• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to footer

Karen Liester Real Estate

STAY + WANDER

  • SELLING
    • Instant Home Value
  • BUYING
    • Property Search
    • Communities
      • Idaho Falls
      • Rigby
      • Ammon
  • Local Events
  • Blog
  • Contact Me
    • Reviews
  • Home

Restaurants

Spring Break in Idaho: The Ultimate Guide 2020

March 3, 2020 by Karen Liester Leave a Comment

Whether you are a sun seeker every Spring Break, a keep-your-head-down and try to keep the kiddos engaged for the week, or the weekly warrior that sees the time off school as the perfect excuse to unwind and reset, I’m going to show you that there are plenty of places right here in Idaho that are worthy of your Spring Break bucket list!

Growing up in a family that moved around a lot-my parents made it a priority to maximize our weekends no matter where we were! We spent our weekends riding bikes to new restaurants, hiking new trails, and camping with friends all summer long. Winter breaks were spent making the trek from our home in Albuquerque to Idaho Falls to visit family. Along the way, my parents always packed the lengthy road trip with stops at national monuments, ancient ruins, hidden waterfalls, and all of the classic American road trip destinations!

No matter what you have planned, you might want to consider adding any one of these amazing Idaho hotspots to your list of must-see places really soon. If I’m being honest, I am dying to set up shop in some beach shack , and if I don’t feel sand between my toes, I’m concerned it may become a medical emergency. However, I would consider anyone of these places a fierce competition for a crowded beach anywhere. My idea of the ideal break from winter has never looked anything like what you’d see on MTV anyway!

So, without further adieu….


Top places to visit for Spring Break-right here in Idaho!

#1. Shoshone Falls

LOCATION – Twin Falls

WHAT-Natural Attraction

WHEN-Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter

COST-$5 per car

WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW- Spring may just be one of the best times of the year to see the waterfalls in Idaho. The winter melt has started and the falls are typically roaring this time of year. Known as the “Niagara of the West”, Shoshone Falls is actually taller than the iconic New York waterfall. Plus, its only a couple of hours from East Idaho-making it an ideal place to add to your Idaho Bucketlist, and it can be done in just a weekend!

CURRENT CONDITIONS-It varies day to day, but you can check out the live video feed here: shoshonefalls.tfid.org 

WANT TO MAKE IT AN ADVENTURE?
  • Stop in at Elevation 486 for lunch or dinner-you won’t be disappointed! (195 River Vista Place, Twin Falls | 208-737-0486
  • Consider checking out this amazing AirBnB. It is gorgeous!

#2. Lava Hot Springs

LOCATION – Lava Hot Springs

WHAT-Hot Springs, Pool

WHEN-Hot pools are open year round, Olympic pool is open in the summer

COST-$2-8 per person, depending on age and day of the week

WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW- Lava Hot Springs is a fan favorite for those local to east Idaho. It’s nestled deep in Bannock County between two mountain ranges and the pools are naturally heated by an active underground spring. The pools are considered mineral pools, but there is no sulfur odor! There are five different gravel/rock bottom pools, all of differing temperatures. The hot springs are strictly soaking pools, but if you have little ones, I’d consider checking out the Indoor pool center.

CURRENT CONDITIONS-It varies day to day, but you can check out the live video feed here: lavahotsprings.com/

WANT TO MAKE IT AN ADVENTURE?

  • If you have little one, I’d consider adding to the Portneuf Kiddie Cove to your trip. It is located inside the Indoor Aquatic Center and it has both an indoor kids’ pool and a 10 person natural hot pool. 

  • Consider planning a trip in February and hitting their Fire + Ice Festival-it’s considered one of the zaniest winter festivals in the country!

