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List of State Attractions
I. National Land
National Parks & Reserves
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City of Rocks National Reserve
A unique landscape of granite spires and monoliths, City of Rocks is a world-renowned destination for rock climbing. The area also holds historical significance as a landmark on the California Trail. Visitors can explore the "silent city" and its fascinating geological formations.
- Location: Almo, ID 83312
- Nearest Major City: Twin Falls
- Website: nps.gov/ciro
- Phone: (208) 824-5519
- Visitor Interests: Rock climbing, hiking, camping, bird watching, photography, exploring the California National Historic Trail.
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Yellowstone National Park
While primarily in Wyoming, a portion of the world's first national park extends into Idaho, offering access to its geothermal wonders and diverse wildlife. The Idaho section provides a less-crowded experience of this iconic park.
- Location: Island Park, ID 83429 (for the Idaho entrance)
- Nearest Major City: Idaho Falls
- Website: nps.gov/yell
- Phone: (307) 344-7381
- Visitor Interests: Geyser viewing (Old Faithful is a short drive), wildlife watching (bison, elk, bears), fishing, boating on Yellowstone Lake, scenic drives.
National Monuments & Preserves
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Craters of the Moon National Monument & Preserve
This otherworldly landscape was formed by ancient volcanic eruptions, leaving behind a vast ocean of lava flows, cinder cones, and lava tube caves. It offers a unique opportunity to explore a well-preserved volcanic landscape.
- Location: 1266 Craters Loop Road, Arco, ID 83213
- Nearest Major City: Idaho Falls
- Website: nps.gov/crmo
- Phone: (208) 527-1300
- Visitor Interests: Hiking through lava fields, exploring lava tubes (caves), scenic loop drive, stargazing in the International Dark Sky Park, winter cross-country skiing.
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Hagerman Fossil Beds National Monument
This site protects the world's richest known fossil deposits from the Pliocene epoch. It is particularly famous for the Hagerman Horse, an early ancestor of the modern horse. Visitors can learn about the diverse prehistoric life that once roamed the area.
- Location: 221 North State Street, Hagerman, ID 83332
- Nearest Major City: Twin Falls
- Website: nps.gov/hafo
- Phone: (208) 933-4105
- Visitor Interests: Viewing fossil exhibits at the visitor center, scenic overlooks of the Snake River, hiking, bird watching along the river.
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Minidoka National Historic Site
This site commemorates the unjust incarceration of over 13,000 Japanese Americans during World War II. It serves as a powerful reminder of a dark chapter in American history and a place for reflection on civil liberties.
- Location: 1428 Hunt Road, Jerome, ID 83338
- Nearest Major City: Twin Falls
- Website: nps.gov/miin
- Phone: (208) 825-4169
- Visitor Interests: Walking tours of the former internment camp, visitor center exhibits, reflecting on the history of Japanese American incarceration.
National Historical Parks
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Nez Perce National Historical Park
This unique park consists of 38 sites spread across four states, preserving the history and culture of the Nimiipuu (Nez Perce) people. The main visitor center is in Idaho and offers a gateway to understanding the tribe's story, including their famous 1877 flight.
- Location: 39063 US Hwy 95, Lapwai, ID 83540
- Nearest Major City: Lewiston
- Website: nps.gov/nepe
- Phone: (208) 843-7009
- Visitor Interests: Visitor center exhibits and film, walking the historic grounds at Spalding, visiting the White Bird Battlefield, learning about Nez Perce culture and history.
National Recreation & Conservation Areas
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Hells Canyon National Recreation Area
Encompassing North America's deepest river gorge, Hells Canyon offers dramatic scenery and a wide range of recreational opportunities. The Snake River flows through the canyon, creating a rugged and beautiful landscape.
- Location: Riggins, ID 83549
- Nearest Major City: Lewiston
- Website: fs.usda.gov/wallowa-whitman
- Phone: (541) 426-5546
- Visitor Interests: Jet boat tours on the Snake River, whitewater rafting, fishing, hiking, scenic drives to overlooks.
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Morley Nelson Snake River Birds of Prey National Conservation Area
This area protects the densest nesting population of birds of prey in North America. The deep canyon of the Snake River provides the perfect habitat for eagles, hawks, falcons, and owls.
