After admiring the falls we paid a visit to the small visitor's center. The Big Falls Inn at Mesa falls was built in the early 1900s by the Snake River Electric Light and Power Company. It passed through several owners and has served as an office/residence for workers, a popular spot for social gatherings, a Boy Scout lodge, and company retreat. The Forest Service acquired the property in 1986 and in 2001 it opened as an interpretive center. Although the center is not large, they packed a lot in and I thought it was a fantastic stop. They have a back room full of furs, skulls, eggs, nests, antlers, butterflies, and insects. It's great for both the information and the hands on appeal (always a plus with a five year old!).