Boise, Idaho, is a lovely city filled with fun activities and beautiful places to explore. Whether you live in Boise or are just visiting, there are many exciting things to do in Boise, Idaho. This guide will help you find wonderful experiences that everyone, including young kids, can enjoy. Let’s jump into the many amazing things you can do in Boise!
Explore the Boise River Greenbelt
One of the most enjoyable things to do in Boise, Idaho, is to visit the Boise River Greenbelt. This is a long park that runs alongside the Boise River. It has a beautiful pathway where you can walk, run, or ride your bike. You can also see lots of trees, flowers, and even some friendly ducks swimming in the river!
The Greenbelt is perfect for family outings. You can pack a picnic lunch and find a nice spot to sit and eat. Many families love to enjoy the sunshine while watching their kids play. Remember to bring a ball or a frisbee for even more fun! The Greenbelt is a great way to enjoy nature without leaving the city.
Visit the Idaho State Capitol Building
Another fantastic thing to do in Boise, Idaho, is to visit the Idaho State Capitol Building. This building is special because it is where the state government works. It has a beautiful dome that shines in the sunlight and is made of real marble! When you go inside, you can see lovely art and learn about Idaho’s history.
The Capitol offers free tours, so families can enjoy learning together. Kids will love seeing the big rooms where important meetings happen. It’s a great way to understand how the state of Idaho works and feel proud of where you live or visit.
Discover the Boise Art Museum
If you love art, the Boise Art Museum is one of the best things to do in Boise, Idaho. The museum has many beautiful paintings, sculptures, and photographs. You can walk through the galleries and see amazing artwork from local and famous artists.
The museum also hosts special events and art classes. Kids can join fun activities and create their own art! Visiting the Boise Art Museum is a great way to spark creativity and learn about different kinds of art.
Enjoy the Idaho Botanical Garden
The Idaho Botanical Garden is another must-see place. This garden is full of colorful flowers, plants, and even vegetables. It is a beautiful spot to explore and enjoy nature. The garden has many different sections, each with its own special plants.
Families can stroll along the paths, take pictures, and enjoy the fresh air. There are also special events throughout the year, like garden festivals and educational programs. Kids can learn about plants and how to take care of them, making it a fun and educational experience for everyone.
Go Hiking in the Boise Foothills
If you enjoy the outdoors, hiking in the Boise Foothills is one of the best things to do in Boise, Idaho. The Foothills offer many trails for hikers of all skill levels. You can choose a short walk or a longer hike, depending on your family’s adventure level.
As you hike, you will see beautiful views of the city and the mountains. It’s a great way to get some exercise and enjoy the fresh air. Don’t forget to bring water and snacks, and maybe even a little backpack for your little ones! The trails are a wonderful way to explore the beauty of Idaho.
Visit the Zoo Boise
If you have kids, visiting Zoo Boise is a fun activity! The zoo is home to many animals, including lions, monkeys, and even giraffes. Children love seeing the animals up close and learning about their habitats. The zoo also has a petting area where kids can touch and feed some friendly animals.
Zoo Boise often has special events and educational programs. Kids can learn about wildlife conservation and why it’s important to protect animals. It’s an exciting place for families to have a fun day out together!
Check Out the Old Idaho Penitentiary
The Old Idaho Penitentiary is a unique place to visit. It used to be a prison and is now a museum. You can walk through the old cell blocks and learn about the history of the prison. There are interesting stories about the people who lived and worked there. You can also read Understanding Cork Bark: Nature’s Unique Gift
Visiting the penitentiary can be both fun and educational. It’s a great way to teach kids about history and how prisons work. Remember to keep an eye on younger children, as some parts of the prison can be a little spooky!
Spend a Day at Julia Davis Park
Julia Davis Park is a beautiful place to relax and play. It has large green areas, playgrounds, and even a pond with ducks! Families can have picnics on the grass, play frisbee, or just enjoy the lovely weather.
The park also has a small museum and a carousel, which are great attractions for kids. Spending a day at Julia Davis Park is a wonderful way to enjoy Boise’s outdoors and have fun with the family.
Experience the Boise Farmers Market
If you love fresh food, visiting the Boise Farmers Market is one of the best things to do in Boise, Idaho. The market happens every Saturday and is filled with local farmers selling fruits, vegetables, and homemade goodies. You can taste fresh produce and find unique items like handmade crafts.
