11 Incredible Idaho Sites You Need to See

Idaho is a northwestern U.S. state known for its scenic vistas, mountainous landscape, and vast areas of protected natural land. This state is an adventurer's playground, full of mountains to ski, rivers to swim, and trees to climb, as well as some of the most photogenic natural landmarks in the country. Within the many populous cities, such as the capital Boise, you will find many parks, gardens, museums, galleries, and zoos, making great vacationing opportunities as well as educational opportunities! While the entire state is truly worth seeing, here are the top 11 sites you need to see while in Idaho:

    1. Shoshone Falls - Twin Falls
      This 212-foot tall waterfall is one of the best natural wonders of the world, located along Snake River and sitting height taller than that of Niagara Falls.

      Near Twin Falls

      Shutterstock

    2. Hells Canyon National Recreation Area - Riggins
      Explore the 652,488 acres of sheer beauty with your camera as you discover the deepest river gorge in the country and perhaps embark on your very own whitewater adventure.
    3. Idaho Botanical Garden - Boise
      Find all the most breathtaking native plants to Idaho within this 50 acre series of gardens including an English, Meditation, Heirloom Rose, and Lewis and Clark Garden.
    4. World Center for Birds of Prey - Boise
      This is a place with a unique learning opportunity that most out-of-staters don’t normally get: falconry! See educational demonstrations with various condors and falcons within this large aviary courtyard in Boise.
    5. Sun Valley
      Find some of the most popular ski lodges in the state within this stunning Nordic skiers paradise where you can cross country ski or snowshoe to your heart's content!

       Sun Vally Idaho

      Shutterstock

    1. Bruneau Dunes State Park - Mountain Home
      This is one of the country's most visited state parks, a vastly diverse series of ecosystems perfect for camping, backpacking, horseback riding, boating, or just photography.
    2. Snake River - Lewiston
      You can have the wildest fun and biggest adventure of your trip on Snake River as you explore Hells Canyon with a jet boat tour, rafting excursion, or fishing trip!
    3. Craters of The Moon National Preserve - Arco
      See the scenic vast ocean of lava flows created over 20,000 years ago as you hike and explore the highly popular and beautiful lava trees and echo crater found here.

       Craters of the Moon

      Dreamstime Stock Photos

  1. Idaho Potato Museum - Blackfoot
    While maybe not much to look at, this is an essential stop while in the potato state! If you are looking for something a bit more substantial head over to the Museum of Idaho in Idaho Falls to learn more about the state’s culture and history.
  2. Yellowstone State Park - Bordering Wyoming
    While technically not considered to be an attraction of the state of Idaho, Yellowstone and its amazing geysers and natural hydrothermal features are only a short drive away and a true must-see while in the area!
  3. Coeur d’Alene
    Let loose at this lakeside playground full of natural beauty and outdoor recreation opportunities such as hiking, biking, and swimming or head downtown to partake in some serious retail therapy (the views are exquisite everywhere).