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Sawtooth National Recreation Area
With its jagged peaks, pristine alpine lakes, and vast forests, the Sawtooth NRA is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. It offers a stunning backdrop for a wide array of recreational activities.
- Location: Stanley, ID 83278
- Nearest Major City: Boise
- Website: fs.usda.gov/sawtooth
- Phone: (208) 727-5000
- Visitor Interests: Hiking and backpacking, fishing in alpine lakes, scenic drives along the Ponderosa Pine Scenic Byway, boating on Redfish Lake, wildlife viewing.
National Wildlife Refuges
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Bear Lake National Wildlife Refuge
Located at the north end of Bear Lake, this refuge provides important habitat for migratory water birds, including large concentrations of Canada geese and sandhill cranes.
- Location: 370 Webster St, Montpelier, ID 83254
- Nearest Major City: Pocatello
- Website: fws.gov/refuge/bear_lake
- Phone: (208) 847-1757
- Visitor Interests: Bird watching, photography, auto tour route, hunting and fishing in designated areas.
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Camas National Wildlife Refuge
A series of marshes, ponds, and grasslands that attract a wide variety of waterfowl and other wildlife. It is a particularly good spot for birding, especially during the spring and fall migrations.
- Location: 2150 E 2350 N, Hamer, ID 83425
- Nearest Major City: Idaho Falls
- Website: fws.gov/refuge/camas
- Phone: (208) 662-5423
- Visitor Interests: Bird watching, auto tour route, hiking, photography.
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Deer Flat National Wildlife Refuge
Located near Nampa, this refuge includes the large Lake Lowell and surrounding habitats. It is a major wintering area for migratory waterfowl, especially mallards.
- Location: 13751 Upper Embankment Rd, Nampa, ID 83686
- Nearest Major City: Boise
- Website: fws.gov/refuge/deer_flat
- Phone: (208) 467-9278
- Visitor Interests: Bird watching, boating and fishing on Lake Lowell (seasonal), hiking, environmental education programs.
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Kootenai National Wildlife Refuge
Nestled in the Kootenai River valley, this refuge provides diverse habitats for waterfowl, big game, and other wildlife. It is a scenic spot for wildlife viewing and photography.
- Location: 287 Westside Rd, Bonners Ferry, ID 83805
- Nearest Major City: Coeur d'Alene
- Website: fws.gov/refuge/kootenai
- Phone: (208) 267-3888
- Visitor Interests: Bird watching, wildlife photography, auto tour route, hiking trails, visitor center exhibits.
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II. State Land
Top Ten Most Visited State Parks
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Bruneau Dunes State Park
Home to the tallest single-structured sand dune in North America, this park offers a unique desert landscape for exploration and recreation. The park also features a public observatory for stargazing.
- Location: 27608 Sand Dunes Road, Mountain Home, ID 83647
- Nearest Major City: Boise
- Website: parksandrecreation.idaho.gov/parks/bruneau-dunes
- Phone: (208) 366-7919
- Visitor Interests: Hiking and sandboarding on the dunes, fishing in the lakes at the base of the dunes, camping, stargazing at the observatory.
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Castle Rocks State Park
Adjacent to the City of Rocks National Reserve, this park features its own stunning granite formations and a more intimate setting. It's a great destination for hiking, climbing, and enjoying the unique geology of the area.
- Location: Almo, ID 83312
- Nearest Major City: Twin Falls
- Website: parksandrecreation.idaho.gov/parks/castle-rocks
- Phone: (208) 824-5901
- Visitor Interests: Hiking, rock climbing, wildlife viewing, camping (including yurts and a lodge), exploring the historic ranch.
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Farragut State Park
Situated on the southern end of the beautiful Lake Pend Oreille, this large park was once a naval training station during World War II. It now offers a wealth of recreational opportunities in a scenic setting.
- Location: 13550 E Highway 54, Athol, ID 83801
- Nearest Major City: Coeur d'Alene
- Website: parksandrecreation.idaho.gov/parks/farragut
- Phone: (208) 683-2425
- Visitor Interests: Camping, hiking and biking on extensive trail systems, boating and swimming in Lake Pend Oreille, disc golf, visiting the Museum at the Brig.