#3. Mountain Coaster

LOCATION – Bogus Basin, Boise

WHAT – Mountain Coaster | Glade Runner

WHEN – Only open on the weekends

COST – $15 one driver, $25 driver + passenger

WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW- The mountain coaster on Bogus Basin is also called the Glade Runner, and its Idaho’s only mountain coaster! Prepare yourself for 4,330 feet of high speed twists and turns as you plummet down the mountain. Its the perfect way for non-skiers and non-snowboarders to experience something incredible, with no gear and no skill required. You control how fast you go, but speeds top out around 25 miles an hour.

CURRENT CONDITIONS-There is still plenty of snow on the mountain in late March, and with the exposure to the chilly air, the altitude and the speed, plan on experiencing the hill in full snow gear!  Check out today’s conditions before you head out here!

WANT TO MAKE IT AN ADVENTURE?

  • Tack on different activities to make this trip one you’ll never forget! Alpine skiing, winter tubing, Nordic skiing and snowshoeing can fill out your lineup and keep you busy morning till night. They offer lessons and equipment rentals so you can come to learn, and you can pack light. Plus with lodging and dining right at the mountain, you can really get cozy and stay awhile!

#4. Couer d’Alene Blues Festival

LOCATION – Couer d’Alene

WHAT – Blues Festival

WHEN – March 20-22

COST – Varies, but event tickets start around $29/each or overnight stay packages at the resort start at $289/night

WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW- The 11th Annual Couer d’Alene Blues Festival has been dubbed “Best Blues Festival” and is being hosted at the CDA resort and features the most popular blues bands on the planet! There are many events scheduled during this two-day festival, including a Cruise to the Blues around Lake Couer d’Alene and a Rooftop Blues Party.

OTHER AMENITIES OF THE RESORT: “It’s all about our Guests,” is what is boasted on their website, and I’d have to agree. Everything from luxurious spa treatments, to lake cruises, paddle boarding and golfing the floating green (starting April 1), there is plenty of activities to keep you busy!

MAKE IT AN ADVENTURE!

  • If you venture out of the resort, you MUST make a stop at Hudson’s Hamburgers! They’ve been a staple in downtown CdA for over 100 years! A very unassuming lunch counter indeed, they offer a basic burger, no bells, no whistles, (no fries even!)…and I can promise you-you’ll simply have no regrets. They open at 9:30, and there will certainly be a line by 11:30-so get there early if you want to saddle up to the counter and get the full experience!

#5. Treefort Music Fest

LOCATION – Downtown Boise

WHAT – Music Festival

WHEN – March 25-29

COST – Depending on when you buy your ticket, you can get a festival pass as low as $100. Check out the TICKET INFO page for all of the details. The Treefort Golden Rule is to buy as early as possible!

WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW- Treefort is an annual music and arts festival where several “forts” are set up across multiple venues in downtown Boise. There is an Artfort, Comedyfort, Filmfort, Foodfort, even a Kidsfort. It’s the place to find your new favorite ______________ (fill in the blank: musician, comedian, chef, storyteller, yoga instructor…)! Over the course of 5 days independent artist (in all forms) are gathered together to display their pioneering ideas to groups of audiences of varying tastes to stir creativity!

DOWNLOAD THE APP: With so much going on over a span of five days, you’ll definitely need the app to point you in the right direction to make sure you have a plan and can get to where you’re going! treefortmusicfest.com/app

MAKE IT AN ADVENTURE!

Check out the variety of forts by clicking here!

Well, there you have it. The guide on what’s hot for Spring Break in Idaho. There are truly countless ways to make memories in our beautiful Gem State. Consider this my small attempt at helping you know where to go to find the fun right here in our home state. I hope you have an amazing Spring Break no matter what you plan on doing, and don’t forget it’s always an option to STAY + WANDER!

I am a local realtor, and independent contractor at Keller Williams Realty East Idaho. I am Idaho Proud and have an intense appreciation and love for southeast Idaho and its residents. I’d love to help you find your next #Idahome, or if you’re already settled into your dream home, let’s stay connected through our mutual passion for this amazing corner of our state!