Walking around the market is a fun way to support local businesses and enjoy the community atmosphere. Kids will love sampling sweet fruits and maybe even trying something new! It’s a great outing for families to experience the local flavors of Boise.
Visit the Discovery Center of Idaho
The Discovery Center of Idaho is an interactive science museum where kids can explore and learn. It has many fun exhibits that let children play and discover new things about science and technology. They can touch, build, and experiment with hands-on activities.
The museum also hosts special events and workshops for families. Kids can learn about physics, space, and the environment in a fun way. It’s a fantastic place for families to spend the day together and ignite a love for learning.
Take a Ride on the Boise River
One of the coolest things to do in Boise, Idaho, is to float on the Boise River! During the warm months, many people rent inner tubes or kayaks to ride down the river. It’s a fun way to cool off and enjoy the beautiful scenery.
Families can plan a day on the river, bringing snacks and drinks to enjoy while floating. Just remember to wear life jackets for safety, especially for younger kids. Floating on the Boise River is an unforgettable experience that everyone will love!
Visit the Idaho State Museum
The Idaho State Museum is a fantastic place to learn more about Idaho’s history. It has exhibits about the state’s natural history, Native American culture, and the pioneers who settled there. Kids will enjoy exploring the museum and learning about how Idaho has changed over time.
The museum often has interactive displays and family-friendly events. It’s a great way for families to spend time together while discovering the rich history of Idaho.
Go Ice Skating at the Idaho IceWorld
In the winter, Idaho IceWorld is a fun place to go ice skating. Families can rent skates and glide around the rink together. It’s a great way to stay active and have fun, even when it’s cold outside.
Ice skating is a wonderful activity for all ages. Kids can learn to skate or show off their skills, making it an enjoyable experience for everyone. Don’t forget to dress warmly, and consider stopping for hot cocoa afterward!
Explore the Boise Public Library
The Boise Public Library is a great place to take kids for storytime and activities. The library has a fantastic collection of books, and children can enjoy reading and exploring new stories. Many libraries offer special programs for kids, like puppet shows or arts and crafts.
Visiting the library can inspire a love for reading and learning. It’s also a cozy place to relax and enjoy a good book together as a family.
Attend a Boise State Football Game
If you enjoy sports, attending a Boise State football game is a thrilling experience! The excitement in the stadium is contagious, and families can cheer on their team together. The blue turf at Albertsons Stadium is famous and is something you must see!
Game days are filled with fun activities, including food stalls and tailgating. It’s a wonderful way to connect with the community and enjoy some thrilling action on the field. Kids will love wearing their team colors and being part of the excitement!
Go to the Boise River Park
The Boise River Park is a fun place for families who love water activities. Here, you can try stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, or just enjoy the beautiful riverside views. The park also has areas for picnicking and relaxing by the water.
It’s a great way to spend a sunny day with family. Kids can play in the water, and parents can relax in the shade. The Boise River Park offers endless opportunities for outdoor fun and adventure.
Visit the World Center for Birds of Prey
The World Center for Birds of Prey is an exciting place to learn about birds and wildlife. You can see different species of birds, including eagles, owls, and falcons. The center teaches visitors about bird conservation and the importance of protecting our feathered friends.
Kids will love watching the birds and learning about their habitats. The center often has special shows where you can see the birds fly. It’s an educational and fun experience for the whole family!
Attend Local Festivals
Boise hosts many exciting local festivals throughout the year. These festivals celebrate everything from music and food to culture and art. Attending a festival is a great way to enjoy local traditions and meet new people.
Families can enjoy live music, tasty food, and fun activities for kids. It’s a lively atmosphere filled with joy and excitement. Keep an eye on the community calendar for upcoming events during your visit!
Go on a Day Trip to the Surrounding Areas
Boise is surrounded by beautiful landscapes and small towns that are perfect for day trips. You can visit places like Eagle or Meridian for more fun activities. Each town has its own charm and attractions, such as parks, lakes, and unique shops.
Exploring the surrounding areas is a great way to discover even more about Idaho. Families can enjoy scenic drives, hiking, or visiting local attractions. It’s an excellent opportunity to experience the beauty of the state!
Conclusion
There are so many exciting things to do in Boise, Idaho! From outdoor adventures to cultural experiences, the city offers something for everyone. Families can enjoy parks, museums, and fun activities that create lasting memories. Whether you are visiting for a day or living here, there is always something new to explore and enjoy. So pack your bags and get ready to discover all the wonderful things Boise has to offer.
