5 Cheap weekend getaways in Idaho that are fun and memorable!

Idaho may not be the first place that comes to mind when thinking of a weekend getaway destination. Still, the state offers a surprising amount of activities and attractions for visitors to enjoy. Whether you're looking for outdoor adventures or a relaxing escape, Idaho has plenty to offer at an affordable price. Here are some of the best cheap weekend getaways in Idaho.

Coeur d'Alene

Coeur d'Alene is a charming town situated on the shores of Lake Coeur d'Alene. This beautiful lake is the centerpiece of the town and offers plenty of outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, and fishing. If you're looking for a more relaxing weekend, you can simply enjoy the views of the lake and take a leisurely stroll along the shoreline.

Coeur d'Alene IdahoPhoto byPhoto by Mary Rosales on UnsplashonUnsplash

The Coeur d'Alene City Park is a beautiful park on Lake Coeur d'Alene's shore. The park offers picnic areas, a swimming beach, and a playground. It's a great place to relax and enjoy the views of the lake.

Downtown Coeur d'Alene is also worth exploring. The area is filled with local shops, restaurants, and galleries. You can also take a stroll along the boardwalk and enjoy the views of the lake.

McCall

McCall is a small mountain town located in central Idaho. The town is surrounded by beautiful scenery and offers plenty of outdoor activities, including hiking, mountain biking, and fishing. In the winter, McCall is a popular destination for skiing and snowboarding.

Payette National ForestPhoto byPhoto by Porter Raab on UnsplashonUnsplash

One of the most popular attractions in McCall is Payette Lake. This beautiful lake offers a variety of water activities, including boating, fishing, and swimming. You can also take a scenic drive along the Payette River Scenic Byway, which offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and forests.

If you're looking for a more relaxing weekend, you can visit one of the many hot springs in the area. Burgdorf Hot Springs which is located 32 miles north of McCall and is nestled in the mountains of Payette National Forest in Central Idaho. 

Another hot spring to visit is Gold Fork Hot Springs (source). This hot spring is located just south of McCall in the small town of Donnelly in the beautiful foothills of the North Fork Range. Just keep in mind that in order to visit the Gold Fork Hot Springs, you MUST be vaccinated... This is what their website says: Proof of vaccination with a photo ID is required for entry. No unvaccinated persons will be admitted, this includes unvaccinated children. So, you decide! (Source) Both are affordable options that offer a unique and relaxing experience for a weekend away!

Boise

Boise is Idaho's capital city and offers plenty of affordable (and FREE!) attractions and activities for visitors to enjoy. The city has a thriving downtown area with local restaurants, shops, and galleries. You can also explore the nearby Boise River Greenbelt (over 800 acres!), which offers miles of scenic trails for hiking and biking, and outdoor fun.

Boise River GreenbeltPhoto byPhoto by Brett Wharton on UnsplashonUnsplash

One of the most popular attractions in Boise is the Idaho State Capitol Building. This beautiful building is free to visit and offers a glimpse into the state's history and culture. The Old Idaho Penitentiary is another popular attraction that offers a unique and educational experience. Regular admission is free to Idaho State Historical Society Members. You can become a member on their site (source).

If you're looking for a more relaxing weekend, you can visit the nearby Lucky Peak State Park. This beautiful park offers a variety of outdoor activities, including fishing, boating, and hiking. You can also enjoy a picnic and take in the beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and forests. You can find out how much it would cost to visit by visiting their website.

Lucky Peak State ParkPhoto byPhoto by Peter Robbins on UnsplashonUnsplash

Sun Valley

Sun Valley is a more upscale weekend getaway destination, but there are still plenty of affordable (and free) activities to enjoy. The town is located in the Northern Rockies region of south-central Idaho and is open year-round. 

One of the most popular activities in Sun Valley is hiking. There are several trails in the area that offer a variety of difficulty levels and scenic views. People of all ages who love hiking can reach the summit by taking the Bald Mountain Trail, then opt for a free ride down on the Christmas Chairlift and Roundhouse Gondola. In case you feel hungry during your hike, you can grab lunch at the Roundhouse. (source)

Photo bySara Sheehy at visit Sun Valley

If you're looking for a more relaxing weekend, you can cool off in the Big Wood River. If you're looking for family-friendly activities with younger children, you can visit the free splash pads at Memory Park located in downtown Ketchum (which is about 1.28 miles from Sun Valley), or Jimmy's Garden in Hailey, which is about 11 miles south of the resort towns of Ketchum and Sun Valley.

Idaho Falls

Idaho Falls is the biggest city of Bonneville County in the state of Idaho. If you're looking for a great outdoor destination, Idaho Falls' sterling attraction is its River Walk, which spans five miles on both sides of the Snake River and offers plenty of scenic sights to explore.

If you're looking for more family-friendly activities, you can check out the Idaho Zoo at Tautphaus Park and the East Idaho Aquarium, both of which offer fun and exciting experiences. For those who are interested in unique collections, the Collectors' Corner Museum has something for visitors of all ages to enjoy.

Photo byPhoto by Alex Lemoing on UnsplashonUnsplash

If you're looking for outdoor activities, you can visit the nearby Grand Teton National Park. It is only a few hours' drive from Idaho Falls and offers a variety of affordable activities, including hiking, wildlife viewing, and scenic drives. Visitors can witness the breathtaking beauty of Grand Teton National Park, which boasts glacier-fed lakes, lush alpine valleys, and the magnificent Teton Range. The park's natural environment is also home to a wide variety of wildlife, such as moose, bears, and marmots, making it an exciting and unforgettable destination for nature enthusiasts.

Idaho Falls Temple Center is also a beautiful place to visit in Idaho Falls. It is open to the public and is stunning and tranquil. Visitors can take a stroll through the vibrant gardens, shaded by tall trees, and relax by the fountains and cascading waterfalls while enjoying the scenic views of the Snake River. Additionally, you can explore the Visitors' Center and take a guided tour, or take advantage of the virtual tour option worldwide.

Idaho Falls TemplePhoto byChurch of Jesus Christ Of Latter Day Saints

Overall, Idaho offers a variety of affordable weekend getaways, whether you're looking for outdoor adventures, indoor adventures, or just a relaxing escape, there are plenty of fun and cheap things to do. With beautiful scenery, charming towns, and plenty of activities and attractions to enjoy, Idaho has a lot to offer that is definitely worth exploring.