Originally known as Eagle Rock, the city of Idaho falls gets its current name from its waterfalls created by a diversion dam which creates hydroelectric power. The original dam was built in 1909, but was later converted to be part of a hydroelectric power project in 1982. Idaho Falls sits along the Snake River.

Idaho Falls serves as a shopping mecca for many eastern Idaho and western Wyoming residents. With a 60 acre shopping mall, a quaint downtown, and a variety of specialty shops, Idaho Falls offers more merchandise than its surrounding small towns. It is not uncommon for residents of Rexburg, Island Park, and Jackson to make special shopping trips to Idaho Falls, or I.F., as locals tend to call it.

Idaho Falls sits at an elevation of 4,744 feet, giving the area a semi-arid alpine climate. The dryness of the area tends to make extreme winter and summer temperatures bearable. The weather in Idaho Falls provides for excellent biking, hiking, and fishing, nearly year round.