Are you looking for fun things to do in Boise, Idaho? If so, keep reading!
There are loads of great things to do in Boise, Idaho, which probably explains why it’s such a popular destination for visitors! Boise is the capital city of Idaho, so you can expect the familiar hustle and bustle of a city, and plenty of things to do in Boise too!
It’s a lovely city, and it’s no wonder people love visiting… So if you’re looking for things to do in Boise, Idaho, for your next trip, then keep reading because we’ve got plenty of suggestions!
So let’s get into it!
Here are the best things to do in Boise, Idaho!
Boise River Greenbelt
Hikers, bikers, and general nature lovers rejoice! The Boise River Greenbelt is by far one of the best things to do in Boise for those who adore the Great Outdoors. Stretching across 25 miles of the Boise River, you’ll have plenty of open space to explore.
If you want to partake in a family-friendly activity while you’re here, then why not check out the city’s tailor-made scavenger hunt? On the Boise city website, you’ll find both the map and clues to historical spots along the Boise River Greenbelt! This is a bgreat option for things to do in Boise, Idaho.
Kathryn Albertson Park
The next thing on our list of the best things to do in Boise, it’s Kathryn Albertson Park. Not only is this park large, but it also happens to be named after important female figures in Boise. Although there aren’t many dedicated activities on offer at this park, there is plenty to do here.
With wildlife spotting, hiking, and picnicking among the most popular things to do in this Boise location, you can easily spend a whole day here without spending a dime. This is one of the best things to do in Boise, Idaho!
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Idaho Botanical Garden
If you’re even remotely interested in flowering plants, then you should certainly add the Idaho Botanical Garden to your list of things to do in Boise. Although it has only been around since 1984, this garden looks incredibly well-established and has long been considered one of the top things to do in Boise.
As well as looking downright beautiful, the Idaho Botanical Garden also hosts various events and workshops throughout the year for guests. You shouldn’t need hours and hours to enjoy the Idaho Botanical Garden, but we highly recommend taking your time as you walk around. It’s truly serene and we don’t feel as though this is one of the things to do in Boise that can be rushed.
Downtown Boise
Another great option for things to do in Boise, Idaho, is to just explore the city! If you’re looking for the best local restaurants, then you’ll want to pay a visit to Downtown Boise. In addition to the many restaurants here, you’ll also find various business buildings in the downtown area. So, if you’re looking to learn more about how the businesspeople of Boise operate, then this is certainly one of the best things to do in Boise!
Should you happen to be visiting during the fall or winter months, then you should add a visit to the Downtown Farmer’s Market to your list of things to do in Boise. Trust us, it’s not to be missed.
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Bogus Basin Mountain Recreation Area
Anyone visiting Boise during the winter months need to check out the Bogus Basin Mountain Recreation Area. Located only 20 miles from the center of Boise, this is the perfect winter getaway for locals and visitors.
As well as providing plenty of slopes for experienced skiers, the Bogus Basin Mountain Recreation Area also offers ski and snowboarding lessons for total beginners. So, regardless of how much time you’ve spent on the slopes in the past, you’ll be good to go!
Boise Farmer’s Market
If you’re ever visiting a new area, it’s always an excellent idea to check out the local farmer’s market. Even if you’re not sticking around for long, the Boise Farmer’s Market is absolutely one of the best things to do in Boise. Featuring gorgeous local produce, artisanal crafts, and plenty of fresh food, this is the place to be on a lazy weekend.
Although we don’t recommend haggling, if you come in with the right angle you may just score some incredible deals. If you have the kids in tow, be sure to bring them to the various stalls. Little ones tend to find farmer’s markets fascinating, so we feel this is one of the best things to do in Boise for families.
Guru Donuts
Okay, so this may not strictly be one of the best things to do in Boise, but if you’re looking for a delicious sweet treat that will take the edge off, you need to head to Guru Donuts. The first Guru donut was created in 1903, and since then, this stunning little donut chain has been enchanting the people of Boise with perfectly baked, made-from-scratch donuts.
In addition to being made daily, all Guru Donuts contain locally sourced ingredients from nearby markets. This means that every purchase goes to support local businesses and farmers. These guys truly care about sustainability and local farmers as much as they do creating impeccable donuts! That’s why we feel a visit to Guru Donuts is one of the best things to do in Boise, Idaho!
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Boise Art Museum
Next on our list of things to do in Boise, it’s the Boise Art Museum. It’s one of those incredible spots in the area that has grown immensely since it was first built. The people of Boise are all about progression, and the Boise Art Museum is one of the best things to do in Boise, Idaho, for artistic types who want to learn more about the area’s artistic history.
Not only is this place packed full of fascinating exhibits, but it’s one of the best things to do in Boise for those on a budget. With a meagre $6 entry fee for adults and free entry for kids under 5, this is an easy way to kill an afternoon while educating the kiddos on culture and art. Score!
Boise Trolley Tours
If you’ve ever wanted to see an area by trolley, then you’ll absolutely love the Boise Trolley Tours. As there are so many great things to do in Boise, it can sometimes feel like an insurmountable task trying to tackle them all. To regain some brain space and keep you off your feet, why not book onto a trolley tour?
The tour itself lasts for around an hour and fifteen minutes, and you’ll spend that time checking out Boise’s most prolific sights. Tours run from 9am to 5pm each day, so you should be able to book a time slot that works well for you. This is a great choice for things to do in Boise, Idaho!
Freak Alley
Next on our list of things to do in Boise, Idaho, it’s Freak Alley. Although you may wish to shy away from anywhere called Freak Alley, we highly recommend bearing with us! It may sound frightening, but Freak Alley just happens to be one of the most artistic things to do in Boise.
