15 Unique Places to Visit in Idaho – My Unforgettable Adventure

I always travel but Idaho was never at the top of my travel bucket list. It was a co-incidence I went there. Idaho has raw beauty, charming towns, and endless outdoor adventures. When I stood at the edge of the most beautiful places in Idaho, it was a thrilling outdoor experiences.  

If you’re also looking for unique places to visit in Idaho, or searching for fun things to do in Idaho with family, this article is for you. Here’s my account of 15 must-visit Idaho destinations that you shouldn’t miss.

1. Boise – The Heart of Idaho

My voyage commenced in Boise, and I must say I did not anticipate much from Idaho’s capital. Within hours, however, I had fallen under its spell. Boise is a perfectly balanced amalgam of city and adventure.

The entire afternoon, I walked the scenic 25-mile-long-by-now-very-famous road called the Boise River Greenbelt. Cycling here would have been best for breathing fresh air while taking in highlights of the city’s natural beauty. Freak Alley Gallery was another pleasant surprise- never thought Idaho would host such an energetic art scene!

If you are looking for things to do there in Boise, Idaho, visit the Old Idaho Penitentiary. Walking through the haunted historic prison gave goosebumps felt like a step through time.

Things to Do: Walk or bike the Boise River Greenbelt, visit the Freak Alley Gallery, and tour the Old Idaho Penitentiary. 

Estimated Daily Spending: $150-$200 (hotel, meals, activities, transport)

2. Shoshone Falls – The Niagara of the West

A little road trip from Boise led me to one of the most beautiful places in Idaho: Shoshone Falls. The falls rise at a breathtaking 212 feet, even higher than Niagara Falls! 

I arrived just this early morning as soft sunlight was beginning to brush the water with gold. The thunder of the falls reverberated through the air, and the cool spray kissed my face. It was humbling to stand there feeling and hearing the sheer force of nature. 

If you are visiting in spring or early summer, the flow of water is at its peak, so it is all the more breathtaking!

Things to Do: Hike along the scenic viewpoints, have a picnic, and capture stunning waterfall photography. 

Estimated Daily Spending: $50-$100 (gas, snacks, park entry)

3. Craters of the Moon National Monument

Trekking through Craters of the Moon National Monument was just like landing on some alien world. No other view in my life compared to this spilling landscape, where hardened lava, stark rugged caves, and volcanic rock formations combined into something that assaulted all my senses. 

I hiked the Inferno Cone Trail, and it was worth every step to stand atop the mountain and see the entire panorama. And the best part? I saw barely another tourist; it was just me, the volcanic terrain, and the never-ending skies. Here is a place worth visiting when one desires something different in Idaho.

Things to Do: Hike the Inferno Cone Trail, explore caves, and stargaze at night. 

Estimated Daily Spending: $75-$150 (lodging, meals, park fees)

4. Sun Valley – The Ultimate Summer Retreat

Sun Valley is synonymous with skiing in people’s minds. But this is nosy place catches magic just the same during summer! 

I spent a couple of days happily hiking and mountain biking through meadows filled with wildflowers before rewarding myself with a gondola ride up Bald Mountain for a view that was nothing short of spectacular. If your idea of summer entailed outdoor adventures, this is easily one of the best places for summer visiting in Idaho. 

Things to Do: Hike the wildflower meadows, go mountain biking, and take a gondola ride up Bald Mountain. 

Estimated Daily Spending: $200-$300 (resort stay, meals, gondola ride, activities)

5. Coeur d’Alene – A Stunning Lake Destination

Stepping into a postcard was what it felt like when entering Coeur d’Alene. Most peaceful views on the one hand, the turquoise blue lake appears to envelop one side in evergreens. 

Well, since we were traveling as a family, we took one short cruise across Coeur D Alene Lake, one of those wonderful ways to unwind while taking in the sights. If you are looking for some fun things to do with family with regards to Idaho, I certainly recommend this lakeside town.

Things to Do: Take a cruise on Lake Coeur d’Alene, go paddleboarding, and explore downtown shops. 

