Things To Do In Boise
Boise, the capital city of Idaho, is a hidden gem nestled in the Treasure Valley. With its rich history, vibrant culture, and breathtaking natural landscapes, Boise offers something for everyone. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a history buff, or a foodie, this city has a variety of experiences to offer. Let’s dive into the top things to do in Boise to make the most of your visit.
| Category | Attraction/Activity | Description | Location | Operating Hours | Entrance Fee | Season/Best Time to Visit |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Outdoor Adventures | Boise River Greenbelt | 25-mile scenic path along Boise River for biking, walking, and jogging | Along Boise River | Open 24/7 | Free | Year-round |
| Outdoor Adventures | Camel’s Back Park | Popular hiking spot with trails offering panoramic views | 1200 W Heron St, Boise | Dawn to Dusk | Free | Spring, Summer, Fall |
| Outdoor Adventures | Table Rock | Steeper hike with stunning views of Boise and Treasure Valley | E Old Penitentiary Rd, Boise | Dawn to Dusk | Free | Spring, Summer, Fall |
| Outdoor Adventures | Bogus Basin | Skiing and snowboarding in winter, mountain biking and hiking in summer | 2600 N Bogus Basin Rd, Boise | Varies by season (Winter: 9 AM – 4:30 PM) | Ski Pass (Varies), Free (Summer activities) | Winter, Summer |
| Cultural Attractions | Boise Art Museum | Features contemporary and historical art exhibits | 670 Julia Davis Dr, Boise | Tuesday-Sunday: 10 AM – 5 PM, Monday: Closed | $6-10 | Year-round |
| Cultural Attractions | Old Idaho Penitentiary | Historic prison with guided tours | 2445 Old Penitentiary Rd, Boise | Daily: 10 AM – 5 PM | $3-6 | Year-round |
| Cultural Attractions | Idaho State Capitol Building | Neoclassical architecture, self-guided tours of Idaho’s government building | 700 W Jefferson St, Boise | Monday-Friday: 7 AM – 7 PM, Saturday: 9 AM – 5 PM | Free | Year-round |
| Cultural Attractions | Basque Block | Historic district with Basque Museum, cultural center, and Basque restaurants | Grove St, Boise | Varies by location | Free entry to the block, Museum: $5-10 | Year-round |
| Family-Friendly Activities | Zoo Boise | Zoo with a variety of animals and interactive exhibits | 355 Julia Davis Dr, Boise | Daily: 10 AM – 5 PM | $8-11 | Year-round |
| Family-Friendly Activities | Discovery Center of Idaho | Hands-on science center for kids and adults | 131 Myrtle St, Boise | Tuesday-Sunday: 10 AM – 4 PM, Monday: Closed | $12-18 | Year-round |
| Family-Friendly Activities | Julia Davis Park | Large park with gardens, picnic areas, playgrounds, and several cultural institutions | 700 S Capitol Blvd, Boise | Open 24/7 | Free | Year-round |
| Culinary Scene | Farm-to-Table Dining | Boise offers numerous farm-to-table restaurants focusing on local ingredients | Various Locations | Varies by restaurant | Varies | Year-round |
| Culinary Scene | Boise Farmers Market | Weekly farmers market featuring local produce and artisanal goods | 1500 Shoreline Dr, Boise | Saturday: 9 AM – 1 PM | Free entry | Spring, Summer, Fall |
| Culinary Scene | Boise Brewing Scene | Thriving craft beer scene with several local breweries | Various Locations | Varies by brewery | Varies | Year-round |
| Shopping | Downtown Boise | Shopping district with boutiques, specialty shops, and larger retailers | Downtown Boise | Varies by shop | Free entry | Year-round |
| Shopping | The Village at Meridian | Open-air shopping mall with high-end retailers, dining, and entertainment | 3597 E Monarch Sky Ln, Meridian | Monday-Saturday: 10 AM – 9 PM, Sunday: 11 AM – 6 PM | Free entry | Year-round |
| Shopping | Capital City Public Market | Local market featuring produce, crafts, and food vendors | 8th St, Downtown Boise | Saturday: 9 AM – 1:30 PM | Free entry | Spring, Summer, Fall |
| Nightlife | The Knitting Factory | Live music venue hosting national and international acts | 416 S 9th St, Boise | Varies by event | Varies by event | Year-round |
| Nightlife | Press & Pony | Speakeasy-style bar known for creative cocktails | 610 W Idaho St, Boise | Monday-Saturday: 5 PM – 1 AM, Sunday: Closed | Varies | Year-round |
| Nightlife | The Egyptian Theatre | Historic venue for movies, concerts, and special events | 700 W Main St, Boise | Varies by event | Varies by event | Year-round |
| Nightlife | Neurolux | Popular dive bar with local bands and DJs | 111 N 11th St, Boise | Daily: 4 PM – 2 AM | Varies | Year-round |
Outdoor Adventures in Boise
Exploring the Boise River Greenbelt
The Boise River Greenbelt is a 25-mile-long path that winds its way along the Boise River, providing a serene escape for both locals and visitors.
