Onaway IdahoATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Onaway, Idaho.
1. Onaway State Park
LAKESIDE RECREATION AREA
Onaway State Park offers a scenic lakefront area known for its sandy beach, making it a popular destination for summer swimming and sunbathing. The park features well-maintained camping sites and a network of hiking trails through forests and along the lakeshore. Families and outdoor enthusiasts appreciate the park for its natural beauty and easy access to recreational activities.
2. Blue Star Museum
LOCAL HISTORY EXHIBIT
The Blue Star Museum in Onaway presents a unique exploration of the region's heritage through memorabilia and interactive displays. Visitors can learn about local traditions, significant historical events, and notable residents. The museum is a family-friendly spot that encourages discovery and appreciation of Onaway's small-town charm.
3. Second Nature
OUTDOOR SPORTS AND GEAR
Second Nature is a destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a curated selection of sporting goods and adventure equipment. The shop provides expert advice for activities like hiking, fishing, and camping in the surrounding area. Its friendly staff and community atmosphere make it a go-to resource for visitors preparing for Idaho's great outdoors.
4. Bear Den Café
COZY LOCAL EATERY
Bear Den Café is a beloved dining venue in Onaway, known for its hearty breakfasts and homemade pies. The café's rustic décor and welcoming service appeal to both locals and visitors seeking an authentic Idaho meal. Its menu features comfort food classics made from locally sourced ingredients.
5. Onaway General Store
HISTORIC SHOPPING SPOT
The Onaway General Store operates as both a convenience stop and a piece of community history, serving the town for generations. Shoppers find a range of goods, from groceries to handmade gifts and souvenirs. The store's old-fashioned counter and friendly service evoke a sense of nostalgia.
6. Minnetonka Cave
UNDERGROUND NATURAL WONDER
Minnetonka Cave is a popular attraction located near Onaway, featuring a guided walking tour through impressive limestone caverns. Visitors marvel at the stunning stalactites and stalagmites while learning about the area's geology and cave ecosystem. The cool temperatures and dramatic formations make this a refreshing and educational outing.
7. Formation Springs Preserve
UNIQUE GEOLOGIC PRESERVE
Formation Springs Preserve is renowned for its colorful travertine pools and natural springs set in a peaceful landscape. The preserve offers walking trails and interpretive signs to guide visitors through its fascinating geology and wildlife habitats. It's a tranquil spot favored by nature lovers and photographers.
8. Soda Springs Geyser
MANMADE GEYSER ATTRACTION
Soda Springs Geyser erupts every hour, delighting visitors with its powerful plume of water. The geyser, the result of a 1930s drilling accident, is now a central feature of the town's main park. Interpretive displays explain the geyser's origins and its significance to the community.
9. Hooper Springs
HISTORIC MINERAL SPRINGS
Hooper Springs is a park famed for its mineral-rich bubbling spring water, a tradition dating back to early settlers. Visitors can sample the unique-tasting water and enjoy picnicking in a serene, tree-shaded setting. The park is an inviting spot for families and those interested in regional history.
10. Tin Cup Canyon
SCENIC OUTDOOR ADVENTURE
Tin Cup Canyon offers a picturesque setting for hiking, bird-watching, and exploring wildflower meadows. The canyon is known for its rugged beauty and accessible trails suitable for all ages. Adventurers enjoy the chance to spot wildlife and soak in the peaceful ambiance of this natural area.
11. The Homestead Café
CLASSIC AMERICAN DINER
The Homestead Café is a timeless diner drawing visitors with its friendly atmosphere and large portions. Menu highlights include homemade soups, sandwiches, and hearty breakfast dishes served all day. Regulars appreciate the hospitality and the nostalgic décor reminiscent of classic roadside eateries.
12. Bear Lake State Park
PRISTINE ALPINE LAKE
Bear Lake State Park is famous for its turquoise waters and sandy beaches, offering activities like boating, swimming, and fishing. The park is a summer hotspot with campgrounds and picnic areas along the scenic shoreline. Its panoramic mountain views and clear blue water attract families and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
13. Old Idaho Penitentiary
HISTORIC PRISON MUSEUM
The Old Idaho Penitentiary provides an immersive look at Idaho's territorial prison system with well-preserved cells, guard towers, and informative exhibits. Guided tours recount dramatic stories of notorious inmates and daring escapes. It's a must-see for history buffs and anyone interested in the state's fascinating past.
14. Idaho Falls Temple & Visitors' Center
ARCHITECTURAL LANDMARK
The Idaho Falls Temple & Visitors' Center stands as an iconic structure, admired for its striking architecture and beautifully landscaped grounds. Visitors can tour the center to learn about the temple's history and significance to the community. The site is a peaceful destination for reflection and photography.
15. Bayhorse Ghost Town
HISTORIC MINING SITE
Bayhorse Ghost Town invites guests to wander through the remnants of a once-bustling silver mining town, complete with restored buildings and interpretive displays. The site offers a glimpse into Idaho's mining boom days and rugged pioneer life. The surrounding landscape is ideal for hiking and exploration.