Filed Under: Lifestyle, Local Events, Outdoors, Restaurants, Uncategorized Tagged With: Blues, Bogus Basin, Boise, Hot Springs, Idaho Bucketlist, Mountain Coaster, Music Festival, Skiing, Snowboarding, Spring Break, Winter

Arugula Deli

February 27, 2020 by Karen Liester Leave a Comment

(208) 656-7784​
261 Walnut Street
Idaho Falls, Idaho

Located on the first floor of the historic O.E. Bell Jr. High School in Idaho Falls, The Arugula Deli is another one of those iconic hole-in-the-walls that is somehow still unknown by some local residents! Even while it seems to be one of Idaho Falls’ best kept secrets, Arugula still knows how to pack the weekday lunch hour. If you decide to go (which you should!), don’t be surprised to find a large assortment of company. From local business people discussing contracts and mergers to grandparents treating grandkids to a birthday lunch…even the group of girlfriends catching up over their famous Brazilian lemonade!

Freshness should never be compromised, quality never sacrificed, and healthy never bland. 

Sourcing as many ingredients from our farm and local sources as possible, we strive to ensure the freshest food ends up on your plate.

www.aruguladeli.com

Completely unassuming from the outside, the owners of this homegrown business promotes fresh rather than flash, and believe me-you are in for a treat. There seemed to be plenty of options for the gluten-free or low-carb diner, but no compromises have been made on flavor or variety.

Whether you are craving something light and tangy or savory and soulful, Arugula has you covered!

WHAT THE LOCALS KNOW– If you can, go early to beat the local business crowd, but if you can’t, don’t stress. They’re food is both fresh and fast, and waiting for a table will be worth the wait.


HOMETOWN FAVORITES: You really cannot find anything on the menu that isn’t completely fantastic, but here are the dishes that have us buzzing:

  • -No matter what you do-don’t skip ordering the Cunape/Pao de Queijo (Bolivia/Brazil) Cheesy Bread. This is a unique treat that you just can’t find in Idaho Falls!
  • -Guacamole Bruschetta
  • -Any of the salads! (Try the cilantro-jalapeno dressing or the pina colada dressing!)
  • -The Quinoa Salad and the California Quinoa Salad are unique to Arugula and if you haven’t fallen for this ancient grain….prepare yourself. It’s unbelievable.
  • -If you make it over for dinner, try the home-made pastas with from-scratch marinara or alfredo sauce
  • -Other popular dinner choices are the Steak Diane (nothing short of amazing) and the Chicken Francaise!

Click here for their full LUNCH or DINNER menus!

Happy dining East Idaho!

I am a local realtor, and independent contractor at Keller Williams Realty East Idaho. I am Idaho Proud and have an intense appreciation and love for southeast Idaho and its residents. I’d love to help you find your next #Idahome, or if you’re already settled into your dream home, let’s stay connected through our mutual passion for this amazing corner of our state!

Filed Under: Restaurants Tagged With: Dinner, Hole-in-the-wall, Idaho Falls, Lunch, Restaurants, Salads

Time to eat more hole foods!

January 16, 2020 by Karen Liester Leave a Comment

Even though Idaho Falls doesn’t have the commercially recognized Krispy Cremes or Dunkin’ Donuts like bigger cities do-we still have the best mom and pop donut shops that keep us craving their glaze for days! Check out this list of Idaho Falls’ best Donut Shops!

Growing up in Idaho Falls, my first job was for my friends grandparents bakery in downtown Idaho Falls. Cartstens’ Bakery has been around for over 50 years, and the twisted pretzel sign that stands above their humble shop is as iconic to Idaho Falls as the red, white, and blue water tower!

I spent afternoons, weekends and summers displaying, packaging, selling (and sampling!!) all of the tasty treats that went out the door. The owner, Willi, arrived daily before dawn to fire up the ovens and start raisin’ dough! Thankfully-you don’t have to wake up too early to snag delicious treats from these local shops.

