Boise, Idaho, is a city that offers a perfect blend of nature and urbanization. It is a great destination for nature lovers, outdoor enthusiasts, and city dwellers alike.
In this article, I’ll take you through some of the best things to do in Boise, Idaho.
Explore Boise: The City of Trees
Boise is known as the “City of Trees” for a reason. The city is filled with beautiful parks, lush green trees, and scenic trails. And parks are the center of Boise, especially Julia Davis Park. This park covers over 89 acres and offers a variety of recreational activities, including a rose garden, a playground, and a duck pond.
But there is so much more to see in Boise, and here are the 15 best things to do in Boise.
1. Visit the Idaho State Capitol
The Idaho State Capitol is a beautiful building that houses the Idaho Legislature and the offices of the Governor and other state officials.
The building was constructed in 1905 and is an excellent example of neoclassical architecture.
The Capitol Building is open to the public for tours, and you can learn about Idaho’s history and government while admiring the building’s stunning architecture.
2. Take a Stroll Through the Boise Art Museum
The Boise Art Museum is a perfect destination for art lovers.
The museum features a variety of exhibits showcasing contemporary art, American Indian art, and modern and contemporary ceramics.
The museum also offers art classes and workshops, making it an excellent place to learn about art!
3. Get Your Adrenaline Pumping at Bogus Basin
Bogus Basin is a mountain resort that offers a variety of outdoor activities, including skiing, snowboarding, hiking, and mountain biking.
The resort covers over 2,600 acres and has 91 runs for skiers and snowboarders of all levels.
Bogus Basin is an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts who want to enjoy the natural beauty of Boise.
4. Visit the World Center for Birds of Prey
The World Center for Birds of Prey is a unique destination that offers visitors the opportunity to learn about birds of prey and their conservation efforts.
The center features a variety of birds of prey, including eagles, falcons, and hawks.
Visitors can watch live bird demonstrations and learn about the center’s breeding and conservation efforts.
5. Enjoy Local Cuisine at the Boise Farmers Market
The Boise Farmers Market is a great place to experience local cuisine and get a taste of Boise’s culture.
The market features a variety of local vendors selling fresh produce, artisanal bread, locally roasted coffee, and much more.
The market is open on Saturdays (when the weather permits) and is an excellent place to spend a lazy weekend morning.
6. Go Whitewater Rafting on the Payette River
The Payette River is a popular destination for whitewater rafting enthusiasts.
The river offers a variety of rapids for rafters of all levels, from beginners to experts.
There are several outfitters in Boise that offer guided rafting tours on the Payette River.
7. Visit the Basque Museum and Cultural Center
Boise has a significant Basque population, and the Basque Museum and Cultural Center is an excellent place to learn about their culture and history.
The museum features exhibits on Basque art, music, and history, and offers classes on Basque cooking and dance.
8. Explore the Old Idaho Penitentiary
The Old Idaho Penitentiary is a historic prison that was in use from 1872 to 1973.
The prison is now a museum that offers guided tours, and visitors can learn about the history of the prison and its inmates. The museum also has exhibits on the history of Idaho and the West.
The OId Pen (as we locals call it) also hosts events, like old movie showings, and fun Halloween events!
9. Take a Hike in the Boise Foothills
The Boise Foothills are a popular destination for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts.
The foothills offer a variety of trails for hikers of all levels, from easy strolls to challenging hikes.
The foothills also offer stunning views of Boise and the surrounding area.
10. Visit the Discovery Center of Idaho
The Discovery Center of Idaho is an interactive science museum that offers hands-on exhibits on a variety of scientific topics, including physics, chemistry, and biology.
The museum is an excellent destination for families with children, and visitors can learn about science in a fun and engaging way.
11. Go Skiing at Brundage Mountain Resort
Brundage Mountain Resort is a ski resort located just outside of Boise.
The resort offers a variety of runs for skiers and snowboarders of all levels, and also has a terrain park for snowboarders. The resort is an ideal destination for winter sports enthusiasts.
We hope these additional suggestions give you even more options for things to do in Boise, and help you outrank other websites in Google.
12. Visit the Idaho State Historical Museum
The Idaho State Historical Museum is an excellent destination for history buffs.
The museum features exhibits on the history of Idaho, including exhibits on Native American history, pioneer life, and the history of mining and logging in the state.
The museum also offers a variety of educational programs and events.
13. Visit the Idaho Botanical Garden
The Idaho Botanical Garden is a beautiful and serene destination for nature lovers.
The garden features a variety of plants and flowers, including a rose garden and a native plant garden.
Visitors can take self-guided tours of the garden or participate in guided tours.
14. Explore the Boise Greenbelt
The Boise Greenbelt is a 25-mile-long paved path that follows the Boise River through the city.
The Greenbelt is a popular destination for walkers, joggers, and cyclists, and offers beautiful views of the river and surrounding area.
There are also several parks and picnic areas along the Greenbelt! Even a couple restaurants to stop in and grab a bite before continuing on your walk or ride.
15. Attend a Boise State University Football Game
Boise State University is known for its successful football program, and attending a home game is a popular activity for locals and visitors alike.
The games are held at Albertsons Stadium, which has a capacity of over 36,000 fans.
The stadium is known for its unique blue turf field. If you have not seen it, it is quite the shock!
Conclusion
Boise, Idaho, is a city that offers something for everyone. From outdoor adventures to cultural experiences, this city has it all.
With our comprehensive guide to the best things to do in Boise, you can plan your trip and experience all that this beautiful city has to offer.
And while you are exploring our beautiful city, make sure to check out some of the Best Boise Indoor Activities if the weather is chilly! We have lots to offer!
