread out throughout the area.

One of the larger small towns on the list is Hailey. Hailey is actually home to just over 9,000 residents as of 2021. While it’s bigger than many of these small towns, it’s still absolutely a charming place to check out. Locals in Hailey are awesome and the town is gorgeous.

Despite its absolutely adorable main street, only 803 people live in the town of Wallace, Idaho. If you visit, you can take an underground mine tour to get to know the history of the town!

Another one of the tiniest small towns in Idaho worth mentioning is Stanley. Despite having some substantial land, only 122 people live within Stanley’s state bounds. However, the town is known for its natural neighbor, Sawtooth National Recreation Area.

For winter adventurers, Driggs is absolutely a must-visit small town in Idaho. In 2021, the population of Driggs was only 2,139. Though the population is small, the list of things to do is big! Explore Grand Teton National Park for a hike, or take your skis to the Grand Targhee Ski Resort.

McCall is another one of Idaho’s small towns with a slightly more substantial population. In 2021, almost 4,000 residents lived within McCall’s city limits! It’s a great spot to visit if you’re hoping to get outdoors, with lots of state and national parks nearby.

11. Sandpoint

Sandpoint resembles the larger size of Hailey, Idaho. While it’s still one of the best small towns in Idaho to visit, there are actually 9,000 residents as of 2021. According to Idaho standards… that’s pretty busy! While the lake makes for a wonderful summer activity, the Schweitzer Mountain Resort is nearby, making for a great excursion during the winter.

12. Sun Valley

Sun Valley is home to some absolutely beautiful mountains, but not many residents. It’s one of the best small towns in Idaho to visit, and has a population of only 1,814. The big attraction of Sun Valley is that it’s home to one of the best ski resorts in the United States.

Finally, the city of Melba is one of the best small towns in Idaho to visit if you’re looking to recharge. There are only 581 residents in the town, so you’ll be guaranteed to find some peace and quiet.

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32 Best Places to Visit in September in USA (Unique and Cool Ideas You’ll Love)

Posted on Published: June 23, 2022  - Last updated: September 2, 2023

Traveling in the fall feels a little bit like magic. The summer crowds are dwindling away and prices drop to entice eager fall travelers. Amazing destinations await: these are the very best places to visit in September in the USA!

This post may contain affiliate links. For more info, see my  disclosures .

From majestic mountain peaks to swoon-worthy beaches and some underrated destinations in between, there are some pretty spectacular September vacations in the US!

Whether you’re looking for amazing hiking spots, a weekend away in the city or destinations that shine with fall foliage, there’s something for everyone on this list! Get ready for some awesome places you’re familiar with, and even that you haven’t heard of!

Oh, and by the way, since I haven’t been everywhere yet, I asked my fellow travel writers to help create the perfect list of best places to visit September.

Let’s dive in!

Map of the best places to visit in September

From the national parks in the west to the fall foliage in the east and some perfect spots in between, this list covers a lot of the US!

Use this map as a visual as you plan your fall getaway.

Must-see video: best September vacations

Best places to visit in September in USA

September is a fantastic time to travel, and these are some of the best spots in the United States. Starting this list off with a bang…

1. Moab, Utah

Average temp: high 88, low 54

If you want one of the best places to visit in the USA in September then you can’t beat Moab, Utah.  Not only is this amazing place home to Arches, Canyonlands and Dead Horse State Park, but September is an ideal time to visit since the area as a whole is less crowded.

The temperatures also start to cool down at this time of year with daily highs of 88F and lows of 54F.  You’ll also love that the area is in full bloom, with fall foliage peaking around late Septmeber in the Manti-La Sal National Forest area. 

Go for a scenic, 2-hour drive on the La Sal Mountain Loop Road before visiting Delicate Arch, Devil’s Garden trail and Fiery Furnace at Arches National Park. 

Next, make your way to Canyonlands and be sure to explore both the Needles and Island in the Sky districts. 

In particular, go for a stunning, scenic drive through Island in the Sky . After all, this section of the park is home to no less than ten mesmerizing viewpoints, including the Shafer Canyon Viewpoint, the Greenriver View Point and Buck Canyon Overlook. 

Along the way, you can also stop at the awesome Mesa Arch and do a 1 mile hike here just in time for sunrise. It’s popular though so try to get here at least 1 or 2 hours before sunrise.

Recommended by Jamie of Photo Jeepers

2. Mackinac Island, Michigan (one of my favorite places to visit in September in USA)

Average temp: high 66, low 50

One of the most darling spots you’ll ever visit is Mackinac Island in Michigan. Located on the Great Lakes at the edge of Lake Huron, just before it meets with Lake Michigan, this destination is fabulous for fall.

September is a great time to visit Mackinac Island. Considering it’s northern location, this island is extremely popular in summer. The droves of tourists are dissipating by September, leaving you with the island to explore in a much more relaxing pace.

Go shopping on the quaint Main Street. Enjoy a day at one of the many spas on Mackinac Island. Take a carriage tour or explore the island by foot or bike to see the sights. Enjoy a sunset cruise tour , with beautiful views of the Mackinaw City shore.

Have an adventure on the water and kayak to see awesome views of the shore while getting a bit of exercise. You’ll want to make sure to see Arch Rock, which towers 50 feet above the water and is one of the top attractions for visitors to the island. It can also be seen by land, while walking really close to it.

There are just a few hotels and vacation rentals on the island, but be sure to book early as space is limited.

It’s easy to see why Mackinac Island is one of the best places to visit in September. With so much variety, it has a bit of something for everyone!

Recommended by me – Nikki of Inspired Routes – follow on Pinterest

3. Stanley, Idaho

Average temp: high 69, low 27

Stanley, Idaho , the gateway to the epic Sawtooth Mountains, is an awesome outdoor playground for your next September getaway. During the day, the temperature will be in the high 60s and the skies are sunny and clear, perfect for exploring Stanley’s alpine wonderland.

September is the perfect time to explore the Sawtooth Wilderness on foot by any of Stanley’s countless amazing hikes.

For example, there’s a number of trails that will lead you past any of Stanley’s 300 glacial lakes , like the Alice Lakes trail. This bucket list-worthy trail can either be hiked as a 12.5 mile day hike or a 21.3 mile backpacking trip and will take you past a crystal clear green lake, dramatically jagged mountain peaks, and sweeping views of the Ponderosa pine tree forests below. 

If you’re looking to dip your toe into white water rafting, September is a perfect time to try out Stanley’s rapids , given that the water level is at its lowest of the year. While you may not be able to take on Class IV rapids in September, you’ll still be able to get a feel for the rushing water, while taking in Stanley’s beautiful scenery. 

After all that physical activity, what could be better than relaxing those aching muscles in any of the area’s gorgeous hot springs ? Some of the best ones to check out are Kirkham Hot Springs, which offers a thermal waterfall. Or try Pine Flat Hot Springs, where you can overlook the Payette River and the rafters floating down it, from your very own natural hot tub.

Stanley, Idaho is one of the best places to visit September for outdoor adventures!

Recommended by Jessica of Uprooted Traveler – follow on Instagram

4. Smoky Mountains

Average temp: high 74, low 50

If you’re looking for the best place to travel in September, then consider the Smoky Mountains. The Great Smoky Mountains National Park spans the Tennessee and North Carolina border.

September is the perfect time to visit the Smoky Mountains due to the mild weather and limited crowds. Summer vacationers have really dwindled and the leaf peeping visitors haven’t started rolling in, as October and November are the best times for fall foliage.

You’ll experience fewer crowds on the trails and roads, making your experience much more pleasant than most other times in the year.

Visit Clingman’s Dome, which provides 360-degree views of the Smoky Mountains. For the best waterfall hikes, be sure to hike the Laurel Falls Trail and Grotto Falls Smoky Mountains .

If you like camping, be sure to reserve your campsite early as the park spots fill up fast. Alternatively, Gatlinburg, Tennessee is a great home base for your Smoky Mountain adventures. With plenty of hotels and vacation properties to choose from, you’ll find something to fit your needs and budget!

Recommended by me – Nikki of Inspired Routes

5. Burlington, Vermont

Average temp: high 71, low 51

Burlington, Vermont is a particularly beautiful destination and one of the best places to visit in September in USA. The foliage reaches its peak late in the month and the weather is still warm and sunny in September. 

Any visit to Burlington should first start out in Waterfront Park. The views across Lake Champlain to the Adirondack Mountains are spectacular. Stroll along the waterfront with a maple creemee, an iconic Vermont ice cream treat.

You can also take a cruise on the Spirit of Ethan Allen on the lake. Narration on the boat ride will give you interesting information about the natural and cultural history of the area. The scenery is superb as you’ll see the mountains around Lake Champlain in fall colors.

Rent a bike and explore the Burlington Bike Path. You’ll cruise past beaches and breath-taking views as you pedal north. Or enjoy one of the  many hiking areas  within the city limits.

For a bit less active pursuit, visit the Echo Center, a science and nature museum on the Burlington waterfront. Kids of all ages will love the interactive exhibits.

Leave time to wander along Church Street, a pedestrian mall in the heart of Burlington. Enjoy street performers, cute shops and unique dining choices. City chefs specialize in farm to table dishes. And with more breweries per capita than any state, a stop for a craft beer won’t disappoint. 

Just make sure you get back to the waterfront for one of Burlington’s amazing sunsets! Watch the reds and oranges spread across the sky for a perfect ending to the day.

Recommended by Karen of Outdoor Adventure Sampler – follow on Facebook

6. Glacier National Park, Montana

Average temp: high 60, low 38

It’s one of the very best places to visit in September, without a doubt. Nicknamed the ‘Crown of the Continent’ for its majestic beauty, you’ll easily see why in your first visit to Glacier National Park.

September is an especially delightful time of year to visit Glacier. The massive crowds of tourists have vanished , making the countless hiking trails, alpine lakes and stunning waterfalls more enjoyable.

While in the park, you’ll want to experience the stunning Lake McDonald, home to nature’s skittles – multicolored rocks that are vividly beautiful and unique. Also plan to hike the Avalanche Lake Trail , which takes you to the most amazing lake scene.

The shining star of the park is the Going-to-the-Sun Road. It’s 50 miles of incredibly beautiful views of the jagged mountain peaks, roadside waterfalls and plenty of overlooks to soak in the sights.

Through early September you’ll need a vehicle reservation through the National Park Service. Mid to late September the road is free reign and perfect for exploring.

By mid-September the leaves are typically starting to turn for fall, providing a stunning assortment of fall colors to enjoy. They continue through mid-October when most leaves are gone and winter really starts to set in with falling snow.

Be sure to pack layers in September. The mornings and evenings are cold in the park but the sun warms up nicely during the day, especially in the higher altitudes. Good hiking shoes with traction and trekking poles will come in handy if you plan to hike this park.

