Post Summary: These are our tried-and-true things to do in Idaho Falls with toddlers! Take it from us, PNW locals and recent visitors to Eastern Idaho summer 2025!
Idaho Falls may be known for its scenic setting and outdoor access, but it’s also a surprisingly perfect spot for a family getaway.
Berty and I just took our toddler there this summer, and we were blown away by the outdoor access for little ones, as well as adults!
Whether you’re traveling with toddlers, big kids, or a mix of both, there are plenty of fun things to do in Idaho Falls with kids. Buckle up for incredible riverside walks and science exhibits to splash-worthy parks and sweet local treats!
Here are some of the best kid-friendly activities in Idaho Falls that your whole crew will enjoy!
1. Walk The Snake River Greenbelt
The Idaho Falls Snake River Greenbelt is conveniently located in the heart of the city, right there among everything that’s going on!
The Greenbelt is a 10-mile, paved loop, 5 miles on each side of the river. It’s stroller-friendly, with scenic bridges, waterfalls, and offshoot side trails to explore. The perfect Idaho Falls river walk with kids!
Our favorite attractions along the way were the Japanese Friendship Garden, and the Rock Gardens by the shore. Both were excellent spots to stop and have a picnic, or simply explore nature!
We stayed at the Springhill Suites on the river, which made access to the path convenient and easy. It was the perfect addition to a morning walk and pre-nap stretch to wind down after the day.
2. Stop at the Japanese Friendship Garden
Tucked along the Snake River Greenbelt, this peaceful Japanese Friendship Garden includes a small waterfall, koi pond, and shady spots for rest or snacks.
It’s nestled on a small island along the Snake River, and located right in the middle of downtown. In my opinion, this makes for a perfect place to pause and reset which is ideal for overstimulated kiddos (and parents!) to take a breather.
There’s plenty of shade, winding stone paths, and little nooks to explore. While it’s not 100% stroller accessible, there’s a safe spot at the top to park it while you go explore.
This is one of the most relaxing family-friendly attractions in Idaho Falls!
3. Explore the Museum of Idaho
The Museum of Idaho is a unique and interactive spot that blends science, history, and hands-on fun, making it a must-see for kids of all ages. Honestly, it’s one of the best things to do in Idaho – yes, the entire state!
The rotating exhibits often include dinosaur skeletons, local wildlife, and immersive themed displays.
When we were there, they had a huge mummy exhibit…with real mummies! Kit was a little too small for it, but Berty and I really enjoyed reading about them!
There’s also a discovery room designed just for toddlers, with building blocks, puzzles, books, and pretend play with a teepee, log cabin, and crawling tunnels.
If you’re looking for indoor activities in Idaho Falls for kids, this is the perfect spot to beat the heat or escape a rainy afternoon!
4. Toddlers Love to See the Animals at Idaho Falls Zoo at Tautphaus Park
While Idaho Falls may seem like an unlikely place to have a full blown zoo, Tautphaus Park provides such a fun and interactive activity for kids! The zoo is actually just one of many attractions here at the park. It’s also one of the oldest and largest parks in Idaho Falls!
Small enough to explore in a few hours but full of variety, the Idaho Falls Zoo is a local gem. Families can visit over 300 animals, from lions and sloths to penguins and red pandas.
We especially loved the monkey exhibits – they were so lively!
Don’t forget to stop by the children’s area – it has goats and sheep for up-close encounters, and there’s a train ride that’s especially popular with toddlers. Shady paths and snack stands make it an easy-going morning or afternoon outing too.
If you’re finished with the zoo but still want to stay out, there are a number of other things to do in the area, including a few playgorunds, fields for a picnic, and a seasonal amusement park.
5. Cool Off at Local Watering Holes – Perfect For Adventurous Toddlers
Need some places to cool off during the hot summer months? From hot springs to lake and river access, there are tons of places to take kiddos to cool off in Idaho Falls!
In Town (Free): Reinhart Park’s splash pad is a toddler and preschooler’s paradise. Water jets, fountains, and misty arches offer a refreshing way to burn off energy. It’s a free stop that’s low-effort and fun. Honestly, one of the best outdoor things to do in Idaho Falls with toddlers during summer.
Close Lake Access ($6): Jefferson County Lake Beach has a sandy shoreline that’s perfect for bringing the whole family. Bring your beach gear, volleyball nets, and picnic for a classic summer afternoon!
