Vast and rugged, Idaho still has the feel of a remote wilderness. A wonderful north-western USA destination, the state is sometimes overlooked by adventurers who make a bee-line for Montana or Washington State. With jagged mountains, expansive forests, refreshing lakes and surging rivers, this is a terrific pick for active travellers of all ages. Accommodation options range from simple B&Bs to luxurious lodges, fit for a whole host of tastes and budgets. And whilst many of the best places to stay in Idaho are set in tranquil natural surroundings, the state capital, Boise, promises a brilliant urban buzz, too.

Boise is excellent for those looking to fuse culture, food and outdoorsy activities. Expect scenic cycle rides and challenging hikes, as well as a lively evening scene, top-notch galleries and museums, and a bustling Basque quarter. The State Capitol, St John’s Cathedral, the Old Idaho Penitentiary State Historic Site, the Boise Art Museum and the World Centre for Birds of Prey are all highlights.

Idaho’s dramatic landscapes promise all manner of opportunities for thrill-seekers. Try hiking, mountain biking or horse riding in the Sawtooth National Recreation Area or the Hells Canyon National Recreation Area. You’ll find pristine alpine lakes tucked amidst towering peaks, perfect for sailing, swimming, fishing, rafting, kayaking and canoeing in the summer months. Sink into the Lava Hot Springs, admire the Craters of the Moon National Monument and take a dip in the waterfalls at Snake River Canyon.

Come winter, skiers congregate at legendary Sun Valley, the USA’s oldest ski resort, or the nearby former mining town of Ketchum — once a favourite of Ernest Hemingway. This is a superb year-round destination for families, couples or friends, with heaps of trendy eateries and bars, as well as all the attractions of the mountains. Some of the best places to stay in Idaho are clustered within charming Ketchum itself.

The Best Places to Stay in Idaho

For Great Value

• Tamarack Lodge is a simple, stylish choice in downtown Ketchum. The huge indoor pool and outdoor hot tub are wonderfully refreshing after big days out. Guests can make the most of a discount at the hotel's sister property for breakfast and coffee, or sample the area's many eateries. Families are welcome! Friendly and affordable.
• Boise Guesthouse is a collection of six self-catering suites with a shared garden. Each suite comes with its own kitchenette, and interiors are modern and inviting. A relaxed, hands-off option which will appeal to longer-stay travellers or those in search of more independence. There are complimentary bicycles just outside. Rates are offered on a daily, weekly or monthly basis, making this a great-value choice for longer trips.
• The Roosevelt Inn promises a well-priced stay in Coeur d'Alene, with 15 rooms featuring fireplaces, four-poster beds and lake views. Unwind with in-room massages or in the hot tub. The terrace and gardens are lovely. Charming, affordable and romantic.
• The Harkness Hotel began life as a bank, yet has been transformed into a deluxe boutique hotel in central McCammon. The two largest suites sleep up to six guests and come with fully stocked kitchens, making this a great family or group choice. Surprisingly affordable, given the high-spec interiors.

For Contemporary Cool

• Hotel Ketchum is a chic, contemporary spot with airy rooms featuring crisp white linens and mountain views. The lively Barrio 75 resto-bar serves tacos and tequila, and the vibe is relaxed and sociable. Ideal for couples, families or groups of friends. Very central, in Sun Valley.
• Hotel 43 offers spacious rooms with a fresh, modern feel and impressive downtown views of Boise. There's also an excellent steakhouse with live jazz, meeting facilities and complimentary bicycles for exploring. A swish city break choice for couples or families.
• Inn at 500 Capitol promises an indulgent stay in the heart of Boise. Rooms and suites have spa-like bathrooms, Italian linens and superb city views. Cycle around Boise, take the Mercedes-Benz shuttle to see the sights, and tuck into delicious dishes at the smart restaurant. A slick pick for couples, families or business travellers.
• The Grove Hotel is a recently renovated downtown Boise spot with lots to offer — including an indoor pool, fitness centre, spa, restaurant and chic rooftop bar. Connected to the Idaho Arena and with extensive events facilities of its own, the hotel is brilliant for business trips or large gatherings. Also well-suited to families.
• Limelight Ketchum has minimalist rooms, suites and multi-room residences with pale wooden furnishings and appealing mountain panoramas. Expect casual dining, live music, a swimming pool and a playroom for little ones. Great for families or couples looking to stay in Ketchum itself.