7. Siesta Key, Florida (best beach and best place to travel in September)

Average temp: high 89, low 74

If you’re a beach lover, then head to this gem on the Florida peninsula’s west coast. It’s one of the best places to visit in September in the USA because pricing is low, crowds are reduced the weather is still great enough to enjoy the water temperature in the Gulf.

Prices are generally lower in September than in the peak season of summer, winter break or spring break. But it’s also because hurricane season can sometimes be a nuisance. It may be a little more rainy, and be sure to use travel insurance in case you have to reschedule due to an actual hurricane.

Those are obviously not the norm on a daily basis, and it shouldn’t persuade you not to book a trip to this beautiful part of the country.

With sugar-fine white sand beaches, Siesta Key Beach has been rated one of the best beaches in the US over and over again.

You’ll love all the fun things to do in Siesta Key , too. Rent bikes, go kayaking through the nearby mangroves, find some live music, go shopping or dining until your heart is content.

If you’re up for adventure, try kiteboarding or parasailing. Take a day trip to Anna Maria Island or take a dolphin tour.

Siesta Key is truly a spectacular destination and one worth visiting in September!

8. Mendocino, California

Average temp: high 66, low 49

If you’re looking for the best place to visit in September, then consider Mendocino, California.

The September weather in Mendocino is pretty comparable to its “warm” summer months. This is northern, coastal California, so it’s cool year-round.

With temperatures ranging from the mid 50s to highs in the 60s, you can still kayak, canoe and hike in September and rainfall is typically minimal (averages 1 day/month) compared to the rest of fall and winter.

The advantage to September over the summer is that you’ll find less tourists, and get a better deal on a place to stay.   Lodging in Mendocino  is geared more towards charming inns and bed and breakfasts rather than big hotels. 

Downtown Mendocino is filled with quaint boutiques, galleries and restaurants housed in historic Victorian buildings. You can easily walk this pretty little village in a few hours, but you’ll want at least a couple of days to soak in the beauty of the Mendocino Coast. 

Across from the town itself are the trails of the Headlands State Park . Meander along the cliffs and discover crystal clear coves in every shade of blue.

Nearby is Van Damme State Park with an accessible beach on one side of Highway 1 and trails through the Pygmy Forest on the other. This area is teaming with trails and forests, so, if that’s your thing, you could easily spend a week in Mendocino.

Recommended by Denise of Chef Denise – follow on Pinterest

Best place to visit in September

Can you believe these destinations? With so many incredible places to see in the US in the fall, it’s going to be difficult to decide.

Let’s keep going!

9. Mt Rainier National Park, Washington

Average temp: high 58, low 39

If you’re looking for the best destination September, look no further than Mount Rainier National Park in Washington. The incredible Mount Rainier is one of the most prominent features in Washington and the Pacific Northwest, and for good reason.

You can see it from Seattle on a clear day, and it’s even more gorgeous up close! There are so many incredible things to do in Mt Rainier . Drive the scenic south side of the park from the Nisqually Enrance to the Stevens Canyon Entrance with roadside waterfalls and scenic overlooks.

Visit Paradise Mt Rainier , where you’ll be as close to the mountain as possible and get stunning views! There are a variety of hiking trails to explore in Paradise, including the Myrtle Falls, Bench and Snow Lake, Narada Falls and Skyline Loop Trail .

September is a great time to visit Mt Rainier because the fall colors are just starting to peek out. Mid September to Mid October the mountain really shines with yellows, reds and oranges.

You’ll also experience far less crowds than in the summertime, which is a bonus!

Be sure to pack layers for a September visit . Good hiking shoes , trekking poles and a hiking backpack will make your time on the trails much more comfortable and enjoyable, too.

10. Puerto Rico (another favorite on this list of best places to visit in September in the USA)

Average temp: high 86, low 75

Puerto Rico has to be on this list of best vacations in September! It’s an adventure destination perfect for excellent beaches, history and plenty of nature activities.

September is one of the best times of year to visit Puerto Rico because it’s the shoulder season. Summertime crowds are gone and holiday travelers haven’t yet arrived, so the pricing is lower. You won’t have to wait as long in lines at restaurants or on tours, either.

Spend a day or two exploring all the incredible things to do in Old San Juan . Go hiking or chasing waterfalls in El Yunque, the USA’s only national rainforest.

If you have a few extra days, be sure to hop over to Culebra Puerto Rico , a tiny island off the eastern coast. It’s home to one of the best beaches in the world, the stunning Flamenco Beach .

Be sure to pack your water shoes , snorkel gear and flip flops for this vacation to Puerto Rico. You’ll love the variety this island has to offer!

11. Telluride, Colorado

Average temp: high 68, low 34

One of the best September vacations in the USA is Telluride, Colorado. Specifically, the late part of September is when the peak fall foliage is out on full display and it’s stunning!

Downtown Telluride is darling and is the quintessential mountain town. With plenty of shops and restaurants, you’ll love walking around here.

If you’re looking more scenic views, be sure to hike Bridal Veil Falls and Power House trail , one of the most popular in the area. Or drive the incredible San Juan Skyway Scenic Byway (including Million Dollar Highway), which is a day trip from Telluride and one of the best scenic drives in Colorado .

Back in Telluride, you can also take a Gondola ride from Ridge Trail to Mountain Villa for more stunning fall scenery. Or hit up a local brewery, one of the best things about Colorado!

12. White Mountains of New Hampshire

Average temp: high 57, low 46

If you love adventure, the outdoors, and waterfalls, you’ll love the White Mountains of New Hampshire! This region in northern New Hampshire is home to spectacular natural scenery and picture-perfect small towns.

North Conway  is one of the most popular towns to use as a base. Here you can take the old-fashioned Conway Scenic Railroad through the mountains, visit Diana’s Baths, a collection of waterfall-strewn pools in the woods, or even drive to the top of Mount Washington, the Northeast’s highest peak!

From North Conway, you can drive the Kancamagus Highway, a beautiful American scenic byway packed with natural attractions, and arrive close to Franconia Notch State Park.

This part of the White Mountains is home to the Flume Gorge, a spectacular natural wonder and one of the prettiest easy hikes around, and Lost River Gorge, filled with caves you can squeeze into along the way.

If you like visiting breweries and distilleries, you’re in luck! This region does stupendously on both counts.

Schilling Beer Company in Littleton serves up small batch European-style beers, a nice contrast to typical New England brewing, and Cathedral Ledge Distillery is the Granite State’s lone organic distillery that makes a fabulous maple liqueur.

The White Mountains are fabulous to visit year-round, but September is a special sweet spot. The White Mountains of New Hampshire make for one of the greatest September vacations in the US!

In September, the foliage is just beginning to turn , but the bright shades that draw leaf peepers don’t arrive until early October. Temperatures still feel like summer during the day, with cool crisp sweater weather after the sun goes down.

September days bring lots of clear blue skies. Kids are back in school, so it’s far less crowded. It might just be the best month to visit of all. 

Recommended by Kate of New Hampshire Way

13. Alaska road trip (best place to vacation in September)

Average temp: high 45, low 33

If you’re looking for the best place to vacation in September, consider Alaska! Home to 5 national parks and even more preserves, this state has unparelled beauty within the USA.

Of course, weather is a big factor when considering a vacation in Alaska! The earlier in the month you’ll get more pleasant temperatures for travel and touring.

September is the shoulder season and many businesses are starting to shut down. There aren’t as many tour companies or restaurants operating in September in Alaska. So have a plan B when road tripping in Alaska!

Road tripping through Alaska can be done in a week, but you’ll see more if you can stay 10 to 14 days. There’s a lot of space between destinations, and the map can be deceiving!

Fly into Anchorage for this epic road trip. From there, you’ll want to see Denali National Park . Home to bear, moose, caribou and so many more amazing animals!

Alternatively, you could head south to see glaciers in Seward, Alaska at Kenai Fjords National Park . Feed reindeer at Eklutna Lake, see ice breaking off the Columbia Glacier or travel the Alaska Marine Highway to the Kenai Peninsula.

An Alaska road trip is an incredible adventure, and one to consider for a September vacation.

14. Gulf Shores, Alabama

Average temp: high 87, low 67

The Gulf Coast of Alabama is home to 32 miles of white sand beaches, and a perfect spot for a fall getaway!

Gulf Shores is one of the best places to visit in September in USA because the summer crowds are back home and prices are lower than most of the rest of the year.

There’s plenty of things to do in Gulf Shores with kids (or those young at heart), like riding go-karts, mini golf, trampoline park and taking a Ferris wheel ride at The Wharf at Orange Beach .

It’s a premier destination for couples and friends trips, too. Go hiking or biking at Gulf State Park , hunt for sand crabs at night or have a legendary milkshake at The Yard.

Gulf Shores, Alabama is a fantastic fall getaway and one you’ll fall in love with!

15. Mammoth Lakes, California (such a scenic spot on this list of best places to visit in September in USA)

Average temp: high 77, low 39

Mammoth Lakes, a charming mountain town located in the Eastern Sierra Nevadas, makes for a wonderful destination in September. The crowds that have been bustling all summer in Mammoth Lakes begin to trickle out in September just as the aspens, cottonwoods and willows start to change into their vibrant fall colors in this sub-alpine setting.

Hike through the gorgeous fall foliage on one of the awesome trails in Mammoth Lakes , such as the trail to Sherman Lakes which winds through a forest of fall colors. The hike to Heart Lake is another good option featuring the fall foliage in Mammoth Lakes Basin.

Driving along Mammoth Lakes Scenic Drive also showcases the spectacular hues of autumn and offers lots of fantastic leaf-peeping opportunities. Be sure to catch a sunset from the viewpoint at Minaret Vista, where you can watch the sky light up in crimson hues that match the changing leaves against a backdrop of the Minaret mountain peaks.

The weather in Mammoth Lakes in September is still warm enough that it’s a good time to visit nearby Mono Lake. This saltwater lake features unique tufa rock formations to marvel at, and you can even take a dip in the water that’s denser than the ocean to keep you afloat.

You definitely don’t want to miss a visit to Mammoth Lakes, one of the best destinations in September!

Recommended by Allison of She Dreams of Alpine – follow on Instagram

16. Asheville, North Carolina

Average temp: high 75, low 58

One of the greatest September vacations in the US is visiting Asheville. This gem in North Carolina has so much to offer visitors! The fall festivities are starting but the foliage isn’t at peak yet, so you’ll experience fewer crowds, mild temperatures and a lot to see and do!

Take a road trip down the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway . With gorgeous overlooks, waterfall hikes and tunnels, it can’t be beat.

Another must-see is the Biltmore Estate. It’s 8000 acres shows off it’s impressive gardens, horse stable, not to mention it’s 175,000 square foot residence!

