Oh Bono, I'm so sorry to find out that the Idaho show was cancelled and your hoped for fun road trip ruined.
That's awesome that you got refunds for everything you booked/bought, and kudos to you for making the best of it by arranging an emergency alternate trip to be able to utilize the days off from work that you'd arranged for.
I guess the Silver Lining in this disappointing situation is that you got the notice early enough that A) you hadn't already started your long drive to Idaho, and B) you got the news early enough to arrange alternate plans to use the time off.
Yes, I think you might have to just resign yourself to try to see them at a Minneapolis area show, even with the additional distance. Minneapolis shows are the least likely to get cancelled, unless due to weather in winter. And even then, it would have to be a bad storm, since the vast majority of the attendees are expected to be from within the city or immediate area so could probably still attend despite some snow. An added benefit to attending a Minneapolis area show is that several of the ETSA members are likely to attend. Most, if not all, of the locals can be counted on to show up, usually, plus often frequent travelers on here end up at the same shows, and it's always fun to meet the other fans you've gotten to know via this online community.
It's nice to be able to count on an annual holiday show at First Avenue in November or December, but I really wish they'd start a similar tradition for a summer show, to eliminate the travel stress for those that are willing to drive or fly in for a show.
Better luck next time!
dells