31 Things To Do in Southeast Idaho
We all have different ideas of fun. Some of us like exploring the outdoors while others may prefer gazing at art inside a museum or enjoying a hot meal after a long drive. That’s one of the best things about Eastern Idaho–it’s a place full of natural wonders, community events, rich history, and local businesses that sell delicious food.
Whether Idaho is one of your stops on the way to Yellowstone or you’re a BYU-Idaho student looking for something to do outside of Rexburg, there are always a variety of options for fun nearby. If you are still researching, here is a list of 31 Things to Do in East Idaho.
1. Lava Hot Springs Hot Pools and Waterpark
- This is a great place to come to soak in pools where the hot water comes from natural underground hot springs. No matter the season, there is always a place to swim at Lava Hot Springs. It’s only about a 95 minute drive from Rexburg.
- Come see elk, bison, deer, and bears at this cool wildlife drive thru park in Rexburg. Open during the months of April-October. Depending on the time of year there are a variety of activities you can participate in. For example, Cub Palooza in the Spring!
3. Abracadabra’s
- Looking for good homestyle breakfasts and lunches in Idaho Falls? Then Abracadabra’s is the place! They have sweet and savory options such as Eggs Benedict, various kinds of french toast, omelets and more. They are open everyday from 8am-2pm.
4. Reed’s Dairy
- This is a family owned milk delivery business that sells local farm fresh milk, cheese, and ice cream. Be sure to try their rich and creamy chocolate milk – it has potato flakes in it. Locations include Ammon and Idaho Falls.
5. Idaho Potato Museum
- A museum where you can learn about Idaho’s Famous Potatoes and the revolution of the potato industry. Located in Blackfoot. A great winter activity!
6. Idaho Falls River Walk
- A nice walk that showcases the beauty of Idaho Falls. The path covers five miles on both sides of the Snake River. There are picnic benches and tables if you want to enjoy a meal by the river. Often in the summer you can find GOAT and Bird scooters that can be rented for a small fee through their respective apps.
7. Idaho Falls Collector Corner Museum
- Fans of antiques and all things vintage will enjoy this museum. There are different exhibits of toys and memorabilia to admire.
8. Saint Anthony Sand Dunes
- Fans of antiques and all things vintage will enjoy this museum. There are different exhibits of toys and memorabilia to admire.
9. Ricks Gardens
- These 10 acre gardens at BYU-Idaho boast waterfalls and ponds, a European inspired garden, apple orchards and various kinds of flowers, shrubs, and trees. Perfect to visit during the fall, spring or summertime.
10. The Haunted River
The Haunted River, located in Menan, is one of the best attractions in East Idaho to go during Halloween time.Take a journey across the river to an island full of different frights. Info on tickets and schedule can be found here!
11. Upper Mesa Falls
A gorgeous 114 foot waterfall located in the Caribou-Targhee National Forest. Open all summer long, there is a small parking fee. If there is snow in the area, the road to the falls will be closed to vehicles. Make sure to plan accordingly!
12. Idaho Spud Days
A community event held in Shelley every third Saturday of September. Activities include pageants, parades, races, and more! Check out their website for more details.
13. Art Museum of Eastern Idaho
This beautiful art museum in Idaho Falls showcases work of local artists, has an interactive learning area for children, an art classroom and a gift shop.
14. Big Juds
Burger joint located in Rexburg. Delicious burgers, fries, and milkshakes. Participate in a challenge where you eat a 1lb burger.
15. Heber Hatchets Axe Throwing
A great place to go axe throwing! Heber Hatchets has locations in Pocatello and Rexburg. The Rexburg location has a discount code in the Rexburg Deals Digital Directory!
16. Blisters BBQ
Featured on Food Network’s “Top 45 BBQ Places Coast to Coast,” this BBQ restaurant is located inside a gas station offers a selection of meats such as pulled pork, brisket, and ribs, as well as sandwiches. Located in Rexburg.
17. Historic Downtown Pocatello
If you’re in Pocatello, don’t forget to visit their historic downtown area. There are bakeries, art galleries, arcades, restaurants, theaters and more. For a comprehensive list of everything available in downtown Pocatello, click here!
18. Geyser Park
Drink natural soda water at Geyser Park in Soda Springs! There is also a visitor center and picnic benches in grassy areas if you want to enjoy a meal. Be warned, it does smell a little bit like sulfur!
19. Teton Valley Resort
This resort located in “the quiet side of the Tetons” provides a variety of coy cabins you can stay in, as well as an RV park. Other amenities include a heated outdoor pool, pickle-ball courts, an on-site bistro, playgrounds and more. Sounds like the perfect weekend getaway. Learn more and book your stay here!
20. Japanese Friendship Garden – Idaho Falls
A relaxing place to take a walk anytime of year but especially in the summer. You will find a beautiful garden with a traditional Japanese garden gate, viewing deck, pond, and a large Japanese lantern.
21. Civil Defense Caves
These caves located in Saint Anthony are large tubes once formed by lava that flowed underground and a great place for exploration. Make sure to bring a jacket and good footwear when visiting – no matter the season!
Take a 25 minute narrated boat ride down the Snake River near downtown Idaho Falls. A great way to learn about the history of the iconic Snake River!
This is a family friendly aquarium located in Idaho Falls. They have a variety of exhibits that feature sharks, fish, jellyfish, eels, and even, birds and reptiles! A lot of the aquarium is hands on which means you can interact with a lot of the attractions! The Rexburg location has a discount code in the Rexburg Deals Digital Directory!
24. Rapid River Rentals
Wanting to go on a fun water activity? Rapid River Rentals provide these services for you. You have the option of kayaking, paddle boarding, rafting, or tubing down the Snake River! To find more information about pricing and specific services, visit their website.
25. Moose Creek Ranch
This ranch is only twenty minutes away from Jackson Hole, and provides various lodging options such as cabins, glamping, and RV sites. A fun weekend getaway awaits – Book Here!
26. Palisades Reservoir
This is a scenic valley where you can camp, fish, hike, boat and more.
This resort has hot pools, campgrounds, a golf course, and zip-lining. Just 30 minutes from Rexburg and Idaho Falls, it makes for the perfect day outing.
28. 7N Ranch Resort
A resort located in Ririe that offers a number of fun activities such as bike parks, tubing, sledding, and campgrounds. They also have cabins to rent and is a venue for weddings, graduations, and parties.
29. White Sparrow Country Store
- A quaint store/restaurant located in Rexburg. Shop for holiday decor, and after, enjoy some of their famous Southern fried pies! The Rexburg location has a discount code in the Rexburg Deals Digital Directory!
30. Museum of Clean
Located in Pocatello, the Museum of Clean strives to share the idea and values of clean to all who come to visit. They have a variety of unique exhibits and a gift shop.
31. New Sweden Farms
This farm has a pumpkin patch and a themed corn maze during September and October.
Let the Fun Begin!
East Idaho is a great place for a lot of fun. These activities are perfect to do whether you are traveling solo or with a special someone, or are wanting to have some family friendly fun.