Idaho is a beautiful state to explore, and there’s nothing like booking a vacation to visit a new area. There are so many weekend getaways in Idaho to go on, whether you’re looking for a family-friendly place to take your kids or a couple’s getaway to a more secluded area.
I’ve been visiting Idaho as a weekend trip from Seattle since I was in elementary school, but there are still so many parts I want to go to. I always make sure to stop here when I do a cross-country road trip, such as my Seattle to Yellowstone road trip.
That’s why I started this list to share some of the best Idaho weekend getaways you can start planning for your own vacation. Whether you want an adventure-filled getaway or a quiet weekend to relax, there are plenty of options to choose from.
Tips for Planning an Idaho Weekend Getaway
Here are a few tips to make your vacation easier:
- Book your hotels in advance – Some of the places on this list are small, which means the accommodation there will fill up quickly. Idaho is a popular place to visit both with locals and tourists during the summertime, so book your hotels at least several months in advance.
- Prepare if you don’t have service – Larger cities like Boise have no problem with cell service, but some of the more remote getaways might have no or spotty service. I recommend downloading a map on your phone in advance so you don’t suddenly lose the directions to your accommodation.
- Check in advance for closures or special hours – Many businesses have closed over the past two years or significantly reduced their hours due to staff shortages, so double-check the places on your itinerary first so you won’t be disappointed.
- Confirm places are pet-friendly – Many people like myself have dogs they like to vacation with, so confirm that your accommodation is a pet-friendly PNW vacation so there are no surprises.
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15 Weekend Getaways in Idaho to Plan For Your Next Escape
There are quite a few stunning locations in Idaho. Whether you’re looking for ski resorts, lakeside holidays, or the ultimate in luxury for you and your travel team, it’ll be here. Keep reading to find 15 of the best destinations for weekend getaways in Idaho.
1. Sandpoint
If you’re looking for cheap weekend getaways in Idaho with a touch of luxury and all the leisure, Sandpoint is a great place to start. This beautiful location rests on Lake Pend Oreille and is a fitting location for couples, solo campers, and everything in between. This city is ideal if you want a long road trip from Seattle.
Imagine waking up with views of the Selkirk and Cabinet mountains as well as a couple of delightful natural attractions that make each season worth the visit.
Spend your weekend rocking the 70 rides and slides at Silverwood Theme Park or be slightly more mature at the Arts and Crafts Fair or the Northwest Wine Fair. You can also enjoy a good biking trail to pump those heart muscles.
Regardless of your favorite things to do, there are options for everyone on one of the most adventurous Idaho weekend getaways, whether you love shopping, fishing, hiking, biking, camping, glamping, skiing, museums, etc.
Where to Stay
- Best Western Edgewater Resort: This gorgeous resort offers galore amenities with an on-site restaurant just one minute away from the beachfront. Rates start at $240 per night.
- Cedar Street Hotel & Suites: This hotel is perfect for daytime fun and nights spent with a cocktail in hand around the corner from Lake Pend Oreille. Rates start from $114 per night.
2. Wallace
Whether it’s a honeymoon skiing throughout the day or fun family games around a fire, you’re in luck regardless of your ideal vacation.
Wallace is located in the Idaho panhandle and is best known as the mining town with the most silver – or the center of the universe, depending on your social circles. Statistically, it is the largest silver producer in the USA.
However, the center of the universe claim is slightly less factual, despite the manhole cover that celebrates it. In 2004, the mayor dubbed Wallace the center of the universe “because it can’t be proven not to be”.
While this place displays some whimsy, it is an excellent location for adventures like the Sierra Silver Mine Tours, Silver Streak Zipline, and a dip into the Pulaski Tunnel Trail. Walk through the Mining Museum or Oasis Bordello Museum for a simpler stay.
Fun fact – if the town looks familiar, it’s because they filmed the 1997 movie Dante’s Peak here, which I was so excited to find out about (one of my favorite movies when I was younger!). You can walk around to see recognizable parts, making it one of the best things to do in the Pacific Northwest for movie lovers.
Where to Stay
- Wallace Inn: Wallace Inn is close to Lookout Pass and Silver Mountain Ski Resort, making this a comfortable location for all skiers. Rates start at $103 per night.
- FairBridge Inn & Suites Kellogg: An indoor pool and comfortably furnished rooms are necessary to make you feel at home. Rates start at $115 per night.
