11+ Fun Things to Do in Twin Falls, Idaho (and around)

Just a head’s up: this post was sponsored by Visit Southern Idaho, and we are incredibly grateful they hosted us for our stay. It allowed me to write a deeper and more quality review.

Are you looking for fun things to do in Twin Falls, Idaho and around but not sure what there is to do? Idaho may not be the first state that comes to mind when planning a vacation, but it offers lots. 

We’ll share 11 fun family activities in Twin Falls, Idaho. We’ll also pitch other activities you can do in the surrounding areas.

Before jumping into that list, though, let’s start with all the reasons you should plan a trip to Idaho for your next vacation.

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Idaho’s rich history is the perfect destination for nature lovers, history buffs, and families with kids.

There are 7 different touristic regions across Idaho and each of them has something to offer. While each region is worth a visit, Southern Idaho and the Twin Falls region is a great place to start.

With a home base in Twin Falls, you’ll be able to experience Southern Idaho’s treasures without adding too much mileage to your trip. 

Here are a few reasons you should plan a trip to Twin Falls. 

An Overview of the Best Things to Do in Twin Falls, Idaho

Here is an overview of all the fun activities in Twin Falls, Idaho for families.

• Chase as many waterfalls as you can

• Soak in a hot spring after a long day of exploring 

• Walk underground in one of the lava tube caves

• Paddleboard (or kayak) on crystal-clear water

• Eat good food with great views

Fun Things to Do in Twin Falls, Idaho

There are so many fun family activities in Twin Falls, Idaho. Here are a few ideas to plan a trip to Idaho and Twin Falls.

1. Admire Shoshone Falls in Idaho

Chasing waterfalls is a fun and cheap thing to do in Twin Falls. Idaho has more than 60 named waterfalls, so all waterfall lovers will be pleased (and busy) when visiting Southern Idaho.

Shoshone Falls in Idaho is probably the most well-known waterfall around Twin Falls and even Idaho. It’s one of the largest natural waterfalls in the USA and received the nickname “The Niagara of the West.” 

The Shoshone Falls is 212 feet (65 m) in height, making it 45 feet (14 m) higher than Niagara Falls and more than 1000 feet (300 m) in width.

The best time to visit Shoshone Falls is spring when the snow melts. It’s when the Shoshone Falls water flow is at its strongest. Summer would be ideal if you want to kayak to Shoshone Falls.

What to Know When Visiting Shoshone Falls:

Shoshone Falls is located just outside the town of Twin Falls on the Snake River.

Right by the parking lot, there’s a lovely green park with shade and picnic tables, so you can bring your lunch and enjoy the falls longer. There are a few viewpoints along the rim to admire the falls.

Try to walk all the way along the canyon rim, as the views vary from different angles.

How much does it cost to go to Shoshone Falls?

There is a $5 entrance fee to get into Shoshone Falls Park. With your Shoshone Falls tickets, you can also access Dierkes Lake Park located a few minutes from Shoshone Falls Park. At Dierkes Lake, you can swim, rent a kayak, and have a kids’ playground. 

2. Walk Behind the Perrine Coulee Falls

Perrine Coulee Falls is much smaller in width than Shoshone Falls but drops at almost 200 feet. It’s definitely a place worth going to.

A visit to Perrine Coulee Falls is a great way to see a waterfall from behind. You can walk on this short trail and go behind the falls.

It was one of our most memorable family activities in Twin Falls. The kids loved getting wet in the waterfall mist.

What to Know When Visiting Perrine Coulee:

You will (probably) get wet, but it’s ok. The path will lead you behind the falls, which gives you an amazing view of the Perrine Coulee Falls. Remember, it’s wet and slippery.

Keep a close eye on your kids as you walk behind the water flow, but It IS wide enough to be safe with little ones.

How to Get to Perrine Coulee Falls

While you can see the Coulee from the Canyon Rim, you should absolutely make your way down Canyon Springs Dr (follow directions for Centennial Park) and park your car along the road. 

You can park on Canyon Spring Drive, but read the parking sign carefully. You’re not allowed to park everywhere, and tickets are no fun on vacation.

3. Paddleboard or Kayak in Twin Falls on the Snake River

Who knew you could find crystal clear, Caribbean-like water in Southern Idaho? If you like paddle boarding or kayaking, you’ll be pleased to find many spots to do so.