Asheville in the fall has a plethora of fall festivals to enjoy. Apple picking, wineries and craft brewery events are popular in September. If you want to stretch your legs, go hiking in DuPont State Forest where you’ll find the famous Bridal Veil Falls.

Whether you’re looking for a family vacation, couples getaway or solo trip in September, be sure to add Asheville to your short list!

More of the best places to visit September

Okay, we’re half way done with this epic list! One of my favorite spots is up next…I’ve been there in September twice it’s so nice! 😉

17. Maui, Hawaii

Average temp: high 77, low 60

Maui is on the top of many traveler’s vacation list. But Maui is also one of the best places to visit in September in the USA.

Similar to other locations on this list, September is the shoulder season in Maui. You won’t experience long wait lines in restaurants, on tours or in the airport like you will during summer or winter break.

Whether you are a fan of beaches, hiking or epic road trips, Maui has an incredible variety of things to do, you won’t get bored! For sunshine and gentle waves, visit the famous Kaanapali Beach in west Maui. Hike the incredible Waihee Ridge Trail for epic views of the West Maui Mountains.

Go boogie boarding at DT Fleming Beach on the north shore, or watch the sunset on Haleakala for a spectacular show unlike anything you’ve ever seen! Visit a lavender farm or see the largest tree in the USA – the Lahaina Banyan Tree .

If you love scenic drives, be sure to spend a day or 2 exploring the Road to Hana. And if you’re up for more thrills, try the adrenaline-inducing Kahekili Highway .

No matter how you spend it, a Maui vacation is a destination that’s sure to please!

18. Chicago, Illinois

Average temp: high 74, low 62

Chicago is definitely a must on this list for the best place to travel in September. The summertime heat is gone and the windy city’s winter misery hasn’t yet set in. Fall in Chicago is perfect!

Take a stroll down the Navy Pier, enjoying carnival rides and views of Lake Michigan. Or stand high at 103 floors up on a glass ledge looking over the city at the Willis Tower Skydeck.

Chicago is an art lover’s dream destination. Visit the Art Institute of Chicago , National Museum of Mexican Art or the DuSable Museum of African American History. Catch a show at the Mount Dance Theatre of Chicago, Chicago Shakespeare Theater or the Chicago Magic Lounge.

Get outdoors in September and walk Millennium Park and see the Bean. Visit Maggie Daley Park or the Chicago Riverwalk.

Chicago is full of endless shops and restaurants, too. Be sure to try a Chicago-style deep dish pizza before you leave the city! As someone who’s been to Chicago many times, this city never gets old!

19. Big Sur, California (another favorite on this list of best places to visit in September USA)

Average temp: high 77, low 50

One of the most underrated spots in the country is Big Sur, California. It’s on this list of excellent places to visit in September in USA because of it’s moderate weather and reduction in visitors. Lower pricing accompanies the end of the peak season, so that’s a bonus!

Big Sur is one of the main stops on a San Francisco to San Diego road trip . Located just south of Monterey, California on US Highway 101. It’s an incredibly scenic spot where the mountain cliffs dive straight into the sea, creating a dramatic coastline.

There are so many things to do in Big Sur, you could spend a day driving through it or a week exploring each of the state parks and small towns in the area.

The iconic Bixby Creek Bridge is one of the most popular spots along the drive, and one that must be seen! You’ll love the hikes in Big Sur, including the trail to McWay Falls in Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park and visiting the purple sand on Pfeiffer Beach.

Don’t miss Point Lobos State Natural Reserve, where the hiking trails are endless and emerald green water meets the most naturally beautiful beaches! Take the 17 Mile Drive along the coast and do some window shopping in Carmel-by-the-Sea.

September is such a wonderful time to explore the area. You may see some marine fog in the mornings while in Big Sur, but it typically burns off by noon!

20. Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming

Average temp: high 61, low 26

Yellowstone; the first National Park and one of the best and most visited.

While you can visit the park all year round, there are definitely difficulties visiting in certain seasons. For those in the know, the best time to visit Yellowstone is September.

Early September is one of the best times to visit for weather and crowds. With most kids having returned to school, the sweet spot for visiting the two weeks after labor day. However, late September is one of the busiest times in the park.

Although, for good reason, as mid-late September is the elk rut (mating Season) and photographers and visitors descend on the park to witness the fighting between elk bulls. The end of September is also peak for those visiting for beautiful fall colors.  

Yellowstone in September is perfect weather-wise with still late days and all of the park accessible. Mornings in the park can be chilly this time of year, however, it turns the park into an ethereal wonderland as steam from the hot springs clouds features in a fog-like atmosphere. 

For the clearest photos of park landmarks such as grand prismatic pond, going late in the afternoon gives you the least steamy look at the features. 

Staying and camping in the park is possible and September you’ll have a better shot at reservations. It’s still recommended to book early as lodging, especially some of the best in-park hotels do still book up. The closest outside hotels are in Gardiner Montana outside the north entrance and there is free camping possible in national forests outside the park’s boundary. 

Don’t miss this spectacular destination. Yellowstone National Park is one of the best places to visit in September in the USA!

Recommended by Anwar of Beyond My Door – follow on Instagram

21. Mustang Island, Texas (one of the most unique and best places to visit in September in USA)

Average temp: high 87, low 75

One of the warmest destinations on this list of best places to visit September, coastal Texas might also be one of the most fun!

Mustang Island is located just minutes away from Corpus Christi, Texas. Famous for its drivable beaches, the Texas coast is vast and full of things to do.

Get a hotel or vacation rental in Corpus Christi or Port Aransas for your stay. Be sure to visit the Horace Caldwell Pier in Port Aransas. It’s a great spot to get unique views of the coast and watch the surfers as they catch waves to the beach.

Further down the coast is South Padre Island National Seashore. Not to be confused with the lively city, this national preserved land is beautiful as it is – natural! It’s a great spot for a beach day, or to adventure onto the water in kayaks or stand-up paddle boards.

In Corpus Christi, visit the Seawall, which was completed in 1941 as a way to preserve the city. Today, it is a great spot for views of the marina, restaurants and seeing the Selena statue.

Like many other spots on this list, September is the shoulder season for tourism, so the prices are lower than typical, making Mustang Island a perfect weekend getaway in the fall!

22. New Orleans, Louisiana

Average temp: high 88, low 72

New Orleans has got to be one of the best vacations in September! The city is still very much alive from summer and it’s still hot like it, too.

Parades, outdoor concerts and other live events make September the perfect time to visit New Orleans. And if you love football, it’s the official kick-off of the Saints season.

New Orleans is such a unique destination, offering visitors a wide variety of activities. Dive into the food scene in NOLA! From Jambalaya to Gumbo, Craw Fish to Po-Boys, the food here is some of the best in the south!

You won’t want to miss the ghost tours or swamp tours . Oh, and don’t forget to walk and dine the French Quarter where you’ll get the quintessential New Orleans experience!

23. San Diego, California (one of the best ideas for September vacations yet)

Average temp: high 77, low 66

San Diego in September is an ideal time to visit. The kids have headed back to school so the summer vacation crowds have started to die out, yet the weather is still perfect. 

September weather in San Diego averages a balmy high of 77 degrees and the chance of any rain is very slim (one of the dryest months of the year). What more could you ask for in a travel destination? 

You’ll get to enjoy the nice weather and fall activities that are beginning! Pumpkin patches and fall markets will start to pop up all around San Diego in September but there are also many other types of activities that can be done too!

If you’re a nature lover you’ll be in heaven! There are endless places to go hiking for all different skill sets, an abundance of water sports in San Diego to try like surfing or kayaking, and many different lakes that are great for fishing, camping or picnics.

If you’re seeking adventure ride a hot air balloon on a crisp evening for sunset, or go on one of the amazing road trips from San Diego that can easily be done in a just few hours. Those of you who enjoy city life can try out different restaurants and cute coffee shops, go shopping, or book a hotel day pass at an aesthetic boutique hotel and hang out at the pool!

As you can see the best place to travel in September is San Diego for just about anyone! 

Recommended by Chelsey of Chelsey Explore – follow on Instagram

24. Badlands National Park, South Dakota

Average temp: high 77, low 46

Badlands National Park is one of those places that gets some moody weather. During summertime it’s consistently over 100 degrees, and in the winter it’s often impassible due to snow, ice or extreme wind.

So to say September is the best time to visit Badlands National Park might just be an understatement! With pleasant weather and very little rain, you’ll feel like you’ve just won the jackpot with a visit here in the fall.

Badlands National Park is one of the most underrated in the entire park system. The unique landscape seems like you’ve stepped onto another planet!

One of the best things to do in Badlands National Park , and a great way to see the sights is to drive The Loop, which is Highway 240 south from I-90 . See Panorama Point and Pinnacles Overlook. Hike The Notch Trail, one of the most popular trails in the park with 360-degree views of the incredibly unique land formations.

You can see Badlands National Park in a day, so for the rest of your vacation I’d recommend a stop at Mount Rushmore. For more nature, drive the Needles Highway and camp or hike in Custer State Park .

Best destination September

Rounding out the last portion of this list of the best places to visit in September in USA. There are a few here you maybe haven’t considered for a fall getaway. More surprises in store – below!

25. Las Vegas, Nevada (one of the most unique recommendations for best places to visit in September in USA)

Average temp: high 96, low 57

It’s probably not on the top of every list because of the heat, but it’s certainly worthy of the list! The best destination September is Las Vegas, Nevada.

The trick to enjoying Las Vegas in the heat is to get outside early and in the evenings, and avoid the hottest part of the day, 12-4pm. So with that said, there’s tons to do in Vegas that’s not gambling or casinos!

See a great show! Comedy, dancing or concerts, there’s something for everyone in Vegas. Oh, and the restaurant scene is absolutely incredible!

Or my favorite, visit one of the amazing natural landmarks or conservation areas nearby. With a variety of day trips from Las Vegas, visit Zion National Park, Lake Mead and the Hoover Dam, Valley of Fire State Park , or do the Red Rock Canyon Scenic Drive.

Vegas in September is certainly cooler than the summer, and the perfect weather for hotels with swimming pools .

26. Nederland, Colorado

Average temp: high 65, low 34

Nederland Colorado is one of the best places to visit in September in USA for wanderlusters who thrive exploring unique places.  Its proximity to both Denver and Boulder also draws nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts to Nederland from spring through fall.   

The small mountain town of Nederland is only 32 miles from Denver but feels miles away. The town is a bit quirky and has adopted the motto “Keep Ned Weird.”  It has a hippy-like, artistic community vibe nestled into the beautiful Rocky Mountains. The quirk is endearing and worthy of the town’s protection efforts.

September is an ideal time in Colorado for mild days and cool nights.  Nederland is great for hiking, biking and exploring nature. Plus, in mid to late September, Nederland visitors enjoy photographing the iconic aspen leaves as they turn a beautiful golden. 