For Romance

• Knob Hill Inn in Sun Valley offers elegant, traditional interiors in rooms with oversized soaking tubs and private terraces. With a restaurant focused on locally sourced fare, a heated swimming pool and a hot tub, this is a gorgeous choice for an indulgent couples' escape. For a chalet-style vibe.
• Boise Hillside Suites comprises of just three suites set within a pine-clad inn. An adults-only property with cosy, traditional interiors — including fireplaces and hot tubs. Ideal for a romantic break in a tranquil part of Boise.
• The Modern is a chic converted motel in Boise's up-and-coming Linen District. Retro-inspired rooms feature luxury bathrooms, clean, crisp design and pops of colour. Sip a martini at the hip bar and feast on modern European fare at the restaurant. A minimalist hotspot for well-heeled design lovers, with a real evening buzz. Ideal for hip couples or friends.
• Franklin House has six appealing guest rooms — two with spa baths — and a spacious living/dining area. A charming historic spot in Boise's oldest neighbourhood. With a modern shared kitchen for guests and a terrace beer garden, this is a terrific pick for sociable couples or groups of friends. Very cool. Guests must be age 21 and over.

For the Great Outdoors

• Sun Valley Lodge is a sprawling mountain retreat, with a collection of 108 comfortable rooms and multi-room suites. Highlights include the 20,000 square foot spa, world-class fitness centre, multiple restaurants, tennis courts and refreshing swimming pool. An idyllic resort for active travellers of all ages, with skiing, hiking, cycling, horse riding and ice-skating galore in beautiful surroundings.
• Shore Lodge has its own beach and marina on the pristine shores of Lake Payette, high in the mountains. Go canoeing, kayaking, paddle boarding or sailing on the lake in the summer, or try skiing, showboarding and snowshoeing in the winter months. There's golf and hiking, too. Kick back in the hotel's pool and spa afterwards. An indulgent modern lodge, well-suited to active couples.
• Henry's Fork Lodge has just four rooms, two suites and eight cottages, set alongside a fast-flowing river — voted amongst the top fly fishing destinations in the world. Hone your skills or travel with fellow anglers for the ultimate group retreat. The food is fabulous, and there are heaps of activities for those less keen to fish: hiking, riding, kayaking, golf, tennis and bird watching. A delightful hideaway.
• Teton Springs Lodge & Spa is a huge holiday resort spread across 780 acres. Choose from suites or multi-bedroom cabins. The whole family will adore the swimming pools, tennis courts, gym, spa, golf, skiing and horse riding. An adventurer's dream.
• South Fork Lodge is an indulgent pick on a dramatic bend of Idaho's Snake River. Rustic cabins boast roaring fireplaces, ethnic prints and river-facing balconies. The four-bedroom River House is perfect for groups of friends or families. Enjoy fishing, hiking or riding. For nature lovers of all ages.

FOR AN APARTMENT OR HOLIDAY COTTAGE

• If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

TRAVEL INFORMATION

• Fly to Boise Airport, and travel to your hotel by taxi or shuttle bus. The Greyhound and Northwestern Trailways routes are an affordable way to journey to Boise from other regional hubs. For Sun Valley, head to Friedman Memorial Airport.
• Idaho is ideal for a road trip! Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
• Travel between December and March for the best skiing, or come in the spring/summer for hiking, horse riding, mountain biking and warmer temperatures as you explore Idaho's towns and cities.

STILL NOT SURE?

• Browse our list of the best places to stay in Boise.
• Expand your search to include all the best places to stay in Washington State.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.

Weather

Monthly Weather in Idaho