Starting from the boat launch at Centennial Waterfront Park, it’s an easy paddle to Perrine Bridge. You’ll pass a few small waterfalls, some hoodoos and caves, and have a great view of the bridge.

Make sure to take your time and stay for a little while near the bridge as you may see a few BASE jumpers get all the adrenaline they can. It’s pretty impressive to do and gives you another perspective than from the Idaho visitor center’s viewpoint.

Then if you’re up for a more challenging adventure, you can reach the base of Shoshone Falls from Centennial Park. It’s an 8-mile round trip journey, which may not be feasible for everyone. If you can do it, it will definitely be an amazing experience, but be safe! 

For your preparation on the journey to the base of Shoshone Falls, read this useful resource from Visit Idaho.

Kayak Rentals in Twin Falls Idaho: AWOL Adventure Sports

AWOL Adventure Sports is a great option for paddleboards and kayak rentals in Twin Falls, Idaho. From Memorial Day to Labor Day, they have a trailer by the river at Centennial Waterfront Park with equipment ready for use. For the rest of the year, equipment must be rented from their downtown Twin Falls location. 

The Banbury Hot Springs also offers kayak rentals near Twin Falls. It’s a great place to rent your kayak if you want to explore Blue Heart Springs and Box Canyon.

IMPORTANT – Idaho Life Jacket Law: It is required by Idaho law that children under the age of 14 years old wear a life jacket at ALL times when on the water. Others are required to have a life jacket with them on their water equipment.

Where Can You Kayak in Twin Falls, Idaho (or Paddle Board)

• Centennial Waterfront Park in Twin Falls
• Dierkes Lake & Hidden Lakes near Shoshone Falls
• Blue Heart Springs near Box Canyon
• Balanced Rock Park
• Ritter Island

We did some paddleboarding from the Centennial Waterfront Park and on Ritter Island. Both were a lot of fun and perfect with the kids. They were also both safe activities for my kids in Twin Falls, ID. Kayaking to Shoshone Falls would have been amazing, but not with little ones. We’ll have to go back when the kids are older.

4. Visit the Twin Falls Visitor Center

You’ll rarely have “Visit the Visitor Center” listed as an activity, but the Twin Falls visitor center is different.

Yes, it’s where you can get some brochures for fun things to do in Twin Falls and Idaho and even get some souvenirs. But the Twin Fall Visitor Center is perfectly located to have one of the best views of the Perrine Memorial Bridge.

Plus, at the Twin Falls visitor center park, you can see the B.A.S.E jumpers jump off the Perrine Memorial Bridge. You could even try it with older children. The B.A.S.E jumps tour start at the Visitor Center.

5. Walk under the Perrine Memorial Bridge

The Perrine Memorial Bridge is an icon of Twin Falls and can walk around the bridge and under it. It offers a pedestrian walkway with beautiful viewpoints of the river and waterfalls running along the canyon rim.

There are places to park just before crossing the bridge, and you’ll see the path to the trails.

6. Let the kids Burn Off Some Energy at One of the Playgrounds

Everyone who travels with kids knows how playgrounds are a great way for kids to have fun, burn off some energy and meet other kids. There are a few playgrounds in Twin Falls for kids to play, but our favorites were:

• First Federal Bank Park Playground
• Harmon Park Playground
• Dierke Lakes Playground
• Centennial Park Playground

For more playgrounds and Twin Falls family fun, you can check on the GoWhee app, where you’ll find many recommendations from travelling families.

7. Spend the Afternoon at Dierkes Lake

Dierkes Lake Park is located next to Shoshone Falls Park. When you enter the park, instead of turning left for the waterfalls, you’ll turn right for the lake. The Shoshone Falls Park entrance fee includes access to Dierkes Lake Park.

At Dierkes Lake, you’ll find a great swimming area. You can also rent a kayak or let the kids play in the playground. There are a lot of grass areas to play, relax and have a picnic.

8. Eat Great Food With Even Better Views

As Anthony Bourdain said: “[ … ] food, culture, people and landscape are all absolutely inseparable.” Food is an integral part of travel and discovering a new place.

This is no exception when visiting Southern Idaho.

