Something we often hear from those adjusting to a newly-sober lifestyle is questions about how to spend their free time without alcohol. It may seem like everywhere you turn there is another happy hour or event that promotes alcohol consumption. Making the decision to lead an alcohol-free lifestyle is huge and it can feel challenging, but that doesn’t mean your weekends have to be spent feeling left out. Here are 10 fun weekend activities in the Twin Falls area that don’t involve drinking.
Chase a Waterfall
Twins Falls is home to many breathtaking and accessible waterfalls thanks to its forested mountains, rugged landscape, and deep canyons. Some of the best waterfalls in Idaho are within driving distance of Twin Falls! Perfect for a weekend hike or camping trip. Check out the famed Shoshone Falls or head off the beaten path to explore places like Star Falls in Cauldron Linn Canyon, Phantom Falls in the South Hills, or kayak the Snake River to Pillar Falls.
Visit the Camas Prairie Centennial Marsh
Camas Prairie Centennial Marsh is one of the most beautiful spots in all of Idaho. This 3,100-acre wildlife management area is the perfect destination to observe local flora and fauna. In the early summer, the Camas Lilies bloom and blanket the marsh in gorgeous purple flowers. Bring your camera to capture the stunning scenery and wildlife or a set of binoculars for birdwatching.
Give Mountain Biking a Try
Twin Falls is full of ways to explore the great outdoors. If you’re looking for a new hobby, mountain biking might be for you. There are dozens of biking trails in the Magic Valley for you to choose from and you can easily rent a bike if you don’t have one. Plus there are enormous physical and mental health benefits to getting active in nature–it’s a win-win!
Get Creative
Finding a creative hobby can also have a lot of mental health benefits and there are plenty of ways to do that in the Magic Valley. Head to Hands On Pottery Studio in downtown Twin Falls to paint your own pottery, take wheel classes, or do a canvas painting workshop. The Magic Valley Arts Council also offers a wide range of art classes and workshops for any skill level.
Check out the Wickahoney Ghost Town
Wickahoney is a remote town located in southern Owyhee County about two hours from Twin Falls. This tiny town was once a stagecoach stop used to facilitate supplies to the mines of northern Nevada. All that remains of Wickahoney today is its crumbling lava rock post office. Though almost completely in ruins, it is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and its location is one of the most remote in all of Idaho, making it a great place to explore a piece of local history up close.
Zipline at Snake River Canyon
Calling all adventure lovers… one of the best things to do in Twin Falls is zipline the Snake River Canyon. This exhilarating 4-line zipline course offers some of the most jaw-dropping views in all of Idaho. Zoom across 1,750 feet of zipline while you take in the natural beauty and learn about the area’s geology, history, and wildlife from a local tour guide.
Visit The Orpheum Theater
This historic theater first opened its doors in downtown Twin Falls in 1921 when it used to host vaudeville shows and live theater. These days you can catch a live show, musical, concert, or classic film showing at this local Idaho treasure. Don’t forget the popcorn!
Spend the Day in Rock Creek County Park
If you’re looking to spend the day in nature, but aren’t interested in hiking or kayaking, head to Rock Creek County Park. Rock Creek Park features 12 acres of outdoor entertainment and is one of the most beautiful parks in Twin Falls. This sprawling public park features playgrounds, picnic areas, volleyball courts, fishing spots, a disc golf course, and a paved walking trail that connects you straight to everything downtown has to offer.
Visit The Faulkner Planetarium
Located at The Herrett Center for Arts and Science museum, the Faulkner Planetarium is Idaho's most advanced planetarium theater. This impressive theater features a 50-foot dome with a state-of-the-art screen and sound system. Explore the galaxy and journey to the ends of the Earth with tickets to one of their many showings.
Test Your Strength at an Indoor Climbing Gym
When it’s too cold outside to explore our outdoor wonders, head indoors instead. Gemstone Climbing is an indoor climbing and fitness gym located in Twin Falls that offers climbing classes for all levels. Test your wits on the indoor climbing wall or try one of the many yoga and fitness classes they offer.
Need more inspiration? You can also check out this post for 50 more ideas of things to do that don’t involve drinking.
You can also check out the Booze-Free Fun Group in Twin Falls that hosts monthly meetups of all sorts, whether it’s an outdoors-y hiking adventure or a quiet coffee convo indoors.
If you live in the Twin Falls area and have questions about addiction or the recovery process, get in touch with one of our team members for a confidential assessment today.
