· US

Idaho Falls

Idaho Falls, Idaho, United States

Discover Idaho Falls: Where Adventure Meets Small-Town Charm Nestled in the heart of Idaho's scenic landscape, Idaho Falls offers a captivating blend of outdoor adventure, family-friendly attractions, and a vibrant cultu…

#Idaho Falls#Idaho#United States#Scenic#Outdoor activities

1/10

Stay & fly Things to do Videos Practical Guide

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Idaho Falls.

Top Hotels in Idaho Falls

Top Flights to Idaho Falls

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Idaho Falls.

Tours

Visit Idaho Falls Zoo at Tautphaus Park

Explore a variety of animal exhibits at the Idaho Falls Zoo, known for its diverse species and family-friendly environment.

Museum of Idaho

Discover Idaho's history and unique exhibits from around the world at the Museum of Idaho.

Art Museum of Eastern Idaho

Explore regional and national art collections at the Art Museum of Eastern Idaho.

Shopping

Idaho Falls Farmers Market

Experience the region's agricultural bounty and artisan goods at the Idaho Falls Farmers Market.

Pamper Yourself at Destinations Inn

Relax at the luxury-themed Destinations Inn, offering exquisite rooms and unique decor.

Outdoor

Snake River Greenbelt

Enjoy a scenic walk or bike ride along the Snake River Greenbelt, a beautiful path with views of the river and wildlife.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

From travelers

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Idaho Falls.

Currency

$ | USD | US Dollar

Population

The approximate estimated total population of Idaho Falls, Idaho, United States is '67,000'.

Languages

English, English

Average weather

Idaho Falls

Jan

-1°-11°

Feb

3°-8°

Mar

8°-4°

Apr

14°0°

May

19°4°

Jun

25°8°

Jul

30°11°

Aug

29°10°

Sep

23°5°

Oct

15°-1°

Nov

6°-6°

Dec

0°-10°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Idaho Falls.

What people love

There are several pros to traveling to Idaho Falls, Idaho:

Outdoor Recreation: Idaho Falls is located near several natural attractions, including the Snake River, Yellowstone National Park, Grand Teton National Park, and the Targhee National Forest. Visitors can enjoy activities such as hiking, fishing, camping, and wildlife viewing in these beautiful outdoor spaces.
Idaho Falls River Walk: The Idaho Falls River Walk is a scenic pathway along the Snake River that offers stunning views of waterfalls, green spaces, and wildlife. Visitors can stroll along the river, enjoy a picnic, or take a bike ride along the pathway.
Cultural Attractions: Idaho Falls has a number of cultural attractions, including the Museum of Idaho, which features exhibits on the region's history and culture. The city also hosts a variety of events and festivals throughout the year, showcasing local art, music, and food.
Family-Friendly Activities: Idaho Falls is a great destination for families, with attractions such as the Idaho Falls Zoo at Tautphaus Park, the Wes Deist Aquatic Center, and the ARTitorium on Broadway offering fun and educational experiences for visitors of all ages.
Friendly Community: Idaho Falls is known for its friendly residents and welcoming atmosphere. Visitors can expect to receive warm hospitality and helpful recommendations from locals as they explore the city and surrounding areas.

Overall, Idaho Falls offers a mix of outdoor adventure, cultural experiences, and family-friendly activities, making it a great destination for travelers looking to explore the beauty of Idaho.

What to know

Some potential cons of traveling to Idaho Falls, Idaho, could include:

Limited public transportation options: Idaho Falls is not a major metropolitan city, so public transportation options may be limited. Renting a car or relying on rideshare services may be necessary for getting around.
Weather extremes: Idaho Falls experiences a range of weather conditions throughout the year, including hot summers and cold winters. Travelers should be prepared for potentially extreme temperatures and weather fluctuations.
Limited nightlife and entertainment options: Idaho Falls is a smaller city, so the nightlife and entertainment options may be more limited compared to larger cities. Travelers seeking a vibrant nightlife scene may find the options in Idaho Falls to be more subdued.
Limited cultural attractions: While Idaho Falls has some cultural attractions such as museums and galleries, the options may be limited compared to larger cities. Travelers looking for a wide variety of cultural experiences may find Idaho Falls to be lacking in this aspect.
Distance from major airports: Idaho Falls Regional Airport is the primary airport serving the city, but it may have limited flight options compared to larger airports. Travelers may need to fly into a larger airport and then drive to Idaho Falls, adding to travel time and expenses.

Please note that these are general considerations and may not apply to every traveler's experience. It's always a good idea to research and plan your trip according to your specific preferences and needs.

Idaho Falls, located in southeastern Idaho, has a rich and varied history that reflects the development of the American West.

Early History

The area that is now Idaho Falls was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Shoshone and Bannock peoples. European-American settlers began arriving in the mid-19th century during the westward expansion.

Founding and Development

1864: The first permanent settlement was established when a ferry was built across the Snake River, which was a critical crossing point for travelers on the Oregon Trail. This ferry was operated by Harry Ricketts and became known as Taylor’s Crossing, after Matt Taylor, who purchased it.
1870: A wooden bridge replaced the ferry, and the area was called Eagle Rock, named after a rock island in the Snake River that was frequented by nesting eagles.

Growth and Expansion

1880s: The arrival of the Utah and Northern Railroad, a subsidiary of the Union Pacific Railroad, marked a period of rapid growth. The railroad facilitated the movement of goods and people, transforming Eagle Rock into a bustling community.
1891: The town was renamed Idaho Falls, reflecting the falls on the Snake River that were harnessed to generate electricity, supporting further development.

Economic Development

Mid-20th Century: Idaho Falls became a hub for agriculture, particularly potatoes, wheat, and livestock. The city's economy diversified with the establishment of the Atomic Energy Commission's National Reactor Testing Station (now the Idaho National Laboratory) in 1949, which brought scientific research and nuclear technology development to the area.

Significant Events

1976: The Teton Dam collapse was a major disaster that affected the region, causing significant flooding and damage to Idaho Falls and other communities.

Important Landmarks

Idaho Falls Greenbelt: This is a scenic area along the Snake River, offering walking and biking trails, and is central to community life.
Museum of Idaho: Located in downtown Idaho Falls, this museum provides exhibits on the region's history, as well as rotating national exhibits.
Idaho Falls Idaho Temple: Dedicated in 1945, it was the first temple of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints built in Idaho and is a significant architectural and religious landmark.

Notable Figures

Ezra Taft Benson: Born in nearby Whitney, Idaho, he served as the U.S. Secretary of Agriculture and later became the President of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
Philo Farnsworth: Though not a resident, his early work in television technology had ties to the region through the Idaho National Laboratory, which has a history of technological innovation.

Idaho Falls continues to be an important economic and cultural center in southeastern Idaho, with a strong community spirit and a keen awareness of its historical roots.