Beat the Sub-Zero Blues: Best Indoor Activities in Ammon & IF

 



Beat the Sub-Zero Blues: Best Indoor Activities in Ammon & IF

We’ve all been there. It’s January 15th, the wind chill is -10°F, and your weather app just says "Unhealthy Air Quality." The kids are bouncing off the walls, and if you have to watch one more movie, you might scream.

When it is physically painful to be outside, you need a backup plan.

Luckily, Ammon and Idaho Falls have stepped up their indoor game in recent years. Whether you need to burn off toddler energy or find a date night that doesn’t require a parka, here are the best warm, indoor escapes in town.

1. The Artitorium on Broadway

Best for: Creative kids and tech-lovers.

Located in downtown Idaho Falls, the Artitorium is not your standard quiet art gallery. It is a noise-friendly, touch-everything interactive space. The main attraction is the "digital" aspect—kids can create virtual art on massive screens, animate their own drawings, and make music in the recording booth.

Why it saves the day: It’s engaging enough to keep kids occupied for hours, but low-stress for parents.

  • Pro Tip: Check their calendar for "Creator’s Club" or specific art classes if you want a more structured activity.

2. The East Idaho Aquarium

Best for: Pretending you are on a tropical vacation.

When the Snake River is frozen solid, the East Idaho Aquarium offers the humidity we all desperately crave in January. Walking into the main exhibit feels like stepping into a different climate zone.

The aquarium is incredibly hands-on. You can:

  • Feed the stingrays (fair warning: they will splash you!).

  • Let "Doctor Fish" nibble your fingers (a weird but fun sensation).

  • Hold a starfish or interact with the birds.

Why it saves the day: The warm, humid air and the sight of tropical fish are a genuine mood booster during the greyest month of the year.

3. Burn Energy at Trampoline Parks

Best for: Kids who are literally climbing the furniture.

When the sledding hills are too cold or icy, you need a padded room where running full speed is encouraged. We have two major spots to choose from:

  • Blast Off! (Ammon): Located near the grandstand, this spot is a favorite for local families.

  • iJump (Idaho Falls): Features a massive open jump area, dodgeball courts, and a foam pit.

Why it saves the day: 90 minutes here guarantees a quiet ride home and an early bedtime. It is the ultimate cure for cabin fever.

4. Museum of Idaho

Best for: Curious minds and history buffs.

The Museum of Idaho is the crown jewel of downtown culture. While their rotating traveling exhibits are always a huge draw (check their website to see what’s currently installed), their permanent "Way Out West" exhibit is world-class.

Walk through a recreation of Old Idaho Falls, see massive mammoth skeletons, and let the kids play in the discovery room.

  • Current Highlight: Look for the "Signs of the Times" exhibit, which features vintage neon signs from local history—it’s a colorful, nostalgic walk down memory lane.

5. Axe Throwing

Best for: Adults who need to let off some steam.

Winter driving stress got you down? Throwing a sharp object at a wooden target is surprisingly therapeutic.

Local spots like On Target Axe Throwing (and other emerging venues in the area) offer a safe, controlled environment to learn the sport. It’s perfect for a double date or a group outing where you want to do something active but refuse to wear snow pants.

Why it saves the day: It’s warm, competitive, and usually involves snacks or drinks.