Think Idaho is just potatoes and mountain views? Think again. Idaho is one of the most underrated family destinations in the U.S. packed with outdoor adventures, hands-on museums, and memory-making experiences your kids will talk about for years. Whether you’re road-tripping through the Gem State or planning a weekend escape, here are 10 kid-approved things to do in Idaho that blend fun, learning, and pure Idaho charm.
1️⃣ Discovery Center of Idaho – Boise
Why kids love it:
- Hands-on science exhibits covering space, robotics, physics & more
- Fun for toddlers through tweens (and secretly awesome for parents too)
- Frequent special exhibits and rotating themes
Bonus Tip:
Check their calendar for STEAM Saturdays—interactive workshops where kids can build and experiment.
2️⃣ Silverwood Theme Park – Athol
Why families flock here:
- 70+ rides, shows, and attractions for all ages
- Thrill rides like Timber Terror and family favorites like Roaring Creek Log Flume
- Boulder Beach Water Park included in summer admission
Parent Hack:
Stay at the Silverwood RV Park or a nearby campground for easy walk-in access and evening marshmallow roasting.
3️⃣ Emerald Creek Garnet Area – Near St. Maries
Why it’s unforgettable:
- Kids can dig for real star garnets, Idaho’s state gem
- Sift gravel like a prospector and keep what you find
- A cool mix of adventure, geology, and treasure hunting
Know Before You Go:
Bring water shoes and a change of clothes—things get muddy and awesome. Permits are required but inexpensive.
4️⃣ Zoo Boise – Boise
Why it’s a crowd-pleaser:
- Home to over 300 animals including giraffes, lions, and penguins
- Offers a walk-through butterfly exhibit and close-up animal encounters
- Kid-friendly layout with shaded paths and interactive exhibits
Parent Tip:
Upgrade to the Animal Encounter Experience—kids can help feed a giraffe or meet a sloth up close!
5️⃣ Craters of the Moon National Monument – Arco
Why it’s epic:
- Explore lava fields, cinder cones, and lava tubes that feel like another planet
- The Devil’s Orchard Nature Trail is perfect for younger kids
- Ranger programs often include “Lava Ranger” badges for kids
What to Pack:
Flashlights for cave exploring, good walking shoes, and a sense of wonder—this place is wild.
6️⃣ Aquarium of Boise – Boise
Why it surprises families:
- Touch tanks with stingrays, sharks, and starfish
- Interactive exhibits where kids can feed birds and reptiles
- A great rainy-day backup or half-day outing
Pro Tip:
Buy a bag of fish food at the entrance—your kids will get hands-on fast.
7️⃣ Lake Coeur d’Alene – Coeur d’Alene
Why it’s a summer favorite:
- Gorgeous lake with beaches, boat rentals, and paddleboarding
- The Coeur d’Alene Resort Floating Boardwalk is a hit with kids
- Seasonal cruises (including scenic and wildlife tours) available
Parent Tip:
Grab ice cream at the lakefront and let the kids run wild on the nearby Fort Sherman Playground.
8️⃣ Old Idaho Penitentiary – Boise
Why it’s unexpectedly fun for older kids:
- Explore real 1800s prison cells, guard towers, and solitary blocks
- Kid-friendly scavenger hunts and historical exhibits
- Ghost stories and legends add a fun spooky twist
Know Before You Go:
Recommended for ages 8+ due to some dark history—pair it with a visit to the Idaho Botanical Garden next door.
9️⃣ Shoshone Falls – Twin Falls
Why it’s called the “Niagara of the West”:
- Higher than Niagara Falls, with incredible views and photo ops
- Great for picnicking, playing, and stretching your legs on road trips
- Viewing decks are stroller accessible
Pro Tip:
Spring and early summer are the best times to see peak water flow—don’t forget a camera!
🔟 Museum of Idaho – Idaho Falls
Why it’s a hit year-round:
- Combines local history, science, and traveling exhibits
- Kids love the Discovery Room, a STEM-based play area
- Dinosaur skeletons, space exhibits, and pioneer history all under one roof
Parent Bonus:
Well-designed for family pacing—mix of hands-on zones and chill quiet areas to regroup.
From treasure hunting in volcanic fields to riding log flumes through pine forests, Idaho offers the kind of authentic, memory-making adventures families crave. It’s budget-friendly, nature-packed, and full of surprises that go way beyond what you’d expect. Whether you’re road-tripping the state or planning a summer getaway, Idaho just might be your new favorite family destination.
