11 Best Family Vacations in Idaho [for 2023]
Idaho is a remarkable destination for a family vacation, boasting vast farmlands, lively rivers, and breathtaking mountains. This gem of a state offers a perfect blend of tranquility and adventure, making it an ideal spot for families to unwind and have fun without breaking the bank.
If you’re looking for an unforgettable family vacation, check out our selected list of the best family vacations in Idaho.
1. Boise
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Boise, the capital city of Idaho, is a fantastic destination for a memorable family vacation. With a wide range of exciting outdoor activities, fascinating museums, and picturesque parks, there’s something for everyone in Boise.
This vibrant city is a top choice for families seeking an enriching cultural experience, outdoor adventures, and plenty of fun-filled family vacation ideas in Idaho.
One must-visit family-friendly spot in Boise is Julia Davis Park. This sprawling complex offers a variety of indoor and outdoor attractions, including museums and a zoo, making it a perfect place to spend quality time with your loved ones.
Finding family-friendly accommodation is a breeze in Boise since the city boasts some of the best family hotels in Idaho. You can relax and enjoy your vacation with the assurance that your family’s comfort and entertainment are taken care of.
Make sure to visit the World Center for Birds of Prey, a must-see educational attraction for kids. The center’s interpretive center offers live presentations featuring red-tailed hawks, golden eagles, peregrine falcons, and California condors, making it a thrilling and educational experience for the whole family.
Boise is a remarkable city and one of the best family vacations in Idaho, offering a perfect blend of culture, outdoor adventures, and family-friendly attractions.
2. Coeur d’Alene
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Coeur d’Alene is a must-visit destination for families seeking fun things to do in Idaho. This charming city offers a plethora of nature adventures and access to a famed theme park, providing families with plenty of sweet vacation memories.
Coeur d’Alene is perfect for families seeking a wide range of attractions. From hiking to arts and history, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant city. What’s more, Coeur d’Alene offers access to Silverwood Theme Park, a renowned amusement park known for its live entertainment, thrilling roller coasters, water slides, and wave pools, making it an ideal destination for families seeking exciting adventures.
Be sure to add the Coeur d’Alene National Forest to your list. This natural spot offers an array of water sports and trails, providing your gang with a great outdoor getaway that will leave them with unforgettable memories.
In summary, Coeur d’Alene is one of the best family vacations in Idaho, offering a range of attractions and outdoor activities that will delight visitors of all ages. From its breathtaking natural scenery to its world-class theme park, Coeur d’Alene is a perfect destination for families seeking a fun-filled and memorable vacation.
3. Meridian
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Meridian, a charming city in Idaho, is a fantastic destination for families seeking an abundance of entertainment options and fun-filled activities. With numerous parks and kid-friendly sites, Meridian offers endless opportunities for family fun.
One must-visit attraction in Meridian is the Roaring Springs Water Park, an ideal spot for families seeking a thrilling aquatic adventure. This exciting park features water slides, a wave pool, a lazy river, and various food and drink options, making it a perfect place for a refreshing family outing.
Another must-visit family-friendly spot in Meridian is the Wahooz Family Fun Zone, a lively entertainment center that offers a range of activities for visitors of all ages. From go-karts to mini-golf and arcade games, Wahooz is the ultimate family-friendly destination for a memorable vacation in Meridian.
The Village at Meridian is also a great place to visit during your family vacation in this city. This expansive outdoor shopping mall is full of family-friendly attractions, including arcades, shops, a playground, a theater, and an ice rink. The playground features a mesmerizing light and music show every hour, adding to the excitement of your family’s visit.
Meridian is one of the best family vacations in Idaho, offering stunning parks and a variety of kid-approved sites, as well as endless entertainment options and attractions that will keep your family entertained for days.
4. Sun Valley Resort
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Sun Valley is undoubtedly one of the best family resorts in Idaho, offering a perfect combination of luxury and fun amenities that guarantee a relaxing and pleasurable vacation.
If you’re seeking a European-style vacation without leaving the US, then Sun Valley Resort is the ideal destination for you. With its European-inspired setting and picturesque surroundings, this resort offers a wealth of family-friendly activities, including horseback riding, skiing, hiking, and sports.
For parents traveling with toddlers and kids, the kids’ club at this resort is an excellent way to keep your little ones entertained for hours. With a variety of fun-filled experiences, including scavenger hunts, Gondola rides, and nature trips, the kids’ club program has something for everyone, ensuring that your youngsters will have a great time.
Sun Valley is one of the best family vacations in Idaho, providing a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure for the whole family. Whether you want to hit the slopes or simply enjoy the resort’s luxurious amenities, Sun Valley Resort is an excellent choice for your next family getaway.
5. McCall
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McCall is a top destination for families seeking thrilling outdoor adventures and scenic nature getaways.
