From outdoor adventure, cultural attractions, family-friendly venues, and food delights, Boise, the capital of Idaho, has it all. In the heart of Treasure Valley, Boise combines contrastingly urban-natural.
Boise stands out as a conglomeration of man-made and natural attractions, with the right blend to satisfy nature lovers, history buffs, and foodies. The rich history of Boise goes way back to the Gold Rush of the 1800s and reflects in its diversified cultural landscape and numerous historical landmarks.
The Best Things to Do in Boise Idaho
The Best Things to Do in Boise Idaho
Outdoor enthusiasts will not lack something to do in Boise. There are quite several parks and trails in the city, including the 25-mile-long Boise River Greenbelt, which provides a scenic relief for walks, cycling, and observing nature. Popular parks include Lucky Peak State Park, Camel’s Back Park, and Eagle Island State Park, which provide a wealth of activities ranging from hiking and biking to water sports and picnicking. The Boise River in itself is a center of amenities: floating, fishing, and skiing attract thousands of visitors every year. Boise brings in a plethora of cultural and historical attractions, further building its reputation as a place steeped in heritage and artistic expression.
The variety of attractions that display much light on Boise’s past and present are represented by such sites as the Boise Art Museum, Old Idaho Penitentiary, and Idaho State Capitol. For instance, the Boise Basque Museum and Cultural Center focuses on and recognizes the significant contribution made by the Basque population. Connoisseurs of history may check out the special exhibits at the Idaho Military History Museum or the Idaho Museum of Mining and Geology.
Events and Festivals
The Boise is full of events and festivals in its calendar to show all year-round strong community spirit. Treefort Music Fest is an indie rock music festival that grew a cultural festival spanning all spectra, from Filmfort, Hackfort, and Yogafort to several other “forts.” Other events like Summer Concert Series-Free, Tuesdays on the Creek, and Capital City Public Market provide rich opportunities for residents and guests to enjoy Boise’s performing arts and music.
Plenty of family-friendly activities are available for all ages. Zoo Boise, the Aquarium of Boise, and the MK Nature Center offer educational and hands-on learning, while Planet Kid Indoor Soft Playground and the Wahooz Family Fun Zone give them an onslaught of fun. The diverse number of parks, museums, and recreational centers in Boise make it an ideal spot for family excursions.
Outdoor Activities
From nature lovers to families and thrill-seeking enthusiasts, Boise has it all.
Lucky Peak State Park
Lucky Peak State Park is 240 acres and was established in 1956. Many family-friendly outdoor activities can be experienced here. Other amenities include a full-service marina, convenience store, watercraft rentals, and picnic areas. This park offers beach relaxation with sand between your toes, water sports, and building sandcastles with young and old alike. Ranging Accommodations Spring Hill Suites by Marriott Boise-Parkcenter.
Boise River
Floating on the Boise River is one of the favorite activities to be done by locals and visitors, drawing more than 125,000 floaters yearly. This recreational activity involves floating-Tubing or rafting down the river and savoring in the sylvan surroundings. Other Boise River activities include fishing, water skiing, and more. Recommended nearby hotel: Best Western Northwest Lodge.
The Best Things to Do in Boise Idaho
Julia Davis Park
One of the larger parks in Boise, Julia Davis Park, is a central link for many activities outdoors. It contains a multi-faceted play area for children, a duck-feeding pond, and a rose garden that is so beautiful to take romantic evening strolls through. It also contains three museums: a mix of recreation and education.
Camel’s Back Park
Camel’s Back Park is ideal for nature and wildlife lovers. There are good tracks for mountain biking, hiking, and dog walking—in good condition provided by pets on leashes. In addition to the tracks, the park contains playgrounds, tennis courts, picnic areas, and an outdoor gym. Nature lovers will appreciate the beauty of the park with gazebos, ponds, waterfalls, and stone inscriptions identifying some of the flora and fauna surrounding the park.
Eagle Island State Park
Only thirty minutes from Boise, this 545-acre Eagle Island State Park offers such seasonal activities as skiing and snowboarding in winter and horseback riding in summer. Amenities at the park include picnic areas, a water slide, a swimming beach, a volleyball court, a zip line, and an 18-hole disc golf course. It is an ideal spot for families seeking many options in outdoor activities. The closest lodging available is the Hilton Garden Inn Boise/Eagle.
