Nestled between the Snake River and the Rocky Mountains in Eastern Idaho, Idaho Falls gets its name from the small waterfall located in the center of town. The city streets are lined with early 20th-century brick buildings — including the historic Bell Building, which was built in 1910 and originally used as a telegraph office, the Renaissance-style 1915 Shane Building, and the 1920s Montgomery Ward Building, which has changed little since its days as a department store. The imposing World War II-era Idaho Falls Temple, a striking Mormon church with a single spire, stands head and shoulders above the rest of the city.

Idaho Falls serves as a great base to explore some of the most popular national parks in the country. Grand Teton National Park is an hour and 15 minutes away, while Yellowstone National Park is just under a two-hour drive away. If you want to relax after a long day of hiking, a visit to one of the many nearby hot springs will help soothe your tired muscles.

Summers in Idaho Falls are hot and sunny, making this a great time to get out on the riverwalk or to visit the nearby Yellowstone National Park. During the summer, the city also hosts a number of free events, including outdoor concerts and art shows, as well as an annual beer fest where you can taste some local Idaho brews. The annual Fourth of July celebration, held at Snake River Landing, features the biggest fireworks display west of the Mississippi.

Spring and fall are great times to book a vacation rental in Idaho Falls if you’d like to explore the area at a slightly quieter time of year, especially if you want to see the spring flowers bloom or the leaves as they change their colors in the fall. During the winter, Idaho Falls can get very cold, but this is the perfect time to hit some of the nearby hot springs or go cross-country skiing in one of the national parks.

Museum of Idaho

As one of Idaho’s largest history and science centers, the Museum of Idaho features interactive exhibits that take visitors back through the state’s natural and cultural history, starting from the region’s first inhabitants. While you are here, you can see artifacts from the Shoshone-Bannock tribes, walk through a recreated 19th-century street, or check out the remnants of some of the mega flora and fauna that once called Idaho home.

Idaho Falls Riverwalk

Stretching 14 miles along the Snake River, this picturesque riverwalk showcases the tranquil Idaho Falls cascades. It also links many of Idaho City’s parks to the historic downtown area and its numerous public art installations, colorful gardens, and a wide array of eateries. The riverwalk is a popular spot for walking or jogging.

Japanese Friendship Garden

Located on a rocky island in the middle of the Snake River, this peaceful garden features a traditional Japanese garden gate, beautiful water features, and a large Japanese lantern that was donated by Idaho Falls’ sister city Tokai-Mura.