Nederland’s East and West Magnolia mountain biking trail system contains multiple loops which can be combined for over 44 miles of epic single-track.   

Hiking to Lost Lake on the Hessie trail is a popular activity in Nederland. The 4-mile out and back moderately rated trail is heavily trafficked in summer. However, the crystal clear waters of Lost Lake are worth joining the crowds. Weekends attract large enough crowds to warrant a free shuttle service from the local high school.

Nederland visitors love the history of the  Carousel of Happiness almost as much as listening to the Wurlitzer band organ’s rendition of popular songs while riding the one-of-a-kind carousel animals.

During the Vietnam war, an American soldier found comfort in a small music box in a faraway land. He vowed to build a carousel in the mountains if he made it through the war. 

Scott Harrison survived Vietnam and kept his promise. It took him 2 decades to procure a rare 1910 Louff carousel and hand carve each animal before opening it to the public in Nederland!

Recommended by Kara of Trying to Unwind – follow on Instagram

27. Savannah, Georgia

Average temp: high 86, low 70

Savannah certainly makes the list for the best place to vacation in September. It’s a charming city year-round, but September is particularly delightful. With off-season prices, you’ll be able to take advantage of all that there is to do in Savannah without the higher price tag.

Wander, shop and dine through Broughton Street and visit the iconic Forsyth Park. Discover history at Old Fort Jackson or Savannah’s First African Baptist Church . Learn the spooky side of the city’s history with a haunted ghost tour .

Don’t miss the many events and festivals in Savannah in September. The highlight is the Savannah Jazz Festival . Music lovers will enjoy this week-long festival of free music throughout the city.

With warm temperatures in September, it’s still perfect for swimming. Hit the beach at Tybee Island Beach!

28. Sarasota, Florida

One of the best places to visit in September USA for art and history is Sarasota, Florida.

Sarasota is known as the “Circus Capital of the World” thanks to circus magnate John Ringling’s building his opulent mansion on 20 acres of waterfront property in the 1920s.

Known as Ca’ d’Zan (House of John), this Venetian Gothic palace sits next to Sarasota Bay. The owners threw gala parties with guests ferried in gondolas. In 1936, Ringling bequeathed the mansion to the State of Florida.

Plan to spend at least 4 hours visiting the Ringling campus, which includes the Museum of Art as well as the circus museum, mansion, and outdoor garden.

Art lovers will also enjoy the Sarasota Art Museum. This contemporary art museum offers “art for all, every day.” Tickets are free on the second Sunday of the month. Community activities include fiber art projects, musical interludes and children’s storytelling.

Sarasota also is home to outdoor bicycle art sculptures located on the waterfront and around town. Visitors to Sarasota will find their calendar packed with opportunities to see plays. Check out the Florida Studio Theatre for plays and dates.

And while enjoying this lively beach town, be sure to check out the best Sarasota restaurants , from amazing seafood to local wineries, there’s a bit of everything!

Recommended by Terri at Female Solo Trek – follow on Pinterest

29. Mount Hood, Oregon (an absolute gem and one of the best vacations in September)

Average temp: high 67, low 47

A Pacific Northwest gem, Mount Hood, Oregon is by far one of the best places to visit in September in USA!

It’s classic landscape is the perfect backdrop for renting a canoe at Trillium Lake or Lost Lake, hiking at Tom, Dick and Harry Mountain or check out the falls at Zigzag Falls.

Of course, you can’t miss the Mt Hood Scenic Loop. The 105 miles takes you through forests, winding mountain roads and alongside the Columbia River. Plan a day for this scenic route so you have plenty of time for overlooks and photos, and even a picnic lunch.

You’ll want at least a long weekend to enjoy the Mt Hood region . Although if you’re an avid hiker, perhaps a week would be more adequate to enjoy the hikes in the area!

30. Coastal Maine

Average temp: high 69, low 52

Like so many other tourist destinations, September is a great time to visit Maine (aka “Vacationland”) due to the summer crowds having died down.

Maine in September is usually sunny, yet cool especially in breezy coastal towns. It’s a great time to take a drive up the coast and hit all the great spots from Kennebunkport all the way to Bar Harbor. 

While Maine may be famous for its delicious and plentiful lobster, other seafood is delicious there too. Specifically, September brings the  Pemaquid Oyster Festival  to Damariscotta – a beautiful quaint town in midcoast Maine.

If you can’t be in town for the festival itself, try stopping by  Glidden Point Oysters  in Edgecomb. You can take a tour, learn to shuck your own oysters, and grab a beer.

And since foodie tradition states that you should only eat raw oysters in months that contain the letter “r’, September is the perfect time to visit. Though be assured that oysters are delicious any time of year. 

After you’ve satisfied your appetite, explore the outdoors! Maine is home to many beautiful hikes.

The reduced crowds in September mean less foot traffic on paths and better photo opportunities. Try  Wolfe’s Neck State Park  in Freeport or  Acadia National Park  in Bar Harbor for some of the most scenic spots.

When you’re ready to rest your head, there are a handful of really amazing places to stay in Maine. Whether you’re looking for something urban or something that will allow you to feel one with nature, Maine has it all.

In Kennebunkport, check out  Hidden Pond Resort  for a serene environment. Usually quite the splurge, September is when summer prices begin to come down and a deal can be found. If you find yourself in Portland for the night,  Blind Tiger Guest House  is brilliantly decorated and right near the heart of all the hustle and bustle. 

You’ll love visiting Coastal Maine, one of the best places to visit in September USA!

Recommended by Lauren of Family Recess – follow on Instagram

31. Sandusky, Ohio (underrated spot on this list of best places to visit in September in USA)

Average temp: high 74, low 57

Sandusky, Ohio may not come to mind when you consider the best place to visit in September. But it definitely is worthy of a spot on this list!

Sandusky is home to the Cedar Point Amusement Park , which is the 2nd oldest operating park in the country. It’s for the adrenaline lovers only, as the rides in this park are comparable to no other place. Simply thrilling!

If you prefer a water activity on Lake Erie, you’ll want to make sure to visit over the weekend. Since it’s the end of high season, many tour companies are operating on weekends only by September.

Anyway, try kayaking, parasailing or stand-up paddle boarding right on Lake Erie.

For more things to do in Sandusky , hang out in downtown Sandusky at Washington Park, soaking in the green space. Or visit the Merry-Go-Round Museum , a family-friendly destination in Sandusky. Check out the Jackson Street Pier and get fun views of the marina.

Be sure to visit one of the many wineries in the region – a delicious way to taste your way around Sandusky and Lake Erie!

September is a great time to visit Sandusky because the summertime crowds are gone and winter temperatures haven’t set in . Oh, and it’s a relatively affordable destination anyway, but prices dip even further in September. 😊

32. Big Island, Hawaii

Average temp: high 87, low 73

The Big Island of Hawaii, also known as Hawaii Island, is a year-round destination to visit and enjoy nature at its best.

September is a fantastic time to visit the Big Island because it’s the shoulder season and most summer vacationers have gone back home. You’ll experience the island with far less crowds!

If you love to the outdoors, you’ll love  hiking around the Big Island . There are so many amazing hiking trails within the state and national parks to visit on the Big Island.

With fabulous weather, mostly sunny days and average temperature in the mid 70s to mid 80s, it’s a perfect time to be outdoors! Plan a road trip or visit any of the major attractions around the island.

You can easily base yourself in Kona (west side) or Hilo (east side) and do day trips to visit the many places of interests, monuments parks and of course the gorgeous beaches here.

The eastern side of the island is more lush with botanical gardens, waterfalls and the national park to visit. While the west side has the gorgeous white sand beaches, cool towns, resort areas and Kona town to also explore.

In any case, the Big Island is one of the best places to visit September as you will enjoy visiting the entire island without all the massive crowds.

Recommended by Noel of This Hawaii Life

Whew! What a list! There are so many incredible places for a fall getaway in the US – how will you ever choose?!

Whether you’re planning a couples’ getaway, family vacation, solo reprieve or friends’ trip, there are so many ideas here!

Let’s go through that list again, in a quick manner…

Best place to travel in September

• Mackinac Island, Michigan
• Stanley, Idaho
• Smoky Mountains
• Burlington, Vermont
• Glacier National Park, Montana
• Siesta Key, Florida
• Mendocino, California
• Mt Rainier National Park, Washington
• Puerto Rico
• Telluride, Colorado
• White Mountains of New Hampshire
• Alaska Road Trip
• Gulf Shores, Alabama
• Mammoth Lakes, California
• Asheville, North Carolina
• Maui, Hawaii
• Chicago, Illinois
• Big Sur, California
• Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming
• Mustang Island, Texas
• New Orleans, Louisiana
• San Diego, California
• Badlands National Park, South Dakota
• Las Vegas, Nevada
• Nederland, Colorado
• Savannah, Georgia
• Sarasota, Florida
• Mount Hood, Oregon
• Coastal Maine
• Sandusky, Ohio
• Big Island, Hawaii

Related content to read next: 32 Awe-inspiring Adventurous Bucket List Ideas You Gotta See to Believe 37 Absolute Best Places to Visit in August (Amazing Spots You’ll Love) 26 Best National Parks to Visit in October (Amazing Spots You Need to See) 31 Best Places to Visit in November USA (Fun & Unexpected Ideas You’ll Love)

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Shawn Lewis

Wednesday 2nd of August 2023

Puerto Rico should really not be on the list of places to visit in September as it is the peak of Hurricane season.

Friday 4th of August 2023

That's exactly why it's on the list :) Affordable prices! Hurricanes don't hit every area of the Caribbean every day, even during peak season. Buy travel insurance and be smart about storms and warnings.

Bea Pinnegar

Tuesday 28th of June 2022

Woah, September definitely sounds like the best month to visit the USA - whether it's the mountains, the beaches or the cities! Thanks for sharing this lovely guide - your photos are just simply stunning!

anukrati dosi

Sunday 26th of June 2022

Idaho indeed looks stunning. Loved it.

simplyjolayne

Saturday 25th of June 2022

The pictures alone are bucket list inspiring. I love the Fall colors around the world, so that is what I would be hoping to see the beginnings of in September.

9 Things You Need to Do in Idaho This Fall

Katie williams worked in partnership with visit idaho to create this travel tip..

Autumn has arrived in Idaho and with that comes crisp air, fall leaves, and pumpkin-flavored everything. But, there’s much more to do in Idaho than leaf peep and drink pumpkin spice lattes. From apple picking and pumpkin patches to haunted mansions and fall cooking classes, discover 9 activities you need to do in Idaho this fall.

