5-Day Idaho Explorer
- Day 1Arrive in Idaho, explore city center
- Day 2Visit top attractions and museums
- Day 3Day trip to nearby highlights
- Day 4Local markets and hidden gems
- Day 5Final sightseeing, departure
On this page
About Idaho
Idaho spans 83,569 square miles of extraordinary terrain: volcanic lava fields at Craters of the Moon, the continent's deepest gorge at Hells Canyon, glacier-carved alpine lakes in the Sawtooths, and the legendary Salmon River — the 'River of No Return.' Boise punches well above its size with a sophisticated restaurant scene, a lively downtown corridor, and easy access to hiking and skiing within an hour's drive. Sun Valley near Ketchum has been an international resort destination since the 1930s. The northern Panhandle town of Coeur d'Alene sits beside one of America's most beautiful lakes. Idaho is an outdoor enthusiast's paradise and a genuinely underrated American travel destination.
- Capital
- Boise
- Largest city
- Boise
- Population
- 1,939,033
- Languages
- English
- Currency
- US Dollar (USD)
- Time zone
- Mountain Time (MT) — UTC-7 (summer), UTC-7 (MST); Panhandle uses Pacific Time
Explore Idaho by topic
Jump straight to the experience you're planning.
Best places to visit in Idaho
The 10 destinations our editors recommend — from iconic landmarks to under-the-radar finds.
Recommended itineraries
Pick a length, follow the route. Each itinerary balances headline sights with breathing room.
7-Day Classic Idaho
- Days 1-2Idaho city highlights
- Days 3-4Regional exploration
- Days 5-6Cultural immersion and local experiences
- Day 7Return and departure
14-Day Ultimate Idaho
- Days 1-3Idaho comprehensive city tour
- Days 4-6Northern region exploration
- Days 7-9Eastern highlights
- Days 10-12Southern attractions
- Days 13-14Return to Idaho, departure
Where to stay in Idaho
Three tiers, every traveller covered — from cost-conscious to flagship hotels.
Budget $95–$170/day
Hostels, budget hotels, and guesthouses offer affordable stays without sacrificing experience.
Mid-range $230–$390/day
Boutique hotels and well-located accommodations provide comfort and convenience at reasonable prices.
Luxury $560–$1,420/day
World-class resorts and premium hotels deliver unforgettable experiences.
The Grove Hotel
Check rates on Booking.comThe Riverside Hotel
Check rates on Booking.comHotel 43
Check rates on Booking.comSun Valley Inn
Check rates on Booking.comWhere to eat in Idaho
Cafés, neighbourhood gems, and tasting menus worth the table reservation.
Fork
Chandlers Steakhouse
Barbacoa
The Collections — Boise
State & Lemp
Lucky Fin Seafood & Oyster Bar
Getting around Idaho
Idaho is a drive-everywhere destination. Boise Airport (BOI) is the main gateway, with daily flights from Seattle, Portland, San Francisco, Los Angeles, Denver, Salt Lake City, Dallas, and Chicago. Spokane Airport (GEG) serves the northern Panhandle. Once in Idaho, a rental car is essential for most itineraries — public bus service is minimal and rail does not serve most of the state.
Budget breakdown
Daily spend by tier in USD, broken out by category.
| Category | Budget | Mid-range | Luxury |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | $60–$90/night (hostel or basic motel) | $120–$200/night | $300–$800/night |
| Food (per day) | $25–$40/day | $50–$80/day | $100–$200/day |
| Transportation | $10–$20/day (gas share or bus) | $30–$50/day (rental car) | $60–$120/day |
| Activities | $0–$20/day (mostly public land access) | $30–$60/day | $100–$300/day |
| Daily total | $95–$170/day | $230–$390/day | $560–$1,420/day |
Best time to visit Idaho
June through September for outdoor activities; December through March for skiing
Wildfire smoke can be an issue July–September. Spring brings excellent whitewater rafting. Fall colors in the Sawtooths are spectacular in late September.
Essential travel tips
- Renting a car is essential — public transit is extremely limited outside Boise
- Book Sun Valley lodging months in advance for ski season (December–March) and summer festivals
- Idaho has no sales tax on groceries and a low overall tax burden
- Gas stations can be 50+ miles apart in remote areas — fill up whenever possible
- Download offline maps before entering canyon country where cell service is absent
Safety information
Carry bear spray in backcountry wilderness areas
Check road conditions at 511.idaho.gov before mountain travel
Always tell someone your backcountry plans and expected return
Hydrate aggressively — Idaho's high-altitude desert is very dry
Wildlife is active at dawn and dusk; drive cautiously on rural roads
Frequently asked questions
What is the best time to visit Idaho?
The best time to visit Idaho is June.
What currency is used in Idaho?
The currency in Idaho is the US Dollar (USD). ATMs are widely available in cities and tourist areas. Credit cards are accepted at most hotels and restaurants, but carry cash for markets and smaller establishments.
What language is spoken in Idaho?
The main language(s) spoken in Idaho: English. In tourist areas, English is generally understood. Learning a few basic phrases in the local language is appreciated by locals.
What are the top attractions in Idaho?
The top attractions in Idaho include Craters of the Moon National Monument, Hells Canyon National Recreation Area, Sawtooth National Recreation Area, Sun Valley Resort, and Coeur d'Alene Lake. Each offers a unique experience, from historic landmarks to natural wonders.