The Ultimate Guide to Planning a Family Reunion in Idaho

If your family’s been talking about “getting everyone together” but can’t decide where to meet, Idaho might be the answer.

With its scenic landscapes, central location in the Northwest, and a mix of cozy towns and outdoor adventures, Idaho is an ideal place for families of all sizes to reconnect. It’s accessible, affordable, and full of opportunities to slow down and make real memories, not just small talk in a hotel lobby.

From mountain cabins to historic mansions, Idaho offers gathering spots that feel personal, not generic. You can spend the day outdoors, cook big meals together, and sit by the fire at night, the kind of trip that feels less like a vacation and more like a reset.

One of the hardest parts of family reunion planning is finding a destination that’s convenient for everyone. Idaho checks that box beautifully.

Families coming from Utah, Montana, Washington, or Oregon can all meet in the middle, often within a day’s drive. Pocatello, located in Southeast Idaho, makes an especially good home base. It’s known as the “Gateway to the Northwest,” offering easy access from I-15 and plenty of local charm.

If your family’s traveling from multiple states, meeting here can save on airfare, rental cars, and planning stress. Plus, it’s a smaller city, meaning more peace, fewer crowds, and more authentic experiences.

Your lodging sets the tone for the entire reunion. Idaho has plenty of options, depending on your family’s size and style.

Vacation Homes & Large Rentals

Perfect for families who want to stay under one roof. These homes often have full kitchens, big dining areas, and outdoor space for games or barbecues. You’ll save money compared to booking multiple hotel rooms, and the atmosphere feels more personal.

Cabins or Lodges

If your family loves the outdoors, consider a rustic mountain cabin or lakeside lodge. You’ll get peace, scenery, and plenty of time away from screens. Just make sure to plan early; these books fly fast during summer.

Hotels or Resorts

These work well for smaller reunions or families that prefer a little extra service and convenience. However, they often lack the sense of “togetherness” that vacation homes offer.

The best family reunions aren’t over-planned. You want structure, but not a schedule so tight that it feels like work. Aim for a mix of activities, free time, and shared meals.

Here’s a simple sample structure that works well:

Day 1: Arrival and casual dinner (tacos, pizza, or takeout).

Day 2: Morning adventure (hike or museum), free afternoon, group dinner.

Day 3: Relaxed brunch, family photo, farewells.

Avoid back-to-back outings. Instead, let people choose what they want,  hiking for some, shopping or resting for others. This keeps everyone happy and energized.

For Nature Lovers

Lava Hot Springs - Soak in natural mineral pools and let the kids splash in the water park.

Shoshone Falls - Called “The Niagara of the West,” it’s a must-see if you’re near southern Idaho.

City Creek Trails - Great for hiking, biking, and taking in the mountain views.

For Relaxed Explorers

Downtown Pocatello - Charming local shops, art galleries, and cafés perfect for morning coffee runs.

Idaho Museum of Natural History - Interactive exhibits for kids and history lovers alike.

Zoo Idaho - A small but fun zoo that’s easy for multigenerational groups.

For Foodies & Families

Idaho’s food scene is underrated, from farm-to-table spots to family diners. Many families also love visiting local farmers’ markets to grab fresh produce for their reunion meals.

If there’s one thing every family agrees on, it’s food. Shared meals create moments that everyone remembers.

Consider doing potluck-style dinners or rotating cooking teams. Assign each family a meal, one does breakfast, another lunch, and another dinner. This keeps it fun and fair.

You can also hire a local caterer for one big dinner, maybe on the final night, to let everyone relax and enjoy. Outdoor barbecues, taco bars, and breakfast buffets all work well for large groups.

No family reunion is complete without a few great photos. Idaho’s natural scenery and historic architecture make for stunning backdrops.

Hire a local photographer for an hour or two, or have one family member set up a tripod and timer. You’ll want a few big group shots, but don’t forget the candid moments too, cousins laughing, parents cooking, kids playing in the yard.

Create a shared digital album so everyone can add their favorites afterward.

When it comes time to pick your reunion headquarters, McKinley Mansion is one of Idaho’s most unique large-group stays.

Located in Pocatello, this historic church building blends elegance and comfort, 70 beds, multiple living spaces, and a full kitchen big enough for everyone to gather around. Families love that it feels like home, not a rental.

Because of its size and central location, McKinley Mansion is perfect for:

• Multi-generational reunions

• Holiday gatherings

• Summer family getaways

And since it’s close to downtown Pocatello, you’ll have easy access to groceries, restaurants, and day-trip adventures.

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