1. Pick Your Own Apples

Nothing says fall like going to a local Idaho orchard and picking a fresh bucket of apples. This fun, family-friendly activity can be a blast for all ages. Lucky for us, there are orchards to explore across Idaho. Head over to U-pick orchards like Cabalo’s Orchard in Nampa, or Tyler’s Rocky Point Orchard in Emmett for your apple picking adventure.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

2. Visit a Pumpkin Patch

Whether you love to carve spooky faces or just love pumpkins for fall decorating, you can’t miss visiting an Idaho pumpkin patch. Along with pumpkin picking, these patches are typically full of other fun fall activities to keep you busy for an entire afternoon! The Idaho Department of Ag has a list of pumpkin patches across the state so you can be sure to get your pumpkin fix no matter where you live.

3. Get Spooked at Haunted Places in Idaho

Halloween is right around the corner and it’s time to visit some haunted attractions! Idahoans love their spooky places and most cities in the state have a haunted spot to get your blood pumping. Visit one of the largest haunted spots in the Northwest, The Haunted Mansion of Albion , or check out this comprehensive list of haunted houses and mansions in the state.

Are you ready for a scare? Photo credit: Haunted mansions of Albion.

4. Sip on Local Flavors

Fall is the perfect time to try the local flavors of Idaho’s craft beer scene. Sample fall specials from breweries like Western Collective, Sawtooth Brewing, and Payette Brewing. Not into beer? Head out to the wineries on the Sunnyslope Trail to experience a true Idaho wine harvest.

Check out Idaho’s craft beer scene. Photo credit: Katie Williams.

5. Get Lost in a Corn Maze

Idaho is home to plenty of cornfields so you don’t have to travel far to find yourself a corn maze this autumn. Throw on your flannel, grab your family, and get lost in some of the most popular corn mazes in the state like the Magic Valley Corn Maze and Haunted Forest in Hansen, or The Lowe Family Farmstead in Kuna.

6. Find Idaho’s Fall Foliage

Idaho’s fall colors show off from late September to early November. Check out this complete guide to find out when and where to see the best fall colors. Ready to get outside for some fresh air? Here are some great Idaho fall hikes for excellent leaf-peeping.

7. Go Hot Springs Hopping

There’s no denying that fall is one of the best times to visit hot springs in Idaho. With so many dotting the state, you’re sure to find enough to keep you warm. To find a hot spring near you this fall season, check out this list. Just remember to leave no trace and take care of the spring so others can enjoy it after you.

8. Attend a Fall Festival

Hop over to one of the fall festivals happening this season. I would recommend enjoying the Scarecrow Stroll at the Idaho Botanical Garden or Downtown Coeur d’Alene’s Oktoberfest .

9. Take a Fall Cooking Class

Why not learn to make a hearty meal this fall season at one of Idaho’s incredible cooking schools? Try Season + Taste , the newest cooking school in Boise, or take a fall cooking class at The Culinary Stone in Coeur d’ Alene.

What fall activities are you ready to cross off your fall must-do list? Share your fall adventures with #VisitIdaho on Facebook , Instagram , and Twitter .

Feature image credited to Katie Williams.

Katie Williams is the founder/editor of the ‘ Traveling Spud’  travel blog and owns a freelance marketing company. After quitting her job in San Francisco, she traveled the world solo for 14-months and eventually made her way back to her home state of Idaho. When she’s not adventuring around the world, you can find her in Boise, Idaho searching for the next best restaurants, bars, and outdoor festivities. You can follow her adventures on her blog,  Traveling Spud , or her Instagram  @travelingspud .

Published on October 20, 2020

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10 Beautiful Places to Visit In and Near Boise, ID

Reading Time: 8 minutes

With a growing economy, affordable cost of living , and abundance of activities, Boise has become a popular destination for people looking to relocate. But that’s not all Boise offers.

Whether you’re a nature lover, an outdoor enthusiast, or simply looking for a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, the natural beauty of Boise and its surrounding areas is sure to leave you spellbound. So, if you’re looking for a place that offers a perfect balance of city life and outdoor adventure, then living in Boise should definitely be at the top of your list. From the majestic peaks of the Sawtooth Mountains to the tranquil waters of Payette Lake, the area offers breathtaking vistas and unique outdoor experiences that are simply unparalleled.

If you’re new to the city and renting an apartment or looking to buy a home in Boise , there’s plenty of beautiful places to explore. We’ll take you on a journey through some of the most beautiful places in and near the city that you need to check out as a new resident.

1. Boise River Greenbelt

The Boise River Greenbelt is a natural gem that runs through the heart of the city, providing a peaceful escape from the urban hustle and bustle. This 25-mile long trail offers stunning views of the city skyline and the meandering Boise River. Whether you prefer a leisurely bike ride, a peaceful stroll, or a dog-friendly activity in Boise , the Greenbelt has something for everyone. Along the trail, visitors can enjoy a variety of amenities, including picnic areas, playgrounds, and fishing ponds. The Greenbelt is also a popular destination for birdwatchers, with over 170 species of birds documented in the area. 

Your next home is just a tap away

Surrounded by mountains, rivers, and forests, Boise is known for its outdoor recreation. Table Rock is a popular hiking destination located just a short distance from downtown Boise. The hike to the top of Table Rock is a challenging but rewarding adventure, offering stunning panoramic views of the city and the surrounding mountains. The trail is well-maintained and offers the opportunity to explore the area’s natural beauty and unique rock formations. Along the way, hikers can take in stunning vistas of the Boise foothills and the city skyline. At the top, hikers will enjoy a 360-degree view of the surrounding landscape, including the Boise River and the Owyhee Mountains. 

“Table Rock is a rocky lookout that sits on the east end of Boise high above the valley,” according to ifoto Photography . “It offers a panoramic view of the city and valley beyond. It features a large, white cross visible day and night and is a local favorite to drive or hike to.”

Table Rock is especially beautiful during sunrise and sunset, when the sky comes alive in a kaleidoscope of color. Whether you are a seasoned hiker or just looking for a unique outdoor adventure, Table Rock is a must-visit destination in Boise that is sure to leave you in awe of the area’s natural beauty.

3. Bogus Basin Mountain Recreation Area

Nestled in the Boise National Forest, just a short drive from downtown Boise, Bogus Basin Mountain Recreation Area is a year-round recreational paradise that offers visitors a wealth of outdoor activities. During the winter, Bogus Basin transforms into a winter wonderland, attracting skiers and snowboarders from all over the region. With over 2,600 acres of skiable terrain, Bogus Basin offers something for every skill level, from beginner runs to challenging expert terrain. 

In the summer, Bogus Basin is a popular destination for hiking and mountain biking, with miles of well-maintained trails that wind through the scenic Boise National Forest. Bogus Basin also offers a variety of summer activities, including disc golf, horseback riding, and scenic chairlift rides. 

4. Idaho Botanical Garden

The Idaho Botanical Garden is a hidden gem located in the heart of Boise. This tranquil oasis offers visitors a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life, with beautifully landscaped gardens that showcase a wide variety of plants and flowers. The garden is open year-round and offers visitors the chance to explore themed gardens such as the herb garden, the native plant garden, and the meditation garden. 

In the summer months, visitors can enjoy concerts and outdoor movies in the garden’s amphitheater. One of the highlights of the garden is the butterfly exhibit, which is open from late May to early September. You can also stroll through a garden filled with live butterflies and learn about their life cycle and habitat. 

5. Bruneau Dunes State Park

Bruneau Dunes State Park is a stunning natural wonder located just an hour’s drive south of Boise. This unique park is home to the tallest sand dunes in North America, with some towering over 400 feet tall. You can explore the dunes by hiking, sandboarding, or even horseback riding. 

The park also offers guided tours and educational programs, where visitors can learn about the geology and history of the area. One of the highlights of the park is the opportunity to stargaze under some of the clearest skies in the country. The park’s observatory provides an up-close look at the night sky and the chance to view distant galaxies and constellations. 

6. Hells Canyon National Recreation Area

Hells Canyon is one of the most stunning natural wonders of the American West. Straddling the border of Idaho and Oregon, this magnificent canyon is over 10 miles wide and 8,000 feet deep, making it deeper than the Grand Canyon. Explore the deep canyons and rugged terrain by hiking, rafting, or even jet boating. There are numerous trails that offer breathtaking views of the canyon, as well as opportunities to spot wildlife such as bighorn sheep and bald eagles. Rafting through the canyon is also a popular activity, with several tour companies offering guided trips. Take in the stunning scenery and experience the thrill of navigating the rapids of the Snake River. Hells Canyon is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a unique and unforgettable outdoor adventure in Idaho. With its awe-inspiring beauty and rugged terrain, it’s easy to see why Hells Canyon is often considered one of the most beautiful places in the state.

7. Shoshone Falls

Shoshone Falls is a magnificent waterfall located just a short drive from Boise. Known as the “Niagara of the West,” this stunning natural wonder is over 200 feet tall and spans 900 feet across, making it one of the largest waterfalls in the United States. You can take in the breathtaking views from a scenic overlook or hike down to the base of the falls for an up-close look. The surrounding area is also home to several hiking trails that offer panoramic views of the Snake River and the canyon below. During the summer months, the falls are illuminated at night, creating a stunning display of lights and water. 

8. Silver City

Silver City is a historic ghost town located in southwestern Idaho that is frozen in time, with well-preserved buildings from the late 1800s. Once a booming mining town, Silver City now offers a unique glimpse into the past. You can explore the town and learn about its fascinating history, including the lives of the miners who once called it home. The town has several museums, including the Owyhee County Historical Museum and the Silver City Schoolhouse Museum, which offer a glimpse into life during the gold rush era. Visitors can also take a guided tour of the town and learn about the many historic buildings and landmarks, including the old opera house, the Chinese herbal shop, and the Masonic lodge. Whether you’re a history buff or just looking for a unique and offbeat destination, Silver City is a must-visit destination that offers a glimpse into Idaho’s rich mining history.

9. Payette Lake

Payette Lake is a beautiful alpine lake located in the charming town of McCall, ID , just a short drive from Boise. The lake is surrounded by stunning mountain scenery, and offers visitors a wide range of outdoor recreational activities. You can swim, fish, or even take a boat tour to explore the lake and its beautiful surroundings. There are several beaches and parks located along the shores of the lake, which offer a great place to relax and soak up the sun. For the more adventurous, there are also several hiking and mountain biking trails in the area that offer stunning views of the lake and the surrounding mountains. In the winter, you can enjoy skiing, snowboarding, and other winter sports in the nearby mountains. 

10. Sawtooth Mountains

The Sawtooth Mountains are a stunning mountain range located in central Idaho, offering some of the best hiking and camping opportunities in the country. With over 700 miles of trails winding through pristine wilderness, visitors can explore the rugged peaks and alpine lakes while enjoying breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. The Sawtooths offer a wide range of outdoor recreational activities, from hiking and camping to fishing, rock climbing, and even backcountry skiing in the winter. 

The Sawtooth National Recreation Area is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, with several developed campgrounds and picnic areas, as well as numerous backcountry campsites for the more adventurous. You can also explore the historic mining town of Stanley, which is located at the base of the Sawtooths and offers a variety of dining and lodging options. 

