One of the easiest landing zones for trekking around the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem, whether it is booking lodging in town or finding flights directly into Idaho Regional Airport (IDA) for small and large travel groups, the proximity and conveniences of Idaho Falls make extended travel, wedding planning, reunions, and tour logistics a walk in the park–or if you’re in Idaho Falls, a river walk.

If there’s some wiggle room in your itinerary before you head for Old Faithful, Mesa Falls, or Jackson Hole, tack on a day or two to explore Idaho Falls. One walk on the Greenbelt to enjoy the falls, grab a bite to eat, and check out the shops for unique finds and gifts. From specialty candies at Love At First Bite→ to flower-powered boutique Poppy & Pout→, a stroll downtown will show off the history and awe-striking geology of the area while simultaneously introducing you to Rocky Mountain living. 

Drop in on the riverside Art Museum of Eastern Idaho showcasing eclectic works. Downtown’s Museum of Idaho has local-history exhibits, including the Lewis and Clark expedition and a re-created 1800s town. The Idaho Falls Zoo at Tautphaus Park has lions, sloths and penguins and more. The zoo is an outpost for conservation and working with native species.

With over 60,000 residents, Idaho Falls is the third largest metropolitan area in Idaho and as you port of entry for exploring the Yellowstone Teton Territory. With an abundance of options for finding gear and outfitters, renting RVs, packing coolers for a range dietary needs, starting and ending your adventures in Idaho Falls ensures that no one in your party has to sacrifice the essentials.

The Idaho minor league baseball team, the Idaho Falls Chukars, plays at Melaleuca Field throughout the summer and the Idaho Spud Kings, IF’s minor league hockey team plays throughout the winter. Top-performing athletes at affordable prices make for great add-ons and excuses to make a visit to town. Or take a seat at the Colonial Performing Arts Center or the Mountain America Center. 

During the summer, the weekly farmers market takes over downtown and is the perfect morning activity before hitting the links at many of the area’s golf courses. City limits recreation is also celebrated on Wednesdays at  Idaho’s oldest rodeo held in Idaho Falls. Alive After Five is the city’s celebration of food, friends, spirits, and downtown music. And every Fourth of July, Idaho Falls lights up with the biggest fireworks display in the west with the Annual Melaleuca Freedom Celebration. Beginning at 10 p.m. on July 4 at Snake River Landing, Melaleuca will launch over 18,505 shells from the banks of the Snake River to honor the nation’s birthday.

Idaho Falls is truly a destination for all styles of travel and interests. The city provides flexibility to make travel plans that work for you–upscale hotel, large groups, bed and breakfasts, or more modest motel accommodations and campgrounds are all options that keep you close to your destination adventures like white water rafting, hiking, fly fishing, skiing, and off-road excursions. And sometimes the excursion can just be ferry boats on the Snake River or a walk in the Japanese Friendship Garden.