Biking and Walking Trails
One of the best ways to explore the Greenbelt is by bike or on foot. The well-maintained trails are perfect for a leisurely stroll or an invigorating bike ride. As you navigate the path, you’ll be treated to scenic views of the river, lush greenery, and various parks along the way.
River Rafting and Kayaking
For those looking to experience the river up close, consider renting a kayak or joining a guided rafting tour. The Boise River offers a mix of calm waters and gentle rapids, making it suitable for all skill levels. It’s a refreshing way to enjoy the natural beauty of the area.
Hiking in the Foothills
The Boise Foothills provide a stunning backdrop to the city and are a haven for hikers of all abilities.
Camel’s Back Park
Camel’s Back Park is one of the most popular spots in the Foothills, offering trails that range from easy to challenging. The hike to the top rewards you with panoramic views of the city and the surrounding landscape, making it a must-do for nature lovers.
Table Rock
For a more challenging hike, head to Table Rock. This trail is steeper and rockier, but the effort is worth it for the breathtaking views of Boise and the Treasure Valley from the summit.
Bogus Basin
Bogus Basin is Boise’s premier outdoor recreation area, offering year-round activities.
Winter Skiing and Snowboarding
In the winter, Bogus Basin transforms into a snowy wonderland with excellent skiing and snowboarding opportunities. Whether you’re a beginner or an expert, you’ll find slopes that suit your level.
Summer Activities
During the summer months, Bogus Basin offers mountain biking, hiking, and scenic chairlift rides. The cool mountain air and stunning vistas make it a perfect summer escape.
Cultural Attractions in Boise
Boise Art Museum
The Boise Art Museum (BAM) is a cultural hub, featuring a diverse collection of contemporary and historical art. The museum hosts rotating exhibits, workshops, and events that engage visitors of all ages.
Old Idaho Penitentiary
Step back in time with a visit to the Old Idaho Penitentiary. This historic site offers guided tours that provide a glimpse into the life of inmates from the 19th and 20th centuries. The well-preserved cells, gallows, and solitary confinement areas offer a hauntingly fascinating experience.
Idaho State Capitol Building
The Idaho State Capitol Building is a stunning example of neoclassical architecture. Visitors can take a self-guided tour to learn about the state’s history and government, all while admiring the beautiful dome and intricate interior design.
Basque Block
Boise is home to one of the largest Basque communities in the United States, and the Basque Block is the heart of this vibrant culture.
Basque Museum and Cultural Center
The Basque Museum and Cultural Center offers an immersive experience into the history and traditions of the Basque people. Exhibits include artifacts, photographs, and interactive displays that tell the story of the Basque community in Boise.
Authentic Basque Cuisine
After exploring the museum, indulge in some authentic Basque cuisine at one of the local restaurants on the Basque Block. Dishes like paella, chorizo, and croquetas will give you a taste of this unique culinary tradition.
Family-Friendly Activities
Zoo Boise
Zoo Boise is a fantastic destination for families, offering a wide range of animals from around the world. The zoo’s interactive exhibits and educational programs make it a fun and educational outing for children and adults alike.
Discovery Center of Idaho
The Discovery Center of Idaho is a hands-on science center that encourages learning through play. With interactive exhibits on topics ranging from physics to biology, it’s a great place for kids to explore and satisfy their curiosity.
Julia Davis Park
Julia Davis Park is one of Boise’s oldest and most beloved parks. It’s home to several attractions, including the Boise Art Museum, Zoo Boise, and the Idaho State Historical Museum. The park’s beautiful gardens, picnic areas, and playgrounds make it a perfect spot for a family day out.
Boise’s Culinary Scene
Farm-to-Table Dining
Boise’s culinary scene is rooted in the farm-to-table movement, with many restaurants sourcing ingredients from local farms.