Here are the top donut shops in Idaho Falls!

(Listed alphabetically!)

BAKERS DOZEN

LOCATION – 561 S. Woodruff

WHAT THE LOCALS KNOW- This may be the only exception to my previous statement, because you actually might want to get here early! They do sell out, and sometimes there’s a line out the door. But don’t let that stop you-their super friendly staff is quick and they always seem happy that you stopped in! Everything on the menu is good, and this is definitely the best place in town to get a large variety of donuts. Fan favorites are the fruit and cream cheese items, the coconut crisp donut, anything with fruit filling, but you absolutely can’t leave without snagging a blueberry cake donut!

***Thank you so much Bakers Dozen for providing all of the donuts on this post! Nothing can quite beat the eye candy they can provide!***

CARSTENS’ BAKERY

LOCATION – 243 Cliff Street

WHAT THE LOCALS KNOW- The glazed donut is king-raised, fried and glazed scratch every day! Whether you find yourself in the glazed donut or cake donut camp-both are unbeatable here! Although not technically donuts, don’t pass up the opportunity to try the creamhorn or the eclair!

DAYLIGHT DONUTS

LOCATION – 1225 E. 17th Street

WHAT THE LOCALS KNOW- This is the only shop on the list that is open Sundays! This is the place to go to get your fill right before the work week starts! Check out their marquee to see what unique recipe they’re cooking up that day-or try their fan favorite raspberry cream bear claw and the fritters!

***NOT TECHNICALLY A DONUT SHOP-BUT DEFINITELY WORTH AN HONORABLE MENTION!***

BROULIM’S

LOCATION – 2730 E. Sunnyside (*They have several locations throughout East Idaho)

WHAT THE LOCALS KNOW- Although they’re not exactly a donut shop-Broulim’s has (by FAR) the best donuts of any grocery store in town. (I must admit, I have a really hard time classifying Broulim’s among other grocery stores…they’re in a class all their own!) These donuts definitely hold their own against the other bakeries on this list and therefore must be mentioned! Broulim’s offers a wide variety of donuts, from glazed to cake, rings to bars, and chocolate to maple! They are baked in their stores everyday, and do not come frozen like other grocery chains. Personally-I can’t leave without one of their custard-filled chocolate bars!

I was able to speak with Allen, the baker at the Idaho Falls location. He’s a second-generation baker for Broulim’s and he and his dad are proud to share decades of experience getting those little rings perfect! Go try them out and see if you agree!

There you have it! Whether you’re new to town or just a local looking for the best of the best-give these great shops a try and tell them I sent you!

(I can’t be held responsible for any changes in waistlines or scale readings! If you’re worried about it-check out this post on where to go burn it all off!)

I am a local realtor, and independent contractor at Keller Williams Realty East Idaho. I am Idaho Proud and have an intense appreciation and love for southeast Idaho and its residents. I’d love to help you find your next #Idahome, or if you’re already settled into your dream home, let’s stay connected through our mutual passion for this amazing corner of our state!

Filed Under: Lifestyle, Restaurants, Uncategorized Tagged With: Bakeries, Bakery, Best of, Donuts, Idaho Falls

Local Hot Spot: Fiesta Cancun Mexican Grill

February 4, 2019 by Karen Liester Leave a Comment

Burritos • Chimichangas • Fajitas • Enchiladas

Fiesta Cancun Mexican Grill is a local hot spot, that has the support of the entire community. Recently opening their doors in December 2018, the fanfare is as just as convincing as their evergrowing five-star reviews!

[Read more…] about Local Hot Spot: Fiesta Cancun Mexican Grill

Filed Under: All Posts, Restaurants Tagged With: Mexican

The best dessert money can Pie!

January 22, 2019 by Karen Liester 1 Comment

National Pie Day

In honor of National Pie Day (January 23rd) I’ve com-pie-led all the best places to get a slice of the action in Southeast Idaho!

