7. Hike North Menan Butte

Views from Rexburg's R Mountain hike

North Menan Butte, nicknamed “R mountain” by Rexburg locals, is one of the world’s biggest volcanic tuff cones. These 2 buttes are noteworthy as they are the only 2 US volcanoes which erupted in freshwater. The trail to the top of North Menan Butte offers beautiful panoramic views of the area. Once you reach the summit, you can explore the extinct volcano and take in the incredible views. It’s quite a hilly journey to the top but well worth it in the end!

Additional information on the R Mountain hike.

8. Stroll through the Art Museum of Eastern Idaho

Art Museum of Eastern Idaho - Idaho Falls

This peaceful museum in Idaho Falls is a great place to take in some local culture while staying in Idaho Falls. The museum is small, although you will get to explore many beautiful pieces from local artists. Tip: Admission is free on the first Saturday of each month. Also, the first Tuesday of each month is free senior admission.

Additional information on the Art Museum of Eastern Idaho.

9. Take a leisurely stroll along the Snake River Greenbelt

Snake River Greenbelt - Idaho Falls, Idaho

Idaho Falls is home to a 6 mile recreational path, which features beautiful views of the Snake River and a 20 foot tall man made waterfall. Take a stroll around the river and feed the ducks or get some exercise in via jogging or taking your bike out for a ride. The Greenbelt is perfect for early morning summer strolls. Various events take place here during the summer months. Tip: Book a hotel right on the Greenbelt for easy access. The Hilton Garden Inn is a great choice.

Additional information on the Idaho Falls Greenbelt.

10. Spend the day shopping and dining in Downtown Boise

A view of downtown Boise Idaho

Downtown Boise is a safe, clean downtown area with plenty to do, including: restaurants, bars, shopping, entertainment, and special events throughout the year. In terms of restaurants, you will find many of the popular upscale chains like The Melting Pot, PF Chang’s, and Ruth’s Chris Steak House. Also, there are numerous local establishments across the culinary board. Shopping includes both traditional mall stores and specialty shops.

One of the nice aspects of this downtown is that it is very bike friendly. Most businesses are bike friendly and offer bike racks. For those interested in history, you can tour the beautiful Idaho State Capitol building. Tip: Park for free in Julia Davis Park and walk/bike to attractions.

Additional information on Boise’s Downtown.

11. Explore outdoor recreation & cultural attractions at Julia Davis Park

Anne Frank Memorial in Boise, Idaho

Julia Davis is a beautiful park found in the downtown area of Boise. This large park is home to numerous attractions including: Zoo Boise, The Anne Frank memorial, The Boise Art Museum, and the Idaho Historical Museum. From the park, you can access the 25 mile Greenbelt path (Julia Davis is a great place to park and start your ride). Summer is a great time to visit with lots to do, including: paddle boat rentals, tennis courts, and on-going special events.

Additional information on Julia Davis Park.

12. See an event at the Idaho Center

The Idaho Center in Nampa, a suburb of Boise, hosts various events throughout the year. Concerts, circus shows, horse shows, and Monster Jam are just a few of the more popular annual attractions. The Center is most famous for an annual rodeo show called The Snake River Stampede. The indoor track is used by Boise State University. Visit the Idaho Center website for information regarding upcoming events.

13. Attend a lively play at the Knock Em Dead Dinner Theater

Knock Em Dead Dinner Theater in Boise, Idaho

Seeing a show at this unique theater is a great addition to your Boise itinerary.  Throughout the year, the theater hosts various productions including specialty holiday themed plays. Dinner and drinks are available before each performance. Tip: Show your student ID 10 minutes prior to show time for discounted tickets (subject to availability). Check the Knock Em Dead website for information regarding this year’s lineup.

14. Explore one of Southern Idaho’s scenic hiking trails

Hiking in Pocatello, Idaho along the Red Hill trail at Idaho State University

There are hundreds of beautiful hiking trails in Southern Idaho. The Boise foothills and Craters of the Moon are 2 popular destinations. Pocatello is also a great area for outdoor enthusiasts with plenty of hiking and biking opportunities to take advantage of. One of the best hikes is short, nevertheless, provides scenic panoramic views of the entire area.

This hike named the Red Hill trail, located near Idaho State University, takes you up to a summit where you will find 4 columns, each which represent a year spent at the University. The hike is moderate in intensity and comes in at just over a mile. Visit the Southeast Idaho website for more information regarding local hikes.

15. Take a walk around Pocatello Zoo (now Zoo Idaho)

Idaho's Pocatello Zoo

Pocatello is one of  2 US zoos featuring animals native to the intermountain west, including grizzly bears, bison, elk, pronghorn, lynx, cougar, and bobcats. I enjoyed the steep climb (great workout!) and excellent views of the mountains. While not worth going totally out of your way for, it’s a great little zoo to visit if you find yourself in Pocatello. Tip: Check the event calendar for special discount days and events.

Additional information on the Pocatello Zoo.

Tips for visiting Southern Idaho

*Visit during the off-season for the best hotel deals and cheapest flights. For example, Yellowstone is much less crowded outside of the busy summer months, and thus, hotels are typically cheaper. Spring (asides from free National Park week) is a great time to plan you visit!

*Search for discount hotel and attraction deals on Groupon and Kayak.

*Check restaurant reviews on sites like Trip Advisor & Zomato. This will ensure that you do not get stuck wasting your money at a bad restaurant.

*Concentrate on nature & beautiful natural attractions instead of malls, restaurants, & shopping. Idaho is a beautiful state with lots of free or low natural wonders to explore. There is no need to waste money shopping (which you can do at home) and on overpriced restaurants.

What are some of your favorite Southern Idaho attractions and vacation spots?