Boise, Idaho, is a city that offers something for everyone, whether you are looking for outdoor adventures, cultural attractions, or culinary delights. Here are some of the best things to do in Boise, Idaho, based on my personal experience as a travel reviewer.
- Cruise the Boise River Greenbelt: This is a 30-mile paved trail that follows the scenic Boise River and connects many parks, landmarks, and attractions. You can walk, bike, or skate along the trail and enjoy the views of nature and wildlife. Some of the highlights include the Idaho Anne Frank Human Rights Memorial⁵, the MK Nature Center⁵, and Quinn’s Pond and Esther Simplot Park⁶, where you can swim, fish, or paddle on the water. You can also explore the Surel Mitchell Live-Work-Create District⁶, a vibrant neighborhood with art galleries, restaurants, and wine-tasting rooms.
- Ride and hike the Ridge to River trails: If you are looking for more challenging outdoor activities, you can head to the foothills of Boise and explore the Ridge to River trails⁶, a network of dirt paths that link public and private lands. You can hike, run, or mountain bike on the trails and enjoy the panoramic views of the city and the mountains. The trails vary in difficulty and length, so you can find one that suits your level and preference. In the fall and spring, you can also admire the colorful wildflowers that bloom along the trails.
- Visit the World Center for Birds of Prey: This is a unique attraction that showcases the conservation efforts of the Peregrine Fund⁵, an organization dedicated to saving endangered raptors around the world. You can learn about the history and biology of these magnificent birds, watch live demonstrations of falconry and flight shows, and see rare species such as California condors, harpy eagles, and gyrfalcons. You can also visit the Archives of Falconry⁵, a museum that displays artifacts and exhibits related to the ancient sport of hunting with birds of prey.
- Explore the Old Idaho State Penitentiary: If you are interested in history and crime, you can visit the Old Idaho State Penitentiary⁵³, a historic prison that operated from 1872 to 1973. You can tour the cell blocks, solitary confinement units, gallows, and other facilities where more than 13,000 inmates lived and died. You can also learn about some of the notorious criminals who were incarcerated here, such as Harry Orchard, Lyda Southard, and Raymond Snowden. The prison is also said to be haunted by restless spirits, so you might encounter some paranormal activity during your visit.
- Enjoy the arts and culture scene: Boise has a vibrant arts and culture scene that reflects its diversity and creativity. You can visit some of the museums and galleries in the city, such as the Boise Art Museum⁵, which features contemporary art from local and international artists; the Basque Museum & Cultural Center⁵, which celebrates the heritage and culture of Boise’s Basque community; and Freak Alley Gallery⁵, which showcases street art and murals by local artists. You can also catch a live performance at some of the theaters and venues in the city, such as the Morrison Center for Performing Arts⁵, which hosts Broadway shows, concerts, and ballets; or The Knitting Factory⁵, which features live music from various genres.
- Explore the Boise River Greenbelt. This 25-mile network of parks and trails along the Boise River is popular for walking, running, biking and other outdoor recreation. It connects many of Boise’s attractions and parks.
- Visit the Idaho Botanical Garden. Located along the Greenbelt, this beautiful garden features 23 thematic gardens, an indoor tropical garden and educational exhibits.
- Check out the World Center for Birds of Prey. This conservation and education center is home to eagles, hawks, owls and more. They offer educational bird watching tours and flight demonstrations.
- Spend a day at Roaring Springs Waterpark. Open in the summer, this popular waterpark located within Julia Davis Park features waterslides, a lazy river, wave pool, cabanas and the world’s only waterside Plaza Polo Pavilion.
- Explore the Boise Art Museum. This museum in downtown Boise houses a collection of contemporary art, as well as major traveling exhibits. They feature modern art, photography, contemporary glass and more. Admission is always free.
- Take a tour of the State Capitol Building. Boise’s Capitol building offers free public tours Monday-Friday. The building architecture is stunning, with marble staircases, stained glass and historic artifacts. You can walk out on to the Capitol Mall, which offers gardens, monuments and the Boise Depot.
- Check out Zoo Boise. Home to over 300 animals including giant tortoises, lions, otters and more, Zoo Boise is located within Julia Davis Park and is popular with both kids and adults.
- Catch a show at the Idaho Shakespeare Festival. Held from May through September, the Idaho Shakespeare Festival is a major regional theater company featuring Shakespeare plays along with other classical productions.
- Explore downtown Boise. With a vibrant food scene, shops, cultural attractions and events, downtown Boise centered around 8th Street offers plenty to do. Walk around, grab some local Boise cuisine and soak in the atmosphere.
- Take a day trip to nearby mountains. Boise provides easy access to the Boise Mountain range, Sawtooth Mountains and other areas for hiking, skiing, camping and outdoor recreation. Drive about 45 minutes to Bogus Basin ski resort or 2.5 hours to Sun Valley.
- Visit the Boise River Greenbelt: The Boise River Greenbelt is a 25-mile paved path that runs along the Boise River. It’s a great place to go for a walk, run, bike ride, or skate.
- Explore Julia Davis Park: Julia Davis Park is a 330-acre park in downtown Boise. It’s home to a zoo, a botanical garden, a museum, and several other attractions.
- Visit the Idaho State Capitol: The Idaho State Capitol is a beautiful building that’s worth a visit. You can take a tour of the building and learn about Idaho’s history and government.
- See a show at the Idaho Shakespeare Festival: The Idaho Shakespeare Festival is a professional theater company that puts on productions of Shakespeare plays and other classic works.
- Visit the Basque Museum & Cultural Center: The Basque Museum & Cultural Center is a museum dedicated to the Basque people and their culture. You can learn about the Basque history and heritage, and see exhibits on Basque art, music, and dance.
- Go hiking or biking in the foothills: The foothills of Boise are a great place to go hiking or biking. There are several trails that offer stunning views of the city and the surrounding mountains.
- Visit the Boise Art Museum: The Boise Art Museum is a museum that houses a collection of art from around the world. You can see paintings, sculptures, and other works of art from different cultures.
- Take a cooking class: Boise has a vibrant culinary scene, and there are several cooking schools that offer classes for all levels. You can learn how to make everything from Idaho potatoes to Basque dishes.
- Go shopping: Boise has a variety of shops, from boutiques to department stores. You can find everything from clothes to souvenirs to local art.
- Enjoy the nightlife: Boise has a lively nightlife scene. There are several bars, clubs, and restaurants that stay open late.
These are just some of the many things to do in Boise, Idaho. Whether you are looking for nature, culture, or adventure, you will find it in this charming city. I hope you enjoyed this review and found it helpful for planning your trip. Happy travels!
Source:
(1) THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Boise – UPDATED 2023 – Tripadvisor. https://www.tripadvisor.ca/Attractions-g35394-Activities-Boise_Idaho.html.
(2) 12 best things to do in Boise, Idaho – Lonely Planet. https://www.lonelyplanet.com/articles/top-things-to-do-in-boise.
(3) Boise River Greenbelt. https://cityofboise.org/departments/parks-and-recreation.
(4) 17 Best Things to Do in Boise, Idaho (with Map) – Touropia. https://www.touropia.com/things-to-do-in-boise-idaho/.
(5) . https://bing.com/search?q=what+to+do+in+boise+id.
(6) Old Idaho State Penitentiary. https://history.idaho.gov/old-idaho-penitentiary-field-trip-form-2/.