Fun Things To Do In Boise, Idaho

When your out-of-town visitors come to stay with you, give them a stroll around the Idaho State Capitol to give them insights into the history and culture of the state.

The capitol's most notable feature is its dome crowned with a bronze eagle. Inside, visitors can admire a statue of George Washington, a sculpture of Nike of Samothrace, and a statue of Louise Shadduck, offering a deeper appreciation of Idaho's heritage and significance.

For a serene day of outdoor activities in Boise, explore the Greenbelt, a picturesque 25-mile pathway along the river that meanders through downtown Boise and beyond.

It provides the perfect vantage point to appreciate this tranquil slice of nature amid the bustling city and this scenic route is also ideal for a stroll, bike ride, or jog. With ample shade, friendly locals, and unbeatable views, it's a must-visit destination for relaxation and enjoyment.

Get inspired through the educational programs offered by Boise Art Museum. Situated within the expansive 90-acre Julia Davis Park, this compact yet vibrant museum showcases predominantly contemporary art across various media.

You'll also find occasional displays featuring renowned artists like Warhol, with touring exhibitions by notable names. Don't miss a visit to the BAM Store, offering a diverse selection of unique gifts such as jewelry, accessories, toys, books, décor, and beyond.

Nestled across 50 peaceful acres, Idaho Botanical Garden is a serene sanctuary, dedicated to the beauty of nature. It used to be a farm for the nearby Old Idaho State Penitentiary until 1973.

Now, this Boise attractions is a haven where you can stroll among the native plants of Southeast Idaho. Throughout the year, the garden hosts enjoyable events like the Winter Gardens Aglow during the holidays and concerts at Outlaw Field in the summer.

Steeped in the city's rich history, the Old Idaho Penitentiary dates back to 1872, remaining an active prison until 1973. Today, its walls stand silent, yet open to curious visitors eager to explore its storied past.

Conveniently situated adjacent to the city's Botanical Gardens, a visit here offers the perfect opportunity to combine two distinct experiences into one memorable outing; the blend of history and nature.

Get your kitchen stocked with fresh, local seasonal veggies and fruits from the Boise Farmers Market. This outdoor farmers' market takes place on Saturday mornings (April- October 9 am-1 pm) during the summer. 

Here, you will also find vendors selling many types of locally raised proteins, breads, pastries, honey, jams, sauces, fresh-roasted coffee, and a delectable assortment of ready-to-eat foods. A must-visit place to shop for fresh local products.

Albertsons Stadium, located on Boise State University's campus, is famous for its blue playing surface, a first in football history. If you're in Bronco Nation during football season, try to get tickets to a game.

Boise State gained recognition with multiple Fiesta Bowl wins in the past, and game days in this college city are lively. During the off-season, consider a guided tour of Bronco Stadium to snap a selfie on the blue turf backdrop.

A family-friendly vacation doesn't have to break the bank, and a trip to Boise, Idaho, is a perfect budget-friendly option. While you're here with your family, don't miss a visit to the Boise Zoo.

Situated in the picturesque Julia Davis Park, Zoo Boise is home to over 300 animals representing more than 100 species. From tiny tailless whip scorpions to magnificent Amur tigers, the zoo provides a one-of-a-kind educational and recreational experience for visitors of all ages.

Boise Idaho activities at Bruneau Dunes State Park for adventure seekers are endless. Home to the tallest freestanding sand dunes in North America, some reaching 470 feet high, the park offers thrilling experiences. 

Hike the surrounding trails, climb the dunes, or rent a sandboard and surf the sandy waves for an adrenaline rush. For those craving more thrill, enjoy camping, fishing for bass and bluegill, or stargazing at the public observatory within the park.

Boise Parks and Recreation oversees over 90 well-kept parks throughout the city, about 210 miles of Ridge to Rivers trails in the Boise Foothills, and 25 miles of the Boise River Greenbelt pathway, along with extensive open spaces. 

Additionally, enjoy the department's recreational treasures, including Zoo Boise, two peaceful municipal golf courses, inviting pools, Idaho IceWorld, and additional amenities for residents and visitors to enjoy.