The Best Things to Do in Boise Idaho
Boise River Greenbelt
Right through the heart of the city cuts the 25-mile-long Boise River Greenbelt—a peaceful escape from city life. This beautiful pathway is perfect for walking, cycling, and nature-watching. In the summertime, many visitors enjoy cooling off by floating the river on a stand-up paddleboard or inner tube. Along the Greenbelt, there are various attractions worth seeing when one wants to seamlessly merge city and nature.
With Boise’s sprawling parks and outdoor activities, this city is still pretty alive for tourists and locals to pass through the beauty of nature and enjoy some recreational activities.
Cultural and historical attractions
From cultural and historic sites to various attractions, Boise, Idaho’s capital, has so much to offer visitors and residents alike, creating an enriching experience in every single way. Founded in the gold rush days of the 1800s, its history is a little over 180 years old, but its cultural landscape has changed quite a lot within this duration.
The Best Things to Do in Boise Idaho
Boise Art Museum (BAM)
BAM sits amidst Julia Davis Park and grew out of a gathering of 30 community members in 1931 who felt it about time Boise had an art gallery. It finally opened as the Boise Art Gallery in 1937. Fast forward, and now this place is a full-fledged art museum with over 3,000 pieces, many from the 20th century. Media in its exhibitions include painting, sculpture, and contemporary photography.
Old Idaho Penitentiary
One historic attraction to visit is the Old Idaho Penitentiary. This is a prison that is now a museum and can be toured to show the history of Idaho’s prisons. Tours through the cell blocks, solitary confinement, and the gallows give visitors a view of what inmates lived like from 1872 to 1973.
Idaho State Capitol
Other famous landmarks exist in downtown Boise: the Idaho State Capitol Building. It is open to visitors Monday through Saturday and provides guided tours that must be scheduled in advance, though self-guided tours are also available if a person prefers to wander at their own pace. It’s an architecturally intriguing building that holds a great deal of Idaho’s legislative history.
Basque Museum and Cultural Center
The Basque Museum and Cultural Center is a unique gem devoted to the preservation and promotion of one of Europe’s oldest and most distinct cultures: the Basque. Housed within the historic Cyrus Jacobs-Uberuaga House, this museum presents a permanent collection including a display of traditional music, a replica sheep wagon, and various historical archives.
It also sponsors several special events yearly, from the Mus tournaments to the Christmas markets. Self-guided tours are provided at a nominal gate admission, and guided tours can be prearranged.
The Best Things to Do in Boise Idaho
Idaho Military History Museum
Operating on everything from the Revolutionary War to modern-day conflicts, this museum truly boasts a huge collection of military artifacts in the form of weapons and uniforms. The Gowen Field Air National Guard Base is where you will find this museum; it finds its place in the must-visit list of any history enthusiast.
Idaho Museum of Mining and Geology
Idaho Museum of Mining and Geology Free admission, located on the Old State Penitentiary campus, will feature Idaho’s mining and geological history. Mining will be shown from ethnic perspectives and is open on Fridays and Saturdays.
Warhawk Air Museum
This Nampa institution, a solid 30-minute drive from Boise, is still worth a look for the true war enthusiast. A handful of military aircraft are on display, along with some educational information on aviation history and military service.
These cultural and historical attractions in Boise depict a myriad of experiences that range from art and heritage to military history, thereby giving varied ways to gain an extensive understanding of the city’s enviable past and its pulsating present.
Events and Festivals
Boise, Idaho, is home to some pulsating events and festivals that outline the rich cultural tapestry and camaraderie among the people.
Treefort Music Fest
Since 2012, the five-day indie rock extravaganza known as Treefort Music Fest has called downtown Boise home every late March. From humble beginnings, the now exponential growth of the festival boasts hundreds of bands year after year, attracting music lovers literally from all over the world.
Modeled after festivals like Austin, Texas’ SXSW, and Calgary, Alberta’s Sled Island, Treefort has been described as “the west’s best SXSW alternative” and also “Boise’s preeminent artistic, cultural, and musical happening.”.
It’s way more than a music festival; it has turned into an extravaganza with everything from Filmfort to Hackfort, Storyfort, and Yogafort, making the whole affair full of cultural relevance. During its third year, it hosted 350 bands from pop to heavy metal, hip hop, electronica, folk, and classic rock, among other genres. The festival keeps on growing, and in 2024, it will feature almost 500 bands, including many international artists hailing from countries like Australia, Iceland, and even Japan.
