20 Things to Do in Idaho
Idaho, known for its rugged mountains, pristine rivers, and vast wilderness, offers incredible opportunities for adventure and exploration, often leading travelers to think costs might be high. However, discovering the beauty and character of the Gem State doesn’t require spending a fortune; there are numerous fantastic free things to do in Idaho that allow you to experience its stunning landscapes and unique towns affordably. Exploring Idaho on a budget is easy with so many free attractions in Idaho available to enjoy.
This guide highlights 20 specific activities and sights across Idaho that you can enjoy completely free of charge. From scenic walks along rivers and lakes to exploring historic districts and gazing at volcanic landscapes, you can craft a memorable Idaho journey without opening your wallet. Get ready to discover the best of Idaho, absolutely free.
Urban Parks & Boise Highlights
Boise River Greenbelt Stroll: Walk, run, or bike sections of this beautiful 25-mile pathway lining the Boise River. Enjoy the tree-lined route connecting numerous parks and offering scenic water views right through the capital city.
Idaho State Capitol Tour (Self-Guided): Explore the magnificent interior of Idaho’s State Capitol building in Boise during public hours. Admire the grand architecture, marble details, and learn about state government at your own pace.
Freak Alley Gallery: Wander through the outdoor art gallery located in an alleyway in downtown Boise. Discover vibrant murals and graffiti art created by numerous artists, offering a constantly evolving urban art experience.
Hike Table Rock Trails: Take a hike up the popular trails leading to Table Rock for panoramic views over Boise and the Treasure Valley. The trails offer varying difficulty levels and rewarding vistas from the sandstone outcrop.
Explore Camel’s Back Park: Enjoy the trails and unique “camel’s back” hill formation in this popular Boise park nestled in the foothills. Hike the hill for city views or relax in the adjacent green space and playground area.
Explore Boise’s Basque Block: Stroll down Grove Street between Capitol Boulevard and 6th Street in downtown Boise. Admire the historic Basque buildings, read the informational markers, and soak up the unique cultural heritage of this area.
Scenic Vistas & Waterways
Walk the Perrine Bridge: Take a walk across the dramatic Perrine Bridge spanning the Snake River Canyon near Twin Falls. Enjoy breathtaking views down into the canyon and watch for BASE jumpers taking the plunge.
View Perrine Coulee Falls: Easily view this lovely waterfall located near the Centennial Waterfront Park in Twin Falls. A short path allows you to walk behind the falls for a unique perspective, offering a refreshing sight.
Walk the Snake River Canyon Rim Trail: Enjoy paved pathways along the southern rim of the Snake River Canyon in Twin Falls. Take in spectacular views of the canyon, the Perrine Bridge, and the river below on this accessible trail.
Drive Sawtooth Scenic Byway Viewpoints: Travel along Highway 75 through the stunning Sawtooth National Recreation Area. Pull over at numerous designated overlooks for free, jaw-dropping views of the jagged Sawtooth Mountains.
Stroll Around Redfish Lake Shoreline (Near Lodge): Visit the iconic Redfish Lake near Stanley and walk along the public beach and shoreline areas near the historic lodge. Enjoy stunning views of the lake set against the dramatic backdrop of the Sawtooth Mountains.
Enjoy Coeur d’Alene Public Beaches: Relax on the sandy shores of Lake Coeur d’Alene at public access points like City Park or Tubbs Hill. Enjoy swimming in the clear water or simply soak up the sun with beautiful lake views.
Drive Sections of Lake Coeur d’Alene Scenic Byway: Experience beautiful lake views and forested scenery by driving parts of this scenic route. Utilize public pull-offs for photogenic moments and to appreciate the natural beauty of North Idaho.
Historic Towns & Unique Stops
Walk Historic Wallace Downtown: Explore the charming downtown of Wallace, a town entirely listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Admire the well-preserved late 19th and early 20th-century architecture from its silver mining boom days.
Window Shop in Sun Valley Village: Stroll through the charming, European-style pedestrian village at the base of Sun Valley Resort. Admire the architecture, browse the upscale shop windows, and soak up the mountain resort atmosphere.
Visit Old Mission State Park Grounds: Walk the grounds surrounding the historic Cataldo Mission (Sacred Heart Mission), Idaho’s oldest standing building. Admire the impressive structure and read informational signs about its history (confirm free grounds access policy).
Explore Craters of the Moon Byway Views: Drive along Highways 20/26/93 near Craters of the Moon National Monument. While the monument has an entry fee, the surrounding highways offer free views of the vast, unique volcanic lava fields landscape.
Idaho Potato Museum Exterior Photo Op: Stop in Blackfoot for a fun photo with the giant baked potato sculpture outside the Idaho Potato Museum. Admire the unique spud-themed landmark from the street.
Hike Tubbs Hill Trails: Explore the network of trails on this forested hill right next to downtown Coeur d’Alene. Enjoy lake views, secluded beaches, and a convenient nature escape accessible from the city.
Admire City of Rocks Area Views: Drive the scenic routes near City of Rocks National Reserve and Castle Rocks State Park. Find public viewpoints along the roads to admire the unique granite formations and dramatic landscape from afar.