For hikers visiting Boise, a day exploring Table Rock is a must. Situated just northeast of downtown Boise, Idaho, this geological wonder formed around 15 million years ago due to volcanic activity.

Today, it boasts a beloved 3.7-mile loop trail suitable for hikers, horse riders, and dog walkers, offering a stunning view of the city from its flat rock summit. The trail begins near the Old Idaho Penitentiary, with the area welcoming visitors from sunrise to sunset.

Visit the recently renovated Idaho State Museum to delve into the rich history of Idaho. Explore interactive exhibits and hands-on displays that narrate the tales of the state, its land, and its people.

With more than 514 artifacts, 800 photographs, and 46 multimedia exhibits, the museum vividly illustrates the deep connection between Idaho's landscape and its inhabitants, showcasing how they have influenced each other throughout history. 

Alleyways often carry a dubious reputation, known for their sketchy atmosphere. However, Boise decided to defy this stereotype by inviting local artists to transform large sections of walls which now is known as Freak Alley.

This alley, along with an adjacent parking lot, is now adorned with a vast array of enormous murals. This is a cheap place to visit that is brimming with stunning artworks by talented artists. 

Established in 1907, Julia Davis Park has remained a cherished destination for visitors seeking a tranquil day out or a leisurely picnic with their families. 

This park offers a plethora of attractions, including a beautiful Rose Garden, the captivating Boise Zoo, Paddle Boat Rentals, Tennis courts, a delightful toddler playground, and picnic pavilions. Throughout the year, the park hosts a variety of events such as art exhibitions, music festivals, and cultural celebrations.

During the scorching hot desert summers, the Boise River becomes a refuge for many Idahoans seeking relief from the heat. Floating the river is a cherished summer tradition here in Boise.

The main Boise River float stretches from Barber Park to Ann Morrison Park, covering approximately 6 miles and lasting 2-3 hours. The river features wide, tree-lined stretches with depths ranging from shallow to several feet deep. Along the way, there's a good chance of spotting wildlife.

There are many things to do Boise Idaho's Lucky Peak State Park, such as swimming, picnicking, fishing, boating, and biking. Conveniently located just a 10-minute drive from downtown Boise or a scenic 30-minute bike ride along the Boise River Greenbelt, the park is easily accessible.

Hop on your bike and pedal to the park for a refreshing dip at Sandy Point Beach. Plan a family picnic at Discovery Park, where your furry friend is welcome to join. 

Nestled in picturesque Boise, Idaho, the Basque Museum & Cultural Center offers a glimpse into the heritage of the Basque communities in Idaho and beyond. Established in 1985, the museum initially resided in the historic Cyrus Jacobs-Uberuaga House on Grove Street.

With dedication and support from various sources, including individuals, businesses, foundations, and Basque communities, the museum has grown to interpret the vibrant history of the Basques, their origins, and their experiences in America.

The Egyptian theater opened in 1927, making it Boise's oldest theater. After a lavish restoration in 1999, it became a beautiful destination to visit in Boise. With its diverse lineup of events, live shows, and movies, there's always something interesting happening there.

Conveniently located downtown amidst various dining options, it's perfect for a wonderful evening out. You can simply choose a place to eat nearby and then take a short stroll to enjoy an event at the Egyptian.

The Discovery Center of Idaho is a science museum designed for kids, with interactive exhibits that make complex ideas easy to understand. If you're into art, there's also a fantastic exhibit with over 1,000 pieces by famous Impressionist artists like Van Gogh, Monet, and Renoir, with other respected artists. 

You can dive into a world where these famous artworks come alive through huge projections on the walls, matched with music and informative commentary.

In only seven years, Treefort has evolved from a local music fest to a nationally renowned celebration of music, art, and tech. It's known for giving prominence to women in its main stages.

With acts like Lizzo, Princess Nokia, Run the Jewels and Charles Bradley, there's something for everyone. Plus, it offers additional events like storyfort, hackfort, kidfort, yogafort, and more, making it an inclusive experience, and great activities Boise Idaho.