Estimated Daily Spending: $150-$250 (hotel, meals, cruise, activities)

6. Sawtooth National Recreation Area – Idaho’s Wilderness Paradise

As a nature devotee who hikes a lot, Sawtooth Mountains is my natural next stop. Jagged peaks, pristine alpine lakes, and quiet trails provided one of the most rewarding experiences during my trip.

Stumbling upon the hidden treasure that is Redfish Lake where I kayaked in its crystal clear waters while the mountains reflected off the surface was pure magic.

Things to Do: Hike through the mountains, kayak at Redfish Lake, and camp under the stars. 

Estimated Daily Spending: $75-$200 (camping, kayak rental, meals)

7. Hells Canyon – The Deepest River Gorge in North America

I did not know Hells Canyon could be deeper than the Grand Canyon! This place was like an adventure lover’s paradise.

I went on a jet boat tour down the Snake River, and it was quite an exhilarating ride and very scenic. This is the place to get your blood pumping if you’re big into whitewater rafting.

Things to Do: Take a jet boat tour, go whitewater rafting, and explore the rugged trails. 

Estimated Daily Spending: $150-$300 (jet boat tour, lodging, meals, rafting)

8. Bruneau Dunes State Park – A Sandboarding Adventure

Did you know that Idaho has the tallest sand dunes in North America? I didn’t realize that, either-until I came to Bruneau Dunes.

It was hard work to get to the top, but my word, what a view from the summit! Then it was down-sandboarding! That was pure adrenaline and probably one of the coolest things to do in Idaho with the family. 

Things to Do: Hike to the tallest sand dunes, try sandboarding, and stargaze at the observatory. 

Estimated Daily Spending: $50-$100 (camping, park fees, rentals)

9. Stanley – A Hidden Gem in the Sawtooth Mountains

It’s a little town and took a piece of my heart. For Stanley is the most perfect place to get away in the comfort of the Sawtooth Mountains. 

An evening spent soaking at Boat Box Hot Springs, this beautiful natural hot spring right beside the river, its got steam all around. Had me feeling like Idaho’s best-kept secret. 

Things to Do: Soak in Boat Box Hot Springs, hike mountain trails, and fish in pristine lakes. 

Estimated Daily Spending: $75-$150 (lodging, meals, hot spring entry)

10. City of Rocks National Reserve – A Climber’s Paradise

Climbers, this one’s for you! I’m not a climber, but the immense granite formations scattered within the landscape fascinated me. 

Hiking in the reserve seems to be a walk in the prehistoric world. I also saw some ancient petroglyphs, which make visiting even more interesting.

Things to Do: Hike through prehistoric landscapes, rock climb, and explore ancient petroglyphs. 

Estimated Daily Spending: $50-$125 (park fees, camping, meals)

11. Mesa Falls – A Hidden Gem Among Idaho’s Waterfalls

I have seen a lot of waterfalls in my days, but nothing impressed me more than Mesa Falls. Nestled between upper and lower sections in the Caribou-Targhee National Forest, those are some gorgeous falls.

I came early in the morning while the mist from the rushing waters was rising. The wooden boardwalk along the Upper Falls gives a great panoramic view from which to soak in the scene. The surging falls rise 114 feet at the plunge pool, and the thundering sounds, coupled with misty rainbows, made it almost a dream. Although other waterfalls may not give peace because of the crowds, Mesa Falls is serene and quiet.

Things to Do: Walk the wooden boardwalk, take waterfall photos, and enjoy a picnic. 

Estimated Daily Spending: $50-$100 (gas, snacks, park entry)

12. Snake River Canyon – An Adventure Lover’s Paradise

I’ve always been attracted to dramatic landscapes, and the Snake River Canyon happened to be one of the most adventurous sites I visited in Idaho. With rugged cliffs, deep gorges, and the meandering Snake River, this place surely is an outdoor enthusiast’s heaven.

I started off my adventure at Perrine Bridge which gives a jaw-dropping view of the canyon. It is also famous for its BASE jumping, and I even saw a few daredevils jumping off the bridge! 