For a unique food experience, Elevation 486 is the place to go. Fancy enough to dress up a little, but casual enough to bring your little ones, your evening at Elevation 486 will be memorable.

It’s also perfectly located on the canyon rim, just outside Twin Falls downtown. 

Elevation 486 has one of the best views in town and is one of the nicest restaurant patios you’ll ever visit. 

Plus, there is no better way to wait for your food than with your kids walking around the canyon rim and admiring the view (instead of trying to have them stay calm in their chairs). I am probably not the only parent who struggles (and stresses) going to a nice restaurant with two toddlers. The wait for food is long, the kids can’t stay still and every crisis is just one broken crayon away.

But this wasn’t the case at Elevate 486 because we had the canyon rim trail just in front of us.

If the weather is nice, make sure to eat on the patio.

Looking for other family-friendly restaurant options in Twin Falls?

You’ll want to try Twin Beans Coffee in downtown Twin Falls and /or 2nd South Market food hall in Twin Falls.

Twin Beans Coffee

Twin Beans Coffee is perfect for brunch or lunch. They offer great coffee and delicious bagels (try the smoked salmon one). It’s located on the main street and has a few sitting outside facing the main street.

2nd South Market

The 2nd South Market is also great for dinner, especially if you are a bigger group or travel with a picky eater. This food hall in downtown Twin Falls has 7 different food vendors, from pizza to sushi. You’ll find something for everyone. You can eat inside or head to the back patio. They have bean bag games, so kids can have a lot of fun while the adults enjoy their meals and/or drinks.

Things to Do near Twin Falls, Idaho

There are so many things to do near Twin Falls, Idaho. Here are a few ideas to plan a trip to Idaho and Twin Falls:

9. Explore Thousand Springs State Park

Thousand Springs State Park is a must-see during your stay in Twin Falls. Thousand Springs State Park is divided into six different units in the magic valley’s heart. Each unit is relatively close in the distance.

You’ll want to take your time exploring each unit, but if you are in a hurry, you could see more of the Thousand Springs State Park complex and the Magic Valley is a full day.

Niagara Springs Unit

The Niagara Springs Falls is so different from other waterfalls near Twin Falls. Usually, waterfalls run down rocky mountains, but at Niagara Springs, the water runs through a lush green hill. It’s beautiful to see.

Note that the narrow and steep road is not recommended for larger trailers and motorhomes. 

Ritter Island Unit

The Ritter Island unit of Thousand Springs State Park is beautiful and worth spending tan entire afternoon.

First, you’ll want to be paddleboarding or kayaking in Thousand Spring. Idaho has beautiful turquoise rivers, and Ritter Island is one of them.

Then, you’ll want to head to Lemon Falls. Lemon Falls can be accessed through a dirt road just before the bridge that leads to Ritter Island or from the crystal-clear water on a kayak tour.

Box Canyon Unit

There are two ways to explore Box Canyon. You can start at the Box Canyon Overlook and have a great canyon view. With little kids, this is what we recommend.

Or, there is a 4.30 miles (6.9 km) moderate hike to reach the bottom of the canyon. It’s not an accessible trail and not suitable for all kids.

Malad Gorge

On your way to Boise, the Malad Gorge unit is the furthest away from Twin Falls. You can walk along the canyon rim and look down the canyon from the suspended bridge.

The Devil’s Washbowl Overlook is worth a look.

10. Soak in Banbury Hot Springs or Miracle Hot Springs

A morning soak in a hot spring is one of the famous things to do in Twin Falls. Whether you search for a hidden natural hot spring or a commercial one (such as Miracle Hot Springs or Burnaby Hot Springs), you’ll have a great time.

In fact, Idaho has the most soakable hot springs in the USA. There are more than 130 hot springs (out of more than 340 natural hot springs in the territory).

There are a few natural hot springs near Twin Falls, Idaho, but the commercial hot springs of Banbury and Miracle are a lot of fun for families.

Banbury Hot Spring offers a big, kid-friendly swimming pool. The pool is heated by artesian mineral water at 138 F and is cooled by Banbury Springwater. In addition to the main pool, there are mineral hot tubs and Jacuzzi tubs. Plus, you can borrow life jackets, balls and a few other water toys.

Good to Know When Visiting Bunbury Hot Spring

Banbury has 20 RV hook-up campsites as well as some tent campsites. They also have some canoes, kayaks and paddleboards to rent.