The festival has grown into one of Boise’s most significant economic drivers, pumping a record $11 million into the local economy in 2023 alone. Hundreds of volunteers come together each year, and community support remains vital. There’s something for every kind of fan—from beer tastings at Alefort to tech chats at Hackfort to even yoga sessions at Yogafort.
Free Summer Concert Series
Every Wednesday from June 19th through the end of July, The Grove Plaza in downtown Boise is alive with the Free Summer Concert Series. Fun and fresh talent lineup for a summer celebration and great music.
The Best Things to Do in Boise Idaho
Tuesday’s on the Creek
Tuesdays on the Creek” is a 20-week series that offers free live music performances by local and touring musicians in Caldwell’s downtown. It is paired with the Farm to Fork Farmers’ Market so visitors can enjoy music, food, and a lively atmosphere.
Wildwood Outdoor Summer Market
This market is packed with a lot of local vendors selling everything from plants to produce to bread, desserts, toys, clothes, and gift items. Other additions that attract it are the addition of coffee and shaved ice.
Garden Flow Yoga
Free yoga class hosted at Victory Gardens. One will flow through poses in a tranquil, flower-filled setting. Bring a mat and water for a morning of relaxation.
The Capital City Public Market
From April 13th to December 21st, the Capital City Public Market, which occurs every Saturday in downtown Boise, is one of those staple events to support local Idahoans and their families by offering local goods and bringing the community out.
Emmett Harvest Festival
Enjoy the agricultural bounty of Gem County at the Emmett Harvest Festival, a family-friendly event held in Historic Downtown Emmett. Festival admission is free, courtesy of First Interstate Bank, and includes a street fair atmosphere.
Must-Do Things in Boise, Idaho
| Activity | Location | Description | Best Time to Visit |
| Explore Downtown Boise | Downtown Boise Foundation | Discover local shops, eateries, and cultural spots in the heart of Boise. | Year-round |
| Relax at the Boise River Greenbelt | Boise River | A scenic 25-mile trail perfect for walking, cycling, and soaking up nature. | Spring and Summer |
| Attend Boise Summer Events | Various Locations | Music festivals, food fests, and sports events fill Boise’s summer with excitement. | Summer |
| Visit the Idaho State Capitol | Boise | Explore the historical and political hub of Idaho with tours of the Capitol building. | Year-round |
| Personal Boise Summer Bucket List | Downtown and Boise River | Create your own list of activities from outdoor adventures to city explorations. | Summer |
Boise Flea Market
Every 2nd Saturday from April to October, Boise Flea Market has a little of something for everyone: antiques and collectibles, crafts, handmade jewelry, and much, much more.
But Boise, Idaho, is more than just craft breweries and outdoor recreation—it’s a children’s paradise with numerous activities that cater to all ages and tastes. This paper talks about some such activities as they relate to Boise Zoo.
Zoo Boise
Zoo Boise in Julia Davis Park has received some major expansions. Now, variety is provided by the displays of several animals. One of the newest Zoo Boise features is called Butterflies in Bloom—a butterfly garden where guests can be surrounded by the ‘winged’ and even get ‘guests’ on one’s arm, hand, or shoulder. The zoo offers educational and entertaining experiences for children and adults.
Aquarium of Boise
The Aquarium of Boise is a 10,000-square-foot facility that maintains over 250 species of fish, coral, and invertebrates. Further interactive exhibits, group programs, and guided tours permit families to get up close and personal with marine life for better insight into conservation efforts.
The Best Things to Do in Boise Idaho
Planet Kid Indoor Soft Playground
Planet Kid Indoor Soft Playground is an indoor haven set up inside the Wings Center complex; this is specifically designed for 12-year-old kids and younger. The playground is made to be a safe, padded labyrinth of children’s playgrounds where kids can climb, swing, and slide to their hearts’ content. There’s even a Toddler Town designed for children up to 2 years old, so this is a great stop for the littlest family members. The complex also includes a kid’s climbing gym and a cafeteria to grab some energy back after a day of playing.
