Idaho, known as the Gem State, offers a diverse range of natural wonders, outdoor adventures, and cultural attractions. Here are twenty of the best places to visit in Idaho as a tourist:
1. Boise: Idaho's capital city, offering a vibrant downtown, cultural attractions like the Boise Art Museum, and outdoor recreation along the Boise River Greenbelt.
2. Sun Valley: A world-renowned destination for skiing and snowboarding in winter, and hiking, mountain biking, and fishing in summer.
3. Sawtooth National Recreation Area: Spectacular mountain scenery, alpine lakes, and outdoor activities like hiking, camping, fishing, and kayaking.
4. Craters of the Moon National Monument: A unique landscape of volcanic craters, lava fields, and caves, perfect for hiking, exploring, and stargazing.
5. Shoshone Falls: Known as the "Niagara of the West," Shoshone Falls is one of the largest natural waterfalls in the United States, located near Twin Falls.
6. Snake River Canyon: Explore the scenic canyon by hiking, rock climbing, or taking a thrilling whitewater rafting trip.
7. Coeur d'Alene: A picturesque lake town in northern Idaho, offering outdoor activities on Lake Coeur d'Alene, charming downtown shops, and the scenic Centennial Trail.
8. Silverwood Theme Park: Idaho's largest theme park, featuring roller coasters, water slides, and family-friendly attractions.
9. Hell's Canyon: North America's deepest river gorge, offering breathtaking scenery, hiking trails, and opportunities for river rafting and fishing.
10. Idaho State Capitol: Take a tour of the historic Idaho State Capitol building in Boise, showcasing stunning architecture and political history.
11. Lake Pend Oreille: Idaho's largest lake, offering boating, fishing, and swimming opportunities, surrounded by scenic mountain landscapes.
12. Coeur d'Alene Resort: A luxurious resort on the shores of Lake Coeur d'Alene, known for its floating green golf course and scenic cruises.
13. Sawtooth Wilderness: A rugged wilderness area with pristine alpine lakes, jagged peaks, and miles of hiking trails, perfect for backpacking and camping.
14. Hells Canyon Scenic Byway: A scenic drive winding through Hells Canyon and the Wallowa Mountains, offering panoramic views and opportunities for wildlife viewing.
15. Idaho Potato Museum: Learn about Idaho's famous crop at this quirky museum in the town of Blackfoot, featuring exhibits on potato history, farming, and industry.
16. Bruneau Dunes State Park: Home to North America's tallest sand dune, offering opportunities for sandboarding, hiking, and stargazing at the park's observatory.
17. City of Rocks National Reserve: A renowned destination for rock climbing, with thousands of granite spires and formations in a stunning desert landscape.
18. Lava Hot Springs: Relax in natural hot springs pools in the town of Lava Hot Springs, known for their therapeutic properties and scenic surroundings.
19. Salmon River: Known as the "River of No Return," the Salmon River offers world-class whitewater rafting, fishing, and scenic float trips through deep canyons and pristine wilderness.
20. Hemingway Memorial: Visit the Ernest Hemingway Memorial in Ketchum, commemorating the author's life and legacy in Idaho's Wood River Valley.
These are just a few highlights of the many incredible places to visit in Idaho, offering something for every type of traveler, whether you're seeking outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or natural beauty.