Skiing in the mountains in Sun Valley, Idaho, USA

Things to do in  Idaho

There will be spud

Rugged mountains, rushing rivers, and vast wilderness make Idaho an adventure hot spot—but even its most famous places remain blissfully uncrowded. The best things to do in Idaho showcase the state’s abundant beauty; from rafting on the Salmon River to Yellowstone National Park wildlife and skiing Sun Valley slopes. Even in cities, nature is near. The vibrant capital of Boise is a cultural hub whose stylish downtown is steps away from the Boise River Greenbelt that winds for 25 miles (40 kilometers) along the tree-shaded Boise River.

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Explore Idaho by interest

Top activities in Idaho

Private Yellowstone Wildlife Sightseeing Tour

Private Yellowstone Wildlife Sightseeing Tour

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From
$1,050.00
per group
Private Yellowstone Old Faithful and Lower Loop Tour

Private Yellowstone Old Faithful and Lower Loop Tour

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66
From
$1,050.00
per group
Scavenger Hunt in Boise by Zombie Scavengers

Scavenger Hunt in Boise by Zombie Scavengers

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$20.00
per group
2-Hours Guided Segway Tour in Coeur d'Alene

2-Hours Guided Segway Tour in Coeur d'Alene

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205
From
$85.00
Full-Day Whitewater Rafting Trip on Salmon River with Lunch

Full-Day Whitewater Rafting Trip on Salmon River with Lunch

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12
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$115.00
Riggins Idaho half-day rafting trip on the Salmon River

Riggins Idaho half-day rafting trip on the Salmon River

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14
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$99.00
UTV Rental in North Idaho

UTV Rental in North Idaho

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23
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$318.00
per group
Riggins Idaho 1-day Rafting Trip on the Salmon River

Riggins Idaho 1-day Rafting Trip on the Salmon River

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32
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$149.00
1/2 Day Afternoon Rafting Trip

1/2 Day Afternoon Rafting Trip

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27
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$83.45
Guided Off-Road Vehicle Tours in North Idaho Forests

Guided Off-Road Vehicle Tours in North Idaho Forests

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$400.00
Boise Scavenger Hunt Adventure

Boise Scavenger Hunt Adventure

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$20.60
Boise Scavenger Hunt: Hidden Treasures

Boise Scavenger Hunt: Hidden Treasures

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4
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$12.31
Adventurous Scavenger Hunt in Boise by Operation City Quest

Adventurous Scavenger Hunt in Boise by Operation City Quest

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$10.00
Fun City Scavenger Hunt in Boise by Crazy Dash

Fun City Scavenger Hunt in Boise by Crazy Dash

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$10.00
Holiday Scavenger Hunt in Boise by Holly Jolly Hunt

Holiday Scavenger Hunt in Boise by Holly Jolly Hunt

From
$20.00
per group
Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Boise by 3Quest Challenge

Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Boise by 3Quest Challenge

From
$10.00
Boise City Scavenger Hunt Excursion by Wacky Walks

Boise City Scavenger Hunt Excursion by Wacky Walks

From
$10.00
Idaho City Historic District Walking Tour

Idaho City Historic District Walking Tour

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3
From
$5.00
6-Day Guided Motorcycle Tour - Yellowstone & Teton National Parks

6-Day Guided Motorcycle Tour - Yellowstone & Teton National Parks

From
$8,500.00
Boise Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour

Boise Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour

From
$13.34
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All about Idaho

When to visit

The spring snowmelt ushers in great conditions for summertime rafting trips along the Salmon River, Snake River, and Payette River. Cooler weather draws visitors to the natural warmth of Gold Fork Hot Springs and Banbury Hot Springs, while a fall highlight is October’s beloved Trailing of the Sheep Festival. Ski season generally runs from November through May, with peak snowfall in December, January, and February.

Getting around

Limited public transit in Idaho means most people in Idaho get around by car. With its accessible nature, quirky roadside attractions, and small towns, the state is ideal for road trips. If you’re sticking around Boise, though, consider renting a bike or walking; the mostly flat city’s walkable downtown and ample bike paths make exploring easy. Shuttle services link Boise Airport (BOI) with destinations including Sun Valley and Tamarack Resort.

Traveler tips

Boise is home to one of the US’ most vibrant Basque communities. Much of that heritage is concentrated on The Basque Block, where you’ll find the Basque Museum and Cultural Center, and July’s San Inazio Festival. While the neighborhood has plenty of sit-down dining, one of the best places to try Basque food in Boise is actually a food shop: The Basque Market serves bite-sized snacks called pintxos and other traditional treats.

Local Currency
US Dollar ($)
Time Zone
PDT (UTC -8)
Country Code
+1
Language(s)
English
Attractions
0
Tours
63
Reviews
957
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People Also Ask

Is there anything fun to do in Idaho?

Yes, Idaho has lots to do. Outdoor activities are popular—from world-class Sun Valley ski resorts to hiking trails and float trips on the Snake and Salmon Rivers. On rainy days, stay dry and explore the Sun Valley Museum of Art, the Warhawk Air Museum, and the Museum of Idaho.

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What is Idaho famous for?

Idaho is famous for its wild places. From Yellowstone National Park to Caribou-Targhee and Boise National Forests, some 60% of the state is conserved land managed by the federal government. The state’s vast Frank Church River of No Return Wilderness Area is the biggest contiguous wilderness in the lower 48.

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What are four famous places in Idaho?

Many of Idaho’s most famous places are renowned for their natural beauty, including the star-studded Sun Valley ski resort, the Salmon River, and Yellowstone National Park. It’s not all wilderness, though. The state’s capital of Boise is famous for its Basque heritage, hip restaurants, and growing arts and culture scene.

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How many days do I need in Idaho?

With one week in Idaho, you can check out some of the state’s most beautiful places. Start in Boise then head to Craters of the Moon National Monument, Yellowstone National Park, and Sun Valley. Next, go north to the Idaho panhandle for hiking and biking around Sandpoint or Coeur d’Alene.

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What is the prettiest city in Idaho?

Boise is Idaho’s biggest—and arguably most beautiful—city. The greenbelt-lined Boise River flows through the heart of downtown, where you’ll find pedestrian-friendly streets, Basque-inspired architecture, the Boise Art Museum, and local products at the Boise Farmers Market. Nature is always near, from Camel’s Back Park mountain bike trails to riverside walking paths.

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What is Idaho’s state food?

The Idaho state vegetable is the potato, which you’ll find mashed, baked, or fried on just about every menu in the state. To really explore Idaho’s beloved spud, though, make a stop at the Idaho Potato Museum. Their exhibits trace the Idaho potato from its early history to recent years.

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Frequently Asked Questions
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What are the top activities in Idaho?
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