Everyone knows the Yellowstone Teton Territory has world-class outdoor opportunities and breathtaking mountain scenery, but fewer people know about the local arts scene, which is a relatively undiscovered gem. When the weather outside is dreary, it’s a great time to focus on creativity and explore the many art venues throughout the area. The region inspires amazing art, and much of the visual art on display incorporates local themes, from the Wild West to wildlife and incredible mountain views. Be sure to plan a trip to visit some of these regional art attractions. Please keep in mind venues and events are subject to COVID-related changes and closures, so check with each venue or event before making your plans.
Idaho Falls
The Idaho Falls Arts Council focuses on providing an array of art opportunities in the region. Be sure to check the council’s calendar of upcoming events, which can include gallery exhibits, comedy shows, theatrical renditions, family-focused art adventures, music, dance performances, and film screenings.
The Art Museum of Eastern Idaho includes galleries with rotating exhibits and a children’s area, and hosts fun events, which range from adult-oriented “Art & Ale” events to festive Family Days celebrations.
The Willard Arts Center offers a number of rotating exhibits in the Carr Gallery and The Hall Community Gallery.
During the warmer months of the year, be sure to attend an Idaho Falls Gallery Walk which typically takes place one evening a month from May through October. Some stops along the walk offer music, demos, food, and more. Be sure to check the walk’s Facebook page for current updates on the art walk and local gallery openings, signings, and other events.
The family-focused ARTitorium on Broadway provides great art opportunities for the whole family, with an emphasis on kids from infancy to age 12. The museum includes tactile, hands-on, immersive art and focuses on fostering intergenerational art experiences. The museum includes interactive exhibits, monthly scavenger hunts, art classes, and it also hosts field trips.
Rexburg
The City of Rexburg is focused on art, including both visual and performing arts. Check out the city’s Culture Arts Department website to explore the schedule of upcoming events and performances. With The Rexburg Tabernacle Orchestra, The Upper Valley Women’s Choir, Rexburg Children’s Choir, Teton Storytelling & Art Festival, Act It Out, Romance Theater, and other groups and venues, there’s often something fun to do that’s art-related.
The Teton Storytelling and Arts Festival generally takes place during the second weekend in August and includes storytellers, artists, and food vendors.
Brigham Young University-Idaho’s on-campus Spori Gallery features rotating exhibits. The school’s art department also hosts student art shows and other events.
St. Anthony
In St. Anthony, the Idaho Art Lab features a number of classes, art shows, events, and expos, in addition to workshops, artist residencies, and plein air painting opportunities.
Teton Valley
The Teton Arts Council offers a variety of classes and events. One popular annual event is the Souper Bowl fundraiser, which typically takes place in October. Attendees select a handmade bowl to fill with delicious soup and take home at the end of the evening.
Teton Arts Gallery at Driggs City Center features a rotating selection of exhibits and sometimes features art for sale.
The Local Galleria is a favorite local shop and art gallery which includes an array of artwork in all different forms, from fiber to sculptures to paintings. It also hosts classes like oil painting, kids classes, and “paint and sip” nights.