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Harriman State Park
Located within a wildlife refuge, this park is a haven for birds and other wildlife. It's known for its serene setting along the Henrys Fork of the Snake River and its historic ranch buildings.
- Location: 3489 Green Canyon Rd, Island Park, ID 83429
- Nearest Major City: Idaho Falls
- Website: parksandrecreation.idaho.gov/parks/harriman
- Phone: (208) 558-7368
- Visitor Interests: Fly fishing, wildlife viewing (especially trumpeter swans and other birds), hiking, horseback riding, cross-country skiing in winter, touring the historic railroad ranch buildings.
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Hells Gate State Park
Located at the confluence of the Snake and Clearwater rivers, this park serves as a gateway to Hells Canyon. It offers a variety of recreational activities and is home to the Lewis and Clark Discovery Center.
- Location: 5100 Hells Gate Rd, Lewiston, ID 83501
- Nearest Major City: Lewiston
- Website: parksandrecreation.idaho.gov/parks/hells-gate
- Phone: (208) 799-5015
- Visitor Interests: Jet boat tours into Hells Canyon, camping, hiking, swimming, visiting the Lewis and Clark Discovery Center.
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Lake Cascade State Park
Surrounding the large Lake Cascade, this park is a popular destination for water sports and camping. With numerous campgrounds and boat ramps, it's an ideal spot for a lake-focused vacation.
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Ponderosa State Park
Occupying a peninsula on the beautiful Payette Lake, this park is known for its towering ponderosa pines and stunning lake views. It offers a variety of year-round recreational activities.
- Location: 1920 N Davis Ave, McCall, ID 83638
- Nearest Major City: McCall
- Website: parksandrecreation.idaho.gov/parks/ponderosa
- Phone: (208) 634-2164
- Visitor Interests: Hiking and biking with lake views, camping, swimming and boating on Payette Lake, Nordic skiing and snowshoeing in winter, wildlife viewing.
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Priest Lake State Park
Located in the northern panhandle, this park is situated on the shores of the pristine Priest Lake. Surrounded by mountains, it's a scenic destination for camping and water activities.
- Location: 314 Indian Creek Park Rd, Coolin, ID 83821
- Nearest Major City: Coeur d'Alene
- Website: parksandrecreation.idaho.gov/parks/priest-lake
- Phone: (208) 443-2200
- Visitor Interests: Camping, boating, fishing, swimming, hiking, exploring the scenic Upper Priest Lake.
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Round Lake State Park
A small and tranquil park centered around the 58-acre Round Lake. It's a great spot for a relaxing day of fishing, swimming, and easy hiking.
- Location: 1880 Dufort Rd, Sagle, ID 83860
- Nearest Major City: Sandpoint
- Website: parksandrecreation.idaho.gov/parks/round-lake
- Phone: (208) 263-3489
- Visitor Interests: Fishing (trout and bass), swimming, canoeing and kayaking, easy hiking trails, camping.
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Thousand Springs State Park
This unique park is composed of several units, each showcasing the area's incredible hydrology, where water emerges from the canyon walls of the Snake River. It's a beautiful and fascinating area to explore.
- Location: 17970 US-30, Hagerman, ID 83332
- Nearest Major City: Twin Falls
- Website: parksandrecreation.idaho.gov/parks/thousand-springs
- Phone: (208) 837-4505
- Visitor Interests: Viewing the numerous springs and waterfalls, hiking, picnicking, exploring the various park units like Malad Gorge and Ritter Island, visiting the Oregon Trail overlook.
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III. Private Attractions
Zoos, Botanical Gardens & Aquariums
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Idaho Botanical Garden
Located in the Old Penitentiary Historic District, these beautiful gardens showcase a variety of plants that thrive in Idaho's climate. The garden offers a peaceful escape with themed sections and educational programs.
- Location: 2355 N Old Penitentiary Rd, Boise, ID 83712
- Nearest Major City: Boise
- Website: idahobotanicalgarden.org
- Phone: (208) 343-8649
- Visitor Interests: Themed gardens (English, Meditation, Rose), seasonal events like the Winter Garden aGlow, summer concerts, educational classes.
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Idaho Falls Zoo at Tautphaus Park
Known as the "best little zoo in the West," the Idaho Falls Zoo is home to a diverse collection of animals from around the world. It's a manageable size for families and offers up-close encounters with a variety of species.