During our stay in Southern Idaho, we tested Banbury Hot Springs. But, instead of (or in addition to) Banbury Hot Spring, you may want to try Miracle Hot Spring which is located just down the road (by the same owners). Or check out Visit Southern Idaho’s hot springs relaxation guide for more hot springs options.

Banbury Hot Springs Kayak Rentals

If you want a unique kayak tour experience, you might want to rent kayaks at Banbury Hot Springs and paddle to Blue Heart Springs. From Banbury Hot Springs, it’s a 30 to 45 minutes paddle to Blue Heart Springs. But plan on a longer adventure with young children.

11. Discover Lava Tube Caves

Visiting a lava cave is a do-not-miss kind of thing to do in Twin Falls.

Millions of years ago, volcanoes erupted violently across Idaho, creating unique landscapes. At that time, lava was running as deep as 600 feet into the earth, creating multiple lava tube caves once the eruptions ended.

There are many volcanic caves under the ground in Idaho to choose from, one of the most famous being Craters of the Moon National Monument (between Twin Falls and Idaho Falls).

There are two main caves near Twin Falls, Idaho and you’ll want to visit both. Both of located in the same area and can be done on the same day. It takes about 50-60 minutes to drive from Twin Falls to Shoshone Ice Caves and Idaho’s Mammoth Cave.

Idaho’s Mammoth Cave

Idaho’s Mammoth Cave is the world’s largest volcanic cave open to visitors. You’ll explore the cave at your own pace (it’s a self-guided tour). You’ll be given lanterns before entering the cave. The trail in the cave is well-maintained and there are some guard rails for safety. 

Before and after the cave visit, you can also visit the Museum of Natural History to discover some animals and ancient items. It’s one of the largest privately-owned collections in the Northwest.

Shoshone Ice Cave

Shoshone Ice Cavehttps://shoshoneicecaves.com/ is only a short drive away from Mammoth’s Cave, a large lava tube cave featuring lots of ice. The temperature in this cave remains at 37F all year round. Unlike the other cave, Shoshone Ice Cave is a guided underground tour. Tours run every 30 minutes and no reservation in advance is required. During your tour, you’ll learn more about the history of the cave.

If you want to discover more volcanic caves, check out those other options. Crystal Ice Cave, Idaho is another popular cave. It’s located 2 hours east of Twin Falls.

Otherwise, Crater of the Moons has a few caves you can visit on a self-guided tour. But you’ll need a permit. You can book a guided tour from Twin Falls Visitor Center for a half-day adventure of Craters of the Moon.

What to Know Before Visiting a Volcanic Cave

1. It’s a cave, so it’s dark.

You’ll be given a lantern for your cave tour, but if you have headlamps, it’s always good to bring them.

2. It’s underground, so it’s cool.

The temperature is around 41 F year-round (Ice caves are even cooler, at around 37F), so you’ll want to bring a jacket even in the summer.

3. It’s safe to visit with young children.

There are well-maintained paths to follow, and you’ll have your own lanterns. But, as always, watch your kids and stay on the path.

Things to Know When Planning a Trip to Twin Falls, ID

There are so many fun activities in Twin Falls, Idaho, but most places are hidden. You should plan a trip to Idaho a little in advance, as many of those gems are hidden between potato and lava fields. 

What exactly do I mean by that?

On the surface, Idaho’s landscape is farmlands mixed with some lava fields. It’s not like driving down the Pacific Coast Highway in California where just the drive will blow you away. Idaho isn’t called the “gem of the USA” for no reason. All of its gems are hidden.

Of course, those famous brown signs by the side of the road advertise some of Idaho’s most famous (and official) sights. But you might still miss a few amazing spots if you don’t research first.

And this post is a great place to start your Southern Idaho trip research to find out all about the family activities in Twin Falls, Idaho 🙂 

Final Thoughts: Things to do in Twin Falls, Idaho

And that’s it! These have been 5 things to do in Twin Falls, Idaho. While it’s an overview of all the things to do in Twin Falls, including so many fun family activities. With Twin Falls as a home base, you are at the right place to discover all of what Southern Idaho has to offer. Plus, you’ll get to meet nice and welcoming people.

Will you be planning a family Twin Falls, Idaho vacation this year?