The Experimental Breeder Reactor I is a decomissioned research reactor and a United States Historic Landmark located between Arco and Idaho Falls in Idaho. It became the world’s first electricity-generating nuclear power plant on December 20, 1951. Now it is an atomic museum after being decommissioned in 1964. EBR-I, which is what it is shortened to, is located on Highway 20/26 between Idaho Falls and Arco. The address is PO box 1625 Idaho Falls, Idaho, 83415.

It is open seven days a week from Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day weekend from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. after Labor Day weekend. Group tours can be scheduled for weekdays by calling 208-526-0050.

It has no fee, entry is absolutely free. EBR-I’s facilities are the Motor Coach Parking, Parking, and Visitor’s Center.

EBR-I’s musuem is based on what the facility did throught its years in service.

The reactor was designed by a group led by Walter Zinn at the Argonne National Laboratory. The purpose of EBR-I was not to create electricty but to validate nuclear physics theories which suggested that a breeder reactor should be possible. Although EBR-I produced the first electricity available in-house, a nearby reactor plant called the BORAX-III was connected to external loads, powering the nearby city of Arco, Idaho in 1955, the first time a city had been powered solely by nuclear power. Also, EBR-I was also the world’s first breeder reactor and the first to use plutonium fuel to generate electricity.

“Was such a unique stop and interesting part of history,” said Colin Wilson, a tourist.

It is a historic landmark, and just the name alone is bound to recieve some attraction.

Another tourist, Jeff Lehman said, “Well worth any length detour if you are into science sites.”

Both of these young people where review this landmark on Google Reviews. Nevertheless, it is a good part of scientific history, being the first breeder reactor.

Since it’s only open during the summer season, it’s recommended that people take advantage. It is a “free to the public” site and the tour guides are more than happy to help you with anything you might need, including important questions you might have about the facility. To get detailed directions, use the map on Google Maps. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to visit this United States National Historic Landmark this summer.