3. McCall
McCall is an excellent location for just about anything. While it is relatively common amongst couples for obvious reasons, it is also a spectacular place to attempt or master as many outdoor activities as possible.
Situated around the corner of Lake Payette, there are tons of water activities to explore. You could also settle into the hot springs for a refreshing dip or explore more of the Ponderosa State Park.
There’s a winter carnival for those lucky enough to be there in the wintertime and a ski park at Brundage Mountain Resort.
This old logging town has the highest snowfall average in the state – so why not try your hand at skiing while you’re there. If you’re looking for some more adventure, you can head out to the outdoor recreation center, as it’s perfect for adventure enthusiasts.
Where to Stay
- Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites McCall: The Hunt Lodge, an IHG Hotel: A hotel right by the beach and Ponderosa State Park. Rates start at $200 per night.
- Third Street Inn: 3 Star hotel with hot tub, indoor pool, and a great location. Rates start at $130 per night.
4. Coeur d’Alene
As far as getaways, Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, is possibly one of the most luxurious places out there. With the Coeur d’Alene Resort right there, a range of trails and lake cruises, what better place to take your friends and family out to? The area is also one of the most romantic getaways in Idaho, and many people include the city on their Pacific Northwest road trip.
Head over to the Coeur d’Alene Resort for a day of golf, spa treatments, and a dip in the infinity pool. The resort is the biggest drawcard in this region; the area itself has tons on offer.
You can head out to the Museum of North Idaho, jet off to trails in Canfield Mountain, or find the trailhead to Tubbs Hill and spend the day exploring.
This beautiful region offers a little bit more as well, with nightlife scenes featuring good music, live bands, casino games, and even brewery tours to try out the latest in craft beers.
Where to Stay
- Coeur D’Alene Casino Resort Hotel: This beautiful resort with on-site restaurants, a casino, and a golf course is for anyone that doesn’t want to lift a finger. Rates start at $100 per night.
- Comfort Inn & Suites I-90 City Center: Here, you’ve got all the necessary amenities to ensure that you’re comfortable while being close to many major attractions. Rates start at $120 per night.
5. Sun Valley
There are a couple of unique places to stay in Idaho, like the Kentwood Lodge or Wood River Inn. Each offers all the amenities needed to enjoy a comfortable stay in Sun Valley.
This resort town is best known for areas like Bald Mountain and Dollar Mountain, where skiing is the order of the day. But, luckily, it is not all you can get up to here.
Is it the soft white snow that you are after? You can try snowshoeing, watch a couple of ice shows, or ski. But on the off chance that you’re there with minimal snowfall, you can also try your hand at fly fishing, tennis, horse-riding, and bowling.
Regardless of what you’re looking for, there are activities for everyone, and it covers a little bit of everything. Sun Valley is the ideal location for a weekend getaway if a range of activities is what you’re after – the more to do, the better.
Where to Stay
- Best Western Plus Kentwood Lodge: This traditionally styled and comfortable lodging is about seven minutes from KetchamTown. Rates start at $260 per night.
- Wood River Inn & Suite: Modernity and old-school comfort come to order at this quaint Inn. Rates start at $138 per night.
6. Fish Haven
If you’re especially fond of nature and love seeing conservation in practice, Fish Haven is a special place to be for Idaho weekend trips. It was initially named Rush Creek, but the loving local community renamed it. While this isn’t the most prominent scene for extreme sports and adventure, it is an idyllic and surreal location for everyday bird watchers.
For a cheap weekend getaway, spend your time marveling at the bluer than blue waters of Bear Lake. Trot about the gift shops such as The Jailhouse or explore Minnetonka’s mysterious caves and caverns. You can also get teed up for a round of golf and learn as much as you can from the history museums.
The bird watching, scenery, and regular hiking trails make this location ideal for explorers. The curious mind will find tons to satiate as you tread through the science behind the incredibly blue lake or go biking between the bushes.
Where to Stay
- The Bluebird Inn: Wake up to beautiful views entangled in comfy sheets, and kick start your day with a healthy breakfast at this welcoming inn.
7. Orofino
This unique location is at the heart of Nez Perce Indian Reservation and is surrounded by mountains, rivers, trees, and just about covers your daily dose of nature. Like many small towns, it is a gorgeous, welcoming place to be with a ton of friendly locals to help you out as you go along.
