Idaho On A Map Of Usa
Idaho may not be the first destination that comes to mind when planning a trip to the United States, but this hidden gem is worth exploring. Located in the Pacific Northwest region, Idaho is known for its natural beauty and outdoor adventures. Whether you’re a nature lover, history buff, or foodie, there’s something for everyone in Idaho. Here’s a comprehensive travel guide to help you plan your trip.
Top Attractions
Idaho has plenty of attractions that are worth visiting. Some of the top attractions include:
- Yellowstone National Park
- Craters of the Moon National Monument
- Shoshone Falls
- Sawtooth National Recreation Area
- Hells Canyon National Recreation Area
Hidden Gems
While Idaho does have its fair share of popular tourist attractions, there are also some hidden gems that are worth discovering. Some of the hidden gems include:
- City of Rocks National Reserve
- Bruneau Dunes State Park
- Salmon River Canyon
- Camas National Wildlife Refuge
- Snake River Birds of Prey National Conservation Area
Food Scene
Idaho has a diverse food scene that is influenced by its agricultural roots. Some of the must-try foods include:
- Potatoes (of course!)
- Huckleberries
- Finger steaks
- Trout
- Basque cuisine
Budget-Friendly Tips
Traveling to Idaho doesn’t have to break the bank. Here are some budget-friendly tips:
- Visit during the shoulder season (spring or fall)
- Stay in affordable accommodations like camping or hostels
- Take advantage of free attractions like hiking trails and public parks
- Eat at local food trucks and markets
- Use public transportation or carpool to save on gas
Outdoor Adventures
Idaho is a playground for outdoor enthusiasts. Here are some outdoor adventures to try:
- Hiking in the Sawtooth Mountains
- White-water rafting on the Salmon River
- Skiing or snowboarding at Sun Valley Resort
- Mountain biking in Boise’s foothills
- Fishing on the Snake River
Historical Landmarks
Idaho has a rich history that is worth exploring. Some of the top historical landmarks include:
- Old Idaho Penitentiary
- Minidoka National Historic Site
- Idaho State Capitol Building
- Nez Perce National Historical Park
- Fort Boise Military Reserve
Family-Friendly Activities
Traveling with kids? Idaho has plenty of family-friendly activities to keep everyone entertained. Some of the top family-friendly activities include:
- Zoo Boise
- Silverwood Theme Park
- Discovery Center of Idaho
- Bear Lake State Park
- Idaho Botanical Garden
Off-The-Beaten-Path Experiences
If you’re looking for something unique, Idaho has plenty of off-the-beaten-path experiences to discover. Some of these experiences include:
- Visiting the Center for Birds of Prey
- Exploring the Guffey Railroad Bridge
- Soaking in natural hot springs
- Stargazing at Craters of the Moon
- Attending the Trailing of the Sheep Festival
Natural Wonders
Idaho’s natural beauty is one of its biggest draws. Here are some natural wonders to see:
- Shoshone Falls
- The Snake River
- Craters of the Moon
- Hells Canyon
- Sawtooth National Forest
Vibrant Nightlife
Idaho may not be known for its nightlife, but there are plenty of bars, clubs, and live music venues to check out. Some of the top spots include:
- The Knitting Factory in Boise
- The Olympic in Boise
- The Sapphire Room in Boise
- The Pengilly’s Saloon in Boise
- The Alpine Haus in McCall
Local Markets
Exploring local markets is a great way to experience the local culture. Here are some top markets to check out:
- Capital City Public Market in Boise
- The Boise Farmers Market
- The Ketchum Farmers Market
- The Moscow Farmers Market
- The Sandpoint Farmers Market
Beaches and Mountains
Idaho may not be known for its beaches, but there are some beautiful lakes and beaches worth visiting. Here are some top spots:
- Bear Lake State Park
- Coeur d’Alene Lake
- Payette Lake
- Redfish Lake
- Priest Lake
As for mountains, Idaho has plenty of those too. Some of the top spots include:
- The Sawtooth Mountains
- The Bitterroot Mountains
- The Clearwater Mountains
- The Selkirk Mountains
- The Owyhee Mountains
Cultural Immersion
Want to experience the local culture? Here are some ways to immerse yourself:
- Attend a Pow Wow
- Visit a Basque Cultural Center
- Learn about the Nez Perce Tribe
- Attend the Western Idaho Fair
- Visit the Idaho State Museum
Art and Music Scene
Idaho has a thriving art and music scene. Here are some top spots to check out:
- The Boise Art Museum
- The Idaho Shakespeare Festival
- The Treefort Music Fest in Boise
- The Sun Valley Music Festival
- The Art Source Gallery in Boise
Walking Tours
Walking tours are a great way to explore the local area. Here are some top walking tours:
- The Boise Historic Walking Tour
- The Idaho State Capitol Building Tour
- The Boise Art Walk
- The Coeur d’Alene Ghost Tours
- The Wallace Walking Tour
Architectural Marvels
Idaho has some unique architecture that is worth seeing. Here are some top spots:
- The Boise Train Depot
- The Idaho State Capitol Building
- The Old Idaho Penitentiary
- The Cataldo Mission
- The Old Faithful Inn in Yellowstone National Park (technically in Wyoming, but worth the trip!)
Historical Sites
Idaho’s history is rich and diverse. Here are some top historical sites to visit:
- The Old Idaho Penitentiary
- The Minidoka National Historic Site
- The Idaho State Capitol Building
- The Nez Perce National Historical Park
- The Fort Boise Military Reserve
Biking Routes
Biking is a popular activity in Idaho. Here are some top biking routes:
- The Boise Greenbelt
- The Route of the Hiawatha
- The Weiser River Trail
- The Coeur d’Alene Trail
- The Teton Pass Trail
Wellness Retreats
Need some time to