11. Camel’s Back Park

A gem within Boise’s urban landscape, Camel’s Back Park is a 30-acre oasis offering a refreshing escape. Named after a rock formation resembling a camel’s back, the park features wandering trails, a playground, and lush green spaces. Locals and visitors alike flock to Camel’s Back for outdoor activities such as hiking, picnicking, and playing volleyball. The park’s proximity to the historic Hyde Park district adds to its charm, making it a perfect spot to unwind.

“One of the most scenic spots in Boise is Camel’s Back Park, located near Hyde Park in the North End neighborhood,” says Mike McKeage of MKM Creations . “To reach the top, you can either climb a steep staircase with a handrail made from an old chair lift cable from Bogus Basin ski resort, or follow a winding trail through the sagebrush. Either way, you will be rewarded with stunning scenery that is worth the effort.”

12. Swan Falls Canyon

Venture a bit beyond Boise to discover the scenic beauty of Swan Falls Canyon. Located along the Snake River, this canyon offers a serene escape into nature. The rugged cliffs and flowing river create a picturesque setting, attracting hikers, anglers, and nature lovers. Swan Falls Dam, a historic hydroelectric power station, adds an interesting dimension to the area’s landscape. It’s an ideal spot for a day trip, allowing visitors to surround themselves in the canyon’s tranquility.

“Witnessing Swan Falls Canyon at sunset is a mesmerizing experience,” says Desireé of Boise-based Foreign Perceptions Photography . “The Snake River meanders through the canyon, mirroring the sun’s golden glow on a cloudless day while the Owyhee Mountains stand in the background. I love this location in the Treasure Valley because of the serene ambiance, tranquility and natural beauty as it creates a captivating environment that is fantastic for stunning portraits of any kind. Plus it’s an amazing outing for families who just moved here.”

Boise and its surrounding areas offer some of the most beautiful and diverse natural landscapes in the country. Whether you are an outdoor enthusiast or just looking for a peaceful escape, these beautiful places to visit in and near Boise, ID, are sure to leave you awe-inspired.

Julia is a part of the content marketing team and enjoys writing about real estate and design trends. Her dream home be a charming beachside home with lots of light.

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Top 20 Amazing Places to Visit in September in the USA

With cooler weather, fewer crowds and some leaves beginning to change early in the month, I personally think September is one of the easier and most beautiful times to travel around the country.

From cozy mountain retreats to visiting breweries and farmers’ markets in a trendy city, here are my favorite spots to discover and explore…

1. North Cascades National Park, Washington

North Cascades National Park is a vast wilderness area in northwestern Washington, and I’m seriously always in awe of this magnificent place!

The park region, commonly called the North American Alps, covers scenic mountains, snowfields, glaciers, alpine meadows, cascading waterfalls, and other unique natural features in the North Cascade Range.

I love that North Cascades is home to diverse and abundant wildlife such as mule deer, black-tailed deer, black bars, marmots, pikas, and several species of bats, elk, and mountain goats so I would suggest going wildlife-spotting (safely, of course!).

With rain from the Pacific in spring and fall, in my opinion, mid-June to mid-September are great times to visit. There are fewer crowds after the peak of summer as well.

• Visitor Center Address: 7280 Ranger Station Rd, Marblemount, WA 98267
• Average temperature – 8 degrees

My favorite highlights…

• Visiting the breathtaking Diablo Lake View Point and admiring the stunning landscape! 
• Renting a boat and enjoying some time spent on the lake’s vibrant blue waters.
• Hiking the Cascade Pass Trail (rated moderate) and seeing incredible scenery!

2. Kenai Fjords, Alaska

I think Kenai Fjords National Park is a truly stunning place! It has no less than 40 outflowing glaciers, coastal fjords and beautiful unspoilt islands.

This month, the temperatures are not yet too cold, and the days are still long, and my personal favourite is that nature is in full bloom! Amidst the crisp air, filled with energy, in the icy waters and lush forests, the park’s diverse wildlife thrives! 

My favourite activity here is trying to spot seals and puffins. I highly recommend whale-watching, hiking the icefield, kayaking, and trying one of the many boat tours and cruises.

It’s one of Alaska’s most popular wildlife and glacier cruises known for its abundant wildlife, extraordinary mountains, and tidewater glaciers! 

• Visitor Center Address: 1212 4th Avenue Seward, AK 99664
• Average temperature – 5 degrees
• Going on an incredible whale-watching tour!
• Visiting Exit Glacier and hiking the very scenic Glacier Overlook Trail.

3. Seattle, Washington

The hip seaport city of Seattle is known for its unpredictable weather and incredible food. In my opinion, the best way to enjoy it is by visiting this month or October. Summer does offer warmer temperatures, but it comes with higher prices and limited accommodation availability.

I recommend visiting Pioneer Square (its oldest neighborhood), Space Needle, Pike Place Market (its most visited landmark), the Museum of Art and Pop Music , Seattle Great Wheel and Seward Park. 

I would also suggest coffee classes at the Barista Academy, catching a show at the entertaining part-cabaret, Teatro ZinZanni, trying fusion food at the popular Marination Ma Kai food truck, taking the intriguing beneath-the-streets tour or if you’re a sports fan going to a professional baseball game! 

Additionally, the city’s natural beauty can be seen in its Japanese Garden or through its exquisite fall color display at the Washington Park Arboretum! 

• Visitors Center Address – 701 Pike Street; Suite 800. Seattle, Washington 98101
• Average temperature – 20 degrees
• Going to Craven Farm and having fun getting lost in their corn maze.
• Taste Fall-seasoned beer on a fun brewery tour.
• Watching a baseball game, the atmosphere was incredible!

4. Lake Placid and the Adirondack Mountains 

I fell in love with this area! In my opinion, The Adirondacks offer a spectacular natural backdrop, perfect for any occasion — from family vacations to romantic getaways and outdoor excursions – throughout all seasons! 

However, I think this month is ideal for those avoiding the dreaded black fly season, the crowds, and those looking for early colorful foliage.

As autumn begins, I love that the rolling hills, the high peaks, and the serene nature look like a painting in fall colors. Viewing Lake Placid amongst this beautiful autumn foliage is also truly mesmerising.

It’s also known as a Winter Olympics venue and for being a hub for snow sports. While this month is too early for snow, other adventures include hiking, boating and dining out in the town’s great range of restaurants.

•   Address of Visitors Center – I-87 N (Between Exits 17 &, 18, Queensbury, NY 12804
• Riding the Cloudspitter Gonola on Whiteface Mountain to witness spectacular views overlooking the colorful fall foliage.
• Traveling up to the top of the Olympic Ski Jumps to experience how skiers feel before they head down the slides!
• Exploring the High Falls Gorge which is filled with nature walks, footbridges and waterfalls.

5. Cape May, New Jersey

Once a town based on whaling and fishing, now it’s a pretty destination that has been a magnet for all types of vacationers. I’m a huge fan of the charming old architecture, the picturesque harbor, the great range of places to stay, the fine collection of restaurants and the amazing beach! 

I also think every visitor has to try the food on offer here. I would suggest heading for the restaurants on Schellenger’s Landing at the base of the canal bridge and some others along the beachfront and into West Cape May.

This month’s temperatures are very fine, and the summer crowds would have disappeared, too! 

• Address: New Jersey 08204
• Average temperature – 25 degrees

My highlights…

• Relaxing on Poverty Beach which was my favorite beach.
• Exploring Washington Street Mall which was home to great shops and restaurants.
• Going on the Salt Marsh Safari which was a fun way to explore the town! 

6. Colorado Springs, Colorado

Based at the eastern foot of the Rocky Mountains, Colorado Springs and its nearby glacier-carved Pikes Peak are just magical in the fall. I love that the temperatures are pleasant this month, there are fewer crowds, and accommodation rates are cheaper.

Colorado Springs and the Pikes Peak region are covered in beautiful autumn-colored leaves. Every year, visitors and locals set out into the wilderness to experience the natural beauty and serenity of the changing leaves.

I suggest heading to the Pikes Peak region for scenic hiking trails and the cog railway, which takes you through the national forest to its 14,000 ft-summit.

The Garden of the Gods Park houses iconic red-sandstone formations and mountain views. Besides trails and railways, I highly recommend going on a fun Segway tour, bike rides, or a jeep tour.

• Visitors Center Address: 515 S Cascade Ave, Colorado Springs, CO 80903
• Average temperature – 24 degrees
• Hiking to Garden of the Gods, a national landmark created by unusual natural rock formations.
• Cycling along a biking trail to get a good view of the Red Rock Canyon, located near downtown along the highway.
• Visiting the Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum and learning about the area’s history.

7. Zion National Park, Utah

Located in southern Utah, in my opinion, Zion National Park is one of the most spectacular parks in the country. Known for its natural beauty and contrasting colors, I personally think it’s most scenic during the Fall! 

I think there’s nothing quite like the vividly colored leaves around Zion’s red sandstone cliffs. The brilliant reds, bright yellows and blazing oranges of the foliage offer truly stunning views!

I also think the sunny days, the comfortable but warm temperatures and the fewer crowds are a huge bonus. The scenery is also less saturated by sunlight, and the contrast between the leaves and cliffs catches your eye! 

For hikers, I would recommend Angels Landing, Observation Point, and Emerald Pools the park also offers numerous other outdoor activities such as biking, climbing and bird-watching.

• Visitors Center Address: Zion National Park, 1 Zion Park Blvd, Springdale, UT 84767
• Average temperatures – 25 degrees
• Hiking the very scenic Zion Canyon Overlook Trail.
• Discovering Canyon Overlook and admiring the incredible view overlooking the red sandstone park.
• Taking the Highway Scenic Drive, which offers stunning scenery!

8. Beaufort, South Carolina

In my opinion, this small, salt-air city on Port Royal Island is a must-do for your autumn vacation! The temperatures are very warm this month, and I would suggest just walking on the streets and viewing the historic mansions that have existed since before the American Civil War! 

The city is filled with Victorian and Antebellum architecture; you can take tours to visit some of them. Some have even been used in classic Hollywood movies. 

After a long day, I recommend visiting the Beaufort National Cemetery or joining locals on the Intracoastal Waterway at the Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park, then ending your day with delicious cuisine and water views at Plums Restaurant ! 

• Visitors Center Address: 713 Craven St, Beaufort, SC 29902
• Average temperatures  – 29 degrees
• Taking a walk down Front Street, which was home to great shops, resturants and water views.
• Visiting Beaufort Historic Site which featured nine interesting buildings (and the Old Burying Ground was nearby).
• Indulging in delicious Southern food at Saltus River Grill (which also had awesome views)!

9. Asheville, North Carolina

I personally think this is a great month for visiting Asheville as it’s still very warm, and you can see the start of the leaves changing.

