From meeting new people to experiencing new sights, sounds, and smells – is there anything more exciting or rejuvenating than a break from the day-to-day mundanity? Traveling is an excellent way to immerse yourself in a new culture, setting, or way-of-life, but the best part is this: you don’t have to venture far from home to enjoy what this world has to offer.
Whether your journey takes you across your own city, to an unexplored part of your state, or even to the other side of the world, there’s no doubt you will still learn a lot about your surroundings – and yourself – along the way.
While the culture an hour away from your home might not be drastically different from what you’re used to, you can still gain a deepened sense of appreciation for where you’ve laid your roots. Plus, traveling locally has a lot of benefits:
More cost-effective. Local travel is certainly a budget-friendly way to explore! Many activities and parks are free or have a low cost of entry. For day trips, you can also pack your own meals to save.
Eco-friendly way to travel. Travel is hard on the environment, but putzing around your area is more sustainable than air travel.
Quick trips. Getting out locally means you can do it more often! Long weekend trips are a lot easier to take when the destination is a short drive away.
Easy to plan. Preparing your itinerary for a local getaway will likely save you some time and stress.
More convenient. Especially if you have little ones, sticking close to home may be much more convenient than far-off destinations. If you forget something, have an emergency, or need to cut the trip short, being closeby definitely has its benefits.
Located in southern Idaho is the city of Twin Falls, one of the most scenic canyon cities in the United States of America. It’s also celebrated as the gateway to Snake River Canyon and acts as the economic and cultural centre of the state.
Aside from its stunning natural scenery, the city is also home to a thriving arts and cultural scene, not to mention numerous award-winning restaurants, tranquil state parks, intriguing museums, and more.
Even those who have lived in the city for a decade would agree they haven’t experienced all that Twin Falls has to offer, while for those new to the region – well, they’ve got a lot to look forward to as well.
Ready to discover the best of Twin Falls, Idaho? Let’s get started!
*Note: Some of the suggestions may not be doable due to coronavirus closures, but keep this list handy for when things start opening back up more! Be sure to check individual pages for specific operation details
Twin Falls isn’t all hustle and bustle! There are also plenty of state parks and national parks both within and surrounding the area, all of which provide a tranquil escape for those looking to surround themselves by nature.
Dozens of sparkling springs can be seen surging from vast canyon walls when visitors travel to Niagara Springs State Park. Take the children and family to this beautiful park for an unforgettable experience with nature. Upon arriving, visitors can explore the various springs and even picnic to enjoy the scenery while having a bite to eat. The park is also an excellent place to bird watch.
At Massacre Rocks State Park, visitors can hike along the Snake River or rock climb up the tremendous mountains for a memorable adventure. This park is best known for its diverse geological history that attracts explorers of all ages. Families can choose to spend the night by reserving cabins provided by the park. Other popular activities include biking, bird watching, boating, fishing, and disc golf.
Discover Idaho’s rich history at Three Island Crossing State Park. Take self-guided tours throughout the vast park grounds or hike and bike along the various rugged trails. Visitors can stop by the Oregon Trail History and Education Center to learn about the park’s Native American history. Camp overnight to extend your journey.
Visitors can explore Thousand Springs State Park for a variety of seasonal recreational activities that attract adventurers of all ages. Horseback ride along Kelton Trail in the spring and return in the winter to cross country ski. The park is divided into seven units and is guaranteed to have something the whole family will enjoy. After a fun-filled day of venturing through the park, go for a relaxing swim or have a family picnic at Niagara Springs.
Still need to get your nature fix? If you’re craving seeing even more of the beautiful scenery that surrounds Twin Falls, then there are also plenty of hiking and walking trails for you and your family to enjoy.
This 12.3-mile trail located just outside of Twin Falls is the perfect getaway for the whole family. Visitors can walk, run, and road bike all year-round. Stroll through the trail’s flat terrain to get an unforgettable view of the waterfall and canyon tops. Hikers of all ages can enjoy this trail and even your four-legged friends as long as they are leashed.
