Pocatello, Idaho, is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, history buffs, and those who enjoy exploring small-town life. As a college student, it is important to experience all of these things as well as to find ways to avoid or work through burnout. In this article, we will explore some of the different things to do in Pocatello and the surrounding areas for those times when you are a little bored or just need to take your mind off your studies for a while.
Visit the Idaho Museum of Natural History
The Idaho Museum of Natural History is located on the Pocatello Idaho State University campus. The museum features exhibits on the natural history of Idaho and the surrounding regions. It also includes displays on the state's native peoples, fossils, and geological formations. It also has rotating exhibits, so there is always something new to see while you are there. Seasons in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem is the current rotating exhibit running through June. Photographer Summer Jackman explores the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem through the miracle of spring, the abundance of summer, the nostalgia of autumn, or the stark beauty of winter. It is a great place to learn about the natural history of the area and is a must-visit for anyone interested in science and history. Not to mention, when you are done looking through the exhibits you can take a look through the gift shop for souvenirs or a variety of books on the history of Idaho.
Hiking and Biking in Pocatello
Pocatello is home to several great hiking and biking trails. The Portneuf Greenway Trail is a paved trail that runs along the Portneuf River and offers beautiful views of the surrounding mountains. It is a great place to bike, walk your dog, or jog. Other popular trails in the area include Scout Mountain, which offers stunning views of the surrounding valleys and mountains, City Creek, and Cherry Springs, which offers a paved trail while still being a way out away from the city.
Visit the Pocatello Zoo
The Pocatello Zoo is a small zoo located in Ross Park. The zoo features a variety of animals that are native to the region. This includes bears, bison, big cats, birds, reptiles, and a number of other local animals. It is a great place to take children or animal lovers and is a fun way to spend an afternoon in Pocatello. While you are in the area, be sure to pay a visit to the local favorite, Ross Park Drive Inn. This small outdoor restaurant is sure to please with a variety of classics and a few surprises like taco spaghetti.
Explore Pocatello's History
Pocatello has a rich history, and there are several ways to explore it. The Fort Hall Replica is a reconstruction of the original Fort Hall, which was a trading post established by the Hudson's Bay Company in the early 1800s. It is a great place to learn about the area's early history and the fur trade. Other historic sites in the area include the Bannock County Historical Museum, which features exhibits on local history, and the Historic Old Town Pocatello, a charming district filled with historic buildings and unique shops.
Visit the Lava Hot Springs
Lava Hot Springs is located about 30 minutes from Pocatello. The area is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. The hot springs offer a relaxing and therapeutic experience. There are several hot spring pools to choose from that range in temperature from 102º-120º. The area is also home to a water park, a zipline, and other outdoor activities, so there is always something to do in Lava no matter the season. While you’re there, be sure to check out one of the local restaurants such as Riverwalk Thai Food and The Royal Hotel and Pizzeria.
Attend a Performance at the Stephens Performing Arts Center
The Stephens Performing Arts Center is located on the campus of Idaho State University and is home to several performance venues, including a concert hall and a theater. The center hosts a variety of performances throughout the year, including concerts, plays, and dance performances. It is a great place to catch a show and enjoy some culture in Pocatello.
Visit the Museum of Clean
The Museum of Clean is a unique museum located in Pocatello that celebrates cleanliness and the history of cleaning. The museum features exhibits on cleaning products and equipment from throughout history and explores the importance of cleanliness in society. It is a fun and quirky museum that is sure to delight visitors of all ages.
Pocatello, Idaho, may be a small city, but it offers a variety of activities and attractions for visitors and locals alike. Whether you're interested in history, nature, culture, or just looking for something to do for the day, there is always something to do in Pocatello if you know where to look.