You can spend the day cruising along an ATV/UTV trail on land or explore the location by boat. Between hunting, hiking, and fishing, you’ll have a jam-packed weekend with a mixture of serenity and fun. It’s also ideal for couples looking for romantic getaways in Idaho.
As you fall in love with the small-town charm, don’t forget to check out some of the other locations within Clearwater County. Head out to Weippe, Pierce, or Elk River for some extra added fun.
As you can imagine, the biggest drawcard in this part of Idaho is the sense of community. Since there are so many activities and events happening in and around the county, you may want to check in advance for particular events and festivities happening in the area.
This location makes for some of the best romantic cabin getaways in Idaho, so it’s a great spot to take your significant other.
Where to Stay
- Best Western Lodge at River’s Edge: Guests can enjoy the usual creature comforts, an indoor pool, and spectacular river views. Rates start at $130 per night.
8. Athol
Athol is for you if you’re particularly fond of serenity, silence, and general rural and raw nature when deciding on weekend trips in Idaho. Athol is an old historic city that makes for a fun spot for unique weekend getaways.
Here, you’re a stone’s throw away from state parks like Round Lake and Farragut – each of which is unique in its own way. Explore Farrugat’s camping options or the 40-mile hiking trail, or head to Round Lake for some fishing fun.
Athol is at the southern end of Lake Pend Oreille and is covered in farms and forests. The location is perfect for a quiet, undisturbed hideaway from the hustle of big city life. When you’ve had enough peace and solitude, you can always head over to the Silverwood Theme Park for a little bit of adrenaline.
Athol has a unique history, too, although the natural beauty of it all is far more enticing.
Where to Stay
- Cedar Mountain Farm Bed and Breakfast LLC: This cozy spot is perfect for old-school, log cabin-style housing. Rates start at $260 per night.
- New Athol Motel: This motel in Athol offers mountain views and lakeside living for affordable prices without compromising comfort. Rates start at $113 per night.
9. Victor
Victor is the largest city in the country of Teton, and you’ll be blissfully renewed by the clean air. Since most of this space is covered in National Forests, you’d be delighted to know that there are trails upon trails available for you to explore during one of the more outdoorsy weekend getaways in Idaho.
Some fun places to stay in Idaho are either blanketed in snow or water, and this specific location is swathed by indigenous wildflowers and wildlife alike. Choose your favorite way to explore, whether it be via bike, by foot, or on horseback, and enjoy everything the Grand Teton National Park (with its many Grand Teton hikes) and Yellowstone have to provide.
While you’re there, you’ve got to try out some of the delicious delights from restaurants like Victor Emporium or Big Hole BBQ Victor. Start your day with a Gingerbread French Toast from Butter Cafe and end it with Knotty Pine’s all-American beef burger.
Where to Stay
- Cobblestone Hotel & Suites features an indoor swimming pool, fitness center, and everything you need to feel at home. Rates start at $290 per night.
- Teton Valley Motel: This motel includes the basic amenities for on-the-go travelers. Rates start at around $140 per night
10. Meridian
Not everybody is lucky enough to have a getaway without kids or without having to check in at the office over the weekend. If you’re looking for a Pacific Northwest family vacation that allows you to work and spend time with your family and an opportunity to stay in touch with work, Meridian, Idaho, has all fronts covered.
While this may not be a cheap weekend getaway, it can still be one of the best weekend getaways in Idaho. Meridian is known as the second-largest city in Idaho (after Boise). Here, you’ll find some excellent water parks and kids’ activities that will have them excited.
The family can focus on the Roaring Springs Water Park and Wahooz Family Fun Zone. There are also children’s museums in case of inclement weather or the Boise River Greenbelt for the adventurous clan.
Where to Stay
- Courtyard by Marriott Boise West/Meridian is decked out with southwestern decor and the facilities you need to work from home while maintaining the appropriate holiday vibe after stepping away from the desk. Rates start from around $189 per night.
- Hampton Inn & Suites Boise-Meridian: Lavish, luxe, and worth all of the big bucks. Possesses the ideal business luxury environment. Rates start from around $200 per night
11. Twin Falls
A Twin Falls vacation is one of the best weekend getaways from Boise when you want stunning views. Here, you’re delighted by views from every angle and a wide range of places to pop the question or take adoring pictures of you and your beau in Instagram-worthy positions.
