Idaho Uncovered: 10 Must-See Spots, Hidden Gems & Places to Stay in the Gem State

Discover the top 10 things to do in Idaho — from secret hot springs to famous natural wonders. Book your stays, adventures, and rentals with my favorite travel tools!

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Why Idaho Should Be on Your Travel Bucket List

If you thought Idaho was just about potatoes, honey… you’ve been seriously sleeping on one of the most underrated adventure states in America. From jaw-dropping canyons and hidden hot springs to charming towns and killer food scenes, Idaho’s packed with surprises. And lucky for you, I’ve scouted out the absolute best things to do and see in Idaho — including a few locals-only gems. Let’s go!

Top 10 Things to Do in Idaho

1. Shoshone Falls – “The Niagara of the West”

Bigger than Niagara Falls and twice as dramatic, Shoshone Falls in Twin Falls is an epic sight. Visit in spring when water flow is at its peak.

Book a tour or snag a rental:

[**WeGoTrip Idaho Experiences**](https://wegotrip.tp.st/YVL5ihrF)

2. Craters of the Moon National Monument

Walk on ancient lava fields and feel like you’ve landed on Mars without leaving Earth. Great for hiking, camping, and Instagram bragging rights.

Plan your visit:

[**Tiqets Park Passes**](https://tiqets.tp.st/h8P2EGQI)

3. Boise’s Freak Alley Gallery

One of the largest outdoor art galleries in the Northwest. A must-see for street art lovers, selfie seekers, and anyone who appreciates a good mural moment.

Need a Boise hotel?

[**Hotellook Deals**](https://hotellook.tp.st/eTR4sPTY)

4. Goldbug Hot Springs (Hidden Gem)

This one’s for the adventurers. A steep 2-mile hike rewards you with mountaintop hot springs overlooking rugged Idaho wilderness. Pure magic.

Tip: Grab a local car rental via [**EconomyBookings**](https://economybookings.tp.st/bRR16EhB) for your drive.

5. Redfish Lake

A crystal-clear alpine lake perfect for kayaking, paddleboarding, or just soaking in the mountain views. Bonus: there’s a lodge, beach area, and killer sunrise spots.

Book your lakeside stay:

[**Hotellook Stays**](https://hotellook.tp.st/eTR4sPTY)

6. Hells Canyon Scenic Byway

North America’s deepest river gorge (yup, deeper than the Grand Canyon!) offers dramatic views and thrilling whitewater rafting.

Plan a guided rafting tour:

[**Trip Activities**](https://trip.tp.st/LGkRYPEA)

7. Sun Valley Resort

A year-round playground for skiers, hikers, and luxury travelers alike. Celeb-spotting possible. You didn’t hear it from me.

Check car rentals for your road trip:

[**Qeeq Rentals**](https://qeeq.tp.st/fZzvdFjb)

8. Snake River Wine Country (Hidden Gem)

Surprise — Idaho has wine! Sip award-winning reds and whites along the Sunnyslope Wine Trail.

Need a private driver or transfer?

[**GetTransfer**](https://gettransfer.tp.st/7ugUWF39)

9. City of Rocks National Reserve

A rock climber’s paradise and an Instagram dream. Hike, camp, or just gawk at the towering granite spires.

Book a stay nearby:

[**WayAway Flight & Stay Packages**](https://wayaway.tp.st/a3ky7N3D)

10. Bruneau Sand Dunes

Home to North America’s tallest single-structure sand dune. Slide down it or stargaze at the onsite observatory.

Snag a mobile SIM card for all those Insta uploads:

[**Airalo eSIM**](https://airalo.tp.st/YSJ1DHLl)

Bonus Hidden Gem: Idaho’s Secret Hot Springs Route

Road trip through Cascade, Lowman, and Stanley for dozens of natural, free-to-access hot springs. Pro tip: visit at sunrise for ultimate solitude.

Plan your drive:

[**KiwiTaxi Private Transfers**](https://kiwitaxi.tp.st/cI2Zkn9s)

Where to Stay in Idaho

* Budget: [**Hotellook Deals**](https://hotellook.tp.st/eTR4sPTY)

* Unique Stays: [**WeGoTrip**](https://wegotrip.tp.st/YVL5ihrF) experiences + lodges

* Road Trip Ready: [**EconomyBookings**](https://economybookings.tp.st/bRR16EhB), [**GetRentACar**](https://getrentacar.tp.st/8lPV1jXk)

Travel Tools You’ll Love

[*Visitors Coverage Travel Insurance**](https://visitorscoverage.tp.st/YjSIozxi)

[*Radical Storage for Luggage**](https://radicalstorage.tp.st/tIES5ra9)

[*BikesBooking for Rentals**](https://bikesbooking.tp.st/lzXnwZrC)

[*Drimsim Global SIM Card**](https://drimsim.tp.st/Y3raNHJt)

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