Tired of going to the expensive and traditional water park this summer? Take a trip to Lava Hot Springs in Idaho. This unique GoWhee App recommendation is for kids and adults. Experience an affordable water complex with naturally heated hot springs, a giant water park, and river adventures, all in one spot. This destination is perfect for outdoorsy families, with kids 1+ years old, and on a budget!
The Hot Springs pools are state-run and are putting this little Midwest town on the map all year long. It offers therapeutic mineral hot springs for all ages in a pretty, natural, and relaxing setting.
What we love is that this little town in Idaho still keeps its charm while offering a good selection of affordable outdoor activities for families.
Lava Hot Springs is also unique because of its surroundings. The mountainous valley views, combined with the convenience of hotels and food options nearby, give the whole area resort vibes without the high prices. The lava complex itself has day passes that start at $18 for adults and give you access to the hot pools and the other swimming areas.
Lava Hot Springs is where Olympic pool and water slides coexist! Lava offers a super wide range of activities for the entire family. You can include indoor pools, outdoor natural pools (always heated at a minimum of 102F), and water slides all in one day.
For younger kids, check out the Portneuf Kiddie Cove, the little indoor splash pool is great for toddlers. If you have teens who need things to do, too, send them to the diving board.
Parents do some laps in the Olympic pool or read a book in one of the cabanas for rent.
The Home Hotel is within walking distance of the hot springs and has a good number of family rooms. Some rooms can sleep up to 6, some have a bathtub and a kitchenette, and they even have a small cottage if you want something independent.
The home hotel is more of a motel-style accommodation, but the rooms are updated, and the prices start at $100/night, so it is a great budget-friendly option for families.
You will find many other hotel options for different budgets right in town. But GoWhee recommends looking into glamping with kids to create new memories. Check out the Bristol Cabins Resort to book one of their cute little cabins, glamping tents, or regular tent spots.
Right in town, the Portneuf River has plenty of outdoor fun. Families with older children can rent tubes for a nice ride on the river through town. It’s a great alternative when the pools are busy or when your crew needs a break from chlorinated fun. The tubes cost an average of $7, and some rental companies have tubes that hold 4 people.
For something less active and free (minus the mandatory license), you can go fishing on the Portneuf River.
If your kids are at least 3 years old and like more adrenaline, check out the Lava Zipline. They also have a rope course, and they pick you up right in town with an army truck. Tickets are $68, but the adventure will last you over 3 hours.
Lava Hot Springs has local city parks, but GoWhee parents recommend checking out the sunken gardens near the hot springs. The entry is completely FREE.
Morning: Head over to the Lava Hot Springs complex and enjoy a couple of hours in the water.
Lunch: Have a picnic at the downtown park to see people launching their tubes.
Afternoon: Walk around in the sunken gardens and grab a treat at Nectar Gelato & Espresso in town as a reward. If kids are not too exhausted, you can easily rent the tubes nearby.
Evening: Grab dinner at Eruption Brewery, and make sure you order the tableside s’mores for the kid
Plan your visit to the Pirate Ship Playground at the Diana Memorial Playground, one of Kensington Gardens’ top family attractions. Explore play sculptures, a sensory trail, and the iconic wooden pirate ship.Plan your visit to the Pirate Ship Playground at the Diana Memorial Playground, one of Kensington Gardens’ top family attractions. Explore play sculptures, a sensory trail, and the iconic wooden pirate ship.
Seasoned traveling parents from GoWhee, share their favorite tips to plan a family vacation on a budget, without cutting down on fun experiences.
Experience the unique set up at the Victoria Bug Zoo in downtown Victoria, BC. Recommended for it’s educational and kid-friendly exhibits.
Discover the top hacks for road trips to keep your little ones entertained and happy on the go.
Imagine tasting champagne in the Loire Valley, while your kids play in a beautiful playroom. Now, you can make this reality we’ve got all the info.
Donut Falls Trail is one of Utah’s popular family hikes, with a unique waterfall finale. We cover everything parents need to know, from trail tips to kid-friendly advice.
The only global travel app designed for family travel, using crowd sourced data from parents around the world.
Copyrights@2024 Gowhee Technologies. All Rights Reserved.
Preview
“All the insiders’ tips the travel industry doesn’t want you to know!”
