Interesting Facts About Idaho

These interesting facts about Idaho for kids include that many precious gems are found in the state, one-third of all potatoes in the US come from here, and it’s home to the longest gondola ride in the world. Find some fun crafts, activities, and books for each state that will engage kids of all ages.

This is part of the 50 states unit study as we travel around America, learning about the history of each state. Check out these Idaho facts for kids below!

A map of the United States highlights Idaho, featuring intriguing insights on 3BoysandaDog.com. Below, a scenic landscape unfolds with yellow flowers, green grass, and trees beneath a partly cloudy sky. Dive into interesting facts about Idaho!.

Table of Contents

5 Interesting Facts about Idaho

Idaho proudly sits in the northwest region of the United States. With its stunning mountainous landscapes, it shares borders with six other states, making it a key part of this diverse area.

The capital city, Boise, serves as the vibrant heart of Idaho, which ranks as the 39th most populated state in the US.

Idaho proudly achieved statehood in July 1890 and embraces the affectionate title of The Gem State, showcasing its rich natural resources and stunning scenic beauty.

Fact One: The state naturally harbors 72 types of precious gems.

There are many places you can find precious gems in the state of Idaho. You can even dig for star garnets in Emerald Creek Garnet Area with a permit. You can buy uncut, rough, or polished gems all over the state.

Kids will love these fun gem activities to help them learn more about this natural resource:

Fact Two: One-third of all the potatoes in the United States are grown in Idaho

Idaho is known for being one of the largest producers of potatoes in the United States. You can buy potato candy, souvenirs, and decorations in shops all over the state. Did you also know that Idaho is the lentil capital of the world and has one of the largest hop farms in the US?!

Here are some fun crafts and activities for your kids to use to learn about potatoes:

Shop My Homeschool Room:

The following homeschool picks of mine can be found on Etsy. Simply click the image that interests you – yes, they do contain affiliate links.

A framed sign titled Homeschool Rules rests on a wooden surface beside a vase of flowers. The rules—comfy clothes, ask questions, read on the couch, and have fun—are topped with green leaf illustrations. Perfect for bright spaces where you might use free solar system printables to spark curiosity.

A wooden caddy, showcasing an array of colored crayons, features a sturdy metal handle. Text highlights Best Seller!, NEW: 33% more storage, and Dark Walnut stain shown. With Made in the USA pride, it rests on a white textured surface. Free Solar System Printables included!.

Check out our Homeschool Planner Bundle, perfect for any homeschool room! With multiple pages, including daily and weekly plans, a 2024 calendar, field trip report, year overview, and attendance log. Text reads Newly Updated Based on Feedback and 90 Pages. Shop now to enhance your homeschool journey!.

Fact Three: The longest gondola in North America

The Silver Mountain Resort in Kellogg is home to the longest gondola ride in North America. It’s 3.1 miles long and goes from the base of Kellogg mountain to the Mountain House where you can eat, listen to music, and enjoy the mountain top scenery.

Would you like to save this?

We'll email this post to you, so you can come back to it later! You'll also get regular recipes & printables to your inbox!

Fact Four: Gold mining began in the 1860s

Idaho experienced a gold boom in the Boise Basin and Idaho City was settled in 1862. It became one of the biggest sources of wealth for the state and helped the state grow.

Here are some fun crafts and activities for your kids to have some fun with gold:

Fact Five: The state fruit is the Huckleberry

Huckleberries are picked from bushes in the mountains of Idaho and are put in pies, ice cream, syrups, sauces, marinades, candy, and more. They are small and round and look similar to blueberries. You can buy huckleberries and many other fruits at local farmer’s stands and markets during the summer and fall.

Here are some fun fruit crafts and activities for your kids to enjoy: