This Epic One-Day Road Trip Across Idaho Is Full Of Adventures From Sunrise To Sunset
Long road trips can be filled with adventure and excitement, but sometimes you just don’t have the time for these trips. Fortunately, that doesn’t mean you still can’t explore the Gem State and many of its incredible attractions. In fact, the next time you have a free day, check out this road trip in Idaho! From sunrise to sunset, you’ll visit five attractions in the Boise area. This is a great way to explore our capital city and have a little adventure as well.
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This one-day road trip in Boise is only seven miles in distance but it’ll take you approximately 30 minutes of drive time. This gives you plenty of time to enjoy each and every stop. There’s no need to rush through this sunrise-to-sunset adventure!
Our road trip begins at the Boise Train Depot as this is one of the best places to view a sunrise in the City of Trees. Not only is this a historic building, but here, you’ll enjoy views of the city, mountains, and the sunrise — it's perfect! Stay and enjoy the sunrise and then give yourself plenty of time to walk through the gorgeous Platt Gardens as well.
In the morning, you won't want to miss the Idaho State Museum. This unique museum will give you a look at the Gem State over the years and the people who call it home. This museum is 80,000 square feet and features more than 500 artifacts for you to check out. This is one road trip stop that every member of the family will love.
Boise Fry Company
Adelmann building, 204 N Capitol Blvd, Boise, ID 83702, USA
Once you begin to experience those hunger pains, it is time to head to Boise Fry Company. At this unique Idaho restaurant, hand-cut French fries are the main course. You can choose between all different types and cuts of potatoes to truly customize your dish. Plus, there is quite a selection of seasonings and toppings. In fact, with all that is offered, there are more than 1,000 different fry combinations that you can create.
With a full stomach, it is now time to head to the Idaho Botanical Garden. Located on Old Penitentiary Road in Boise, this 15-acre garden is home to quite an incredible variety of plants and flowers — more than 7,000 to be exact! There are multiple gardens you can explore like the Rose Garden and the Meditation Garden, and each one is picturesque, beautiful, and worthy of a visit!
Military Reserve
The Military Reserve, 750 Mountain Cove Rd, Boise, ID 83702, USA
Not far from Downtown Boise you will find the Military Reserve. This area offers up to 726 acres of hiking and mountain biking trails that are just waiting to be explored. Spend the evening hiking and then enjoy the sunset, city, and nature views. It’s the perfect ending to our one-day road trip in Boise, Idaho.
What do you think of this one-day road trip in Boise? Are there any stops you would add? Let us and your fellow travelers know in the comments!
The OIYS Visitor Center
Best sunrises in Idaho
February 08, 2023
Courtnie Erickson
Where can I see a sunset in Idaho?
While the best sunrises in Idaho are certainly worth the effort to see, you can’t forget about the sunsets. In fact, the Snake River Canyon Rim Trail is considered one of the best sunset hikes in America. This paved trail is 10 miles long, highly accessible, and beautiful any time of the day. However, there is something truly remarkable about this trail during the golden hour.
What are some beautiful overlooks I should visit in Idaho?
There are several breathtaking scenic viewpoints in Idaho. Some of these locations are the best places to see a sunrise in Idaho, while others just offer remarkable views from every direction. Some of our favorite overlooks in Idaho include the following:
If you want to visit many of the best overlooks in Idaho, we have just the thing for you! We created a road trip itinerary that takes you to several photo-worthy viewpoints in Idaho.
What are some of the best scenic drives in Idaho?
Another excellent way to view a sunrise in Idaho or to check out several of the best scenic viewpoints in the Gem State is on a scenic drive. With beautiful drives all around the state, there are plenty of options no matter if you want a quick afternoon adventure or a really long scenic drive. A few of the best scenic drives in Idaho include:
From Southern Utah to the Panhandle in Idaho, Courtnie Erickson has lived in what she believes are the best (and the most beautiful!) areas in the country. She graduated with a journalism degree from Utah State University and has more than 15 years of professional writing experience. You’ll likely see her with a Dr. Pepper in her hand and a pair of running shoes on her feet. Courtnie is a writer and editor at OnlyInYourState.
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