Southern Idaho is home to landscapes and stories that reveal the region’s geologic and cultural history. Make Twin Falls your hub, and you’re within a two-hour drive of five nationally significant sites—lava fields that look lunar, fossil beds that reveal ice-age creatures, granite spires carved with emigrant signatures, and places tied to pivotal moments in American history. These daytrips combine scenery, history and adventure, all with nearby small-town dining worth the stop.
Minidoka National Historic Site | near Jerome
Just 30 minutes north of Twin Falls, Minidoka National Historic Site preserves the story of more than 13,000 Japanese Americans forcibly incarcerated during World War II. A 1.6-mile gravel trail winds past a reconstructed guard tower, the remains of barracks where families once lived and interpretive panels. In summer, the visitor center offers exhibits and ranger-led tours. On your drive back, stop at Choate’s Family Diner for hearty comfort food in a retro setting or turn into Fat Clarence’s Pub and Grub for noteworthy burgers.
Thousand Springs State Park Visitor Center, Hagerman | Photo: Visit Idaho
Hagerman Fossil Beds National Monument| Hagerman
About 40 minutes west of Twin Falls, Hagerman Fossil Beds National Monument protects one of the world’s premier Pliocene-era fossil sites, including the richest deposit of Hagerman Horse fossils ever found. This ancient relative of today’s horse, zebra and donkey is Idaho’s state fossil. While the fossil beds are closed to the public, the nearby Thousand Springs State Park Visitor Center features exhibits and a film worth exploring. Otherwise, the monument’s scenic overlooks and trails provide splendid views of the Snake River and even wagon ruts from the Oregon Trail. Afterward, head to Snake River Grill in Hagerman, where you can sample local trout and sturgeon or grab a cheesy slice or a sandwich at Papa Kelsey’s Pizza & Subs.
City of Rocks National Reserve, near Almo | Photo: Visit Idaho
City of Rocks National Reserve | near Almo
Roughly 90 minutes south of Twin Falls, the granite spires of City of Rocks National Reserve rise from the sagebrush like a stone city on the horizon. Emigrants along the California Trail camped here, leaving their names in axle grease on Camp Rock and Register Rock—signatures still visible today. Drive the City of Rocks Backcountry Byway, stopping to hike up Bath Rock for panoramic views or wander to Window Arch for a natural stone frame on the skyline. With more than 700 climbing routes, it’s a world-class destination for climbers. Hikers often share the trails with mule deer, pinyon jays and even golden eagles. In nearby Almo, the historic Tracy General Store offers sandwiches and ice cream, and Rock City Mercantile is a go-to for pizza and craft beer.
Castle Rocks State Park, near Almo | Photo: Citizen North
Castle Rocks State Park | near Almo
Just down the road from City of Rocks, Castle Rocks State Park provides a quieter but equally striking landscape. Trails lead through meadows, aspens and granite towers, with options for hiking, biking and horseback riding in summer and snowshoeing and cross-country skiing in winter. Families enjoy the disc golf course and fishing pond, while climbers scale routes tucked among the formations. Archaeological evidence shows people have lived here for at least 9,000 years, and faint pictographs mark their presence. On your drive back, stop in Burley for authentic Mexican fare at El Caporal or for steaks, sushi and more at Morey’s Steakhouse.
Craters of the Moon National Monument & Preserve, near Arco | Photo: Visit Idaho
Craters of the Moon National Monument & Preserve | near Arco
Two hours northeast of Twin Falls, Craters of the Moon National Monument & Preserve spans more than 750,000 acres of rugged lava fields. The seven-mile Loop Road links short hikes past lava flows, cinder cones and spatter cones. Climb Inferno Cone for sweeping views, wander through the twisted shapes of Devils Orchard and explore Indian Tunnel, a lava tube large enough to walk through with a free summer permit from the visitor center. In spring, wildflowers like dwarf monkeyflower and bitterroot bloom directly on the black rock, and in winter, the Loop Road transforms into a Nordic ski and snowshoe trail. As an International Dark Sky Park, the monument also offers ranger-led star parties and night-sky programs. On the return trip, stop at Pickle’s Place in Arco, famous for its Atomic Burger and seasoning spice.
Where to Stay in Twin Falls
Back in Twin Falls, you’ll find lodging that’s as welcoming as the town itself. Staying here keeps you close to Shoshone Falls, canyon-rim trails and a walkable downtown filled with coffee shops and boutiques, while remaining central to all of Southern Idaho’s splendors. Top lodging picks include:
- La Quinta Inn & Suites: Known for its indoor pool, hot breakfast and consistent guest satisfaction.
- Blue Lakes Inn: A boutique, locally owned option with modern décor and a seasonal outdoor pool.
- My Place Hotel: Spacious suites with kitchenettes and laundry, ideal for families or extended stays.
Looking for other things to see and do and places to eat and sleep near Twin Falls? Find activities, recommendations and more at visitsouthidaho.com.