(Plus…I may have gotten a little preoccu-pie-d with the puns!)

You’ve never seen somebody crying and eating pie at the same time…that’s all I’m saying!  I know people all have their opinions on what the best dessert is, and believe me, the #struggleisreal! Alas, I find myself in the category of people that LOVE PIE!  [Read more…] about The best dessert money can Pie!

Filed Under: All Posts, Lifestyle, Restaurants

New Restaurant in Idaho Falls-Smokin’ Fins

January 17, 2019 by Karen Liester Leave a Comment

Seafood • Sushi • Grill

Smokin’ Fins is a regional restaurant concept featuring a unique menu that blends ocean fresh seafood, sushi and house smoked specialties such as prime rib and slow smoked pork.

[Read more…] about New Restaurant in Idaho Falls-Smokin’ Fins

Filed Under: All Posts, Restaurants

Next Page »

Before Footer

@karenliester on Instagram

Heads up all you love birds-the big ❤ day is com Heads up all you love birds-the big ❤ day is coming up this Sunday. Get your heart (and your home) ready for all the feels with some of these February home decor tips:
⁣
• Did you know they make pink light bulbs? THEY DO! Head to your local home improvement store and grab a few to color your home just in time for Cupid’s arrow. Got little ones? They’ll love it all the more!⁣
• Swap out wall art with a message perfect for the hugs-and-kisses holiday. A good place to look? Etsy -- search for ‘printable valentine’s wall art’ and print right at home.⁣
• Not into hot pinks and reds? No problem! Think blush! A few blush-colored throw pillows or blankets will give a subtle wink to the day without going overboard.⁣
• Nothing says “I love you” like a spread of sweets, cakes, candies, and fruits that double as themed decor. Whether homemade, store-bought, or somewhere in between, gift your loved ones with a feast for the eyes (and tastebuds) this Valentine’s day. ⁣
⁣
Tired of renting and looking for a love nest all your own? I’d love to help. Send me a message and let’s chat.⁣
STAY+WANDER 🏈 . SUPERBOWL WEEKEND! I’m sure STAY+WANDER 🏈 
.
SUPERBOWL WEEKEND!  I’m sure whatever your plans are for this weekend, there will be a handful of you that will spend your Sunday afternoon rooting and screaming at your television! For those of you that are still undecided on your plans, there are (finally!) several local music events going on this weekend! Lava Hot Springs Fire + Ice Winter Festival is going on this Friday and Saturday (check this post out for a full recap we did on the event a couple of years ago). If you haven’t been persuaded yet, maybe wander down to Mac N’ Kelly’s Pub + Grill! Have you been yet? It’s definitely on our list to check it out!  Have a great weekend while you stay + wander!
The GREAT DIVIDE! . Are you ready to go this weeke The GREAT DIVIDE!
.
Are you ready to go this weekend? Ours is a house divided. Tom Brady broke my heart when he left New England, but those roots run deep and it goes against my nature to root against him in the Superbowl, so I find myself on #teamtampabay, while @eliestoh will be cheering for the #chiefs.
.
Who are you rooting for? ...and is there any hope for my marriage? HAHA!!!!
Last year’s biggest home trends? Stretchy pants, Last year’s biggest home trends? Stretchy pants, comfy slippers, and the fastest internet money could buy. This year’s trends give us all a little bit more to look forward to. Here's what designers predict for 2021: ⁣
⁣
1. Cleanliness is still king. Designers anticipate easy-to-clean fabrics and surfaces to remain in demand as a way to help us all stay on top of pesky germs.⁣
2. Expect interior colors to warm up as owners crave warmth, comfort, and coziness. Various shades of browns, oranges, and reds will the trick. ⁣
3. Not into warm hues? Designers think soft shades of blue that create a peaceful vibe will also be popular.⁣
4. Remodeling or building a new construction? Closed floor plans are front-and-center as demand grows for private spaces designated for remote work or at-home learning.⁣
