Pocatello Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do, see, and eat in Pocatello, Idaho. Our comprehensive tour guide provides all the information you need to plan your visit, from natural attractions and cultural landmarks to where to stay and how to get there.


Explore the Gem State: A Comprehensive Tour Guide for Pocatello

Nestled in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, Pocatello is a charming city that offers visitors a unique blend of city comforts and natural beauty. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, history buff, or foodie, Pocatello has something to offer. In this comprehensive tour guide, we’ll take you through the best things to do, see, eat, and experience in Pocatello.

List of Places to Visit in Pocatello

Pocatello is home to many culturally important attractions, natural wonders, scenic views, and outdoor adventures. Here are some of the top places to visit in Pocatello:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Idaho Museum of Natural History
  • Bannock County Historical Museum
  • Fort Hall Replica
  • Museum of Clean
  • The Stephens Performing Art Center

Natural Attractions of Pocatello: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Pocatello Zoo
  • Ross Park Aquatic Complex
  • Portneuf Greenway Trail System
  • Lower and Upper Ross Park
  • Pebble Creek Ski Area

Hiking/Biking Routes of Pocatello

Pocatello is an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise, with plenty of hiking and biking routes for visitors to explore. Here are some of the top trails to check out:

  • City Creek Trail System
  • Gibson Jack Trail
  • Scout Mountain Loop Trail
  • Bannock Trail System
  • Inman Canyon Trail

Best Things to Do in Pocatello: Activities and Tours

Pocatello offers a variety of activities and tours for visitors looking for an exciting adventure. Here are some of the top things to do and tours to take while in town:

  • Whitewater Rafting Trips
  • ATV Tours
  • Fishing Tours
  • Horse-drawn Wagon Tours
  • Snowmobile Tours

Week-Long Itinerary for Pocatello

If you’re planning to spend a week in Pocatello, here’s an itinerary that covers the best things to do and see:

Day Activity
1 Visit Idaho Museum of Natural History and Bannock County Historical Museum
2 Explore the city on Portneuf Greenway Trail System
3 Whitewater Rafting on Snake River
4 Hike at Scout Mountain Loop Trail and Bannock Trail System
5 Visit Pebble Creek Ski Area and snowmobile tour
6 Horse-drawn Wagon Tours
7 Fish Tours at Pocatello Creek

Food and Drink Scene of Pocatello

Pocatello has a diverse food and drink scene, with plenty of local specialties to try. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Finger Steaks
  • Scones
  • Potato Skins
  • Tartar Sauce
  • Pershings

Local Beverages

  • Snow Eagle Wheat Ale
  • Redbird Roots Beer
  • Pepsi (invented in Pocatello)

Where to Stay in Pocatello: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Pocatello has a wide range of accommodation options, from hotels and motels to guesthouses and Airbnbs. Here are some popular places to stay in Pocatello:

  • Clarion Inn Pocatello
  • Hampton Inn & Suites Pocatello
  • La Quinta Inn & Suites Pocatello
  • Holiday Inn Express & Suites Pocatello

What to Buy in Pocatello: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Make sure to bring back a piece of Pocatello with you by purchasing some of these locally-made souvenirs:

  • Gemstones from the North Coast Mine
  • Handmade pottery from Southeast Idaho
  • Pepper Jellies from the Sun Valley Mustard Company
  • Birdhouses and feeders made from recycled materials

Local Culture and Customs of Pocatello

Pocatello has a friendly and welcoming culture, and visitors are encouraged to respect the local customs and etiquette. Here are some things to keep in mind:

  • Greet people with a smile and a firm handshake.
  • Use common courtesy, such as holding doors open for others.
  • Dress appropriately for the season and the occasion.
  • Be respectful of people’s privacy and property.

Best Time to Visit Pocatello

The best time to visit Pocatello is during the summer and fall months, when the weather is mild and the outdoor activities are plentiful. Peak tourist season is from June to August, so plan accordingly.

Do’s and Don’ts of Pocatello

Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind during your visit to Pocatello:

Do:

  • Explore the beautiful natural surroundings.
  • Try the local specialty dishes.
  • Respect the local customs and laws.

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage the natural environment.
  • Overindulge in alcohol or drugs.
  • Be disrespectful or offensive to the locals.

Safety and Health

Pocatello is a safe and healthy place to visit, but it’s always a good idea to take some precautions to ensure your safety and wellbeing.

Safety in Pocatello

  • Stay aware of your surroundings, especially when walking alone or at night.
  • Keep your valuables secure and out of sight.
  • Follow the posted rules and regulations when engaging in outdoor activities.

Health in Pocatello

  • Drink plenty of water and stay hydrated, especially during outdoor activities.
  • Be aware of altitude sickness when hiking or skiing in the mountains.
  • Protect yourself from the sun and apply sunscreen regularly.

Getting to Pocatello: Transportation Options and Logistics

Pocatello is easily accessible by car, bus, or plane. Here are some transportation options to help you plan your trip:

Airports Near Pocatello

  • Pocatello Regional Airport (PIH)
  • Idaho Falls Regional Airport (IDA)
  • Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC)

Bus Stations Near Pocatello

  • Greyhound Bus Lines
  • Salt Lake Express
  • Jefferson Lines

Other Options

  • Rental cars are available at the airports and in town.
  • Taxis and ride-sharing services are also available in Pocatello.

How to Get Around in Pocatello

Pocatello is a walkable city, but if you want to explore further afield, you may need a car or bike. Public transportation is also available in the form of buses and taxis, and there are plenty of bike rental shops in town.

Where to Go Next from Pocatello: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you have some extra time in the area, there are plenty of nearby destinations and excursions worth checking out. Here are some of the top places to visit:

  • Yellowstone National Park
  • Craters of the Moon National Monument
  • Jackson Hole, Wyoming
  • Sun Valley, Idaho

Conclusion

Pocatello is a hidden gem in the Rocky Mountain region, offering visitors a unique blend of natural beauty, outdoor adventures, and cultural attractions. This comprehensive tour guide should give you all the information you need to plan your next trip to Pocatello, from where to stay and what to eat, to the best things to do and see.