Being a college student in the summertime is the perfect opportunity to have some fun and try new things. Having a break from classes and the usual routine of life can be thrilling. However, being in an unfamiliar town away from home can feel frustrating or boring if you aren’t sure how to spend your time.
Many small college towns may seem uneventful initially, and Rexburg, home of BYU-Idaho, is no exception. Students come from around the world to receive an education, but many don’t quite know what to do with their downtime.
Luckily, there are many fun and exciting things to do in Rexburg if you know where to look. There is something for everyone, from beautiful nature scenes to popular dining experiences and activities.
Idaho is a beautiful state that has so much to offer. At first glance, it may seem to be nothing more than extensive farmland. However, many hikes near Rexburg demonstrate just how picturesque Idaho can be.
One popular spot is “R” Mountain. This landmark is not actually a mountain but a dormant volcano from thousands of years ago. “R” Mountain, or The Menan Butte, is a short but moderately difficult hiking trail. At just below three miles, this hike has an elevation gain of about 650 feet. From the top of the mountain, you can see a beautiful view of the valley and the Snake River, and you may even want to bring a sack lunch to each while you enjoy the view.
If you are looking for a leisurely nature walk rather than a hike, try the Cress Creek Nature Trail. It is about 15 miles outside of Rexburg but offers a serene trail through grasslands and juniper slopes, ending at a creek. The trail is 1.25 miles long and wheelchair-accessible for the first half mile.
One other hiking spot worth mentioning is the Darby Wind Caves. This location is a little further away from Rexburg, about an hour's drive to the trailhead. However, this is widely regarded as a worthwhile experience. It is a relatively tricky trail, and it is recommended for more experienced hikers. The views at the trail's end overlook massive caves in the side of the mountains.
Another great opportunity in Rexburg is to take advantage of local events.
Throughout the year, a wide array of events take place in Rexburg. One of these is the Rexburg Farmers Market. From May to September every year, local vendors come together to sell their goods. Everything from fresh fruits and veggies to home-baked goods are available for purchase. Check out the Rexburg Famers Market Instagram page or website for more details.
Annual Local Rodeos are also held in Rexburg. These events can be a fun way to experience the culture in Idaho. Attending a Rodeo is a unique experience where you can watch events such as barrel racing, mutton busting, bull riding, and more.
Apart from local rodeos, the Eastern Idaho State Fair happens every September and involves rodeo events, fair rides and games, food trucks, and so much more.
Pay attention to any seasonal activities that may be going on; you don’t want to miss anything.
BYU-Idaho’s campus has many fun activities that can help you pass the time, meet new people, and get involved in the community. There are many options to choose from, including:
Visit the
BYU-Idaho Events page for a complete list of activities and times.
One of the many great things about Rexburg is the beautiful parks. One of the most popular is Porter Park, just beside the campus. This park is ideal for walking, relaxing in a hammock, or playing sports.
As with any city, sometimes the best fun is the kind you can create. Consider some of these local, low-budget activities, which may lead you to a new hobby or skill.
Some examples include:
Participating in water-related activities can also be fun. You might try:
One of the most underutilized things in Rexburg is the student housing amenities. Many apartment complexes offer perks to their residents that allow you to have a good time with your friends at a low cost.
At
Northpoint, we’ve thoughtfully incorporated amenities that reflect the needs and wishes of our residents. Whether you’d like to have a barbeque with your friends, take a dip in the hot tub, or watch a film on the projector as you sit next to the fire, there are plenty of options for entertainment. We offer:
There are also many unique food options in Rexburg from which to pick. Instead of going to your average eateries, consider trying something new. Here are just a few of the many options:
Among all the previously mentioned activities, many sports are offered in Rexburg. Specifically for students, the BYU-Idaho campus is a great place to play and practice sports.
Since the campus has no official sports teams, students play together in
intramural teams all year long. These teams are low-cost and an easy way to meet new people with similar interests. Being active is also a great way to stay physically and mentally healthy. If you don’t feel like playing on an organized team, consider taking advantage of all the equipment the campus has to offer on your own time.
Multiple well-kept basketball courts are used daily in the BYU-Idaho Center (also known as the I Center). Tennis and pickleball courts are located just west of the campus, while soccer and baseball fields are to the north. Students come together to play impromptu games of basketball, volleyball, soccer, and more. Equipment rental is free with your student ID.
People also gather off-campus to play pick-up sports games at local parks.
In addition to all the activities mentioned above, there are a few spots worth noting:
The St. Anthony’s Sand Dunes are beautiful rolling hills of sand where you can go sand sledding, camping, or dirt biking. They are also a great place to go stargazing, as they are located at the base of the mountain range without any nearby cities, about a 20-minute drive from Rexburg. Firepits are located at the far end of the dunes, which can be a great spot to hang out with friends.
Yellowstone Bear World is another excellent entertainment option because of its uniqueness. This drive-through exhibit displays a range of local animals, from large elk and buffalo to grizzly and black bears. This experience is one you won’t ever forget.
Take a walk through Rick’s Gardens and enjoy the landscaping around the Rexburg Temple.
There are plenty of ways to fill your time this summer in Rexburg. From campus events and beautiful hikes to delicious restaurants and local experiences, there will never be a dull moment.
If you’re looking for student housing in Rexburg this summer,
contact Northpoint today and start taking advantage of all Rexburg has to offer.