Now that Idaho has warmed up and the school season is wrapping up, there are even more opportunities to have fun as a family. From keeping cool indoors with crafts to exploring the outdoors, there’s an abundance of options for your next family night!
Stargazing
Relax in your own backyard or pack up some beach chairs and travel away from the lights of town for this activity. Because Idaho has less light pollution than other states, our view of the night sky can be enjoyed even without the use of a telescope. Camping locations or areas away from nearby cities, such as the St. Anthony Sand Dunes, are prime spots on warm, clear nights.
Visit Reopening Attractions
Local hotspots that closed for the winter are reopening now! Buy tickets online or on location for Yellowstone Bear World, the Idaho Falls Zoo at Tautphaus Park and more. Other places to visit that have safely reopened after the height of the pandemic include the Museum of Idaho, ARTitorium on Broadway, and the East Idaho Aquarium.
Crafting with Nature
For a mix of outdoor and indoor activities, consider making crafts using what you find outside. Smooth rocks can be painted on to make fun homemade decorations and freshly picked flowers can be pressed for later or woven into crowns.
Cool Down with Water Fun
Whether it’s water balloons or sprinklers, the best way to get cool when it’s hot outside is with water. Other ideas include water-gun fights, slip-n-slides, and inflatable pools. Need a break from the yard? Visit Heise or Lava Hot Springs for fun away from home.
Play in the Parks
Visit one of Idaho Falls’ many playgrounds and parks for some time out of the house. Bring a picnic or pack some games and a kite; whatever you choose to do, make sure to stay hydrated. Just a few of the parks you can find in Idaho Falls include Central Park, Community Park, Freeman Park, Idaho Falls Dog Park, Lincoln Park and Tautphaus Park.
Stop at a Drive-In
From diners to theaters, Eastern Idaho loves to drive-in. Pack up the family and visit Scotty's Drive-In for a classic American meal, then park at the Motor Vu for a film experience like no other.
Water and Offroading Sports
Southeast Idaho offers lots of spots where you can go boating or offroading, including Palisades Reservoir, Blackfoot Reservoir, St. Anthony Sand Dunes, and Wolverine Creek. Action Motor and Bott are just two nearby places to shop for all the equipment you’ll need to get you started.
Plant or Pick Fruit
Summer is the perfect time to start growing corn, sunflowers, melons and more. Want to start harvesting now? Visit a local orchard or farm, such as Haroldsen Gardens right here in Idaho Falls, to pick fresh produce to munch on.
Visit Someplace Amazing
The landscape of Idaho holds much beauty in many different ways, you just need to know where to look for it. Just a few miles above Rexburg are the St. Anthony Sand Dunes, a popular spot for outdoor activities and exploration amongst towering hills of sand. Head further north to Ashton to see the 10-story Upper Mesa Falls waterfall with lots of walking paths and breathtaking views. Looking for something even more different? Check out Craters of the Moon National Monument. This spot doesn’t actually have anything to do with the moon, but the trails through this hardened lava field will certainly make you feel like you’re on another planet.