Welcome to the Gem State, where the potatoes are famous, the landscapes are stunning, and the history is rich. Idaho is a state full of surprises and fascinating tales, from the home of the deepest river gorge in North America to the birthplace of television. Whether you’re a fan of nature, technology, or just quirky trivia, there’s something for everyone in Idaho. So, grab a spud, and let’s discover 20 amazing Idaho facts that will make you say, “Holy potatoes!”
1-5 Fun Facts About Idaho
1. Did you know that Idaho’s name was not inspired by a Shoshone Indian phrase? It turns out that a guy named George M. Willing made up the name and convinced Congress that it meant “Gem of the Mountain.”
2. It’s no secret that Idaho is a big state. With a land area of over 83,000 square miles, it ranks as the 14th largest state in the US.
3. When it comes to size, Idaho is truly impressive. It’s twice the size of Guatemala, and three times larger than Ireland.
Read More: 20 Mind-Blowing Ireland Facts That You May Not Know
4. Idaho may not have the largest population, but it’s growing fast. With just 1.8 million residents, it ranks as the 13th least populous state in the US. But don’t be fooled – Idaho has been one of the fastest-growing states in the country for the past decade.
5. The bustling city of Boise is the heart of Idaho. It’s the state capital and the most populous city, with a thriving community and plenty of activities to keep residents entertained.
6-10 Interesting Facts About Idaho
6. Potatoes are a serious business in Idaho. So much so that there’s an entire museum dedicated to them! If you’re a spud lover, head to Blackfoot to learn everything you’ve ever wanted to know about potatoes.
7. Believe it or not, there was a time when people could be sent through the mail! However, after a four-year-old was sent across Idaho for just 53 cents, the US Postal Service banned mailing people in 1914.
8. Cyclists in Idaho have a unique law on their side – they are allowed to treat stop signs as yield signs, and red lights as stop signs. It is known as the “Idaho Stop.”
9. When it comes to wine, Idaho is a heavy hitter. It consumes more vino per capita than any other state in the country.
10. Back in 1870, nearly a third of Idaho’s population was made up of Chinese immigrants. They came seeking their fortunes in the Gold Rush and left a lasting mark on Idaho’s history.
11-15 Surprising Facts About Idaho
11. Every January 16th, Idahoans celebrate Idaho Human Rights Day, which coincides with Martin Luther King Jr. Day.
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12. Committing perjury can have serious consequences, but in Idaho, it can even result in execution if it leads to the wrongful execution of an innocent person.
13. In a bizarre relocation effort in the 1940s, the Idaho Fish and Game Department dropped beavers out of airplanes with parachutes to release them into the wilderness.
14. When faced with the proposed expansion of an interstate highway, the city of Wallace, Idaho, got creative – they listed all of their downtown buildings on the National Register of Historic Places. It forced the federal government to build an elevated viaduct around the city, at great expense.
15. In 1910, Idaho experienced a terrifying firestorm that killed 87 people. Boiling sap from trees created flammable gas clouds that combusted and burned an area the size of Connecticut in just two days.
16-20 Insane Facts About Idaho
16. If you’re a dog lover, you won’t want to miss a stay at the Dog Bark Park Inn in Idaho. This unique hotel is shaped like a giant beagle and is the largest of its kind in the world.
17. Idaho has some pretty strange laws on the books, including one that states only dogs can live in dog kennels. Looks like humans will have to find another place to call home!
Read More: 15 Awesome Facts about Dogs that will make you love them even more
18. Sorry, senior citizens – if you’re over 88 years old, it’s against the law to ride a motorcycle in Idaho Falls. It may seem like an odd law, but safety is always a top priority.
19. In Pocatello, Idaho, smiling isn’t just a suggestion – it’s the law. Public displays of frowns, scowls, and other gloomy expressions are prohibited, as they may reflect poorly on the city’s reputation.
20. Idaho takes public displays of affection seriously. So seriously, in fact, that the state limits them to under 18 minutes. Better make those kisses count!
That’s it for this post guys, I hope you had fun while reading 20 Interesting Idaho Facts For Students.
Take care…..
