Top 10 Things to Do in Burley

This charming small town is big on outdoor activities — everything from river boating and bass fishing to some of the most popular athletic challenges in the state. There’s so much to do that it’s hard to know where to start! We’ve rounded up 10 longtime favorites for you.

1. Boat the lake-like waters of the Snake River.

In Burley, the Snake River is wide and placid, 26 miles of water perfect for boating and water skiing. Want to show off your wakeboard skills? Check out the annual Wake In the Snake competition in July.

2. Golf by the river.

The River’s Edge Golf Course features 18 holes of lush greens next to the Snake River Marina. This municipal course has affordable rates, too: Private instruction with a PGA pro is only $45.

3. Take in some history.

The Cassia County Historical Museum is a treasure trove of the area’s past, from the Oregon Trail and pioneer homesteads back to the Native Americans who called the land home for thousands of years.

4. Head to a park made for kids.

What does a park made for kids by kids look like? Find out at Storybook Park. For two years, two moms raised money for the park, which was designed with the input of local school children. It’s now a super popular attraction with activities for the whole family.

5. Dine by the river.

Two Burley restaurants put Idaho cuisine on the menu and a spectacular view at your feet. Morey’s Steakhouse is a classic steak, seafood, and pasta restaurant that proclaims it serves the “best steak on the Snake.” They’ve expanded their patio area, so there’s lots of room to spread out and sit riverside. The Snake River Queen is an old-fashioned paddlewheel boat that has been converted into a steak-and-seafood restaurant. If the weather takes a turn, head inside to the Dry Dock, its sister restaurant.

6. Run like a Spud.

With nearly 2,000 participants, the annual Spudman Triathlon is one of the largest unbranded triathlons in the country. The 1.5 km downstream swim makes it ideal for beginning triathletes, but the 40 km looping bike course provides enough challenge for experienced racers.

7. Get some culture at King Fine Arts Center.

This center opened in 1999 and has attracted hundreds of thousands of attendees to Burley with a steady stream of arts and entertainment. The center hosts productions year-round; for the latest, check out the Southern Idaho Tourism calendar.

8. Satisfy your need for speed.

The legendary Idaho Regatta is Idaho’s fastest speed boat race, a Daytona 500 of jet boats right on the Snake. The event is held annually at the end of June. See what a day at the races is like here.

9. Catch a bass.

Burley is home to the Dry Creek Outfitters Open Bass Tournament for a reason: There is excellent bass big- and small-mouth fishing here all year long. Check out the Milner Stretch of the Snake for great action.

10. Experience cultures from around the world.

The Magic Valley Folk Festival features song, dance, and traditional dress from hundreds of performers from throughout the world. It’s non-stop action over six days in July, starting with a parade and ending with a gala performance.

Bonus! Gateway to adventure.

Burley is just a short drive away from popular recreation destinations: The City of Rocks, Pomerelle Mountain Resort, and the Albion Mountains. Plan to stay a little longer to see as much of the area as possible — its beauty offers plenty of surprises and opportunities for adventure.