Wondering what to do in Boise? We’ve got you covered!
When people think of Idaho, they often picture sleepy rural towns where the greatest excitement is watching cows chew their cud. Boise, however, is the exact opposite. So, if you’ve never considered visiting the state because you’re afraid you’ll be bored to tears, get that silly idea out of your head. From rugged mountain trails with spectacular views to the city’s rich cultural attractions and world-class cuisine, there’s so much stuff to do in Boise.
Outdoor Adventures in Boise
Boise is a city of stunning natural beauty. In fact, there’s so much unspoiled loveliness in the metropolis that it’s been dubbed “The City of Trees.”
The nickname originates from French-Canadian fur trappers who were said to have exclaimed, “Les bois! Les bois!” (“The woods! The woods!”) upon seeing the area’s lush forests. And all this jaw-dropping scenery isn’t just lovely to look at; it’ll form the backdrop to some of the most exhilarating outdoor adventures you’ll ever have.
Boise River Greenbelt
One of the best things to do in downtown Boise is strolling leisurely on the Boise River Greenbelt. This 25-mile tree-lined pathway runs through the middle of the city. Its stunning river views and profuse wildlife—including bald eagles, great blue herons, and ospreys—make for memorable experiences.Don’t be surprised if you spot a river otter playfully peeking up at you from the water. Beavers, mule deer, red foxes, and muskrats are also frequently seen here.
This lush walkway connects some of the city’s most iconic spots, including Julia Davis Park and the Anne Frank Memorial. If you want to get a feel for the city while taking in striking riverfront scenery, this is the place to do it.
Camel’s Back Park
Camel’s Back Park, close to downtown, is the gateway to the beautiful Boise foothills. Hike or bike while enjoying panoramic views of the city and the Owyhee Mountains. If you’d rather take it easy, the park’s grassy areas are perfect for picnics, tossing a frisbee around, or catching some rays. There’s also a playground and a tennis court.
Lucky Peak State Park
If you crave aquatic adventures, check out Lucky Peak State Park, just a 10-minute drive from Boise. The reservoir is teeming with trout, bass, kokanee salmon, and other species of fish. Take a refreshing dip on a sweltering summer’s day at Sandy Point Beach. Other popular activities at this park include kayaking and paddleboarding.
Bogus Basin Mountain Recreation Area
Bogus Basin, just 16 miles from downtown Boise, offers plenty of year-round fun. Enjoy slaloming down one of its 63 impeccably maintained trails in the winter. There are also areas for snowboarding and tubing. In summer and spring, get your adrenaline fix by mountain biking through some of the most incredible scenery in the state or climbing aboard Idaho’s only mountain coaster, which offers a 4,330-foot ride of unforgettable vistas.
Things to See in Boise: Cultural Attractions
Boise Art Museum (BAM)
Fun things in Boise include more than heart-pumping wilderness adventures. If you’re nuts about art, check out the Boise Art Museum. This tiny yet culturally significant gallery showcases artists making a name for themselves in the local arts scene.
Idaho State Capitol
If you’re a history buff, you’ll love touring the Idaho State Capitol building. A full-scale replica of the Liberty Bell before it cracked sits at the base of the stairs outside the Jefferson St. entrance. Back in 1950, the Treasury Department commissioned 53 of them, and every state got one. Feel free to ring the bell, because they’ll let you.
Old Idaho Penitentiary
Another site steeped in the state’s rich history is the Old Idaho Penitentiary. Constructed in 1870, it’s one of only four territorial prisons (correctional facilities established in US territories before they became states) still open to the public. Visitors can experience the original cells and explore exhibits that detail the lives of the inmates once incarcerated there.
Freak Alley Gallery
Of all the fun places in Boise, Freak Alley is among the most inspired. Tucked away in an unassuming downtown alleyway, this funky outdoor art space started in 2002 with a single drawing on the backdoor of Moon’s Cafe.
Inspired by its possibilities, other artists continually added to the drawing over the years. These days, thousands of people check out the always-changing display of graffiti-inspired art and murals each year. It’s proof that art doesn’t have to be displayed in conventional settings to draw a crowd.
What to See in Boise: Family-Friendly Activities
Zoo Boise
With over 300 animals, there’s always plenty to see at Zoo Boise. Tigers, lions, hyenas, giraffes, and baboons are just a few of the delightful creatures you’ll encounter there. The zoo also offers keeper talks and interactive exhibits to educate visitors.
Discovery Center of Idaho
Some museums only allow visitors to view exhibits from afar. That’s not the case with the Discovery Center of Idaho, which is more an interactive learning center than a traditional museum. Of all Boise, Idaho attractions, it is perhaps the most STEM oriented, inspiring scientific learning in visitors of all ages. Because its attractions and activities change often, guests are guaranteed to see something new every visit.
The Basque Block
Ever heard of the Basques? They’re an ancient ethnic group native to the Pyrenees region between Spain and France. They speak Euskara, a language unrelated to any other on the planet.
