Things To Do
in Pocatello
Pocatello is a city located in the southeastern part of the state of Idaho, United States. It is known for its scenic beauty, with several nearby national forests and outdoor recreational opportunities. The city is home to Idaho State University, which contributes to a vibrant academic and cultural community in the region.
Pocatello also has a rich history tied to the railroad industry, which played a significant role in its development.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $70 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $25
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $70
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Idaho Museum of Natural History to learn about the local culture and wildlife. Afterward, take a morning stroll around the Pocatello City Center.
Enjoy lunch at a local café and then head to the Ross Park Zoo, which is home to a variety of animal species. Spend the afternoon enjoying the beautiful scenery.
Wind down with dinner at a popular downtown restaurant. Attend a local event or enjoy a movie at the nearby cinema.
Begin your day with a hike on the beautiful Portneuf River Trail. Breathe in the fresh air and appreciate the stunning views of the river.
Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy in the park before exploring the surrounding nature. Try your hand at birdwatching or photography in the scenic landscapes.
Wrap up the day with a relaxing family barbecue at one of the local parks. Share stories and make memories under the stars.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Affordable cost of living compared to other cities in the United States.
- Access to outdoor recreational activities, including hiking, fishing, and skiing.
- A close-knit community with a friendly atmosphere.
- Home to Idaho State University, providing educational opportunities and cultural events.
- Rich history and local culture with various festivals and events.
- Limited job opportunities in specialized fields outside of education and healthcare.
- Harsh winters with significant snowfall and cold temperatures.
- Less diverse dining and entertainment options compared to larger cities.
- Public transportation options are limited.
- Isolated location with greater distance to major urban centers.
Best Activities in Pocatello
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the trails in the surrounding mountains and canyons such as City Creek Trail, Gibson Jack Trail, and Scout Mountain.
Enjoy the diverse mountain biking trails in areas like City Creek Trail, Scout Mountain, and Kinport Peak.
Visit areas like Ross Park and Chinese Wall for excellent rock climbing opportunities.
Try fishing at nearby spots like American Falls Reservoir, Portneuf River, and the many lakes and reservoirs in the region.
Paddle along the Portneuf River or explore the nearby reservoirs for a serene water adventure.
Places to Visit in Pocatello
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers panoramic views of Pocatello and the surrounding area.
Great for capturing the historic architecture and scenic landscapes.
Features stunning views of the Snake River and unique rock formations.
Provides opportunities to capture historic buildings and artifacts.
Scenic views of the Portneuf River and wildlife at the zoo.
Food in Pocatello
Pocatello Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Tender strips of beef, breaded and fried to golden perfection, often served with a zesty dipping sauce. A must-try dish that can be found at The Sand Trap, a popular sports bar in Pocatello.
Must-Try!
Creamy potato-flavored ice cream swirled with sweet-tart huckleberry compote, capturing the essence of Idaho's renowned potatoes and native huckleberries. Available at Aardvark's Odd Ark, a quirky ice cream parlor in the heart of Pocatello.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Open on Saturdays, this market offers fresh local produce, artisanal baked goods, and a variety of ready-to-eat treats, including handcrafted tamales, gourmet popcorn, and homemade pies.
Held annually in the historic Old Town area, this event features a wide array of street foods, from classic corn dogs and funnel cakes to international delights like Greek gyros and Korean BBQ tacos.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Pocatello, it is important to be mindful of personal space and not to invade others' personal bubble.
Politeness and courtesy are highly valued in Pocatello, so make sure to say 'please' and 'thank you' and show respect to others.
Respecting local customs and traditions, such as being mindful of religious practices and cultural events, is an important aspect of showing respect in Pocatello.
Safety
Tipping in Pocatello
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is commonly practiced in Pocatello, United States. It is customary to tip service staff such as waiters, bartenders, and taxi drivers. The standard tip is around 15-20% of the total bill.
In Pocatello, United States, payment for goods and services is commonly done using credit or debit cards, as well as cash. Contactless payment methods are also becoming more popular, especially in light of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is a great time to visit Pocatello, with mild temperatures and blooming flowers. Outdoor activities such as hiking and biking are popular during this time.
Summer brings warm weather to Pocatello, making it perfect for outdoor adventures like camping, fishing, and attending local events and festivals.
Fall is a beautiful time to visit Pocatello, with the changing colors of the leaves and cooler temperatures. It's a great time for scenic drives and outdoor activities.
Winter in Pocatello is cold and snowy, making it ideal for winter sports such as skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing. The city also hosts winter festivals and events.
Pocatello at Night
Hiking in Pocatello
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic trail along the Portneuf River, suitable for walking and hiking, with beautiful views and local wildlife.
A challenging hike leading to one of the highest peaks in the area, offering stunning panoramic views.
A popular hiking area with trails that wind through canyons, providing opportunities for both hiking and biking.
An invigorating hike that combines trails with the nearby hot springs, offering relaxation and natural beauty.
A moderately challenging trail that traverses through beautiful forests and offers ample opportunities for wildlife viewing.
Aiports
How to reach Pocatello by plane.
Located approximately 185 miles southwest of Pocatello, this major airport serves as a hub for several airlines and offers numerous domestic and international flights.
Approximately 211 miles west of Pocatello, Boise Airport serves the state capital and offers various domestic flights along with some international connections.
Located about 245 miles northeast of Pocatello, this airport serves as a gateway to Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks and offers seasonal and limited international flights.
Approximately 322 miles northwest of Pocatello, Spokane International Airport offers a range of domestic and some international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Majority demographic in Pocatello, typically representing over 80% of the population.
Significant minority group, making up approximately 10-15% of the population.
Smaller demographic group, usually around 2-3% of the population.
Includes various subgroups, typically representing about 1-2% of the population.
A small percentage of the population, around 1-2%.
Represents individuals identifying with multiple races, which may constitute about 2-3%.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular sport at both the high school and college levels, particularly with Idaho State University.
Widely played recreationally and competitively, with various leagues and school teams.
Gaining popularity among youth and adults, with organized leagues for various age groups.
Played in local leagues and schools, especially during the summer months.
An important part of high school sports with many events and competitions.
A prominent sport at the high school level, with several strong programs.
Popular among individuals and families, with available public courts for recreational play.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Pocatello.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many eateries in Pocatello offer vegetarian and vegan options, with some featuring dedicated menus for plant-based diets. Notable choices include the Vegan Buddha Bowl at Buddah's Belly and the Beyond Burger at Main Steam Coffee & Desserts.
Those seeking gluten-free options can find accommodating menus at various establishments. The Celt Pub and Grill, for instance, offers gluten-free fish and chips, while Sumisu Asian Fusion & Sushi provides gluten-free soy sauce and sushi rolls.