Top Restaurants to Try
Some of the top farm-to-table restaurants in Boise include Fork, known for its creative American cuisine, and Bittercreek Alehouse, which offers a menu focused on sustainable and locally sourced ingredients. For a more upscale experience, The Modern Hotel and Bar serves seasonal dishes with a modern twist.
Boise Farmers Market
The Boise Farmers Market is a must-visit for food lovers. Held every Saturday, it features fresh produce, artisanal products, and local delicacies. It’s a great place to sample the flavors of Idaho and pick up some unique souvenirs.
Boise Brewing Scene
Boise has a thriving craft beer scene, with numerous local breweries offering a wide variety of brews.
Local Breweries and Craft Beer
Some of the top breweries to check out include Payette Brewing Company, known for its laid-back vibe and innovative beers, and Boise Brewing, which is community-owned and offers a rotating selection of craft beers. For a unique experience, visit White Dog Brewing Co., where you can enjoy a pint in a dog-friendly environment.
Shopping in Boise
Downtown Boise
Downtown Boise is a shopper’s paradise, with a mix of boutiques, specialty shops, and larger retailers.
Boutiques and Specialty Shops
Stroll through the streets of downtown to discover unique boutiques like Shift Boutique, which offers stylish clothing and accessories, and Mixed Greens, a shop filled with handmade gifts and local art. For outdoor enthusiasts, Idaho Mountain Touring has all the gear you need for your next adventure.
The Village at Meridian
The Village at Meridian is a popular shopping destination just outside of Boise. This open-air mall features a mix of high-end retailers, dining options, and entertainment venues, all set in a beautifully landscaped environment.
Local Markets and Artisans
In addition to the Boise Farmers Market, the city is home to several other markets and artisan fairs. The Capital City Public Market is held downtown every Saturday and features local produce, crafts, and food vendors. It’s a great place to support local artisans and find one-of-a-kind items.
Boise’s Nightlife
Live Music Venues
Boise’s nightlife is vibrant, with a variety of live music venues offering everything from indie bands to country music.
Some of the top spots include The Knitting Factory, which hosts national and international acts, and The Reef, a tiki bar with live reggae and island-inspired tunes. For a more intimate setting, check out Neurolux, a popular dive bar that features local bands and DJs.
Trendy Bars and Lounges
If you’re in the mood for a cocktail, Boise has plenty of trendy bars and lounges to choose from. Press & Pony is a speakeasy-style bar known for its creative cocktails, while The Mode Lounge offers a sophisticated atmosphere and an extensive wine list. For something different, visit The Balcony Club, a lively dance club with a rooftop patio.
Theaters and Performing Arts
Boise’s cultural scene extends into the night with its theaters and performing arts venues. The Boise Contemporary Theater offers cutting-edge plays and performances, while the Egyptian Theatre is a historic venue that hosts movies, concerts, and special events. For a more classical experience, the Boise Philharmonic and Ballet Idaho offer regular performances that showcase the city’s artistic talent.
Conclusion
Boise is a city that seamlessly blends outdoor adventure, cultural experiences, and a thriving culinary scene. Whether you’re exploring the natural beauty of the Greenbelt, immersing yourself in the city’s rich history, or enjoying a night out on the town, there’s something for everyone in Boise. So pack your bags, bring your sense of adventure, and get ready to discover all that this vibrant city has to offer.
FAQs
What is the best time of year to visit Boise?
The best time to visit Boise is during the spring and fall when the weather is mild, and the outdoor activities are in full swing. However, each season offers its own unique experiences, from summer festivals to winter sports.
Are there any annual events or festivals in Boise?
Yes, Boise hosts several annual events, including the Boise Music Festival, Treefort Music Fest, and the Spirit of Boise Balloon Classic. These events draw visitors from all over and showcase the city’s vibrant culture.
Is Boise a family-friendly destination?
Absolutely! Boise is a great destination for families, with plenty of parks, museums, and family-friendly attractions like Zoo Boise and the Discovery Center of Idaho.
What are some hidden gems in Boise?
Some hidden gems in Boise include Freak Alley Gallery, an outdoor mural gallery downtown, and MK Nature Center, a peaceful spot with walking paths and wildlife viewing opportunities.
How can I get around Boise without a car?
Boise is a very walkable city, especially downtown. The city also has a bike-sharing program, and public transportation options like buses are available for getting around town.