Many Basques ended up settling in Boise, and today, there are over 16,000 members of this community living in the city, significantly enhancing the list of fun stuff to do in Boise, Idaho. The Basque Block is a small but dynamic area in the heart of the city that boasts the only Basque museum in the country and two architecturally fascinating boarding houses: the Cyrus Jacobs-Uberuaga house and Anduiza, which has a unique indoor fronton court. You’ll also find a Basque market and four Basque restaurants.
The block is home to several annual events, festivals, and educational programs that make it a popular destination for locals and tourists alike.
Things to Do in Boise: Food and Drink Experiences
Popular Dining Spots
Tantalizing culinary experiences await in downtown Boise. Fork, a local favorite, serves up scrumptious farm-to-table dishes that showcase the region’s rich agricultural produce. Bittercreek Alehouse offers a mouthwatering assortment of dishes and one of the most impressive menus of craft beer in the city.
If visiting the Basque Block makes you curious about traditional Basque food, check out Bar Gernika. This eatery has been a Boise staple for over two decades and features authentic Basque cuisine.
Local Breweries and Wineries
If you’re looking for exceptional craft beverage experiences, Boise is chock full of them. Payette Brewing Company, voted the best brewery in the Boise Weekly poll every year since 2012, offers 20 beers on tap and locally sourced wine and cider. It boasts an 11,000 square-foot beer garden featuring a 10-foot fire pit, bocce ball court, shaded grassy area with picnic tables, and a stage that frequently features local and regional acts.
Cinder Wine, recognized by Sunset Magazine as one of the West’s best urban wineries, is the place to visit if sampling the region’s best vintages is on your to-do list. Their viognier—a crisp and aromatic white wine varietal—is exquisite. The winery also offers highly regarded tempranillo and syrah wines.
Boise Idaho Activities: Seasonal Events and Festivals
Treefort Music Fest
The Treefort Music Fest is a five-day extravaganza showcasing the dazzling talents of artists creating music in genres such as indie rock, hip hop, electronic, and folk. Typically featuring over 400 acts at venues scattered throughout the city, the festival has become a beloved staple of the city’s cultural landscape.
Art in the Park
Many count Boise Art Museum’s Art in the Park among the Northwest’s premier cultural events. This open-air festival, held annually on the weekend after Labor Day, provides visitors with the opportunity to meet over 200 artists. There’s also delicious food, live music and entertainment, and hands-on activities for kids.
Boise Farmers Market
No visit to the city is complete without a stop at the Boise Farmers Market, which offers an array of locally sourced produce and a wide selection of handmade items. Grab a bite to eat at one of the market’s food trucks, such as the Realex Stand, which serves up scrumptiously authentic Ugandan street food.
Things to Do Near Boise: Day Trips and Excursions
Idaho City
Fun and excitement don’t end at the city limits—there are countless attractions near Boise, Idaho that are well worth visiting. A particularly intriguing one is Idaho City, a meticulously preserved mining town just 40 miles from Boise.
During the gold rush, it was the biggest city in the Northwest. But when the mining boom faded, so did the people. Today, the city has just 500 residents. When visiting, be sure to check out the old Idaho territorial penitentiary, the county jail, and the fire house.
Shoshone Falls
Shoshone Falls, the so-called “Niagara of the West,” is a must-see natural wonder just two hours from Boise. This 212-foot tall, 900-foot wide waterfall on the Snake River is even higher than its New York counterpart. It’s best viewed in spring, as river diversion can substantially decrease water levels in late summer and fall.
Hells Canyon
Hells Canyon, the deepest river gorge in North America (even deeper than the Grand Canyon), provides visitors with jaw-dropping views and thrilling recreational opportunities. Many consider it one of the most awe-inspiring things to see near Boise, Idaho. If you want to get your adrenaline pumping, try a whitewater rafting adventure or jet boat tour.
Things to Do in Downtown Boise: Tips for Visitors
Planning a trip to Boise? Here are a few pointers to make the most of your visit:
- Time your visit right: Spring (April–May) and fall (September–October) are generally the best times to visit. Temperatures are milder than at other times of the year, so there are plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities, such as hiking, rafting, biking, and outdoor festivals and concerts. But if winter adventures like skiing, snowboarding, or snowshoeing are your thing, you’ll want to visit in the colder months.
- Explore beyond downtown: While there’s lots to see downtown, don’t miss out on surrounding neighborhoods like the North End, with its charming homes and parks. Boise’s Bench, which offers stunning views and little-known culinary hotspots, is another off-the-beaten-path location.
- Be prepared: Boise’s climate can be unpredictable, so be ready by dressing in layers, carrying sunscreen, and wearing comfortable shoes.
Your Boise Adventure Awaits
There’s so much to do in Boise that you might not know where to begin. From adrenaline-pumping outdoor adventures to intriguing cultural attractions and world-class restaurants, there’s no shortage of activities.
We’ve highlighted a few here to help you discover why Boise is one of Idaho’s best destinations. Whether you’re visiting Boise or considering moving there, you’ll always find something new to explore in this vibrant city.