At Mogensen Trail, visitors can hike and walk along its 2-mile path that is gentle and easy for explorers young and experienced. Visitors can get a great view of the Perrine Bridge, and if lucky, can also catch glimpses of base jumpers parachuting off the side of the bridge. Get in touch with the beautiful nature of Twin Falls and visit monthly to see how the scenery changes.
This 3.9-mile trail located near Twin Falls features a variety of recreational activities suitable for all ages. Visitors can hike, walk, run, and mountain bike through the various trails. Children and families can follow the smoother trails for an easy but fun adventure through Twin Falls awe-inspiring landscape. Hikers can even overlook the nearby waterfall when visiting this loop.
Twin Falls is home to a bustling and trendy dining scene, so there’s sure to be a restaurant, café, or diner to satisfy your cravings. If you’ve worked up an appetite after a long hike, or simply feel like treating yourself to a delicacy, then you’re in luck. Here are our top restaurant recommendations!
Stop byIdaho Joe’s for breakfast, lunch, or dinner to enjoy a delicious meal. Locals rave about their Homemade Chili that’s served with a side of hot cornbread. Make sure to try their signature Idaho Nachos, or order their Smokehouse Burger most loved for its pulled pork smothered in tangy BBQ sauce. For dessert, order one of their tasty home-bake pies to satisfy your sweet tooth!
Elevation 486 is best known for its “one-in-a-million location” atop the south rim of The Canyon, featuring a magnificent view of the Snake River. Stop by for lunch to try The Elevation Tri-Trip Sandwich or their Huckleberry Chicken Salad. Head on over for dinner and order their Spicy Sesame Noodle Bowl along with one of their signature cocktails.
Janitzio is Twin Falls number one family Mexican restaurant that is guaranteed to have something that everyone will enjoy. Their lunch and dinner menus feature a variety of flavorful and authentic Mexican dishes. Some of their specialties include their Carne Asada, Steak Fajitas, and Veggie Enchiladas. Customers love to finish their meals with Flan for dessert.
For over 35 years,Norm’s Cafe has been serving home cooked meals and welcoming guests with kind smiles. When visiting, make sure to ask for their daily specials to enjoy tasty and savory dishes not offered on the regular menu. Stop by for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, or simply pop in for a warm cup of coffee.
AtScooter’s Chillin’-N-Grillin’, you can count on high-quality meals served with the freshest ingredients. Locals love their fresh ground beef patties that are never frozen, and their happy hour specials. Make sure to try their signature Black and Blue Bacon Burger or their Popeye’s Chicken Salad for a tasty and filling meal.
After feasting and enjoying all that the hiking trails and state parks have to offer, you may be wondering: “what next?” Well, when it comes to Twin Falls’s attractions and activities, you’re only just getting started. Here are some of the most fun things on offer in and around the city!
Looking to entertain some little ones? Or perhaps you’ve got some teenagers in-tow who are starting to get a little bored? Either way, these attractions will entertain both children, teens, and adults alike!
The fun never ends in Twin Falls, Idaho, but it certainly begins with AWOL Adventure Sports. Bring the kids and family to zip line along the Snake River Canyon for an unforgettable experience. Discover Twin Falls historic past and rich geology in an exciting way. Are you ready to race across the Canyon at 45 mph?
TheHerrett Center for Arts and Sciences is best known for their interactive exhibits and displays of anthropological artifacts. Children and families will have a great time learning about prehistoric American continents and natural history specimens. Visit this center at the College of Southern Idaho’s main campus.
What should you do in Twin Falls once the sun goes down? We’re glad you asked! Here are our suggested night-time attractions.
For over 20 years, theFaulkner Planetarium has been entertaining and educating visitors of Twin Falls. Visit their Centennial Observatory and the Browning Gallery to “view space” in real time thanks to NASA’s high-definition video imaging. Idaho’s largest planetarium has so much to offer and is the perfect way to end the night.
Have fun with the whole family atJump Time Idaho. Hop and perform cool tricks on their trampoline walls or play extreme dodgeball in one of their trampoline courts. Visitors of all ages can slide down their 18 feet-high inflatables and race through the various obstacle courses. Fly, jump, and have fun all night long!
