Known as the Gem State, Idaho is a vast and varied landscape with plenty of adventures. Idaho has something for every traveler, from rugged mountain peaks to rushing rivers, charming small towns, and lively cities.

Outdoor enthusiasts flock to Idaho for its wealth of hiking, fishing, skiing, and other activities amidst breathtaking natural scenery. Families can enjoy hands-on learning at museums and historical sites highlighting Idaho's culture and heritage.

In this article, we will highlight some of the top Idaho tourist attractions that should be on your Idaho bucket list.

8 Unique Places To Visit In Idaho

1. Sawtooth Mountains

One of Idaho's most iconic mountain ranges is the Sawtooth Mountains. Located in central Idaho, the Sawtooths offer incredible hiking opportunities with over 700 miles of trails winding through evergreen forests and along breathtaking alpine lakes.

Popular hikes include the Sawtooth Lake Trail, passing by five lakes with views of jagged Sawtooth peaks, and the Alice-Toxaway Loop, showcasing 360-degree vistas from Edward Peak.

For less demanding treks, Sawtooth National Recreation Area has many trails starting off Highway 75, such as the easy hike to the far-reaching Sawtooth Overlook. With rugged granite spires mirroring crystal clear lakes, the Sawtooth Mountains provide some of Idaho's most spectacular scenery.

2. Boise

The vibrant capital city of Boise, also known as the City of Trees, is a top attraction that must be on your list of Idaho places to visit. With its lively downtown centered around the tree-lined Boise River, Boise offers a great blend of urban amenities and outdoor access.

Downtown highlights include the colorful Basque Block full of Basque-inspired cuisine and culture. The Idaho State Capitol building, its stately dome, and the Boise Art Museum showcase local and national artists.

Just steps away, miles of pathways wind along the Boise River Greenbelt, inviting visitors to walk, run, bike, or paddleboard right through the heart of the city.

3. Hells Canyon

Head to Hells Canyon on the Idaho-Oregon border for an adrenaline rush amid jaw-dropping scenery. Carved by the Snake River, Hells Canyon plunges 8,043 feet, making it the deepest river gorge in North America.

This massive natural wonder provides opportunities for world-class whitewater rafting and calmer jet boat tours perfect for taking in the sheer cliffs rising from the Snake River.

Hells Canyon also has an extensive network of hiking trails leading to secluded overlooks and archaeological sites left by Native Americans who once inhabited the canyon. The area offers exceptional wilderness camping under the stars.

4. Shoshone Falls

Nicknamed the "Niagara of the West," Shoshone Falls is one of the best places in Idaho, with the most stunning natural wonders. Located on the Snake River in southern Idaho, Shoshone Falls plunges 212 feet into the canyon below, making it one of the largest waterfalls in the western United States.

During spring runoff, the expansive falls extend nearly a quarter mile across, with water rushing over the ledge at an astonishing rate of 15,000 cubic feet per second.

A scenic overlook provides spectacular views of the mighty falls and the Snake River winding through the canyon. At night, Shoshone Falls is illuminated with a majestic sight. This breathtaking waterfall is a can't-miss for anyone visiting southern Idaho.

5. Craters Of The Moon National Monument

For an otherworldly landscape, head to Craters of the Moon National Monument. This unique volcanic area in central Idaho contains bizarre lava formations from eruptions of 15,000 to 2,000 years ago. Twisted coils of ropey lava called pahoehoe and jagged cracks of tree mold lava create an almost alien landscape perfect for exploration.

Craters of the Moon have over 150 caves and lava tubes to discover and craters and fissures to hike around and through. The 7-mile scenic loop drive provides access to highlights like the Devil's Orchard Nature Trail, passing by lava "trees."

Take on the Craters of the Moon Lava Flow Trail for a rugged adventure, traversing 63 million-year-old lava. Craters of the Moon offers a glimpse into Idaho's volcanic past.

6. City Of Rocks National Reserve

For a landscape unlike elsewhere in Idaho, visit the City of Rocks National Reserve. This fascinating area in south central Idaho gets its name from the unique granite rock formations scattered across the high desert terrain.

The City of Rocks' towers and spires were created over millions of years by wind and water erosion, resulting in a dreamscape perfect for rock climbing and photography.

Kids will love scrambling on the rocks while spotting pikas and prairie falcons. The City of Rocks is also known for its night skies, which are excellent for stargazing.

7. Coeur d'Alene

With its scenic lakefront setting and charming downtown, Coeur d'Alene has become one of Idaho's premier resort towns. Located in the northern Idaho Panhandle, Coeur d'Alene sits on the shore of massive Lake Coeur d'Alene.

Visitors can stroll the downtown boardwalk, enjoy water sports on the lake, play golf at world-class courses, or take a boat cruise to admire lakefront mansions.

Nearby Tubbs Hill features hiking trails with excellent views across Lake Coeur d’Alene. The surrounding area offers recreational opportunities like skiing, mountain biking, fishing, and camping.

8. Sun Valley

Known as America’s first destination ski resort, Sun Valley is still one of Idaho’s premier attractions. Developed in the 1930s, this scenic mountain town in central Idaho is defined by the peaks of the Sawtooth Mountains, providing a dramatic backdrop.

Sun Valley offers legendary winter skiing across the Bald Mountain and Dollar Mountain slopes, equipped with chairlifts and varying terrain for all abilities.

Visitors flock to Sun Valley in summer for golfing, hiking, mountain biking, fishing, and events like the Sun Valley Jazz Festival. The charming town of Ketchum is full of upscale lodges, restaurants, and shops to explore.

Final Words

Idaho's vast wilderness, vibrant cities, and historical attractions offer something for every type of traveler. Outdoor enthusiasts will find endless adventures exploring the Sawtooth Mountains, Hells Canyon, and Craters of the Moon.

Idaho's diverse landscapes offer an unforgettable destination. Plan your next vacation in the Gem State to experience its natural and cultural treasures firsthand.