Nestled in the midst of awe-inspiring mountains, McCall is an ideal spot for water sports and winter sports. In summer, families can engage in exciting activities like boating, hiking, and whitewater rafting. During winter, McCall transforms into a winter wonderland, offering ample opportunities for skiing, snowmobiling, and other snow sports.
Besides outdoor pursuits, McCall has plenty of other attractions to keep families entertained. Golf courses, beach parks, a marina, and an indoor ice rink are just a few of the many options. Plus, McCall is a gateway to nearby family vacations in Idaho, such as Baker City, Oregon.
McCall is an ideal choice for families who want to bond over heart-pumping adventures and enjoy the stunning beauty of nature.
6. Idaho Falls
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Idaho Falls is a must-visit for families seeking a perfect weekend getaway, thanks to its rich history, family-friendly attractions, and natural wonders.
The city offers a plethora of activities and amenities that cater to all ages and interests. Kids will love spending time at the Idaho Falls Zoo, where they can see sloths, lions, and penguins.
For nature enthusiasts, exploring the waterfalls and parks of the Greenbelt is a must-do. And, don’t forget to take a scenic drive to the iconic Grand Teton National Park, just a few hours away via US-26 E.
Here, visitors can immerse themselves in stunning alpine valleys, crystal-clear glacier-fed lakes and spot a variety of wildlife.
7. Schweitzer Mountain Resort Selkirk Lodge
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Schweitzer Mountain Resort is a must-visit destination for families looking for the best winter getaway in Idaho. The resort boasts the largest ski area in the state, offering a plethora of winter sports such as snowmobiling, snowshoeing, skiing, snowboarding, and tubing.
But it’s not just a winter wonderland; During the warmer months, visitors can enjoy hiking, bicycling, and tennis. And after a day of adventure, the resort’s Rejuvenating Spa offers beauty treatments and soothing massages for ultimate relaxation.
Families can stay in one of the resort’s spacious family rooms, which can accommodate up to six adult sleepers with bunk beds and king beds. Also, these rooms are equipped with convenient amenities for a comfortable stay. In fact, this Schweitzer Mountain Resort is one of the best family vacations in Idaho.
8. Pocatello
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Looking for an underrated but amazing family vacation spot in Idaho? Look no further than Pocatello.
This laid-back city offers plenty of surprises for everyone in your family. One must-visit attraction is the historic Zoo Idaho, where you can see a variety of animals and learn about wildlife conservation efforts.
Another unique attraction in Pocatello is the Museum of Clean, which showcases the history of cleaning techniques.
For some aquatic fun, check out the Ross Park Aquatic Complex or Stuart Park Splash Pad. Your kids will love cooling off and splashing around in these family-friendly locations.
9. Bruneau Dunes State Park
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Bruneau Dunes State Park is a hidden gem that promises a unique and unforgettable family adventure in Idaho.
Nestled in the heart of the desert, Bruneau Dunes State Park is a natural wonderland that provides a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. With its towering sand dunes and sparkling fishing lakes, this state park offers a thrilling outdoor experience that will leave a lasting impression on your family.
One of the best things about Bruneau Dunes is that it won’t break the bank, making it an excellent cheap family vacation option.
Before heading out to explore the park, stop by the Visitors Center to pick up some trail maps and rent a sandboard. There are numerous trails to explore, from scenic hiking paths to horseback riding trails, and you can also go bird-watching. But the highlight of your visit will undoubtedly be shredding the sand dunes on a sandboard.
10. Nampa
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Nampa is an excellent choice for families looking for a vacation that offers a wide range of experiences.
You can start by taking your children to the Warhawk Air Museum for an educational and inspiring experience.
For nature lovers, Deer Flat National Wildlife Refuge is a great place to observe wildlife in their natural habitat.
To save money on your Nampa trip, consider staying at the Best Western Plus Peppertree, which offers affordable rates and a complimentary continental breakfast.
This hotel is also conveniently located near popular family attractions like Roaring Springs Water Park and Ford Idaho Center Arena. Nampa is a great option for families looking for the best family vacations in Idaho.
11. Ketchum
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Ketchum is the ultimate destination for families seeking an adventurous vacation with a blend of history and nature.
In winter, Ketchum is a winter wonderland and perfect for families looking for a chilly adventure such as snowmobiling, ice skating, and cross-country skiing. In summer, it offers ample opportunities for river rafting, fishing, hiking, and fishing.
Experience the city’s rich history by visiting the Ketchum Sun Valley Historical Society which displays historical artifacts, photographs, and artworks. Additionally, the Ore Wagon Museum showcases authentic 19th-century ore wagons and offers insights into Ketchum’s mining roots.
With all these exciting activities, Ketchum is one of the best family vacations in Idaho that you wouldn’t want to miss.