Knowing that alleyways have a poor reputation for crime and dodgy dealings, the citizens and government of Boise decided to take matters into their own hands and make Freak Alley into a wonderful expression of artistry.
Back in the day, local artists were enlisted to decorate the place. Now, it’s truly an amalgamation of wonderful graffiti art that certainly deserves a place on your Instagram feed. So, if you’re looking for creative, unique things to do in Boise, look no further than Freak Alley.
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The Oregon Trail
The Oregon Trail is next on our list of things to do in Boise, Idaho. was a 2,170-mile east-west, large-wheeled wagon route and emigrant trail in the United States that connected the Missouri River to valleys in Oregon.
The eastern part of the Oregon Trail spanned part of what is now the state of Kansas and nearly all of what are now the states of Nebraska and Wyoming. The western half of the trail spanned most of the current states of Idaho and Oregon. If you’re looking for things to do in Boise for outdoorsy types, then this is it!
Wahooz Family Fun Zone
If you’re looking for things to do in Boise with kids, then you’re going to love visiting Wahooz Family Fun Zone. This is one of those activities in Boise that is perfect for parents who need a few hours of peace, and want to take their kids somewhere to burn off some energy!
There is so much to do in Wahooz Family Fun Zone, that you won’t know what to try first! There are indoor and outdoor activities here, everything tailored towards having the ultimate fun time as a family. Think bowling, rock climbing, bouldering, arcade games, bumper cars, a ropes course and laser tag. Seriously this place is so cool and it’s a great choice for things to do in Boise, Idaho.
Linder Farms
If you’re looking for things to do in Boise that are laid back and relaxing, then visiting Linder Farms is a perfect choice for you. Linder Farms is one of those beautiful, peaceful and scenic farms – and they offer quite a few activities to enjoy.
In the fall, checking out their ‘fall festival’ is an absolute must! In the summertime, you need to check out their sunflower fields! They’re so pretty! Definitely one of the best things to do in Boise!
Pinz Bowling Center
Next on our list of things to do in Boise, it’s Pinz Bowling Center. This is a classic choice for things to do in Boise, and it’s great for families with teenagers or kids. Let’s face it, bowling is fun no matter how old you are! If you happen to visit Boise during a rainy day – this is a really good indoor activity to book in!
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The Peregrine Fund’s World Center For Birds
The Peregrine Fund’s World Center For Birds is next on our list of things to do in Boise. The Peregrine Fund’s World Center For Birds is a charitable, preservation center for birds of prey, and it’s a really beautiful choice for a day out near Boise.
It’s not only an important cause, as these guys protect the beautiful birds of prey that are close to extinction, but it’s also a really educational activity to enjoy in Boise too. It’s a great choice for all age groups, and adults and kids alike will learn lots here. A perfect day out and a great option for things to do in Boise, Idaho.
Julia Davis Park
Another beautiful park in the Boise area, Julia Davis Park is next on our list of things to do in Boise. This is a lovely place to do a spot of people watching, and if you’re looking for somewhere scenic and peaceful to enjoy an hour over lunch – this is a great choice.
Lucky Peak State Park
Next on our list of things to do in Boise, it’s Lucky Peak State Park. This is another beautiful public space in Boise and a wonderful choice for those who love outdoorsy activities such as walking and hiking. Actually, Lucky Peak State Park is the perfect place for swimming, picnicking, fishing, boating or biking – so it’s an ideal place in Boise to spend a sunny summer’s day! This is one of our favorite things to do in Boise.
Zoo Boise
Our next idea for things to do in Boise is Zoo Boise. Zoo Boise is a small zoo, but they have a really great conservation mission, and the staff are really friendly and knowledgeable. If you’re visiting Boise with children, then this is definitely one of the best things to do in Boise.
What animals do they have in Zoo Boise? Well, you can expect to see; giraffes, red pandas, sloth bears, lions, penguins, snow leopards, komodo dragons, monkeys, wolves and so many more.
Roaring Springs Water Park
Next on our list for things to do in Boise, it’s the Roaring Springs Water Park. If you love waterparks, then this is going to be a must-visit for you when in Boise. Roaring Springs is a great local waterpark, and it’s a perfect place to visit in the summer in Boise!
You’ll find loads of fun slides, pools and games there – and it’s great fun for children and adults alike! Top tip! If you’re in Boise for a few weeks, it’s definitely worth getting a season pass for the park in the summertime! It’ll save you lots of money!
Telaya Wine Co
Our next idea for things to do in Boise, is a spot of wine tasting! Telaya Wine Co is a great choice if you fancy sampling some local wines! These guys put beautiful wine at the heart of everything they do, and they have years of experience too!
If you’re after an extra special choice for things to do in Boise, then we recommend booking a private tasting tour at Telaya Wine Co. It’s a really personal experience, where you’ll enjooy a guided tasting of 6 different wines.
Visit a hot spring
Next on our list of things to do in Boise, it’s visiting a hot spring. Ah, warm water, steam, and an unbeatable sense of relaxation. If you’re looking to be transported to your very own relaxation station, then why not visit one of the many hot springs in Boise? Taking a dip in a hot spring has long been one of the most popular things to do in Boise, as it’s something that you definitely can’t experience everywhere.
You won’t find hot springs lying around in the center of Boise, but you needn’t head far outside the city limits to start spotting them left, right, and center. If you’re looking for more awesome things to do in Boise, why not extend your hot springs visit to a full-blown camping trip? There are several campsites nearby and the secluded nature of your surroundings lends itself well to a romantic getaway. This blog post is useful is you’re looking for hot springs near Boise.
