35 Fun Things to Do in Boise, Idaho

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A cityscape with buildings and trees and colorful hot air balloons floating above it
Boise is a one-of-a-kind destination with attractions for all types of travelers

A unique destination to check out in the Northwest United States is Boise. This city is the capital of Idaho and is known for its Greenbelt and exciting attractions.

Fun things to do in Boise, Idaho, range from wandering along the Boise River Greenbelt to visiting the Idaho State Capitol and watching the Boise State Broncos college football team play.

Still wondering: "What is there to do in Boise, Idaho?" Keep reading for 35 activities to try in the Gem State's capital!

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35 Fun Things to Do in Boise, ID

  1. Boise, Idaho, Things to Do
    1. Spend time outdoors at Julia Davis Park
    2. Admire flower displays at the Idaho Botanical Garden
    3. Interact with raptors at The World Center for Birds of Prey
    4. Visit the Anne Frank Human Rights Memorial
    5. Interact with nature at the Morrison-Knudsen Nature Center
    6. Watch a performance at the Idaho Shakespeare Festival
    7. Spot wildlife at Kathryn Albertson Park
    8. Purchase local goods at Capital City Public Market
    9. Shop for local produce at the Boise Farmers Market
    10. Bike along the Boise River Greenbelt
    11. Learn more about The Gem State at the Idaho State Museum
    12. Sip cocktails at Grove Hotel
    13. Follow nature trails at Hulls Gulch Reserve
    14. Appreciate artworks at the Boise Art Museum
    15. View unique exhibits at the Basque Museum and Cultural Center
    16. Go to the Idaho State Capitol
    17. Find out something new at the Idaho Black History Museum
    18. Create glass artworks at Boise Art Glass
    19. Float along the Boise River from Barber Park
    20. Snap pictures at Freak Alley Gallery
    21. Hike to the peak of Table Rock
    22. Take your kids to the Discovery Center of Idaho
    23. Go on a sightseeing tour
    24. Relax with a beer at Hops & Bottles
    25. Get Creative at JUMP
    26. Catch a Broncos game at Albertsons Stadium
    27. Raft along the Boise River
    28. Pass by the Boise Train Depot
    29. Dine at Chandlers
    30. Tackle a Boise scavenger hunt
    31. Grab an ice cream cone at Goody's Soda Fountain
    32. Explore the Old Idaho Penitentiary
    33. Stop for a coffee at Java Hyde Park
    34. Taste local wines at Telaya Wine Co.
    35. Ski or snowboard at Bogus Basin Mountain Recreation Area

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Boise, Idaho, Things to Do

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A park with green grass, trees, and a sculpture of flying kites
Julia Davis Park is a pretty place to go for a walk

Spend time outdoors at Julia Davis Park

Located in Downtown Boise, Julia Davis Park is one of the city's oldest parks, having been opened in 1907. During a visit to the park, you can follow nature trails, relax on the grass, or bird watch.

There's a scenic lake, a beautiful rose garden, and playgrounds for children as well. If you want to plan a romantic date in Boise, you could also have a picnic in the park.

🏨 Accommodations close to Julia Davis Park

Admire flower displays at the Idaho Botanical Garden

Opened in 1984, the Idaho Botanical Garden remains one of the most popular outdoor attractions in Boise. At the gardens, you can explore a range of displays featuring colorful flowers, unique plants and trees, and sculptures. There are also events held at the gardens, like plant sales and music performances.

🏨 Stay in close proximity to Idaho Botanical Garden

An American kestrel sitting on a gloved hand
You can see many raptors at The World Center for Birds of Prey, like kestrels

Interact with raptors at The World Center for Birds of Prey

The World Center for Birds of Prey is part of The Peregrine Fund and looks to preserve endangered birds of prey across the globe. During a visit to the center, you can see different raptors and learn more about the birds and the fund's conservation efforts. Birds to see include red-tailed hawks, turkey vultures, and American kestrels.

Visit the Anne Frank Human Rights Memorial

A notable landmark in Boise is the Anne Frank Human Rights Memorial. This memorial features a cenotaph, a statue of Anne Frank, portions of text from the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, and some other sculptures. It was created to memorialize victims of the Holocaust and all those that have suffered due to human rights atrocities.

