Idaho Falls
As we were nearing the end of our trip, we took Day 7 as a day to sleep in. We had put in some time to research and ask locals about the best breakfast spot. So, once we were dressed, ready, and loaded we walked to breakfast.
Breakfast was absolutely delicious. We chose Smitty's Pancake and Steak House and it did not disappoint. April and I shared potato pancakes and the German pancakes. Avery got her usual....a waffle.
The German pancake was HUGE!!
We then made our way to the Museum of Idaho. Wikipedia describes it as: The Museum of Idaho is a history and science museum in downtown Idaho Falls, Idaho. The museum features exhibits, collections, and programs focused on the social and environmental history of Idaho and the Intermountain West, as well as prominent traveling exhibits on a variety of subjects.
We really enjoyed our visit here. While it is not a huge museum, we were really surprised of the vastness of the artifacts and displays. The docents were especially knowledgable and helpful.
After the museum, we stopped in a few outdoor and fly fishing stores. You can really tell that this community is big in outdoor activities by the stores they have available. We spent some time walking in the cute "Falls" area as we made our way back to our hotel to get the car.
We wanted to make 2 stops on our way out of town. The first was to see the Church of Latter Day Saints. While we aren't Mormon, the Church has a significant role in the city so we wanted to see it for the architecture and beauty.
Our final stop before getting on the road was for bubble tea. This is one thing we like to try when we are visiting new places. YUM!
As we made our way out of Idaho Falls and the state, we traveled the same route that brought us in. It was still just as beautiful. We had a long drive ahead of us....6 hours or so.
Our stop for the night was Rawlins, WY. If you've never traveled I-80 through Wyoming, you're not really missing much. I would add it to one of the most boring drives in America. The only good thing is that the speed limit is 70 and 80 mph.
We arrived in Rawlins to stay at the Fairfield Inn. After 2 long days of driving, we were looking forward to the hot tub. Unfortunately, it was not in service (nor was the pool). Once we settled in and prepared for bed, there was an awful burning smell. We first thought our hotel was on fire....but then realized the smell was coming from our air conditioning unit. We called down to report it and were told our ac was fine and that this smell happens when the "refinery flares". With no concept, we had to look it up......Sinclair Oil Refinery was just a few miles down the road. So, it made sense but the smell was a bit overwhelming.
Once we awoke (Day 9), we went to the Starbucks across the street and then started making our way back to Denver. We made a stop in Fort Collins for lunch. The Silver Grill Cafe was delicious and their cinnamon rolls are to die for!!
We walked into a few shops in downtown Fort Collins and bought a couple of prizes for trip trivia. We loved how friendly and clean the city was....definitely will have to revisit when we are back in the area.
From their we headed to the airport. Our flight had a 3 hour delay which is never fun. We arrived back at home around 1:00am.
The trip was amazing!! So many highlights!
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