Hot Spring Soak ($10-$13): Heise Hot Springs is a nearby gem, perfect for those seeking a warm pool and fun facilities. The area has a lively summer pool, a quieter (and hotter!) soaking pool, beach chairs, food, and more. During our latest visit, it was a huge hit with our toddler, and with us! And take it from us – we’re no stranger to Idaho hot springs!
6. Eat and Play Downtown
Downtown Idaho Falls is full of surprises for families.
You’ll find cozy coffee shops and bakeries, walkable blocks with murals and sculptures, and casual restaurants with kid-friendly menus.
ZZ Coffee is great for a treat and drink – they have an easy, indoor overflow area where kiddos can run around and burn off some energy.
If you’re lucky enough to be downtown during a summer Saturday, you’ll be greeted by the Idaho Falls Farmers Market.
Here, you’ll find handmade gifts, fresh treats (like our delicious mango and watermelon slices with tajin!) and more, all along the riverwalk for an easy and fun family outing.
7. Visit the Idaho Potato Museum (in nearby Blackfoot)
Just a 25-minute drive south of Idaho Falls on Interstate 15, the Idaho Potato Museum is delightfully quirky and surprisingly educational.
Kids can see the world’s largest potato chip, explore how potatoes grow, and even sit inside a giant potato sculpture. It may be geared slightly more towards older kids, but little ones can still have fun too. Your kids will love learning fun facts about Idaho here!
There’s a small café for fries and baked potatoes afterward. It’s one of those “only in Idaho” stops that adds some unexpected fun to your itinerary.
9. Take a Bike Ride With Mountain Views
Do you have a toddler that loves being outside? Take them on a bike ride with incredible views!
The Victor To Driggs Rail Trail is a flat, 7-mile out and path paved bike path (14 miles total), that connects two small towns at the foothills of the Teton Mountain Range.
Bring your bikes or rent locally (we got our rentals from Peaked Sports) and ride along the wide, paved trail.
Older kids will love having space to pedal independently, while younger ones can ride in a trailer or bike seat (Which we opted for).
With plenty of scenic stops and cute cafes for a well-deserved treat, it’s a fantastic way to experience Idaho Falls’ natural beauty as a family.
10. Check Out The ARTITORIUM on Broadway
Looking for indoor fun that burns energy? The Artitorium on Broadway is an indoor art center with a multiple levels of crafting, creating, slides, arcade games, and more.
From interactive art, building with Magnatiles, drawing glow-in-the-dark creations, and more, there’s something for every kid to enjoy.
It’s especially great for kids ages 5–10, but there’s still a ton for a toddlers and littler explorers to do.
Local tip: Come when a local business is sponsoring an event! A nearby dairy company was hosting a free admission day when we visited, so we got in for $0 AND got free milk and cheese as a snack!
11. Have a Picnic at Freeman Park
With open fields, a shaded playground, and access to the river, Freeman Park is one of the most family-friendly green spaces in Idaho Falls.
Pack a lunch or grab takeout from a local deli, then spread out a blanket and let the kids roam. You’ll also find picnic tables, restrooms, and walking trails nearby, making it easy to spend a full afternoon here.
Traveler’s Tip: If you’re venturing farther north, Smith Park in Rexburg has a similar feel.
12. Take The Scenic Route to MEsa Falls
Looking for some scenic views? Driving the Mesa Falls Scenic Byway (one of the coolest Idaho Scenic byways in our opinion!) is the perfect afternoon trip to take with kids. There are stops at Lower and Upper Mesa Falls, but if you only had time for one, choose Upper Mesa Falls.
The Upper Mesa Falls viewpoint has a network of boardwalks, each with their own perspective of the mighty falls. There is also a picnic area, historic cabin, and pit toilets to explore as well.
Traveling Parent Tip: Time the drive to or from Mesa Falls during nap time. It’s about a 1.5 hour drive from Idaho Falls, which is a perfect amount for a quick recharge nap!
The Best Things to Do in Idaho Falls with Toddlers – A Wrap Up
From riverside strolls and science museums to splash pads and scoop shops, Idaho Falls is full of fun things to do with toddlers and kids!
Whether you’re here for a weekend trip from Boise or just passing through on a family road trip, it perfectly blend of nature, play, and small-town charm.
Berty and I experienced first-hand what makes it the kind of place where families can slow down and reconnect. So grab your stroller and your sense of wonder…your Idaho Falls adventure awaits!
Did we miss any toddler friendly Idaho Falls activities on our list? Let us know in the comments!