🏨 Stay near the Idaho Anne Frank Human Rights Memorial

Interact with nature at the Morrison-Knudsen Nature Center

The Morrison-Knudsen Nature Center, or MK Nature Center, has wildlife trails and an underwater fish viewing area. As you wander along the StreamWalk path, you can admire the scenery and see animals like wading birds and frogs.

You'll come across various windows as well, that allow you to see under the river and spot fish, crayfish, and more. Deer, foxes, minks, and other land mammals live in the area too.

🏨 Stay in close proximity to MK Nature Center - Idaho Fish and Game

Watch a performance at the Idaho Shakespeare Festival

If you're visiting in the summer, one of the best Boise, ID, things to do is seeing a performance at the Idaho Shakespeare Festival. The plays are performed 15 minutes from downtown and run from the end of May through September. You can see a selection of classic Shakespeare plays at the outdoor theater, with a show performed almost every day.

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A park with a bench on the green grass next to a pond and fall trees
Kathryn Albertson Park has scenic trails, tranquil ponds, and lots of wildlife

Spot wildlife at Kathryn Albertson Park

Another beautiful park in Boise is Kathryn Albertson Park. You'll find lots of footpaths to follow here, and the park is abundant with wildlife.

Creatures to see include a variety of bird species, salamanders, raccoons, and beavers. There are a few ponds throughout the park too, which are home to ducks, frogs, and other aquatic animals.

🏨 Places to stay close to Kathryn Albertson Park

Purchase local goods at Capital City Public Market

If you want to feel like a local, one of the best attractions in Boise, ID, to visit is Capital City Public Market. You can discover up to 150 vendors here, selling products from fruit and vegetables and baked goods to flowers, jewelry, and art. Even if you don't want to buy anything, wandering around the market and seeing what's on offer is a must.

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Shop for local produce at the Boise Farmers Market

The Boise Farmers Market is another great place in the city to get some local produce. Things to buy include locally grown fruit and veg, flowers, and baked goods, plus jams and salsas, and a variety of other products. If it's a nice day, exploring the Boise Farmers Market is a great idea!

🏨 Nearest accommodation to the Boise Farmers Market

A red bridge over a river with green trees around it under a blue sky
The 25 mile Boise River Greenbelt offers stunning views

Bike along the Boise River Greenbelt

A great place to bike in Boise is along the Boise River Greenbelt. The trail covers 25 miles and features green trees, wildlife, and scenic river views. As you bike the route, you'll also pass many local parks, which you can stop at for a break.

Learn more about The Gem State at the Idaho State Museum

The perfect place to get to know a little more about Idaho, also known as the gem state, is at the Idaho State Museum. Things to learn about include significant historical events and the nature to be found in the area, and there are various interactive exhibits to see. You'll be able to discover an array of Idaho artifacts and photographs as well.

Sip cocktails at Grove Hotel

The Grove is a trendy 4-star hotel in downtown Boise. Even if you don't stay at the hotel, you can stop for a drink at their luxurious bar, called The Bar. You can order delicious cocktails, beer, wine, and non-alcoholic drinks. The Bar also has a happy hour that runs Sunday through Thursday from 4 PM to 6 PM.

A path with a fence and shrubs around it and a person cycling on it
You can find many trails to hike or bike in the 292 acre Hulls Gulch Reserve

Follow nature trails at Hulls Gulch Reserve

Going to Hulls Gulch Reserve is one of the Boise things to do that you can't miss if you're an outdoor enthusiast. The site covers 292 acres and is the ideal place to hike, mountain bike, or even walk your dog.

As you explore the area, you're guaranteed to see an abundance of wildlife. Creatures to see include deer, red foxes, and lizards.

Appreciate artworks at the Boise Art Museum

The Boise Art Museum is another of the great cultural venues in the city. The gallery houses approximately 4,000 pieces in its permanent collection, many of which are contemporary in style.

Works to see include paintings, sculptures and ceramics, and drawings. Temporary exhibits are also on-site, allowing you to see new works each time you visit.