- Location: 2725 Carnival Way, Idaho Falls, ID 83402
- Nearest Major City: Idaho Falls
- Website: idahofallsidaho.gov/zoo
- Phone: (208) 612-8552
- Visitor Interests: Viewing animals from different continents, children's zoo, educational programs, special events like "Boo at the Zoo."
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World Center for Birds of Prey
This is the headquarters for The Peregrine Fund, an international organization dedicated to conserving birds of prey. Visitors can see a variety of raptors up close and learn about conservation efforts.
- Location: 5668 W Flying Hawk Ln, Boise, ID 83709
- Nearest Major City: Boise
- Website: peregrinefund.org/visit
- Phone: (208) 362-3716
- Visitor Interests: Live bird presentations, viewing rare and endangered raptors like the California Condor, educational exhibits on conservation, falconry archives.
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Zoo Boise
Located in Julia Davis Park, Zoo Boise is a popular attraction in the heart of the city. It features a variety of animals and several unique exhibits, including a conservation-focused program where visitors can contribute to wildlife preservation.
- Location: 355 Julia Davis Dr, Boise, ID 83702
- Nearest Major City: Boise
- Website: zooboise.org
- Phone: (208) 608-7760
- Visitor Interests: Diverse animal exhibits (sloth bears, red pandas, etc.), butterfly exhibit, giraffe and sloth bear encounters, conservation cruise.
Major Museums
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Idaho Potato Museum
A quirky and fun museum dedicated to Idaho's most famous agricultural product. Housed in a former railroad depot, it offers a fascinating look at the history and culture of the potato.
- Location: 130 NW Main St, Blackfoot, ID 83221
- Nearest Major City: Idaho Falls
- Website: idahopotatomuseum.com
- Phone: (208) 785-2517
- Visitor Interests: Learning about potato history and cultivation, seeing the world's largest potato crisp, gift shop with potato-themed souvenirs, getting a free tater at the Potato Station Cafe.
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Museum of Idaho
The state's premier museum of science and history, the Museum of Idaho features rotating world-class exhibits and a permanent collection that tells the story of Idaho's past.
- Location: 200 N Eastern Ave, Idaho Falls, ID 83402
- Nearest Major City: Idaho Falls
- Website: museumofidaho.org
- Phone: (208) 522-1400
- Visitor Interests: Major traveling exhibitions, Idaho history exhibits, children's discovery room, learning about local and regional history.
Amusement & Water Parks
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Lava Hot Springs Foundation
A popular resort town centered around natural hot springs. The foundation operates several pools of varying temperatures, as well as a large outdoor swimming complex with waterslides in the summer.
- Location: 430 East Main Street, Lava Hot Springs, ID 83246
- Nearest Major City: Pocatello
- Website: lavahotsprings.com
- Phone: (208) 776-5221
- Visitor Interests: Soaking in the natural hot pools, swimming and using the waterslides at the Olympic Swimming Complex, floating the Portneuf River.
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Roaring Springs Water Park
The largest water park in the Pacific Northwest, offering a wide variety of slides, a wave pool, and a lazy river. It's a popular summer destination for families and thrill-seekers.
- Location: 400 W Overland Rd, Meridian, ID 83642
- Nearest Major City: Boise
- Website: roaringsprings.com
- Phone: (208) 884-8842
- Visitor Interests: Thrill slides, wave pool, lazy river, family-friendly water attractions, adjacent to Wahooz Family Fun Zone.
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Silverwood Theme Park & Boulder Beach Water Park
The largest theme park in the American Northwest, featuring a wide array of roller coasters, thrill rides, and family attractions, as well as an expansive water park.
- Location: 27843 N Hwy 95, Athol, ID 83801
- Nearest Major City: Coeur d'Alene
- Website: silverwoodthemepark.com
- Phone: (208) 683-3400
- Visitor Interests: Roller coasters and thrill rides, live shows, Boulder Beach Water Park with slides and wave pools, family-friendly attractions.
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Sun Valley Resort
A world-famous year-round resort known for its skiing and snowboarding in the winter and a wide range of outdoor activities in the summer. It offers a luxurious and scenic mountain getaway.
