If your perfect weekend includes hot soaks, small-town charm, scenic views, and absolutely no pressure to rush, Lava Hot Springs is calling your name.
Tucked into the mountains of southeastern Idaho, this peaceful spot is known for its natural mineral pools, cozy walkable streets, lodging, and laid-back atmosphere. It’s the kind of place where you can breathe deeper, move slower, and enjoy the moment without distractions.
Whether you're looking for a romantic escape, a solo recharge, or a low-key family getaway, Lava Hot Springs offers the ideal mix of relaxation and exploration. This weekend itinerary is designed to help you make the most of your time, from Friday night check-in to one last Sunday soak before heading home.
Let’s plan your ultimate relaxing getaway.
Friday evening: Settle in and soak the stress away
Your relaxing getaway begins the moment you check into your Lava Hot Springs hotel. Whether you're arriving after a long week of work or traveling from out of town, the peaceful pace of this small Idaho town invites you to slow down, breathe deep, and let the weekend unfold.
After getting settled, the best way to shake off the day is with a soothing soak in the hot mineral pools. The natural springs — famous for their clean, odor-free water — are heated deep within the earth and filled with healing minerals that help loosen muscles and calm the mind. As the sun sets and steam rises around you, you'll feel your stress melt away with every moment.
When you’re ready for dinner, head into the walkable downtown area and grab a bite at one of the cozy local restaurants. Whether you're craving comfort food, pizza, or a simple burger and fries, you’ll find something satisfying to wrap up your evening. If you’re in the mood for something quieter, pick up takeout and enjoy a peaceful night in.
By the end of Friday night, you’ll already feel grounded, calm, and totally in weekend mode. This is exactly what a relaxing getaway is meant to be.
Saturday morning: Spa bliss and slow starts
Start your Saturday the way every relaxing getaway should — with no alarm clocks, no rush, and absolutely no pressure. Let the morning unfold at your own pace. Whether you sip coffee in your room or head to a local café for a cozy breakfast, the quiet atmosphere of Lava Hot Springs sets the tone for a peaceful day ahead.
Once you’ve had something warm and comforting to eat, it’s time to treat yourself to the ultimate indulgence: a visit to the spa. Lava Hot Springs offers a variety of massage options designed to soothe your body and calm your mind.
Take your time during your visit — this part of the weekend is all about slowing down. Put your phone on silent, breathe deeply, and let the warmth of the water and the care of skilled hands work their magic.
Whether you’re traveling solo, with a partner, or with friends, a relaxing spa morning in Lava Hot Springs is the perfect way to begin your day.
Saturday afternoon: Explore and indulge
After a morning of pure relaxation, it’s time to stretch your legs and enjoy everything Lava Hot Springs has to offer.
Start with a laid-back lunch at one of the town’s local gems — grab a fresh sandwich, a classic burger, or something sweet and savory from a café with patio seating. There’s no rush, so find a spot where you can enjoy the small-town charm and maybe even chat with a few friendly locals.
Once you’re recharged, spend the afternoon exploring. Lava Hot Springs is known for its walkable downtown full of quirky shops, antique stores, and gift boutiques. It’s the perfect place to pick up souvenirs, hand-poured candles, or locally made bath products to take a bit of your relaxing getaway home with you.
If you're in the mood for more activity, take a scenic walk along the Portneuf River Trail or explore one of the nearby hillsides for light hiking and beautiful views.
In warmer months, tubing down the river is a must-do experience — bouncy, splashy fun that’s equal parts adventure and laughter. Traveling with kids or feeling playful? Stop by the Olympic Swimming Complex for high dives, slides, and splash zones.
Prefer something quieter? Take a short drive to nearby attractions like Soda Springs, known for its natural geyser, or the Chesterfield Historic Townsite for a glimpse of Idaho’s pioneer past.
Whether you’re exploring by foot, float, or car, Saturday afternoon is the perfect time to indulge in local flavor and make a few fun memories along the way.
Saturday evening: Food, fun, and fresh air
As the sun dips behind the hills, Saturday evening in Lava Hot Springs invites you to slow down once again — but this time with a little more flavor and fun. After a day of exploring, it’s the perfect moment to treat yourself to a delicious dinner.
Choose from cozy steakhouses, friendly pizzerias, or locally loved diners serving up hearty Idaho classics. Many spots are walkable from your hotel, so you can take your time, enjoy the cool evening air, and soak up the small-town charm.
After dinner, take a casual stroll through town. The sidewalks are quiet, the stars are bright, and the pace is unhurried. It’s a great chance to wind down without feeling rushed. If you're still craving a bit of relaxation, consider a second soak in the hot pools.
At night, the atmosphere is calm and steamy, with fewer crowds and a peaceful, almost magical feel. Bring a towel, wear cozy layers, and let the warm water wrap up your day the same way it started — slow, soothing, and stress-free.
Whether you spend the evening laughing over dinner or soaking under the stars, Saturday night in Lava Hot Springs is all about savoring the moment. You’ve earned it.
Sunday morning: One last soak before heading home
Sunday mornings in Lava Hot Springs are meant to be gentle. No need to rush. Sleep in a little, stretch slowly, and ease into your final day with something warm to drink and a light breakfast — either from your hotel or a favorite café you discovered the day before.
Before packing up and checking out, give yourself the gift of one last soak. Whether you return to the public hot pools or enjoy the mineral pool at your hotel, this final dip is the perfect way to let your body fully unwind before the trip home.
The water feels especially calming in the morning air, and the quiet atmosphere gives you space to reflect, breathe, and soak up the last moments of your relaxing getaway.
Take your time getting ready. If you'd like, stroll through town once more, grab a coffee or a cinnamon roll for the road, and leave feeling lighter than when you arrived.
Lava Hot Springs has a way of sticking with you, and after a peaceful weekend, you’ll be planning your return before you even pull out of town.
Make it your own: Tips for customizing your getaway
The beauty of a weekend in Lava Hot Springs is that it fits whatever pace or style of trip you’re looking for. Whether you want to unwind, explore, connect, or all of the above, you can tailor your getaway to match your vibe.
Planning a romantic retreat?
Book a couples massage, share a quiet dinner downtown, and soak under the stars for a peaceful, cozy escape. Add a bottle of wine, a foot scrub, or a surprise gift shop find to make it even more special.
Traveling solo?
Set your own schedule and move at your own pace. Sleep in, take your time in the spa, and enjoy moments of quiet along the river trail or in the mineral pools. Bring a book, journal, or camera and let the calm of the town refresh your mind.
Bringing the whole family?
Look for kid-friendly food stops, make time for the Olympic swimming complex, and try tubing or the splash pad in the warmer months. To keep things simple, pick a hotel with spacious rooms and easy access to town.
Love a little adventure?
Hike the hills, explore nearby Soda Springs, or spend your weekend river tubing, swimming, and taking walking tours.
No matter how you like to travel, the key is planning enough to make the most of your time, without overpacking your itinerary. Lava Hot Springs has a way of making you feel right at home, whether you’re here to explore or exhale.
Stay at The Lava Hotel
A weekend in Lava Hot Springs is more than a getaway — it’s a reset. From hot soaks and spa treatments to riverside strolls and quiet dinners, every moment invites you to slow down and reconnect with what matters most.
Whether you're traveling alone, with a partner, or bringing the whole family, this cozy mountain town makes it easy to relax, recharge, and enjoy the simple things.
Now's the time to make it real. Book your stay, plan your soak, and give yourself a break that actually feels like one. Lava Hot Springs is ready when you are — and your perfect weekend starts here.