Not only can you check out places like Snake River Canyon and Perrine Bridge, but you’re also privy to some exciting opportunities to explore Sawtooth National Forest. Whatever location you choose to do first, there are options on how to go about it – as usual, hiking, biking, and horseback seem to be the fan-favorite.
Twin Falls is a lovely spot for families and adrenaline junkies as well. Alongside the natural romantic atmosphere, there’s a daredevil nature to be explored as well.
If you’re looking for an adrenaline boost, the Shoshone falls are the ideal location to try (or witness) BASE jumping. Since BASE jumping is illegal in US National Parks, your opportunities are pretty limited, but this is one location that seems pretty worth it.
Where to Stay
- Holiday Inn Twin Falls: The Twin Falls Holiday Inn is ideal for busy travelers and has a business center and laundromat available. Rates start at $214 per night.
- La Quinta by Wyndham Twin Falls: Ideally located, wonderfully decorated, and affordably priced, the La Quinta hotel offers guests an excellent place for luxury and romance. Rates start at $322 per night.
12. Rigby
Rigby is one of those unassuming little towns that doesn’t seem to offer much but packs a punch. While you’re here, you could stop by the Yellowstone RV Park or visit the Jefferson County Lake and golf course.
Rigby is surrounded by lakes and trees and makes for a beautiful nature retreat, which makes a great place to unplug, unwind, and meditate – if that’s what you’re after. Most people prefer to jet off to Idaho Falls as well. Since it is pretty centered, traveling around this quaint town isn’t too tricky.
Where to Stay
- Motel 6 Rigby: It’s close to Idaho Falls and other wonderful locations like Lexburg, Lorenzo, and Idaho Falls Regional Airport. Rates start at around $53 per night.
13. Boise
Boise is by far the most popular in all of Idaho when it comes to Idaho weekend getaways. Whether you’re keen to try out the Bogus Basin or check out some of the Art Museums, there is something here for everyone. Its diverse cultural contributions like the Basque community, regular Shakespearian plays, and contemporary art exhibitions add a unique experience.
Why not take your partner through various hiking trails or even to Hell’s Canyon. Grab a light picnic and take in the beautiful imagery from the waterfall cascading down. This is also a popular long weekend getaway from Portland.
Check out the World Center for Birds of Prey, take part in a Boise scavenger hunt, and explore most of the city excitingly and uniquely. You’ll spot places like the Old Idaho Penitentiary, Freak Alley Gallery, and maybe the Idaho State Capitol Building.
Where to Stay
- Red Lion Inn & Suites Boise: The Red Lion Inn is just around the corner from the airport and provides airport shuttle services for weekend getaways from Boise. Rates start at $160 per night.
- Hyatt Place Boise/Downtown: If you’re hoping for a little bit more luxury, Hyatt Place is ideal. Rates start at $239 per night.
14. Cascade
There are very few affordable hotel getaways as wonderful as Cascade, Idaho. You’re close to the very best amenities and facilities in this quaint town for one of the more affordable weekend getaways in Idaho.
The biggest drawcard is the Lake Cascade State Park, where you can explore campgrounds and a couple of bodies of water. If you’re looking for something slightly more adventurous, try the Payette River Flier.
Either way, this rural city of Cascade offers travelers four seasons’ worth of beauty, fun, and activities worthy of your weekend getaway. You can try mountain climbing or kayaking in summer or explore the natural hot springs in Fall.
Winter offers sleigh rides and tubing, while spring is perfect for mushroom foraging.
Where to Stay
- The Ashley Inn: This beautiful inn is especially ideal in location, especially if you’re looking to be near the best activities like golf courses and parks. Rooms are available from $169 per night.
15. Fort Hall
Fort Hall is best known for the casino but wows visitors in other regards as well. Here you can expect to level up your cultural knowledge and history at the Shoshone Tribal museum. Or take some time to fish for your wellness at the Portneuf Wellness Complex.
You can also check out the Pocatello Idaho Temple if you enjoy architecture. Once all of that is done, you can head back to the casino and check out some live shows and fascinating entertainment.
If you love clear skies, open roads, and a handful of fun activities immersed in nature, Fort Hall is an excellent addition to your bucket list.
Where to Stay
- Shoshone Bannock Casino Hotel: Live in leisure and style with the traditional casino-style rooms. Book your rooms early in advance as they tend to have wonderful specials and discount opportunities throughout the month.
Which one of these weekend getaways in Idaho are you most excited to go on?