View unique exhibits at the Basque Museum and Cultural Center

The Basque Museum and Cultural Center is one of many fascinating Boise attractions that you should visit. Displays focus on Basque heritage and culture and will appeal to both children and adults. The museum also hosts some events like book clubs and Basque cooking classes.

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One of many fun things to do in Boise, Idaho, is touring the Idaho State Capitol
Touring the Idaho State Capitol is one of many fun things to do in Boise, Idaho

Go to the Idaho State Capitol

Constructed in 1905 and opened in 1920, the Idaho State Capitol is the seat of government for the state. During a visit to Boise, which has been the capital city since 1864, you can tour the building. This activity will allow you to learn more about politics in Boise and its history in general.

🏨 Nearest accommodations to the Idaho State Capitol

Find out something new at the Idaho Black History Museum

Another of many fascinating museums in Boise is the Idaho Black History Museum. This museum is dedicated to African American history and culture and is the oldest of its kind in the Pacific Northwest.

Located inside a former church building, displays feature photographs, stories, and informative facts relating to African American history in the state. You're guaranteed to learn something new when visiting the Idaho Black History Museum!

🏨 Accommodations close to the Idaho Black History Museum

Create glass artworks at Boise Art Glass

One of the most fun and creative activities in Boise is going to a class at Boise Art Glass. This premier studio offers classes for all levels that will teach you how to make various glass items.

Anyone eight years or older can join in, making it a unique family-friendly activity too! If you don't have time for a class, beautiful glass pieces like jewelry, vases, and bowls can be purchased.

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A river with orange trees on the banks and two people paddle boarding
You can enjoy water activities like paddle boarding on the Boise River

Float along the Boise River from Barber Park

A popular activity among locals is going to Barber Park to float along the Boise River. You can find a selection of raft and tube boat rentals in the area, or bring your own. Once on the river, you can float along, enjoying the surrounding scenery.

If you like street art, one of the Boise, Idaho attractions that you'll enjoy visiting is the Freak Alley Gallery. Notably, it's the largest open-air, multi-artist mural gallery in the Northwest.

Once you arrive at the alleyway, you'll discover a range of vibrant and unique street art. You can snap some fun pictures with the murals and may even see some artists working on new pieces.

A hilltop with a large white cross on it and views across a town under a blue sky
Table Rock has a signature white cross at its peak and offers amazing views of Boise

Hike to the peak of Table Rock

Table Rock is located about 20 minutes from downtown. It has a peak elevation of 3,650 feet above sea level and offers stunning views of Boise. The primary trail here is a loop trail that covers 3.7 miles. As you hike or bike along it, you can appreciate the surrounding nature and panoramic vistas.

Take your kids to the Discovery Center of Idaho

If traveling to Idaho with family, check out the Discovery Center of Idaho. This educational attraction has various exhibits that will teach your kids some new facts.

They can learn about dinosaurs, space exploration, scientific phenomena, and much more. Even if you aren't traveling with children, the Discovery Center of Idaho is a fun place to visit.

A white train building with a tower and orange roofs next to a train track and trees
You can see many landmarks on a Boise sightseeing tour, like the Boise Train Depot

Go on a sightseeing tour

If it's your first time in Boise, spending some time sightseeing is a must. Famous Idaho landmarks to see include the Idaho State Capitol Building, the Boise Train Depot, and the Anne Frank Human Rights Memorial. As you explore the city, you'll come across other attractions, shops, and restaurants too.

An alternate way to look around the city is with Boise Trolley Tours. They offer guided tours that take you to all of the city's top sights.

🏨 Place to stay near the Boise Trolley Tours

Relax with a beer at Hops & Bottles

After a long day of exploring Boise, relaxing with a beer is always a good idea! A recommended place to grab a brew is Hops & Bottles. The bar serves a vast selection of beers, ciders, and seltzers; you're guaranteed to find your new favorite drink here.

Get Creative at JUMP

Jack's Urban Meeting Place, commonly known as just JUMP, is a creative and entertainment complex with an array of activities to enjoy. There's a slide zone for kids, a scenic rooftop terrace, studios to make films and music, and so much more to discover. If you like trying new things, being creative, and meeting new people, going to JUMP is for you!

