Newcomer’s Guide: Fun Things to Do in Southern Idaho
New to the Magic Valley? Here are eight activities that will make you fall in love with this spectacular region.
Generally thought of as an all-season outdoor mecca, Southern Idaho offers a diverse range of year-round attractions that showcase the region’s abundant natural beauty, cultural heritage and heart for the arts. From dramatic peaks to historic streets, we’ve got eight must-try fun things to do in Southern Idaho specifically for lucky transplants who are new to the Gem State.
In This Article
1. Explore the Hagerman Fossil Beds
Learn about local history at Hagerman Fossil Beds National Monument, home to over 200 different species of fossil plants and animals, including the saber-tooth cat, a hyena-like dog, peccary, mastodon, otter, bear, shrew, camel and ground sloth. With over 3,000 new fossil fragments found each year, the monument is one of the most fossiliferous Pliocene-aged sites in the world.
2. Sip Locally Crafted Beverages
After a day on trails, soak in the feel of a cold drink from one of the region’s craft beverage destinations. Koto Brewing Co. in Twin Falls has an impressive list of ales, IPAs, stouts and porters, which pair well with its menu of diverse international flavors. Down the road, Milner’s Gate is a downtown restaurant, bistro and brewery that boasts a happy hour and weekend brunch. In Buhl, Holesinsky Vineyard and Winery is a picturesque venue for a locally owned tasting room that’s creating award-winning wines. Cedar Draw Cider is also located in Buhl, with both a small orchard and shipping-container-style bar. The cidery captures the essence of Idaho’s apples, creating a delightful and flavorful experience.
3. Hike along Craters of the Moon
Explore a unique and otherworldly landscape formed by ancient volcanic activity at Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve. In 1924, Craters of the Moon was designated a national monument by President Calvin Coolidge, for the purpose of protecting this “weird and scenic landscape peculiar to itself.” At an elevation of 5,900 feet, visitors can explore the Craters’ dynamic underground world of lava tubes or find a variety of unique volcanic features on designated hiking trails. The site’s entrance is along U.S. 20 between the towns of Arco and Carey, and it is open seven days a week.
4. Take in a Show
See a show at the Historic Wilson Theatre in Rupert, a cherished venue that has served as a center for entertainment, arts and community gatherings for decades. Originally constructed in 1920, the theater featured silent movies, vaudeville performances and other live shows that were popular at the time.
5. Chill at the Scenic Snow Park
Spend a winter day at Gooding County Snow Park, located at the Gooding-Camas County line. The park includes 150 square miles of land perfect for cold weather fun. Popular activities to partake in along sections of groomed trails include snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, snowmobiling and fat-tire biking. There is also a popular sledding hill next to the parking lot. Admission is free during daylight hours.
6. See the Minidoka National Historic Site
Delve into the history of Japanese internment during World War II at the Minidoka National Historic Site. The site commemorates the more than 13,000 Nikkei (people of Japanese descent) who were imprisoned at this relocation center during the Second World War and provides insights into a significant chapter of American history. Several interesting displays are part of the Minidoka site experience, and visitors are welcome to tour the site itself that held West Coast Japanese-American citizens from 1942 through 1945 after Japan attacked Pearl Harbor.
7. Visit Fresh Farmers Markets
Visit the Twin Falls Farmers Market, which is located at Magic Valley Mall and features an average of 55 vendors who sell items grown or made within 150 miles. Smaller communities Gooding and Fairfield also offer a weekly outdoor farmers market during the warmer months, giving you a great opportunity to sample local fare and music in a charming setting.
8. Drive Up and Down Beautiful Byways
Go for a drive along the City of Rocks Scenic Byway that weaves through the Albion Mountain Range and features towering granite spires. Beginning in Albion on Idaho 77, the byway passes Pomerelle Mountain Resort and Lake Cleveland as it heads south. The City of Rocks National Reserve and the neighboring Castle Rocks State Park attract rock climbers, campers and hikers.
Get to Know Southern Idaho
Want to learn more about living and working in Twin Falls and Southern Idaho? Check out the latest edition of Livability Southern Idaho.