What can you do in or around Twin Falls that won’t cost anything more than a few dollars? The answer: plenty! Here are just two of our favorite attractions within the area that can be enjoyed on the cheap.
Shoshone Falls Park is the number one must-see natural attraction in Twin Falls. Families can overlook the 212-foot-tall waterfall, which surpasses the height of the famous Niagara Falls. Season passes are available for just $25 or purchase their coupon books for $30 to receive 20 passes. When you visit Shoshone Falls park, you’ll be blown away by Idaho’s greatest natural treasure.
Shoshone isn't just known for their waterfall; it's also known for its ice caves. Visit Shoshone Ice Caves to take a 45-minute tour of the incredible frozen caverns. Tickets are $10 for adults, $8.00 for seniors 62 years old and up, and $6 for children ages 4 through 12. Children 3 years old and younger are admitted into the ice caves for free. Don’t forget to bring a jacket as temperatures are below freezing!
Looking to get the most out of your time spent within the city of Twin Falls? Whether you want a fun way to waste away a Sunday afternoon or a date idea that won’t break the budget – here are our most recommended things to do in Twin Falls that won’t cost you a cent.
The natural beauty ofPerrine Memorial Bridge is priceless. Visit this 1,500-foot-long bridge to get a breathtaking view of Twin Falls. Kids and family can gain a deeper understanding of the bridge’s history when stopping by the Twin Falls Visitor Center.
TheMinidoka National Historic Site is the perfect adventure for families to go on. Its famous reconstructed guard tower is one of their most popular attractions that continues to draw locals. Open year-round from sunrise to sunset, families can stop by the Visitor Center anytime to uncover the historic past of this 1.6-mile trail and its surrounding historical buildings.
Alright, by now you’ve probably been on your feet all day exploring the sights and delights that Twin Falls has to offer. If you’re craving some rest and relaxation, or even a bit of pampering, these are two of the best spas in the region.
Relax your mind and body atOnyx Medspa and Laser Clinic. Enjoy a deep tissue or hot stone massage that will have you feeling stress-free in no time. Treat your skin and yourself when you receive a laser treatment performed by professionals.
AtSnake River Pool and Spa, visitors can unwind in a hot spring jacuzzi and a free-flowing pool. Their above ground pools and relaxing saunas are state-of-the-art. After spending some time in the water, sunbathe by the patio or play a quick game of pool.
If rejuvenation for you is less about deep relaxation and more about sweating it out, then you’re in luck. Twin Falls is home to some of the highest-rated gyms and yoga studios within the region.
Gemstone Climbing Center is one of the best rock climbing, yoga, and fitness gyms in all of Southern Idaho. With a variety of fitness and studio classes for all ages, the whole family is guaranteed to have fun staying fit.
Break a sweat atHive Hot Yoga in one of their engaging classes perfect for beginning and experienced yogis. New members can pay $35 for 30 days of unlimited classes or sign up for monthly and annual memberships.
Looking to fulfill your wanderlust by heading outside of the region for a day? You could spend decades within Twin Falls without barely scratching the surface of all there is to do in this city, but consider these day trips next time you fancy a new adventure.
Craters of the Moon National Monument & Preserve is the perfect day trip to take when craving adventure. Best known for its “weird and scenic landscape,” visitors can explore this national monument and preserve for just $10. Annual passes are available for families who love to visit often.
Travel to the city of Boise to discover more of Idaho’s breathtaking nature and interesting history. Walk along the historic Oregon Trail or visit the scenic Boise River Greenbelt. For some family fun, stop by the Boise Zoo or the Roaring Springs Water Park. Adventurers will love exploring the Bogus Basin and Idaho Botanical Garden.
As a final reminder, some of these activities may need to wait until businesses fully reopen from coronavirus closures. However, there is still much to see and experience in Twin Falls that you can enjoy today! What are your favorite spots in Twin Falls? Send them our way to [email protected] or by tagging us on Instagram @rvshare and using the hashtag #rvsharelocal.
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