Blackfoot

• 🌍 Idaho Potato Museum, 130 Northwest Main St, ☏ +1 208-785-2517. Sep-May: M-Sa 9:30AM-5PM; Jun-Aug: daily 9:30AM-7PM; closed Thanksgiving, 25 Dec - 1 Jan. Idaho doesn't have many claims to fame, so they really play up the one they have: potatoes. Cafe and gift shop on-site -- and, yes, you can get a baked potato. Adults $6, seniors/military $5.50, children 5-12 $3, under 5 free. (updated Feb 2020)

The museum was founded in 1988 by a group of Blackfoot residents, some who were associated with potato industry. Originally named the Idaho Potato Expo, the museum was an all-volunteer effort. Donations or money, labor, and artifacts cobbled this fledgling museum together. The museum's origins was a true community effort.

The building, an abandoned train depot, was donated by the city of Blackfoot. The train depot -- a historic, stone building constructed by the Oregon Short Line Railroad in 1913 -- is on Blackfoot's Main street, which is also State Hwy. 91, a convenient location for visitors. The building is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Since it first opened its doors to the public in 1988, the museum has experienced growth and change. One of the biggest changes was its name from the Idaho Potato Expo to Idaho Potato Museum in 2002. Through the years, the museum's board of directors and staff have dedicated themselves to following its mission: "Promoting Idaho potatoes through education and hospitality."

Visitors to the museum will experience the rich history and culture of the potato. The museum showcases the many facets of the potato industry from planting and irrigation to harvesting and processing. The museum's unique exhibits portray the evolution of the potato industry as well as displaying impressive collections of potato culinary tools like mashers, peelers, spikes, potato chip makers, and even ceramic tableware.

The Spud Sellar gift shop and the Potato Station café are part of the museum. Visitors can eat hot, baked potatoes or enjoy potato ice cream in the café and then shop for unique potato-themed souvenirs.Outside, of course, is the giant potato for the best vacation selfie ever! Or visitors can stroll through a display of antique potato farming equipment.

The museum is open year round. In June, July and August, the museum is open seven day a week until 7PM. Museum hours are shorter from September to May.