Discover the Best Things to Do in Lewiston: From Outdoor Adventures to Historic Landmarks
Located in northern Idaho, Lewiston is a charming city that offers visitors a wide range of things to see and do. This vibrant city has something for everyone with its beautiful natural surroundings, rich history, and vibrant cultural scene.
One of the highlights of Lewiston is its beautiful natural surroundings. The city is nestled amid rolling hills, the picturesque Snake and Clearwater rivers, and numerous parks and nature reserves.
Visitors can explore the trails of Hells Gate State Park, go fishing or kayaking on the rivers, or relax and enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Lewiston is also rich in history, with several museums and historic sites that offer a glimpse into the area’s past. In addition, visitors can explore the Lewis-Clark Discovery Center, dedicated to the famous explorers who passed through the area, or visit the Nez Perce County Historical Society, which showcases the region’s rich cultural heritage.
The city is also home to several historic landmarks, including the beautiful Agnes M. Tamblyn House, Gaylord Thompson House, and the Vollmer Great Bargain Store, which has been converted into the Lewis-Clark State College Center for Arts & History.
| Lewiston, Idaho | |
|---|---|
| Location | North Central Idaho |
| County | Nez Perce County |
| Established year | 1861 |
| Population (2020) | 34,203 |
| City Area | 18.11 square miles (46.89 km²) |
| Zip code(s) | 83501 |
| Area code(s) | 208 |
| Mayor | Dan G. Johnson |
| Nickname | L-Town, River City |
| Famous | Gateway to Hells Canyon National Recreation Area, annual Dogwood Festival |
| City hall website | https://www.cityoflewiston.org/ |
| Google map link | https://www.google.com/maps/place/Lewiston,+ID+83501/ |
Hells Gate State Park
Hells Gate State Park is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts in Lewiston, Idaho. Situated on the Snake River, the park covers 960 acres of land and water, offering a variety of recreational activities for visitors.
Whether you want to fish, hike, boat, or relax and enjoy the park’s natural beauty, there’s something for everyone to enjoy at Hells Gate.
One of the park’s main attractions is the Hells Gate Marina, which provides access to the Snake River for boating, fishing, and other water-based activities. The marina has over 100 boat slips, a boat launch, and a fishing dock, making it an ideal spot for anglers to try their luck.
In addition, the park has several picnic areas, hiking trails, a playground, an RV park, and a campground for visitors who want to spend the night.
The park is also home to many historic sites, including the Lewis and Clark Discovery Center, which tells the story of famous explorers and their journey through the region.
Locomotive Park
Locomotive Park is a unique public park located in the heart of downtown Lewiston, Idaho. The park is named after a historic locomotive on display at the park, which serves as a tribute to the role that trains played in the city’s development.
Visitors can explore the locomotive, learn about its history, and enjoy the park’s other amenities.
In addition to the locomotive, Locomotive Park features a variety of other attractions, including a playground, a picnic area, and a water feature that’s perfect for cooling off on hot summer days.
The park also hosts several events throughout the year, including the annual “Hot August Nights” car show, which features classic cars, live music, and food vendors.
One of the unique features of Locomotive Park is its location. Situated near the bank of the Clearwater River, the park offers stunning views of the water and the surrounding hills.
Visitors can stroll along the riverfront trail, which winds through the park and connects to other trails. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or just looking for a fun day out with the family, Locomotive Park is a must-visit destination in Lewiston, Idaho.
Nez Perce County Historical Society
The Nez Perce County Historical Society is a museum dedicated to preserving and sharing the history of Lewiston and the surrounding region. The museum is located in downtown Lewiston and features many exhibits on topics such as the Lewis and Clark expedition, the Nez Perce people, and the fur trade.
The museum provides a fascinating glimpse into the area’s rich and complex past with its collection of artifacts, photographs, and documents.
One of the most exciting exhibits at the museum is the “Sacajawea Legacy” exhibit, which tells the story of the Shoshone woman who played a vital role in the Lewis and Clark expedition.
Visitors can learn about Sacajawea’s life and legacy and view artifacts related to her and the expedition. The museum also features several exhibits on the fur trade, which played an essential role in the region’s early history.
In addition to its exhibits, the Nez Perce County Historical Society offers a variety of educational programs and events throughout the year. These include lectures, workshops, and special events, such as the annual “Art Under the Elms” festival, which brings together artists and craftspeople from around the region.
Lewis-Clark State College Center for Arts & History
The Lewis-Clark State College Center for Arts & History is an art museum in Lewiston, Idaho. The museum is housed in a historic building that was once the Vollmer family home, and it features a variety of exhibits on topics such as local history, regional art, and contemporary culture.
With its focus on both art and history, the museum provides a fascinating window into the culture and heritage of the Lewis-Clark Valley.
One of the most popular exhibits at the museum is the “Brautigan Library,” named after the counterculture writer Richard Brautigan. The library features a collection of unpublished manuscripts, poems, and other works of literature that writers have submitted from around the world.
Visitors can browse the shelves and read the works arranged according to the Dewey Decimal System.
In addition to its exhibits, the Lewis-Clark State College Center for Arts & History also offers a variety of educational programs and events, including lectures, workshops, and art classes.
These programs are designed to engage the community and foster a deeper appreciation for art and history.
Lewis & Clark Discovery Center
The Lewis & Clark Discovery Center is a museum in Lewiston, Idaho, dedicated to the history of the Lewis and Clark expedition. The museum is located along the banks of the Clearwater River, which was a significant landmark on the explorers’ journey.
With its interactive exhibits and hands-on displays, the museum provides a fascinating look at the challenges and triumphs of the expedition.
One of the most exciting exhibits at the Lewis & Clark Discovery Center is the replica of the expedition’s dugout canoe. Visitors can climb inside the canoe and imagine what it must have been like to travel down the river in such a small vessel.
The museum also features exhibits on the Native American tribes that the expedition encountered, as well as displays on flora and fauna of the region.
In addition to its exhibits, the Lewis & Clark Discovery Center offers a variety of educational programs and events for visitors of all ages. These include lectures, workshops, and guided tours of the museum and surrounding area.