Blake Walsh

15 Best Things to Do in Soda Springs, ID

  • Published 2023/03/01

Tucked in Caribou County, Soda Springs is the perfect place for refreshing relaxation.

It’s known for a vast array of natural springs scattered around the city’s premises.

This has made many of its attractions focused on using and preserving those pristine waters.

Some parks even allow visitors to taste their spring waters which have a distinct taste freely!

Indeed, Soda Springs has come a long way from being a small town in 1934.

The city’s now often praised for having a balance of diverse city-like attractions with mellow town vibes.

From national historic sites and scenic trails to its charming local scene, there’s plenty to explore in the city.

Here’s a glimpse into the best things to do in Soda Springs, Idaho:

See the Captive Geyser at Geyser Park

The shooting waters of Geyser Park

StudioKampOC / Shutterstock.com

A stunning phenomenon awaits those who visit Geyser Park.

Along 1st Street, this tourist attraction is famous for timed geysers that shoot from the ground.

It’s a unique event that began in 1937 when locals sought hot water for a commercial business.

After drilling underground, hot water emerged from below and shot roughly 45 feet in the air.

It’s become a famous spot since then, attracting curious travelers across the region.

Picnic tables and chairs surround the geyser so you can relax while waiting for the next event.

You can also walk around the park’s boardwalk and smell the sulfur to enjoy the whole experience.

Truly, Geyser Park is a must-visit destination if you’re ever in Soda Springs!

Savor Local Flavors in Main Street Diner

As a city, Soda Springs is home to its fair share of tasty local diners.

Main Street Diner is one of the most popular restaurants of its kind, boasting many positive reviews.

The place offers a menu of everyday American comfort meals while using its secret recipes.

You’ll get a hint of the city’s local preferences in terms of taste.

They also change some parts of their menu to keep things interesting for their frequent customers.

Main Street Diner has a cozy, comfortable atmosphere mixed with retro wooden decor.

It’s a splendid place for those who want a casual meal in a relaxed setting.

It’s located along the southern part of Main Street.

Hike the Oregon Trail Park & Marina

The Oregon Trail Park & Marina is a fine choice for outdoor enthusiasts.

The venue features an expansive trail of beautiful greens, creating scenic views as you walk along.

There’s also a backdrop of rolling hills and sprinkles of verdant trees on the sweeping terrain.

Informative kiosks are scattered around the Oregon Trail Park & Marina for those who also want a learning experience.

Other amenities include boat launches, grills, picnic tables, and a structured playground for children.

People have made the park a venue for various kinds of quiet leisure and active recreation.

Parks can often offer a safe place to stop by whenever you’re in a new location.

The Oregon Trail Park sits at US 30, west of Soda Springs.

Practice Your Aim at Soda Springs Shooting Complex

If you’re a fan of shooting targets, head to Soda Springs Shooting Complex.

These grounds are a popular spot for locals to gather around and practice with their guns along Gravel Pit Road.

The range features vast, sweeping plains with a scenic backdrop of towering mountains.

Since it’s a shooting range, it has plenty of space for the safety of everyone in the vicinity.

You can expect the members to be friendly and welcoming to new people!

You can also join fiery competitions, including weekly matches for various types of guns like rifles and pistols.

Those who want to practice their shooting freely can try their hands at the Soda Springs Shooting Complex.

See the Blend of Old and New at Historic Enders Building

A stay in the Historic Enders Building offers a glimpse into the romantic glamor of the 20th century.

The building has the best of both worlds, with a mix of old-fashioned furniture and modern amenities.

Its old-school charm uniquely appeals to the experience of staying at the Historic Enders Building.

You’ll find that this hotel also conveniently serves as a restaurant, events venue, and museum.

Exterior of the Historic Enders Building

Ntsimp, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons

There’s a museum on the upper floors containing displays of antiques and old artifacts from the past.

It also appeared in the videos of curious ghost hunters as an old building.

The Enders Building was listed in the National Register of Historic Places in 1993.

Play Golf at Oregon Trail Country Club

With pristine greens and established facilities, Oregon Trail Country Club offers a pleasant space for this timeless pastime.

Along Highway 30, the course presents pristine greens surrounded by lush pine trees.

You can choose whether to play on a nine-hole course or the bigger 18-hole course.

No matter your skill level, Oregon Trail Country Club opens its doors to anyone interested in the sport.

You can also book lessons to learn how to play in a more professional setting.

Even in a small city like Soda Springs, golf is a splendid pastime that allows many to relax and unwind.

Drop by the club to see how the locals play and enjoy the old but gold sport!

Go Boating at Alexander Reservoir

The Alexander Reservoir would be one of your best options for water recreation.

Located along State Highway 30, the reservoir is a beautiful display of the environment in its purest form.

Boat ramps and docks can make water-related activities easier in Alexander Reservoir.

The reservoir can also lead to the scenic Bear Lake, where visitors can fish, boat, and swim through the waters.

Some of the fish you can expect to catch include bass, trout, sturgeon, whitefish, and other native species.

Just take note of the fishing limits.

Whether you want to relax or have fun, Alexander Reservoir provides a free, tranquil space.

Explore City Park

Many lively community events in the city happen at the City Park.