MK Nature Center
The Morrison-Knudsen Nature Center, often known as the MK Nature Center, is an excellent resource for children to gain knowledge about local wildlife and animal conservation. Located along the Greenbelt, this 4.6-acre nature center features walking trails, ponds, gardens, and unique wildlife experiences. The interpretive trail and underwater viewing windows in the Nature Center pond offer kids some fantastic chances to spy on sturgeon, trout, and other wildlife in their normal habitat. The center is especially good for kids who are older than five.
Boise Whitewater Park
Also in Downtown Boise, Boise Whitewater Park is a great place if families are in the mood for an adrenaline-rich experience. Indeed, this place promises adrenaline-fueled fun for a family.
Wahooz Family Fun Zone
The Wahooz Family Fun Zone is an amusement park located in Meridian that caters to families throughout the year. The home of at least 15 indoor and outdoor attractions includes a miniature golf course, a go-kart race track, an arcade, a bowling alley, and many more. Other activities that families will find include bumper cars, rock climbing walls, an indoor ropes course, and batting cages for continued memories and activities that families of all ages will enjoy.
The Best Things to Do in Boise Idaho
Pojo’s Family Fun Center Since its establishment in 1974, Pojo’s Family Fun Center has been one of the favorite family places to visit in Boise for decades. The center is equipped with a wide variety of activities that include bumper cars, a merry-go-round, and even an indoor Ferris wheel. It’s a prehistorically fun home for people of all ages; thus, it takes care of everything for everyone in the family.
From the endless list of Boise family activities, both locals and visitors can be assured that every activity will be a fun learning experience. Indoor playgrounds, nature centers, or amusement parks—Boise has one for each.
The Best Things to Do in Boise Idaho
The Best Things to do in Missoula Montana
Food and Drink
Fork
It is regarded as one of the best restaurants in Boise and is highly acclaimed for its comfort foods, such as burgers, sandwiches, and tacos, among others, for the use of premium ingredients and the fusion of flavors. Some of its touted creations are the Northwest Crispy Chicken Salad, Cast Iron Seared Lamb Lollipops, and the Urban Burger. Fork is the only recommended restaurant that is known to make accommodations.
It also accommodates several diets and tastes, hence the reason why it is diverse concerning dining. It is rated as one of the best restaurants in Boise today, as it offers the best services to its suppliers and customers. It opens Mondays through Thursdays from 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m., Friday: 11:30 a.m. to 11 p.m., Saturday: 9:30 a.m. to 11 p.m., and Sunday: 9:30 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Westside Drive-In
Another great place for a burger bar with appeals to an older demographic is Westside Drive-In. Just the ticket for that all-American meal smack in the middle of a quaint and retro-style atmosphere.
Basque Market
The Basque Market is an outstanding source of tapas, cultural exposure, and creativity. It also serves as the gathering place for Boise’s Basque community—one of the largest outside the Basque region of Spain. Besides serving food and wine, it offers opportunities to experience special events, such as cooking classes. Hours of Operation: Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Thursdays and Fridays from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Java Coffee
With two locations downtown and in Hyde Park, Java has long remained a favorite among coffee lovers. Renowned for its delectable beverages and its iconic Bowl of Soul, Java Coffee remains true to the legacy of its creator, Todd Rippo. It is enjoyed as one of the most popular and reasonably priced hotspots in Boise.
Big City Coffee & Cafe
Big City Coffee & Cafe is known to deliver in their coffee, sweet, and savory offerings. Sweet menu items include steamed eggs, biscuits, gravy, and the Farmer’s Garden salad. The cafe is one of the main attractions for the city among both coffee lovers and those searching for a full meal. It is open every day from 6 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Juniper
Located on Boise’s foodie-famous 8th Street, Juniper is a restaurant centered on local ingredients and Idahoan producers. It’s a menu all about regional agricultural bounty and is sure to provide an exciting dining experience, especially after a day of touring the Idaho wine country.
The Best Things to Do in Boise Idaho
Farmers Market
The Boise Farmers Market is a feast of color with fresh produce, baked goods, locally raised proteins, and artisanal items. It’s a wonderful place to meander around in the mornings, pick up special items, and get a great brunch. It also features several wines from local wineries, including Cold Springs Winery and Hat Ranch Winery.
