Grace IdahoATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Grace, Idaho.
1. Niter Ice Cave
VOLCANIC LAVA TUBE
Niter Ice Cave is a natural lava tube situated just a few miles outside Grace, offering visitors a rare opportunity to explore Idaho's volcanic history underground. The cave stays cool year-round, creating unique ice formations even during the summer. Adventurers are encouraged to bring flashlights and sturdy shoes to safely experience its dark lava passages and striking geology.
2. Caribou Highlands Golf & RV
GOLF AND OUTDOOR RECREATION
Caribou Highlands Golf & RV provides a scenic nine-hole golf course surrounded by mountains and farmland, perfect for families and golfers of all skill levels. The site also offers RV accommodations, making it an ideal base for outdoor activities in the area. Its tranquil setting allows visitors to unwind while enjoying Idaho's natural beauty.
3. Black Canyon Gorge
DRAMATIC BASALT FORMATIONS
Black Canyon Gorge is located just a mile west of Grace and showcases impressive basalt flows carved by the Bear River over millennia. The gorge is a favorite spot for hikers, photographers, and nature enthusiasts seeking dramatic landscapes. It provides a stunning example of the region's geological evolution in a serene environment.
4. Historic Last Chance Flume
AGRICULTURAL LANDMARK
The Historic Last Chance Flume is an early 20th-century water diversion structure that played a vital role in irrigating the Gem Valley region. Today, it serves as a fascinating glimpse into local agricultural history and early engineering efforts. Visitors can explore the area and learn about the flume's significance to Grace's development.
5. Grace Dam and Reservoir
FISHING AND BIRDWATCHING
Grace Dam and Reservoir is a popular destination for fishing, boating, and picnicking, offering peaceful waters and abundant wildlife. The area is also ideal for birdwatching, attracting a variety of waterfowl and other species. Its origins as an early-1900s irrigation project highlight the region's agricultural heritage.
6. Downtown Grace Shops
SMALL TOWN SHOPPING
Downtown Grace features a number of charming local shops and boutiques offering unique gifts, crafts, and regional products. Visitors can stroll along the main streets, enjoying the friendly small-town ambiance and chatting with local shopkeepers. It's a great place to pick up souvenirs and support local businesses.
7. Caribou County Fair and Rodeo
ANNUAL LOCAL FESTIVAL
The Caribou County Fair and Rodeo takes place every August in Grace, bringing together locals and visitors for parades, rodeo events, and community celebrations. Highlights include a children's parade and a traditional watermelon bust, fostering a festive, family-friendly atmosphere. The fairgrounds come alive with entertainment, games, and food stands during this lively event.
8. The Grace Museum
LOCAL HISTORY EXHIBITS
The Grace Museum offers insight into the town's pioneer heritage and displays artifacts from its founding in the late 1800s. Visitors can learn about the area's agricultural roots and view historical photographs, documents, and memorabilia. It's a must-visit for history enthusiasts interested in the development of southeastern Idaho.
9. Bear Lake Scenic Byway
SCENIC DRIVING ROUTE
The Bear Lake Scenic Byway passes near Grace and offers travelers breathtaking views of Idaho's countryside, leading to the turquoise waters of Bear Lake. This route is perfect for leisurely drives, photo opportunities, and wildlife spotting. The byway is especially beautiful during autumn when the local foliage turns vibrant colors.
10. Fairview Cemetery
HISTORIC RESTING GROUNDS
Fairview Cemetery in Grace serves as a tranquil and historic resting place for many of the area's early settlers and residents. The cemetery's peaceful setting invites reflection and includes gravestones that tell the story of the community's pioneers. It's a meaningful stop for those interested in local genealogy and history.
11. Gem Valley Farmers Market
LOCAL PRODUCE AND CRAFTS
Gem Valley Farmers Market brings together local growers and artisans offering fresh produce, handmade goods, and regional specialties. This seasonal market is a gathering place for the community and a delight for visitors seeking authentic Idaho flavors. It's an excellent venue to experience the area's agricultural bounty.
12. Soda Springs Geyser
HOURLY ERUPTING GEYSER
Soda Springs Geyser, located a short drive from Grace, is famous for its scheduled eruptions every hour, shooting water over 100 feet into the air. The geyser is a rare natural phenomenon and one of the most popular attractions in the region. Its adjacent visitor center provides educational exhibits about the area's geology.
13. Hooper Springs Park
MINERAL SPRINGS AND PICNIC AREA
Hooper Springs Park features natural mineral springs and a pleasant picnic area, making it a favorite spot for families and travelers. The park offers trails, playgrounds, and a relaxing setting next to Soda Springs' bubbling waters. Visitors can sample the mineral water and enjoy scenic surroundings year-round.
14. Sunken Gardens
LUSH HORTICULTURAL PARK
Sunken Gardens transforms a former geyser crater into a lush oasis filled with flowers, shrubs, and walking paths. Located in Soda Springs, these gardens are a peaceful stop for nature lovers and photographers. The site's unique topography and abundant plant life make it a hidden gem of southeastern Idaho.
15. Big J's Drive-In
CLASSIC AMERICAN DINER
Big J's Drive-In in nearby Preston is a beloved spot for classic burgers, fries, and shakes, served in a nostalgic diner setting. This local institution attracts both residents and travelers seeking a hearty meal and friendly service. Its retro charm and signature menu items make it a must-visit dining destination.
16. Preston Night Rodeo
TRADITIONAL RODEO EVENT
The Preston Night Rodeo is an annual event drawing crowds with exciting rodeo competitions, live entertainment, and community festivities. Held in the summer, it's a highlight for visitors interested in experiencing authentic western culture. The rodeo's energetic atmosphere and family-friendly events make it a top regional attraction.