The area that would become Idaho Falls, Idaho saw its first significant development in 1864. At that time, a man named Harry Rickets built and operated a ferry to travel the Snake River. The city's present-day site became a permanent settlement later when a freighter named Matt Taylor built a toll bridge across a Snake River gorge, roughly seven miles downstream from Rickets' ferry. That bridge made travel much easier for settlers in the region as well as freighters and miners looking to strike it rich in the goldfields of Idaho and Montana. Eventually, a number of businesses developed around the bridge, becoming a settlement known as Taylor's Crossing. The name would be changed to Idaho Falls in 1891, which was the same year it would be incorporated as a city.
Today, Idaho Falls has a population of around 65,000, making it one of the largest cities in the state by population. The Snake River still flows right through the center of the city, and its waters offer wonderful opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and canoeing. If you visit the Idaho Falls River Walk & Greenbelt, you can walk, bike, or run along the beautiful river and enjoy some great views of the city's scenery. The River Walk will also take you to Sportsman Park, which lies at the site of the original toll bridge that spanned the Snake River.
If you're an animal lover, Idaho Falls has a couple of attractions you won't want to miss. One is the Idaho Falls Zoo at Tautphaus Park, which not only boasts a variety of amazing animals from around the world but also contains an entire amusement park! You'll also want to visit the East Idaho Aquarium, a non-profit organization that features all sorts of cool exhibits and aquatic animals.
When you're in the mood to watch a live musical or theatrical performance, you can do so at the Idaho Falls Civic Auditorium, which has been hosting talented acts since 1952. While you're in town, you should also get a look at the impressive galleries at the Art Museum of Eastern Idaho. In addition to its five galleries, the museum features an interactive children's art area.
• Idaho Falls Pride - This upcoming annual event celebrating the LGTBQ+ community takes place in late June. Come out to have a good time and celebrate all lifestyles.
• Mountain Brewers Beer Fest - The upcoming annual Mountain Brewers Beer Fest has been running for nearly three decades. The event is happening at Sandy Downs Arena in early June, and general admission is $40.
• Idaho Falls Gun Show - This upcoming annual gun show takes place at Bonneville County Fairgrounds at the end of April. The event will feature roughly 150 great vendors for all things gun-related!
Begin your journey near Idaho Falls by heading about 20 miles west to Hell's Half Acre Wilderness Study Area in Bonneville County. Although there aren't any formal hiking trails at Hell's Half Acre, guided tours taking you through deep ravines and volcanic rock formations are available. You can spend the night at a nearby campground or find dispersed camping areas on nearby Bureau of Land Management land. These sites offer primitive camping with few amenities but allow for a more secluded and immersive outdoor experience. Driving northwest for about 37 miles brings you to Camas National Wildlife Refuge. The refuge offers a 4.5-mile auto tour that allows visitors to explore the various habitats and wildlife viewing areas from the comfort of their vehicle. It's a haven for bird watchers, with over 300 species of birds to add to your journal. Heading northwest for roughly 20 miles takes you to the Twentymile Lava Trail. Along this route, hikers can discover interesting geological phenomena, including lava tubes, volcanic rock formations, and lava flows. For an engaging art and science facility that is fun for all ages, go to the ARTitorium on Broadway in downtown Idaho Falls. Then, experience the thrill of space exploration at Blast Off!, an immersive space-themed attraction only 2 miles from the city center. In the evening, unleash your creativity at a Grape Van Gogh painting party.
If you need a travel option that is budget-friendly and are traveling as a couple, consider a Class B campervan. Class B options are typically more affordable to rent and operate compared to larger RVs while still providing all the essentials. Some even come with showers and toilets. Beautiful mountain landscapes surround Idaho Falls, with lots of winding roads leading to incredible viewpoints and hidden gems. A Class B campervan's smaller size makes navigating narrow mountain roads with sharp turns and steep grades easier. If you have a tow vehicle, travel trailers or popups are a good option. Unlike motorhomes, travel trailers allow you to unhitch and leave your accommodations behind when exploring nearby attractions like Hell's Half Acre Wilderness Study Area.
Motorhomes are divided into Class A, B, and C vehicles. On average expect to pay $185 per night for Class A, $149 per night for Class B and $179 per night for Class C. Towable RVs include 5th Wheel, Travel Trailers, Popups, and Toy Hauler. On average, in Idaho Falls, ID, the 5th Wheel trailer starts at $70 per night. Pricing for the Travel Trailer begins at $60 per night, and the Popup Trailer starts at $65 per night.
Do you need to be a certain age to rent an RV in Idaho Falls?Yes. The minimum age is 25 to be eligible to get an RV Rental in Idaho Falls from RVshare.
Does RVshare have emergency roadside assistance?Yes. Every RV rental booked through RVshare receives 24/7 emergency roadside assistance.
Does RVshare offer one way RV rentals in Idaho Falls?Yes. Prior to renting any RV, check with the owner since not all will offer this particular option.