5 Things to Do in Rigby, Idaho
Just in between Rexburg and Idaho Falls lies the town of Rigby, Idaho. If you are looking for a more rural and small-town feel, you’ll want to check out some of these local hidden gems!
A small town isn’t complete without a good barbeque place. In Rigby, it’s Lil’ Mike’s Bar-B- Que. This place’s meats are so good, they were featured on the Food Network show, Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives!
At Lil’ Mike’s, house smoked meats are sold by the pound on a first come first served basis each day. These meats include brisket, pulled pork, turkey, sausage, and pork ribs. Also on their menu are build-your-own meat plates, sandwiches, sides, BBQ nachos, and loaded potatoes.
Don’t forget to try the Mac n’ Cheese. It’s incredibly delicious!
#2 - Farnsworth TV & Pioneer Museum
Did you know that Rigby is the “birthplace of television”? That’s right–Philo T. Farnsworth, whose home was in Rigby, was the inventor of the television. You can learn more about this cool history at the Farnsworth TV and Pioneer Museum.
The Farnsworth TV and Pioneer Museum features a display of Philo T. Farnsworth’s life, various television tubes and old television tubes, as well as Indian and Biblical artifacts, and animal trophies. There are also exhibitions about the pre-electric and early era, the history of Jefferson County, and early photography. It’s a great place to get your dose of history and to travel back to the past.
#3 - The Great Bambino Italian Restaurant
One of the best places to eat in Rigby and in Idaho is The Great Bambino Italian Restaurant. This place was first opened by a couple who moved from Argentina to Idaho in 1977. Over time, the owners have changed, but the food is still delicious.
The restaurant’s main specialty is a “bambino,” which is a circular piece of flaky dough with a savory filling. You can choose from different fillings such as chicken ranch, buffalo, pepperoni, cheese, and veggies. You can also get a combo that comes with fries and a drink! The Great Bambino also sells pasta, pizza, calzones, salad, and ice cream.
#4 - The Ice Palace at LaBelle Lake
During January and February, experience a winter wonderland at the Ice Palaces in LaBelle Lake! These beautifully ice-sculpted palaces provided a magical and unforgettable time for you and your loved ones. Walk through bright hallways and slide down the ice slides! The magic doesn’t stop there. You also have the opportunity to take photos with reindeer and your favorite winter characters like Elsa and Olaf! There are also fire performances every evening and food and drink vendors.
For some extra magic and charm, take their horse-drawn sleigh ride. For an additional cost, you can take a destination sleigh ride to the LaBelle Lake Resort for sledding, fire pits, and free hot chocolate or ride through the woods and along the Snake River.
#5 - Jefferson County Lake & Campground
The great thing about Rigby is that you don’t have to drive far to retreat into nature. With great amenities and low fees, Jefferson County Lake and Campground is the perfect place for this.
Spend the day swimming at the lake or stay overnight camping. There are over 50 campsites with water and electric hookups. There are picnic tables, grassy areas, walking trails, a lake slide, and volleyball nets for recreation!
Overview
Rigby may be easy to overlook when you’re passing through East Idaho, but now that you have this list you’ll have at least one reason to visit, whether it’s for the history, the nature or food!
Check out our list of 31 Things to Do in Southeast Idaho for more activities.