Need a low-key mountain getaway with history, hiking, and small-town charm? Head to Pocatello! Known as the “Gateway to the Northwest,” Pocatello blends scenic landscapes with cultural attractions and outdoor adventure. Whether you're biking rugged trails, exploring Native American history, or strolling downtown, this southeastern Idaho town has something for everyone.
Pocatello, ID Highlights:
- For Adventurous Travelers: Hike or bike the City Creek Trail System – Explore a network of trails with stunning views of the Portneuf Valley.
- For History Buffs: Visit the Idaho Museum of Natural History – Discover ancient fossils, Native American artifacts, and regional exhibits.
- For Shoppers: Explore Old Town Pocatello – Unique boutiques, antique shops, and historic buildings line these walkable streets.
- For Couples: Soak in nearby Lava Hot Springs – Just a short drive away, these mineral-rich pools are perfect for a romantic escape.
- For Families: Check out Zoo Idaho – A regional wildlife zoo featuring animals native to the Intermountain West.
When I like to visit Pocatello, ID
The best time to visit Pocatello is late spring through early fall (May through September). The weather is ideal for hiking, biking, and exploring the outdoors. Fall offers cooler temperatures and colorful foliage, while winters are great for nearby snow sports.
Tips for getting to Pocatello, ID
- If you are traveling by car: Pocatello is located at the junction of I-15 and I-86, about 2.5 hours north of Salt Lake City.
- By Air: Pocatello Regional Airport (PIH) offers limited commercial service with connections through Salt Lake City.
- By Train/Bus: There is no Amtrak service, but regional bus lines like Salt Lake Express connect Pocatello to other cities in Idaho and Utah.
Where I like to stay in Pocatello, ID
- Home2 Suites by Hilton – Modern, pet-friendly suites with kitchenettes and a pool, great for longer stays.
- Hotel on the Falls – Riverfront hotel in nearby Idaho Falls, perfect for a scenic side trip.
- Black Swan Inn – Themed boutique suites in a castle-like setting for a unique overnight experience.
Best Things to Do in Pocatello, ID
1. Visit the Museum of Clean
The Museum of Clean is a one-of-a-kind museum in Pocatello, Idaho that showcases “all things Clean,” and is certainly a unique thing to do in town.
The 75,000-square-foot complex is full of inspiration, education, and excitement for visitors of all ages. Since “clean” dominates nearly everything that affects life, this interesting museum is far from having a singular focus like many other museums.
With a goal of incorporating as many dimensions as possible, the Museum of Clean features participation, slate, art items, and display. Many exhibits throughout the museum are object-centric, while others are a bit more conceptual in nature.
Address: 711 S 2nd Ave, Pocatello, ID 83201, Phone: 208-236-6906
2. Learn about history at the Bannock County Historical Museum
Located near Zoo Idaho and the Fort Hall Replica, the Bannock County Historical Museum is home to records, objects, and exhibits related to the city of Pocatello and the surrounding Bannock County’s history.
The various themes of the museum exhibits include Shoshone-Bannock Indian artifacts, Victorian-era parlor, the military, Oregon Trail, general store, early medical practices, farming and ranching, local printing, fire fighting, trading and trappin, photography, local archaeological specimens, railroad history, and more. There is also a research archive.
Address: 3000 Avenue of the Chiefs, Pocatello, ID 83204, Phone: 208-233-0434
3. Step back in time at the Fort Hall Replica
The Fort Hall Replica was built back in 1834 and was constructed as a trading post in Southeast Idaho along the Snake River. While the fort was essentially demolished in the year 1963, visitors today can see a replica serving as a memorial to the heritage of Fort Hall.
Historical artifacts that can be seen at the site include maps, recipes, and letters. A trip here is a trip to the nineteenth-century world of fur traders, trappers, explorers, pioneers, and Native Americans.
The Fort Hall Replica is open on a seasonal basis from Memorial Day to Labor Day.
Address: 3001 Avenue of the Chiefs, Pocatello, ID 83204, Phone: 208-234-1795
What to do if you are traveling with kids:
4. Take the kids to the Idaho Museum of Natural History
The Idaho Museum of Natural History is a place where people of all ages can unearth volcanic hotspots, mammals from the Ice Age, dinosaurs, and more.
The official state natural history museum of Idaho, this Pocatello museum aims to nurture a delight in and understanding of the cultural and natural heritage of the state. In addition to a variety of exhibits, visitors will find outdoors exhibits like the Natural History Garden and the Tree Walk and the hands-on Discovery Room. The Idaho Museum of Natural History features both permanent exhibits and ever-changing exhibitions that emphasize its collection, as well as special events.