For a calmer adventure, I rented a kayak and paddled down the canyon. I guarantee you will want to take a boat tour or try paddleboarding to enjoy the canyon at your own pace while you are visiting.

Things to Do: Visit Perrine Bridge, go kayaking, and try BASE jumping (if you dare).

Estimated Daily Spending: $100-$200 (kayak rental, meals, activities)

13. The Frank Church Wilderness – Idaho’s Wild Frontier

The wilderness of Idaho I wanted to see, but nothing had quite prepared me for the sheer remoteness of The Frank Church River of No Return Wilderness. 

Whitewater rafting on the Salmon River was one of the many highlights of my travels there. The rapids were a thrill, and just about everything there was a picture moment. If you’re looking for off-the-grid adventures, this is it; no roads, no crowds, no cell reception; just you and nature in splendor.

Hiking and camping here are equally wonderful but prepare for nasty conditions. I’d recommend this place for experienced hikers who worship absolute seclusion in nature.

Things to Do: Whitewater raft on the Salmon River, hike remote trails, and camp in solitude. 

Estimated Daily Spending: $100-$250 (rafting, camping gear, food)

14. Silverwood Theme Park – Family Fun in Idaho

After all my wilderness adventures, I really was in the mood for something thrilling and exciting-and Silverwood Theme Park provided just that! Located in northern Idaho, it’s the biggest theme park in the Northwest, with over 70 rides, a water park, and live entertainment.

I couldn’t resist the Tremors, a wooden coaster with insane drops that had me screaming (in a fun way!). Crookscrew Coaster from Knott’s Berry Farm was another must-ride attraction.

For families, Boulder Beach Water Park is a great place to cool off in summer. The lazy river, wave pools, and waterslides are one of the best summer attractions in Idaho, especially if you’re traveling with kids. 

Things to Do: Ride the roller coasters, enjoy the water park, and watch live entertainment. 

Estimated Daily Spending: $100-$200 (entry ticket, food, games)

15. Idaho’s Hot Springs – A Relaxing End to the Journey

After all the hiking, kayaking, and adventure sports, I treasured a moment of relaxation. Fortunately, Idaho is famous for its natural hot springs, and Kirkham Hot Springs happened to be just the place to unwind. 

In close range from Lowman lies the hot spring with steamy waterfalls and natural pools perched right along the riverbank. I arrived just before sunset, soaking in the warm mineral-rich waters and watching the river rush by was the perfect way to end my Idaho adventure.

With Kirkham being one of the most popular hot springs in Idaho, I would recommend coming in the early morning or on a weekday to avoid the crowds. If you are interested in more hot spring hopping, try Goldbug Hot Springs and Jerry Johnson Hot Springs, both of which boast equally breathtaking scenery.

Things to Do: Soak in Kirkham Hot Springs, visit Goldbug Hot Springs, and enjoy nature. 

Estimated Daily Spending: $75-$150 (lodging, food, entry fees)

Final Thoughts

My trip through Idaho nearby was nothing less than spectacular. From the most beautiful places in Idaho to the outside adventures and hidden hot springs, this state encompasses everything for every kind of traveler. 

If you are organizing your trip, grab an Idaho attractions map to start you off. Prepare to be amazed at how much beauty and adventure lie ahead in the Gem State. 

So which of these uniquely picturesque spots in Idaho would you explore first? I’d love to hear about your travel plans! 

FAQs

What is a famous thing in Idaho?
Idaho is best known for its potatoes, but it’s also famous for stunning landscapes, outdoor adventures, and gems like Sun Valley and Shoshone Falls.

What is the most beautiful place to live in Idaho?
Coeur d’Alene is often considered the most beautiful place to live, with its gorgeous lake, mountain views, and vibrant outdoor lifestyle.

What are the top three cities in Idaho?
The top three cities in Idaho are Boise (the capital and cultural hub), Coeur d’Alene (a scenic lakeside city), and Idaho Falls (a gateway to outdoor adventures).