Shopping and Entertainment
Filmfort
Filmfort is a must for those interested in modern and independent film. This four-day festival offers a variety of different cinematic viewpoints and innovative work, all suitable for viewers of any age.
The Best Things to Do in Boise Idaho
Foodfort
Foodfort will thrill foodies with a fantastic lineup of local, regional, and national chefs, media, and other brilliant foodies coming together under one roof. It features a series of intimate eating events throughout the week that sell out fast every year.
Hackfort
Tech-friendly people will feel right at home at Hackfort, a conference unlike any other, focused on conversation and interaction, not lectures. Makers, developers, musicians, gamers, content creators, innovators, and educators unite in the name of technology in its many forms.
Farmers Markets
Farmers markets are held around Boise and its outlying areas from spring to fall.
Festivals and Events
Boise is home to numerous festivals and events that offer shopping combined with entertainment.
Cultural and Entertainment Hot Spots
Boise has a list of art and entertainment spots that include:
Bruneau Sand Dunes
Any trip to Boise would not be complete without passing by the largest single-structure dunes in North America—the Bruneau Sand Dunes. Only mere minutes from Boise, this place offers fun-filled tours and outdoor excursions promised for any visitor.
These shopping and entertainment options are a reflection of the dynamic community spirit and rich culture that Boise, Idaho, portrays, making it a fun place to live and visit.
The Best Things to Do in Boise Idaho
Sports and Recreation
Boise, Idaho, has a broad range of sports and recreational activities for people of all ages and skill levels. Whether you are an outdoor enthusiast, an athlete, or looking to try something new, Boise has something to offer.
Parks and Outdoor Activities
Numerous parks in Boise offer a variety of recreational opportunities that are perfect for boating, bicycling, picnics, fishing, and swimming. For water lovers wanting to enjoy the water in many different ways, it serves as Boise River’s “outdoor gym,” where visitors can rent a paddleboard, take a swim, or just relax on the beach. The oldest park in the city has a Municipal Rose Garden and several outdoor amenities.
The park offers softball diamond complexes, a soccer field, a playground, and a dirt jump park while providing grassy open areas, picnic benches, and a river overlook. The is hot for its 12-foot-deep pool, waterslide, and diving area. Golf enthusiasts might want to check out the 18-hole championship course shaded by trees along the Boise River, or the complete with a driving range, putting green, and a full-service pro shop.
The sprawling 25-mile-long path cuts through the heart of town and forms a tranquil retreat from the urban bustle. Visitors can walk, bike, or float down the river on an SUP or inner tube.
Camel’s Back Park and Esther Simplot Park
It is famous for the namesake hill, which has a strenuous climb but offers spectacular views from the top. This area also serves as an entrance to Hull’s Gulch Reserve and the Boise Foothills, offering year-round hiking. Modern playgrounds, a court for playing sand volleyball, tennis courts, an outdoor gym, and shaded picnic areas make up the park itself. Shops and restaurants are just nearby for refreshments after adventures and are some of the other best recreational places in Boise, famous for their breathtaking views and al fresco sports.
Mountain Biking
Boise is a haven for mountain biking. This city has more than 200 mountain bike trails, almost 400 miles in length, hence earning it a hub for mountain biking. These trails are made for all levels, so either get your adrenaline pumped or just enjoy the view.
BSU Football Stadium
The stadium located at Boise State University is a major place that almost every visitor to Boise will check out.
The bright blue-colored field, affectionately known as “Smurf Turf,” calls the Boise State University Broncos football team into action. Smurf up your game days by pumping up with orange and blue-clad fans. The stadium is also home to the BSU Museum, which showcases the history of the school’s football program and is open to the public on weekdays.
The Best Things to Do in Boise Idaho
How to Get There and Accessibility
Bike and Stroller-Friendly Paths
Boise has several well-cared-for pathways that are good to bike and walk, so it is easy to get around for families with kids of different ages. It’s also a very easy way to enjoy the great views of the city and the local wildlife along the tree-lined pathways.
Public Transportation and Shuttles
If walking or biking isn’t your thing, there are a few different options for public transportation in Boise that will make getting around a breeze. During the event, a Treeline Shuttle is available, as is the ability to ride any Valley Regional Transit bus free of charge by showing your Treefort wristband. It’s super easy to get from point A to point B without the hassle of finding a car.