- Location: 1 Sun Valley Road, Sun Valley, ID 83353
- Nearest Major City: Twin Falls
- Website: sunvalley.com
- Phone: (208) 622-4111
- Visitor Interests: Skiing and snowboarding, hiking and mountain biking, golfing, ice skating (year-round), concerts and events, upscale dining and shopping.
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Boise Towne Square
The largest shopping mall in Idaho, featuring a wide selection of national retailers, department stores, and dining options. It's the premier enclosed shopping destination in the state.
- Location: 350 N Milwaukee St, Boise, ID 83704
- Nearest Major City: Boise
- Website: boisetownesquare.com
- Phone: (208) 376-7011
- Visitor Interests: Wide variety of clothing and specialty stores, large food court, major department stores (Macy's, JCPenney, etc.).
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Grand Teton Mall
The largest indoor shopping center in eastern Idaho, offering a good selection of retail stores, dining options, and a movie theater. It serves as a regional shopping hub.
- Location: 2300 East 17th Street, Idaho Falls, ID 83404
- Nearest Major City: Idaho Falls
- Website: grandtetonmall.com
- Phone: (208) 525-8300
- Visitor Interests: National and local retailers, food court, close to other shopping centers.
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Indian Creek Plaza
A vibrant outdoor plaza in downtown Caldwell that hosts a variety of events, including concerts, markets, and an ice skating rink in the winter. It's surrounded by local shops and restaurants.
- Location: 120 S Kimball Ave, Caldwell, ID 83605
- Nearest Major City: Boise
- Website: indiancreekplaza.com
- Phone: (208) 649-5010
- Visitor Interests: Year-round events and festivals, ice skating and winter wonderland, splash pad in summer, farmers market, local dining and shopping.
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Lewiston Center Mall
The primary enclosed shopping center in the Lewiston-Clarkston Valley, offering a mix of national retailers and local businesses.
- Location: 1810 19th Ave, Lewiston, ID 83501
- Nearest Major City: Lewiston
- Website: shop-lewiston-center-mall.com
- Phone: (208) 746-2357
- Visitor Interests: Department stores, specialty shops, dining options.
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The Outlets at Post Falls
An outlet mall offering discounted prices on a variety of brand-name merchandise. It's a popular stop for bargain hunters in the northern part of the state.
- Location: 4301 W Riverbend Ave, Post Falls, ID 83854
- Nearest Major City: Coeur d'Alene
- Website: N/A
- Phone: (208) 773-4555
- Visitor Interests: Brand-name outlet stores, finding deals on clothing, housewares, and more.
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Ponderay Crossing
A major shopping area in the Sandpoint region, featuring a variety of big-box retailers and smaller shops. It's the primary commercial hub for the Ponderay and Sandpoint communities.
- Location: US-95, Ponderay, ID 83852
- Nearest Major City: Sandpoint
- Website: N/A
- Phone: N/A
- Visitor Interests: Major retail stores (e.g., Walmart, Home Depot), local shops, dining options.
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Silver Lake Mall
The largest indoor shopping center in northern Idaho, located in Coeur d'Alene. It offers a variety of stores, a food court, and is a convenient shopping destination for the region.
- Location: 200 W Hanley Ave, Coeur d'Alene, ID 83815
- Nearest Major City: Coeur d'Alene
- Website: silverlakemall.com
- Phone: (208) 762-2112
- Visitor Interests: National and local retailers, food court, convenient location.
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The Village at Meridian
An upscale outdoor lifestyle center with a mix of retailers, restaurants, and entertainment options. Its European-style architecture and central fountain with choreographed light shows make for a pleasant shopping experience.
- Location: 3597 E Monarch Sky Ln, Meridian, ID 83646
- Nearest Major City: Boise
- Website: thevillageatmeridian.com
- Phone: (208) 501-8207
- Visitor Interests: Upscale shopping, diverse dining options, movie theater, seasonal events, fountain shows.
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Music and Products Associated with The State of Idaho
The Following album covers link to each song's specific page for this state. All lyrics have been written by Mark S. McKenzie/American Storyteller Music and The Lyrical Horizon and produced by Story Teller Books and Music or Loud Mouth Books and Music, Copyright 2025, All Rights Reserved:
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