City Park is a bright destination, from little tournament leagues and car shows to annual festivals and traditions.

It’s also a center for amenities like varied sports fields, children’s playgrounds, and a small skate park.

Plus, it’s home to historical items, including a railroad coach, a miniature locomotive, and a memorial park.

You can see and enjoy all those things from just a single destination!

Along 2nd Street, there’s a reason why City Park is well-known as one of the busiest destinations.

No matter your preference, it’s likely that you’ll find something to do with the park’s list of amenities.

See a Movie in Idan-Ha Theater

Unlike today’s modern theaters, Idan-Ha Theater has stayed true to its classic old-school roots.

With wooden features and an iconic sign, the outdoor exterior looks like a building from the Old Western period.

The interior is inspired by a more contemporary take, containing vibrant red seats and purple-shaded walls.

It’s a small, intimate theater with comfortable seats and sufficient equipment for the typical movie experience.

If you’re unsure what to do in the city, this place can be an easy, convenient choice!

Go to the theater, book a ticket, and maybe grab some tasty popcorn.

Check out Idan-Ha Theater along the southern portions of Main Street.

Drink Naturally Carbonated Water at Hooper Springs Park

Hooper Springs Park is well-known for having free and naturally carbonated water.

Located along Government Dam Road, the park is home to beautiful springs, natural scenery, and a unique experience.

Taste the distinct flavor of naturally carbonated water!

Some pair it with soda packets because it makes the water taste like soda.

The waters of Hooper Springs Park

BRPXVII, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

The water comes straight from natural resources; people say it is cold with a slightly metallic flavor.

Hooper Springs Park is also home to a covered pavilion, a playground, and a basketball court.

For relaxation, there are picnic amenities where guests can hang out.

Check out the naturally carbonated fountains of Hooper Springs Park!

Sample Smoked Meats in Caribou Jack’s BBQ

Caribou Jack’s BBQ is a family-owned restaurant with loads of hidden history.

This Texas-style diner date back to 1903 when it was a hardware and lumber store.

At the time, it was the business of a different family, the Gagons.

In 2017, the business was turned into a farm-to-table restaurant offering delicious meals.

One of the highlights of Caribou Jack’s BBQ is that most of its ingredients come from local sources.

They also take pride in the formulation of their BBQ meats, cooked through long hours of smoking.

This barbecue restaurant can be a splendid venue for those seeking local eateries.

It’s located along the eastern side of 2nd Street.

Enjoy Game Night at the Alley

Bowling has become a cherished method of recreation in almost every city.

Like those cities, Soda Springs has its venue for bowling fun through the Alley.

The Alley has become a part of Soda Springs’ entertainment for generations, previously named “Spare Time Lanes and Fun Center.”

As a modern twist, this center offers glow-in-the-dark bowling every night!

It’s an excellent recreation for couples, families, co-workers, and other group relationships.

There’s also an on-site gaming venue filled with arcade machines, fake guns, and air hockey.

If you call ahead, the staff can prepare fresh, homemade pizzas for your group as a tasty snack.

Visit the venue at 2nd Street!

Make Your Drink at Soda Sip

As its name suggests, Soda Sip stands for drinks of all kinds!

From standard sodas and unique blends to make-your-own soda, this stand lets you get creative with your drink.

They also have a secret menu containing one-of-a-kind mixes like blackberry patch, blue Hawaii, and more.

Soda Sip lets you taste creative flavors by mixing syrups and other additives into soda bases like mountain dew and coke.

They also sell an assortment of flavored popcorn, homemade cookies, and freshly brewed coffees!

If you need any refreshments, look no further than Soda Sip.

It’s a charming local shop that’s likely worth a visit.

You can locate the stand at 3rd West!

Wander Formation Springs Cave

Formation Springs Cave comprises several rock formations surrounding remarkable mineral pools.

It’s become a wonderful place to explore, offering mysterious adventures in a dark, slightly cramped cave.

Holes in the cave provide a glimpse of light into the otherwise dim space.

Entering the Formation Springs Cave presents endless sights of beautiful and diverse rock structures.

You might also spot some wildlife outside and inside the enchanting destination.

Don’t forget to bring a flashlight if you plan to stop by this cave in Soda Springs.

Other Things to Do Nearby

Relax in Lava Hot Springs

Welcome sign of Lava Hot Springs

SMPHBooks / Shutterstock.com

Lava Hot Springs is a world-famous destination about 25 minutes from Soda Springs.

With a mix of heated pools and slides, this waterpark attraction boasts top-tier facilities.

The spring water is naturally heated by geothermal energy.

It features many variations of indoor and outdoor pools, as well as diving boards, climbing walls, and children’s coves.

Lava Hot Springs offer relaxation and active recreation regardless of your age.

There’s also a gift shop filled with novelty souvenirs like t-shirts, beanies, bags, stickers, and snacks.

Cool off and make a splash in Lava Hot Springs!

It’s located at East Main, within Lava Hot Springs.

Final Thoughts

Soda Springs is home to diverse bodies of natural water.

The city also has a charming local scene filled with restaurants, entertainment venues, and parks.

Check out the best things to do in Soda Springs, Idaho!

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