5. Dubbed “grandmillienial” by House Beautiful, the style showing up everywhere blends grandma’s favorite florals with sleek modern staples. Not sure where to start? Just ask yourself WWGD -- what would Grandma do?⁣
⁣
What trends are you lovin' early in 2021? Share them below!⁣
Some days-this is my office...but not often! I hav Some days-this is my office...but not often! I have been able to work from the office for most of the year, but when the kiddos moved to virtual learning last spring, I had to adapt to sharing a workspace with them at home.
.
I want to know! Is this YOU? Have you been working from home for months now (with little ones, furry ones, or both scurrying underfoot)?
.
If you've mastered the dining table office space, what ONE piece of advice would you share with a work-from-home newbie?
.
Please! Share your wisdom in the comments below so we can make the best of what seems to be an ever-changing situation!
Is everyone done decking the halls??? . Right now Is everyone done decking the halls???
.
Right now I’m resisting the urge to keep decorating knowing it will all be down in a week or so!
Here's a link to the @airbnb I posted about in my Here's a link to the @airbnb I posted about in my stories today.
.
https://abnb.me/VTE0JJTukcb
.
Or you can search AirBNB (Idaho Falls) for "The Historic Emerson"
.
❤❤❤
Give the spankin’ new homeowners in your life a Give the spankin’ new homeowners in your life a housewarming gift they’ll use from day one!  Here are my top 10 to get the ideas flowing:
.
▪️Gift cards to home improvement stores (things like rakes, garbage cans and light bulbs are usually in short supply for a first time home buyer especially!)
▪️Gift cards to local takeout and pizza places (with a stack of paper plates to go with it!) I’m looking at you @lucysnypizza 
▪️A personalized welcome mat (have you seen @letterfolk mats? They’re a fave!)
▪️Customized stationary, address labels, wall plaques, etc. (@etsy has you covered here!)
▪️A pizza baking stone and a @papamurphys gift card (check out @bedbathandbeyond for a great stone)
▪️A WiFi password display sign
▪️A photog session for them to pose in front of their new front door (DM @meganowensphotography, she’s amazing 🙌🏻)
▪️Local goodies for out-of-staters (I love @farrsicecream spud bars or huckleberry candy, or @reeds_dairy cheese curds and ice cream!)
▪️Hand wash and lotion set (perfect for the rona + house guest + flu combo season we’re in)
▪️A “new home” holiday ornament (I got the cutest one from @magnolia)
.
New homeowners, we celebrate you-enjoy your first Christmas in your new home!
.
What’s the best housewarming gift you’ve received???
This has been long past due. It’s time to announ This has been long past due. It’s time to announce the employee of the month. 
🥁🥁🥁
#Hamilton 🎉
This guy-he hasn’t sold any houses that I know of, but man, his dedication to his work is simply unmatched! (As long as his work includes sleeping 21 hours a day!)
.
We 🖤 you sweet boy! You earned it!! 😘
#Hamilton #Trashpanda
🍊🍊🍊For a quick little Saturday afternoon 🍊🍊🍊For a quick little Saturday afternoon project, this one sure packed a punch! 🍊🍊🍊
.
I can’t help but smile everytime I pass my little pantry. Small spaces are often overlooked, but @urbanwalls was the perfect solution to this easy DIY #transformation, and I’m 100% convinced anyone with a pair of scissors and a stool could knock a project like this outta the park!
.
If you find yourself in the .0003% of people that don’t own scissors-I’ll hook you up! 😉
.
Even better-if you go to start your project this weekend and realize you just need a bigger pantry-I can definitely help you there as well! 🏡
Load More... Follow on Instagram

Footer

  • Facebook
  • Instagram
  • Pinterest
  • YouTube
  • Brokerage Disclosure
  • Privacy Policy
  • Contact Me

Copyright © 2021 · Wellness Pro on Genesis Framework · WordPress · Log in