Explore the Charming Communities of Eastern Idaho

Courtesy of Idaho State University

No matter your lifestyle or penchant for fun, you can find the right community for you in Eastern Idaho. Take a tour:

American Falls 

American Falls is an agriculture and power-centric community of 4,500 on the Snake River. Originally a trapper’s landmark, it’s now a recreation hub featuring Massacre Rocks State Park. Visitors enjoy scenic hiking, camping, boating and fishing. 

Arco 

On July 17, 1955, Arco, Idaho, became the first community globally powered by nuclear energy. The BORAX-III reactor provided this historic electricity for one hour. Located near the Big Lost River and Craters of the Moon National Monument, this town serves as a scenic gateway to the rugged Lost River Range. 

Blackfoot 

Home to 12,000 residents, Blackfoot is the “Potato Capital of the World.” Its volcanic soil sustains a thriving agricultural industry and the famous Idaho Potato Museum. With its scenic greenbelt and small-town charm, it remains a wonderful place to call home. 

Courtesy of Idaho Potato Museum

Challis 

Challis, a historic hidden gem and the ultimate outdoor base camp, has 940 residents. Explore the Frank Church – River of No Return Wilderness, soak in hot springs or enjoy world-class fishing. 

Driggs 

Driggs is a quaint city with about 2,500 residents. Its rustic, old-town feel is ideal for those preferring a slower pace of life. From browsing art galleries and farmers markets to leisurely fly fishing or golfing, Driggs offers a relaxed, nature-oriented lifestyle. 

Fort Hall 

Experience history at Fort Hall, a vital 1834 Oregon Trail trading post. Explore Shoshone-Bannock heritage at the museum, enjoy vibrant “Fort Hall Days” celebrations, or visit the hotel and casino.

Idaho Falls

The largest city in the region with over 65,000 residents, Idaho Falls is a regional hub for all things commerce. Here you’ll find a charming downtown and riverwalk, not to mention music and entertainment venues. 

Island Park

Home to 200 residents, Island Park boasts a record-length Main Street and rustic charm. This outdoor haven offers summer paddling on the reservoir and winter snowmobiling. Explore crystal-clear Big Springs or nearby Yellowstone, enjoying breathtaking landscapes and abundant wildlife throughout.

Lava Hot Springs

Lava Hot Springs attracts 250,000 annual visitors with its odorless, therapeutic mineral pools. Beyond relaxation, the area offers rafting, skiing and a unique Oyster Fest, providing a perfect blend of natural beauty and vibrant local culture.

Malad City

Malad City is a tight-knit community of 2,100 residents. Surrounded by scenic landscapes, it’s a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering premier hunting, off-roading and trail exploring. Nearby reservoirs like Devil Creek provide excellent boating and fishing for rainbow and cutthroat trout.

Pocatello

Pocatello, Idaho’s second-largest city, blends youthful energy from Idaho State University with Old Town’s vibrant dining and shopping. Home to unique museums like the Museum of Clean, it offers big-city amenities alongside instant access to world-class outdoor recreation.

Preston 

Preston, home to 5,591 residents, hosts the famous Night Rodeo with parades and carnival fun. Beyond its community spirit, the town is known for Napoleon Dynamite filming sites, the Bear River Massacre site and scenic hiking in the surrounding mountains.

Rexburg

Rexburg has a population of about 39,000, many of whom are students at Brigham Young University-Idaho. Known for its motto, “America’s Family Community,” Rexburg is a fantastic place to raise a family, with its low crime stats, affordability and community engagement.

Ryan Chase

Rigby

Rigby offers quiet, rural living for its 5,000 residents. Known as the “Birthplace of Television,” it honors inventor Philo Farnsworth. Visitors can explore his achievements at a local museum dedicated to his history. Also be sure to go climbing at Paramount Rock, located about 16 miles east of the city.

Shelley

Shelley is a welcoming community of 5,000 blending rural space with suburban connection. Explore craft breweries and distilleries, or enjoy adventure with golf, UTV rentals and guided snowmobile tours.

Soda Springs

With 3,100 residents, Soda Springs features a unique carbonated geyser erupting hourly. This historic Oregon Trail landmark once served as a vital pioneer oasis.

Stanley

With a population of just 100, Stanley is the ultimate mountain escape. This remote gem offers unparalleled solitude and preserved wilderness. Adventure awaits, whether you’re rafting white water, touring the Sawtooth Mountains or relaxing by pristine alpine lakes.

St. Anthony

Home to 3,600 residents, St. Anthony features the 10,000-acre Sand Dunes for off-roading thrills. Visitors can also explore the scenic Henry’s Fork Greenway or mine for treasures at Yellowstone Gem World. This gem perfectly blends adventure with small-town charm.