It’s home to several scenic fall drives, my favorite is the Blue Ridge Parkway which winds around some of the highest peaks in this region and passes through patches of wildflowers of goldenrod, witch hazel, aster and mountain ash.

The Blue Ridge Mountains offer one of the longest and most vibrant leaf seasons.

I would also suggest visiting Hendersonville, known as the “Apple Alley”, which has seasonal apple orchards, steaming donuts, bamboo forests, corn mazes, spiced cider, and cute pumpkin patches. I also think the city is worth exploring and here you’ll find a collection of restaurants, bars, music, art and plenty of culture! 

• Visitor’s Center Address: 36 Montford Ave, Asheville, NC 28801
• Embracing the spookier side of this city by going on a scary ghost tour!
• Admiring the wonderful fall colors and panoramic views at the Swinging Bridge located on Grandfather Mountain.
• Sipping on a pumpkin-spiced latte and enjoy a freshly baked muffin at the super-cute Pollen Coffee (which is also part flower shop)!

10. New England

New England in the northeastern U.S., comprising the states of Maine , Vermont , New Hampshire , Massachusetts, Connecticut , and Rhode Island. I love this area this time of year for its interesting Colonial past, Atlantic coastline, forested mountains, and world-famous autumn foliage! 

This month marks the start of the leaf-changing season, and the region will showcase peak autumn colors by the end of the month.

Like many others, I’m a huge fan of the region’s forests and mountains which display a riot of colors and its charming towns are filled with a cozy Fall atmosphere! I would also recommend visiting their scenic trails for hiking, biking, and the cute lodges for overnight accommodation.

I also suggest visiting the seasonal farms and farmers’ markets, apple orchards, pumpkin patches, corn mazes, and trying the freshly made cider and donuts! 

• Location: northeastern region of the United States
• Average temperatures – 22 degrees
• Taking a hot air balloon ride and seeing Connecticut’s incredible fall foliage.
• Enjoying a ride on the Lake Winnipesaukee Foliage Train, which took me from New Hampshire to Plymouth for a buffet lunch.
• Tasting the delicious flavors of a homemade breakfast at Polly’s Pancake Parlor .

11. Charleston, South Carolina

Charleston always charms me when I visit! I also think the sandy beaches are ideal for relaxing, scenic strolls or splashing in the waves. I would suggest not missing its avenue, which is lined with ancient oaks. The fall season offers extra interesting activities and events here.

I would highly recommend visiting the seasonal farmers’ markets, the corn mazes and the hot air balloon festivals. The Gibbes Museum of Arts , Netherworld First Theatre and Freshfields Village Cars & Coffee are my favorite attractions.

In my opinion, the best time to visit Charleston is either in spring or fall, when temperatures are warm and comfortable, and hotel rates are lower in fall.

• Address of visitors center: 375 Meeting St, Charleston, SC 29403
• Average temperatures  – 28 degrees

My personal highlights…

• Heading over to the scenic waterway at Shem Creek for a spot of paddleboarding!
• Cruising around in a PediCab bike taxi.
• Walking over the Ravenel Bridge (located over the Cooper River) and seeing the incredible views of Charleston Harbor.

12. Acadia National Park, Maine

I’m always in awe of the picturesque landscapes and diverse wildlife on the coast of Maine! The 47,000-acre Acadia National Park is an all-year-round destination, but in my opinion, it is particularly attractive this month.

The weather is also ideal and its relatively less busy just after Labor Day and before the leaf-peeping crowds arrive! 

I recommend visiting Hulls Cove Visitor Center or its less-crowded Welcome Center at Rockefeller Hall. The park stretches across Mount Desert Island, home to the first rays of daylight that touch the United States for half the year. So it’s the perfect place to catch a scenic sunrise! 

I would suggest getting involved in hiking, biking, animal and bird spotting, guided tours and camping, all offered here!

• Visitors Center Address: 25 Visitor Center Rd, Acadia National Park, Mount Desert Island, ME 04609
• Average temperatures – 20 degrees

My must-do highlights…

• Hiking along the coast via the Great Head Trail by Sound Beach.
• Stopping off at Jordan Pond to see the Bubble Rocks and then checking out the super-cute tea house.
• Cycling down the Carriage Road – this route leads you around the entire park! 

13. Dauphin Island, Alabama

With a temperature that peaks around 30 degrees this month, in my opinion, it’s a great choice for a family, couples or even solo travel destination.

I love that it’s home to various sea animals and avian species including gorgeous playful dolphins.

I recommend visiting the Historic Fort Gaines and the Audubon Bird Sanctuary. The Fort is an interesting spot home to original cannons, a blacksmith shop, kitchens, a museum, a gift shop, and tunnels.

Several boating charters also offer scenic trips in and around the Gulf and Mobile Bay! 

• Visitors Center Address. 109 Bienville Boulevard Mobile County 36528 Dauphin Island
• Average temperatures – 30 degrees
• Heading down to the public beach with my dog.
• Going on a leisurely boat tour and exploring the offshore waters.
• Visiting the historic Sand Island Lighthouse which was built over 150 years ago.

14. Santa Fe, New Mexico

I personally think the best time to visit Santa Fe is between this month and November when the temperatures range from a comfortable 20 to 70 degrees.

While summer is the busiest and spring offers similar weather conditions, I think the special fall-time festivals make it a great city to visit in autumn.

My favorite festivals include the Fiestas de Santa, Wine and Chile Fiesta, the eye-catching Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta, and the El Rancho De Las Golondrinas harvest festival.

The historic harvest festival features a pumpkin patch, a chance to make cider, music, and entertainment. I think this is a great choice with fewer crowds and plenty of adventure activities, music and art festivals, food, and drinks!

• Address for Santa Fe Visitors Center: 491 Old Santa Fe Trail Santa Fe, NM 87501
• Witnessing the gorgeous color change of the leaves in the picturesque Santa Fe Mountains.
• Discovering a variety of local produce and handmade crafts at the year-round farmers market.
• Exploring the art galleries, shopping boutiques and historic homes along the cultural Canyon Road.

15. Carmel-by-the-Sea, North California 

I always love visiting this postcard-like town filled with tree-lined streets, charming buildings, boutique stores, gourmet restaurants, and a beautiful beach.

Calm and picturesque, I’m especially a huge fan of the amazing sunsets overlooking the Pacific Ocean, rolling dunes that lead to the ocean, and the huge Monterey Pine and cypress trees! 

Fall is surprisingly the sunniest time of the year, bringing warm, clear days and cool, breezy nights. This month offers refreshing weather conditions, which I think is ideal for sunbathing, strolling, and relaxing on the soft beach.

I recommend visiting the world-class shopping and dining, exquisite wine-tasting rooms, art galleries, quaint inns, and the Carmel Mission Basilica. Also, explore the 18-mile bike path that offers breathtaking views to finally reach Carmel Point.

• Visitors Center Address: Ocean Ave, Carmel-By-The-Sea, CA 93921
• Average temperatures  – 22 degrees

My highlights,,,

• Exploring Point Lobos.
• Dining at the fabulous Mission Ranch Restaurant (owned by Clint Eastwood)!
• Staying at the super-cute Tickled Pink Inn and whale-watching from our room.

16. Na Pali Coast, Hawaii

I personally think the ruggedly scenic coastline of Na Pali has one of the most beautiful views in all of Hawaii. The coast has dramatic cliffs, pristine, unspoilt beaches, rocky hiking trails and extensive archaeological sites.

In my opinion, exploring the undisturbed terrain of Na Pali is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience. You can fly over, boat around or hike this region.

It’s difficult to reach but if you can, the Hanakapiai Falls are truly mesmerizing and there are numerous hiking paths, with “Hanakapiai Trail” leading to this famous waterfall. 

I think best time to visit Hawaii is between March and this month when it sees the least rain and enjoys the highest temperatures so perfect for discovering the clear sea waters and soft sandy beaches! 

• Location: the area is a 16-mile coastal stretch from the remote and wild Polihale Beach on the west to Kee Beach on the north shore of the Hawaiian island of Kauai.
• Average temperatures  – 27 degrees
• Hopping on a sunset boat tour and exploring the Insta-worthy coast! 
• Going on an exciting helicopter tour, the views were incredible!
• Relaxing on the stunning Kee Beach.

17. Ozarks, Missouri, Arkansas and Oklahoma 

I know this area is usually known for summer fun, but I think this is also a magical time to visit. As summer ends and temperatures cool, you’ll still have clear skies and rainless days, and the region will offer unique attractions and fun activities.

If you have a family, I’d recommend visiting the fun Cave Pumpkin Patch, which offers wagon rides, children’s play areas, corn cribs, miniature pumpkin painting and water balloon shooting! 

Alternatively, I love the stunning Ha Ha Tonka State Park , home to a 300-step wooden stairway from its castle that leads to alluring blue springs. It also offers several hiking trails across its varying terrain.

My other favorite activities are discovering the numerous wineries, that look even more stunning in vivid autumn colors. The striking scene of the foliage against the lake is also a very photogenic sight! 

• Location of the Ozarks: the region stretches across Missouri, Arkansas , Oklahoma and the extreme southeastern corner of Kansas .
• Average temperature  – 23 degrees
• Sampling wine and eating wood-fired pizza at the Shawnee Bluff Winery.
• Visiting the Cave Pumpkin Patch for some Autumn fun. It’s filled with pumpkin patches, pumpkin painting and wagon rides.
• Climbing up 300 steps at the Ha Ha Tonka State Park Castle to reach the magical blue springs.

18. Bend, Oregon

Located on the Deschutes River, I think the small city of Bend is a real gem. It’s not just the funky city though, stunning scenery and lakes and peaks of the Cascade Mountains surround it. One of my favorite spots is a trail from the town that leads up to Pilot Butte, an extinct volcano.

While hear I would highly recommend hiking to Tumalo Falls, visiting the local Fall Festival, trying out locally grown seasonal dishes, stargazing on a canoe trip by night, and witnessing the lovely fall colors at Drake Park! 

Also, I don’t think you should miss the town’s High Desert Museum , which exhibits local history, the environment, and wildlife. In my opinion, fall is the time of year here as prices are lower and you can enjoy the best summer and winter weather.

• Visitors Center Address: 750 NW Lava Rd #160, Bend, OR 97703
• Average temperatures – 23 degrees
• Tasting various craft beers at several award-winning breweries on the famous Bend Ale Trail.
• Browsing the cool little independent shops located downtown.
• Biking along the paved Pine Nursery Park Trail.

19. Saugatuck – Douglas, Michigan

This is a small city of about 850 people, so I would recommend this for a very low-key, relaxed vacation. A temperature of 23 degrees also gives you the freedom to have plenty of outdoor adventures.

I personally think the cute location makes it a great choice for a unique romantic getaway. My favourite spots in the area include Oval Beach, Water Street Gallery and Douglas Beach Park.