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A stadium with blue banners that say " Albertsons Stadium, Home of the Broncos"
Sports lovers have to go to a Boise State Broncos football game at Albertsons Stadium

Catch a Broncos game at Albertsons Stadium

A fun activity while in the city is watching the Boise State University football team, the Broncos. The NCAA team plays at Albertsons Stadium, a 14,500-seat arena. Whether you follow college football or not, catching a game is one of the most memorable Boise activities.

A body of water with a bridge over it and trees around it on a clear day
You can see many parts of the beautiful Boise River on a rafting tour

Raft along the Boise River

Those that like outdoor adventure activities will be interested in going rafting on the Boise River. By booking a guided tour, you are supplied with all the equipment you need, and your guide will take you to the most beautiful parts of the river.

During the three-hour excursion, you'll also see lots of wildlife and can even swim in some areas. Best of all, this tour is appropriate for all levels, from those that go rafting frequently to first-timers.

A Spanish-style building with a tower and a green garden surrounding it
The almost 100-year-old Boise Train Depot is a National Historic Landmark

Pass by the Boise Train Depot

Opened in 1925, the Boise Train Depot is an iconic building that was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1974. It was designed by architects from New York in a Spanish Colonial style. While the station is no longer active, you can pass by the building to admire the architecture and take pictures.

Dine at Chandlers

A highly regarded fine-dining spot in Boise is Chandlers. This eatery, that's located in Hotel 43, serves a variety of dishes, including various cuts of steak and fish and seafood options. They also have an extensive wine list, so you can find the perfect drink to accompany your meal.

A city view with buildings, trees, cars on the street, and mountains
You can get to know Boise and spot famous landmarks on a scavenger hunt

Tackle a Boise scavenger hunt

An interesting way to get to know the city is by trying a Boise scavenger hunt. Simply download the guide and begin following clues and completing challenges. As you do, you'll discover a range of Boise landmarks and attractions and learn some fun Idaho facts about the city.

Grab an ice cream cone at Goody's Soda Fountain

One of the much-loved attractions in Boise, Idaho, is Goody's Soda Fountain. The outlet sells ice creams as well as chocolate and candy. Treats to order include banana splits, sundaes, and assorted chocolate truffles. If you're looking for a sweet treat, Goody's is the place to be!

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A brick wall with a brown arched door and an "Idaho State Penitentiary" sign
The Old Idaho Penitentiary was an active prison for 101 years

Explore the Old Idaho Penitentiary

A unique attraction to visit in Boise is the Old Idaho Penitentiary. Opened in 1872, the building acted as a prison for 101 years, finally closing in 1973. Today, you can tour the penitentiary and view exhibits on the history of the building. You'll learn about prison escapes, other scandals, and general day-to-day life at the institution.

Stop for a coffee at Java Hyde Park

Hyde Park is a vibrant area of Boise with trendy eateries and shops. When passing through the neighborhood, stopping at Java Hyde Park for a coffee is a great idea.

You can choose from classic and more unique drinks, such as Mexican hot chocolate with four espresso shots. Baked goods and other food items are also available.

Taste local wines at Telaya Wine Co.

Located just five minutes from downtown beside the Boise River, Telaya Wine Co. is a charming place to taste some local wines. After trying a variety of reds, whites, and roses, you can relax on the patio with a glass of your favorite.

A snowy mountain with alpine trees under a cloudy sky
Bogus Basin Mountain Recreation Area is a great winter sports destination

Ski or snowboard at Bogus Basin Mountain Recreation Area

Lovers of snowsports will be pleased to learn that there is a ski slope in Boise. The Bogus Basin Mountain Recreation Area features snow-covered hills for all abilities, from beginners to pros. If you're new to snow sports or want your kids to learn, you can take lessons here too.

In Summary

If you're planning a trip to the Northwest and want to know what to do in Boise, Idaho, this extensive list of activities should have given you lots of ideas. Boise truly has an activity for everyone, from history lovers to outdoor activity enthusiasts and sports fans.

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Written by Alli Sewell

allisewell FORMER WRITER Currently based in Canada, Alli has also lived and worked in the UK and Brazil and traveled in North and South America, Europe, Australia, and Asia. She loves finding the best photo-ops and food and drink locations wherever she goes.

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