Idaho is a landlocked state in the Pacific Northwest and Mountain West regions of the United States, celebrated for its dramatic landscapes ranging from the Snake River Plain to the jagged Sawtooth Mountains. Home to Boise — a vibrant, fast-growing city — Idaho offers world-class whitewater rafting on the Salmon River, skiing at Sun Valley, and some of America's deepest river gorges. Potato farms, craft breweries, and a thriving farm-to-table dining scene round out a destination that rewards curious travelers willing to venture off the beaten path.
Family activities
Engaging experiences for travellers of every age.
Discovery Center of Idaho
Hands-on science museum in Boise with 200+ interactive exhibits spanning physics, biology, and technology. Dedicated toddler area (under 5). Great for rainy days.
Zoo Boise
Compact but engaging zoo in Julia Davis Park with 100+ species. Family-friendly layout with a train ride ($2) and natural play areas. Free for children under 4.
Silverwood Theme Park & Boulder Beach Water Park
The Pacific Northwest's largest theme park, 15 miles north of Coeur d'Alene. 70+ rides including roller coasters for teens and kiddie rides for toddlers. Adjacent water park with slides and a lazy river.
Lava Hot Springs Olympic Swimming Complex
Outdoor Olympic-size swimming pool and water slides open summer only. Free-flowing geothermal hot pools open year-round. Kids love the waterslides; parents enjoy soaking.
Craters of the Moon Junior Ranger Program
Free Junior Ranger activity booklet at the visitor center. Kids earn an official NPS Junior Ranger badge by completing activities as they explore the lava tubes and lava fields.
Boise River Float (Barber to Ann Morrison Park)
Tubing the Boise River is a beloved summer tradition. Rent a tube at Cascade Raft & Kayak (7050 ID-55, Garden Valley) or at outfitters along the river. The Barber to Ann Morrison Park float is the classic family route — 6 miles, 2–3 hours, calm water.
Ponderosa State Park (McCall)
Peninsula park jutting into Payette Lake with swimming beaches, kayak rentals, bike trails, and wildlife viewing. One of Idaho's most beautiful family parks.
World Center for Birds of Prey
Peregrine Fund's facility on the edge of Boise — see live falcons, eagles, condors, and owls up close. Educational presentations daily at 1 PM and 3 PM (Memorial Day–Labor Day).
MK Nature Center
Free Idaho Fish & Game interpretive center in Boise with natural aquariums featuring trout and sturgeon, plus wildlife walk-through exhibits. Entirely free and excellent for young children.
Roaring Springs Water Park (Meridian)
Idaho's largest water park, located 10 miles west of Boise in Meridian. Wave pool, lazy river, speed slides, and a kiddie area. Full season late May–August.
Family-friendly hotels
Accommodation designed with families in mind.
Riverside Hotel Boise
Hampton Inn & Suites Boise Spectrum
Sun Valley Inn
Coeur d'Alene Resort
Holiday Inn Express & Suites McCall
Dining with kids
Eating out as a family.
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Family travel tips
Practical advice for stress-free family trips.
Build downtime into every day — over-scheduled kids melt down faster than tired adults.
Carry snacks, water, and a small first-aid kit at all times.
Many attractions offer discounted family tickets — ask at the ticket window.