With art galleries, al fresco dining, sunny days, and cozy nights, especially this month, I think it’s easy to see why Saugatuck/Douglas makes a unique early autumn break.

• Visitors Center Address: 95 Blue Star Hwy, Douglas, MI 49406
• Average temperatures – 24 degrees
• Watching live music at Coral Gables .
• Picking apples, drinking cider and getting lost in a 20-acre corn maze at the fun Crane Orchards.
• Going on the fun Star of Saugtuck boat cruise which had amazing views along the Kalamazoo River.

20. Wallace, Idaho

This place always wows me! It’s a Wild West mining town of Wallace in the legendary Silver Valley of North Idaho. It is surrounded by spectacular mountain views, natural unspoilt beauty, and a beautifully preserved downtown with Queen Anne buildings. In my opinion, Wallace has reversed what America West once was! 

I’m always in awe of the towering mountains, thick pines, and huckleberry bushes, and I think it is a great base camp from which to explore the wondrous Silver Valley and the amazing Bitterroot Mountains.

These uniquely scenic spots offer attractive views, various one-of-a-kind trails, and a great range of outdoor activities like hiking and cycling. Months from July to September have limited rainfall and warm temperatures, so I think this is a great time to visit.

• Visitor Center Address: River St Wallace Visitor Center, Wallace, ID 83873-2142
• Average temperature – 29 degrees
• Cycling the 15-mile paved Hiawatha Trail which took me through dark train tunnels.
• Joining the Sierra Silver Mine Tour and learning about the town’s history whilst riding a retro trolley.
• Flying through the sky on the Silver Streak Zipline !

We also have posts on… 

• Amazing spots to explore in October
• Awesome places to visit in November

Beth Pinches – writer and photographer

Beth was born under a wandering star, with drama in her veins and ink in her pen. After stints studying theatre in Dublin and Utrecht she used her creative streak to see as much of the world as she could on as little money. She toured Italian Schools with a children’s theatre troop, lived as an au pair in both Rome and Washington DC, explored the British countryside, worked her way through much of Europe, Salsa danced in Cuba and road-tripped down America’s west coast where she discovered her spiritual home; Portland, Oregon. Other places she loves include Croatia, Finland, Japan and India. In between adventures, travel writing and performing she resides peacefully with her family, cats and ukulele. Find Beth on Linkedin or   Facebook .

Hotel Reviewing Experience – Asked by many tourist boards and many high-profile travel brands to formally review hotels including Visit Jersey , Visit Sweden , and Israel Tourist Board. Also travelled around the world scouting out and reviewing all the most unique hotels in the world, check out our Instagram page for photos . Listed as a top UK travel journalist .

Portland Reviewing Experience – Lived in Portland for 6 months and spent many months scouting out all the coolest spots.

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Where to go on vacation in September 2024?

From sunny beach retreats to European city trips, if you’re still pondering where to go on vacation in September, you’re in luck. With a wide range of destinations on offer, Expedia’s epic vacation deals for September 2024 means you’ll soon be jetting off on your dream escape.  

If you’re seeking a budget-friendly getaway close to home, Atlanta and Dallas are top picks. With open-air events, eclectic gastronomy and a diverse array of lodgings, these bustling cities promise a cheap vacation in September 2024. For a chance to disconnect among natural beauty, Alaska and Denver are a must. Embark on a whale-watching adventure near Juneau or enjoy brisk hikes in Colorado’s scenic mountains. 

Craving a relaxing beach escape with your kids? The tranquil coves and scenic drives along California ’s Pacific coast are ideal for a family vacation in September 2024. For a luxury beach getaway, check out Aruba . The country’s crystal-clear waters and soft white-sands offer the romantic escape you’ve been dreaming of all year.  

Why not hop across the pond for your September 2024 vacation? From the tranquil beaches of Croatia to the historic streets of Athens , Europe has it all. As fall approaches, Germany ’s cultural events and Scotland ’s rugged beauty mean these 2 countries are some of the best vacation destinations in September. 

Bundle together your travel arrangements to save big with Expedia’s tasty package deals. With a wide range of flights, accommodation, and car rentals, you’re guaranteed to find your dream vacation for September 2024.  

Top destinations for September vacations

● california.

Spot whales in Alaska 

With mild weather and vibrant fall foliage, Alaska is one of the best places to visit in September. During this month, go whale watching off Juneau and catch the mythical northern lights near Fairbanks. Embark on an adventure in Denali National Park as the leaves turn a fiery shade of red and yellow. Discover Alaska’s fall charm with Expedia. 

Raise a glass in Germany 

When deciding where to go in September for cultural fun, consider Germany . As Oktoberfest celebrations kick off, savor some of the world’s best beer, washed down with delicious German cuisine. With fewer crowds, September is ideal for exploring hidden gems, from the charming town of Quedlinburg to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Lübeck. Explore Germany with Expedia.

Unwind on Croatia’s calm coast 

As fall arrives, Croatia is an unmissable spot for a beach vacation in September. With fewer tourists, it’s an ideal time to enjoy the walled city of Dubrovnik and pristine beaches of Split. A plethora of festivals take place too, including the grape harvest festival in Istria and Slavonian Wine Fair in Kutjevo. Score a Croatia vacation package with Expedia. 

Live it up in Scotland 

The buzzing arts scene and brisk Highland hikes make Scotland one of the best places to vacation in September. With comfortable temperatures and sunny days, it's an ideal month for exploring the lochs. For a touch of culture, the Edinburgh International Festival sees the city’s streets come to life with music, arts, and dancing. Discover Scotland with Expedia.

Have a taste of  California

Thanks to the multitude of exciting events, California is among the world’s best vacation destinations in September. As the harvest begins, go wine tasting in the scenic Napa Valley and feast on gourmet cuisine along Lake Tahoe’s idyllic shores. The pleasant weather is ideal for spotting celebrities in Hollywood and rollerblading along Venice Beach. Live your California dream with Expedia. 

Chill out in the Aruba sun 

Aruba ’s white-sand beaches rank as one of the best vacation destinations in September thanks to glorious sunshine and fewer crowds. Dip your toes in the sand, chill out in a hammock and enjoy carefree days lazing around the pool. From romantic retreats to kid-friendly adventures, check out Expedia’s Aruba vacation deals for September 2024.

Journey through time in Athens 

With the mercury hovering around the mid-70s, the Greek capital is one of the best places to go on vacation in September. The warm temperatures are ideal for taking in the city’s ancient monuments. Lose yourself among the winding alleys of Plaka and savor a delicious gyro in one of its many cozy tabernas. Jet off to Athens with Expedia.

  Embrace Atlanta’s energetic events 

Atlanta ’s exciting fall events calendar makes it a contender for the best place to vacation in September. From the Dogwood Festival’s live music to Georgia’s finest cuisine at the Taste of Atlanta fair, there’s always something fun to do during September. You’re onto a winner with Atlanta’s sunny weather, too. Unlock juicy savings on your Atlanta adventure with Expedia’s package deals. 

Dive into Dallas 

If you’re keen on art, Dallas is a must when choosing where to go in September. The milder temperatures are ideal for exploring the city’s galleries, home to works by Van Gogh, Picasso and Warhol. With the season in full swing, why not catch a Dallas Cowboys game, too? Browse the wide range of Dallas lodging options on Expedia.

Inhale Denver’s fresh mountain air 

Admired for its outdoors lifestyle and the nearby Rocky Mountains, Denver is one of the top September vacation destinations. The unmissable food and wine festival showcases Colorado’s mouthwatering cuisine, while the spectacular Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre hosts a series of open-air shows. Save big on your Denver escape by bundling together your traveling arrangements on Expedia.

All you need to know about vacations in September 2024

Where to vacation in september.

As fall rolls in, Alaska ’s colorful leaves and vast open spaces make it one of the best places to visit in September. If it’s history and culture you’re seeking, Germany ’s quaint Alpine town and Athens ’ gracious ruins won’t disappoint. 

Where to travel in September for sun and warm weather?

With an average high of 90°F, the sun-soaked island of Aruba is one of the best places to vacation in September if you’re seeking warm weather. Closer to home, vibrant Atlanta enjoys temperatures in the 70s and 80s, making it an ideal spot for a warm September vacation. 

What are the best states for a vacation in September?

Some of the best September vacation destinations in the US include Texas and Colorado. The pleasant weather in Dallas is ideal for exploring the city’s renowned museums and art galleries. Another popular spot for a September 2024 vacation is Denver . Colorado’s capital enjoys a warm climate throughout the month, making it an ideal time to explore the nearby mountains. 

Where to vacation with kids in September?

Scotland ’s fairy-tale castles are a popular choice for a family-friendly vacation in September. Take your kids to cast a spell in the historic streets of Edinburgh and Glasgow, where scenes in the Harry Potter movies were filmed. If you’re keen for a domestic escape with your kids, California ’s theme parks won’t disappoint. Book your family’s September vacation 2024 with Expedia. 

What are the best European cities to visit in September?

Thanks to its warm and sunny days, Dubrovnik in Croatia is one of Europe’s best places to go in September. Explore its picturesque streets and world-famous city walls. For even more heritage experiences, consider Athens for your September vacation. The Greek capital is home to some of the world’s most romantic ruins, including the majestic Acropolis and Parthenon.  

Where is the best beach vacation in September?

Enjoying warm, sunny weather, California ’s vast Pacific coast is one of the best places to go in September for a beach escape. If it’s tropical vibes you’re seeking, Aruba has to be top of your list. This sun-soaked island boasts family-friendly hotels and romantic resorts ideal for a relaxing coastal escape.  

Where is the cheapest place to vacation in September?

Offering a vast array of budget-friendly lodging options, Alaska offers cheap vacation deals in September. Atlanta is another affordable destination thanks to the plethora of low-cost airlines that fly into the city’s airport. 

Where to travel outside the US in September?

As Oktoberfest celebrations get underway, Germany ranks as one of the most exciting places to vacation in September for an international adventure. If it’s sun-drenched beaches you’re craving, Croatia ’s pristine coast is a must.  

Where is the best place to golf in September?

With a plethora of immaculate courses and glorious weather conditions, California is one of the best vacation destinations in September for golf enthusiasts. Over in Europe, Scotland boasts over 500 places to play golf. Its mild September climate makes it an ideal time to tee up on its scenic courses.  

How to plan a September vacation with Expedia?

A great way to plan your September vacation in 2024 is using Expedia’s intuitive search engine. Simply enter your dates and chosen destination into the search bar and it’ll throw up hundreds of options for you to compare.

Why book a vacation in September with Expedia?

A wide choice of travel deals, juicy package savings and exclusive member-only discounts are just some of the reasons to book your dream September vacation with Expedia. Join the One Key reward program for free and you'll save on average 10% or more on 100,000 hotels.

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