Address: 698 E Dillon St, Pocatello, ID 83201, Phone: 208-282-3168
5. Have fun at Zoo Idaho
One of just two zoos anywhere in the country to specialize in animals native to the America’s Intermountain West, Zoo Idaho is home to numerous living symbols of the iconic “American West,” including grizzly bears, pronghorn, eagles, cougar, and bison.
Zoo Idaho offers a unique change for people to learn more about the region’s native wildlife through family programs, classes, storytelling, and of course, its many animal habitats spread out across the approximately twenty-five acres of land. The zoo hosts several fun special events throughout the year as well, such as Zoo Boo and Ice Cream Zoofari.
Address: 2900 S 2nd Ave, Pocatello, ID 83204, Phone: 208-234-6264
Activities and Attractions for Couples and Singles:
6. Taste unique brews at Portneuf Valley Brewing
Portneuf Valley Brewing first opened to the public in Pocatello, Idaho in 1996, but Brew Mistress and owner Penny Pink had been brewing her own fine beers for friends and family for many years before the brewery officially opened.
She set up her first brewery inside of Dudley’s Sports Bar, where her brews soon acquired a loyal following. Portneuf Valley Brewing, open for samples and pints of brews and the occasional live entertainment, is a fun place to visit.
Address: 615 S 1st Ave, Pocatello, ID 83201, Phone: 208-232-1644
Where to Eat in Pocatello, ID
7. Have lunch at Butter Burrs Restaurant
A locally owned and operated neighborhood eatery in the city of Pocatello, the Butter Burrs Restauran has been providing the local community with home-cooked quality meals for more than thirty years.
The menu at Butter Burrs includes real homemade mashed potatoes, a variety of specialty sandwiches, omelets, Butterburgers, homemade soups, pies, breads, and many iconic “twists” made fresh every day, all day. The main entrees for dinner include many popular comfort food classics, such as chicken fried steak and seven-hour rump roast.
Butter Burrs Restaurant is open seven days a week, from eight in the morning to nine at night.
Address: 917 Yellowstone Ave, Pocatello, ID 83201, Phone: 208-232-3296
8. Enjoy Japanese fusion cuisine at Sumisu
Sumisu aims to be the Pocatello area’s leading provider of Japanese fusion cuisine and sushi.
The restaurant also boasts that they inspire their employees to try and live better lives, as well as have “heart of service” for its customers and community. Sumisu prides itself on using traditional Japanese techniques when it comes to the preparation of the dishes it serves, as well as using their own flair for showcasing Asian-inspired flavors. Offering fresh fish that’s flown in from the coast, Sumisu offers a menu featuring the “greatest hits” from Asia, including familiar dishes with an influence of fusion and fresh sushi.
Address: 309 E Center St, Pocatello, ID 83201, Phone: 208-232-5610
9. Order great pizza at Buddy's Italian Restaurant
Buddy's Italian Restaurant is a family-owned and operated restaurant serving Italian cuisine in Pocatello, Idaho.
First opening its doors to the public in 1961, the restaurant has been serving ravioli, pizza, special sauces, a variety of sandwiches, and its homemade “Famous Buddy’s Salad Dressing” to the local community for more than fifty years, making this Italian eatery one of the oldest restaurants in Pocatello.
The menu includes salads, soups, pizzas, many pasta dishes, and both regular and open-faced sandwiches.
Address: 626 E Lewis St, Pocatello, ID 83201
My favorite local events:
- Pocatello Art Walk (Monthly) – Enjoy live music, refreshments, and local art in downtown galleries and shops.
- Portneuf Valley Farmers Market (May–October) – Fresh produce, crafts, and local treats every Saturday downtown.
- Revive @ 5 Summer Concert Series (Summer) – Free live music, food vendors, and family fun on Wednesday evenings.
My favorite day trips within 30 Minutes of Pocatello, Idaho:
- Lava Hot Springs (30 min) – Natural mineral springs, river tubing, and a family water park.
- American Falls Reservoir (25–30 min) – Boating, birdwatching, and peaceful lakeside picnicking.
- Massacre Rocks State Park (30 min) – Hike scenic trails and explore Oregon Trail history and geology.
- Inkom (15–20 min) – Small mountain town great for hiking, fishing, and snowmobiling in winter.
- Ross Park Aquatic Complex (5–10 min) – Seasonal family water park with slides and pools in Pocatello.
Plan Your Trip