Stroll alongside the Snake River Greenbelt, shop at eclectic stores downtown, eat a variety of delicious meals, explore the area’s rich history and heritage, and get outdoors to explore even more. This vibrant small city offers plenty to do, so get ready to plan your weekend in Idaho Falls.
Idaho Falls hosts dozens of great events throughout the year, so be sure to see if any events or festivals are taking place when you’ll be in town—or plan a visit to experience one. Summer boasts an array of fun, including the Bonneville County Fair and Melaleuca Freedom Celebration for the Fourth of July, as well as the state’s oldest rodeo, the War Bonnet Round Up. Catch a Chukars Minor League Baseball game at the 3,400-seat Melaleuca Field from June through September. Be sure to also check out the bustling free summer concert calendar, including favorites like Alive After Five and the Summer Concert Series on the Greenbelt, which both typically run from June through August. Summer is also time for the Idaho Falls Farmers Market, as well as the Mountain Brewers Beer Fest, Great Snake River Tri, and Snake River Roaring Youth Jam.
Fall fun includes Oktoberfest, Snake River Animal Shelter Mutt Strut, and Boo at the Zoo. As the calendar rolls toward the holidays, be sure to check out the tree lighting, Festival of Trees, Festival of Lights at Freeman Park, and Nutcracker Ballet. In spring, the Gem and Mineral Show is a popular way to kick off the season.
Day 1
Plan on spending today exploring many of the local museums, art exhibits, and family attractions. But first, grab a bite to eat at the Idaho Falls Farmers Market in summer or stop by Dixie’s Diner for a heaping plate of all-day breakfast options like omelettes, skillet platters, or a “mountain man platter,” with 1950s décor all around.
After filling up, stop by the Museum of Idaho to explore exhibits about science and the humanities, with plenty of hands-on fun for the whole family. Spend time in the children’s discovery room, inspect artifacts and specimens, and learn all about the past and present.
Then head over to the Art Museum of Eastern Idaho to immerse yourself in the world of art with exhibits for kids and adults. Stop by the ARTitorium on Broadway—an interactive arts center geared toward younger audiences—or opt to explore Idaho Falls’ many art galleries, such as Eagle Rock Gallery and Norrell Gallery of Photographic Art.
Take a break for lunch and stroll historic downtown, taking time to shop at local boutiques and eclectic stores. Then explore the Idaho Falls Zoo at Tautphaus Park, which is perfect for families and features animals from lemurs to zebras to snow leopards. To explore aquatic life, head to the East Idaho Aquarium.
In the evening, venture to the Idaho Falls Cultural District in historic downtown to see the Willard Arts Center and Colonial Theater and catch a performance. Check the schedule to see what’s playing when you’re in town. You can often catch Broadway shows, plays, ballets, concerts, and performances by the Idaho Falls Symphony and Idaho Falls Opera Theatre.
Day 2
Grab a bite at one of the great local breakfast spots, like Smitty’s Pancake & Steak House, which serves hearty goodies, pancakes, omelettes, biscuits and gravy, and more, and then explore some of the city’s outdoor highlights. With over 30 parks and recreation areas in Idaho Falls, it’s always a good time to get outside.
Go for an invigorating walk along the Idaho Falls Greenbelt to get some fresh air and soak up the life of the city. Miles of paths are perfect for walking, running, or going for a bike ride. Check out the 600-foot-wide waterfall the city is named for, and be sure to sneak a peek at the Japanese Pavilion and Friendship Garden. Also keep an eye out for birds, which like to congregate along the river.
In winter, many of the local parks and recreation areas are open for cross-country skiing and other outdoor fun, and be sure to check out the ice skating at Joe Marmo/Wayne Lehto Ice Arena. The area surrounding Idaho Falls also boasts excellent hiking, biking, ATV riding, fishing, and snowmobiling opportunities. With around 100-150 inches of snow per year, snowmobilers will love trying out the 400 miles of groomed trails nearby.