Parking and Bike Valet Services
For cyclists, the Boise Bicycle Project has installed bike racks throughout the city where anyone can park a bike for free and also offers a bike valet service. Members get access to free, secure parking and very affordable tune-ups, though nonmembers can make use of these services at a minimal charge for headache-free service at festivals and events.
Event Accessibility
Boise takes accessibility seriously, and with such an event in its hands—like the Art in the Park event—it tries to be as inclusive as it can by enhancing the accessibility features.
Info about accessibility and resources is made online before the event, and volunteers are solicited to serve as a sighted guide to make sure that all can take part in the merriment.
The Best Things to Do in Boise Idaho
Event-Specific Transportation Tips
Events like Treefort make it easy to get around without a car. The many different venues are near enough to each other that attendees can easily walk, bike, skateboard, or even skate between them. In addition, food trucks and beverage stalls are often placed near hotspots such as the Main Stage and Julia Davis Park to make a quick bite or drink easy and accessible.
Learn More About Boise, Idaho
Boise, Idaho, is more than just the capital of the Gem State; it carries a heavy concentration of historic sites, educational landmarks, and their major art scenes. While the city is known for its outdoor attractions, along with the vibrant events the city showcases, there are many other more significant reasons why Boise is perfect for tourists and locals alike.
Boise State University (BSU)
Boise State University represents one of the most recognizable landmarks this city has ever graced—the famous blue football field. That university stands for innovation and education; hence, an inviting opportunity is given to all people who want to come and explore its campus, including its impressive sports facilities such as BSU Football Stadium. The rich history of the Broncos, something no true sports fan will pass up, is represented on campus at the BSU Museum.
Galleries and Cultural Exploration
Art lovers can stroll around art galleries in the city, which include the Boise Art Museum, BAM, which regularly runs exhibitions from both local and international artists. Those who might want to experience more of Boise’s creativity will find smaller galleries throughout downtown, offering everything from contemporary art to cultural exhibits, which is a dynamic part of Boise’s culture.
Historic Sites and Unraveling Boise’s Heritage
Apart from the Old Idaho Penitentiary, which gives a glimpse into Boise’s penal history, other historic places in the city allow one to get enlightenment regarding the past. Much more than the actual working legislative center of the Idaho State Capitol are historic landmark tours that help visitors discover Idaho’s rich political heritage. For those who wish to dig a little deeper, a visit to the Idaho Museum of Mining and Geology explains the state’s geology and mining heritage.
Fun Things to Do in Boise Idaho for Tourists and Locals
Whether one is a tourist or a local, Boston has a host of fun things to indulge in. Off-the-trail hiking and mountain biking, Planet Kid Indoor Playground will entertain your kids while adults can always take leisurely walks in the numerous parks. The Boise River Greenbelt remains among the favorite places tourists and locals alike can go to enjoy the outdoors without having to go too far away from the center of town.
TripAdvisor Suggestions for Boise
It gives ratings on the top things to do in Boise if you go there. Some of these are Boise River, Camel’s Back Park, and Julia Davis Park. This website is of great help as it identifies the perfect venues a tourist needs to visit, along with reviews of local restaurants, events, and historical places that need to be visited.
The Best Things to Do in Boise Idaho
Top Boise Events and Attractions
| Event/Attraction | Details | What to Expect | Recommendation |
| Visit Boise Foundation | Downtown Boise | Supports local events and initiatives that enhance Boise’s downtown scene. | Great for first-time visitors |
| Boise Summer Events | Citywide | Enjoy the ultimate Boise summer with events like Brewfest and Music Festival. | Attend with family/friends |
| What Boise Means | Historical Significance | Boise comes from the French word for “wooded,” fitting its lush surroundings. | Explore Boise River trails |
| Recommendations for Things to Do | All Around Boise | Visit cultural sites, enjoy nature, and attend local events. | Visit Idaho Botanical Garden |
| Attend Summer Festivals in Boise | Downtown Boise and Riverfront | Popular festivals such as the Boise Music Festival and Pride Festival. | Don’t miss summer weekends |
The Best Things to Do in Boise Idaho
Frequently Asked Questions about Things to Do in Boise Idaho
What is the Western Idaho Fair?
Western Idaho Fair is a highlight in Boise’s events calendar, fusing carnival rides, games, live music, food, and agriculture on show. This is the quintessential summer event that natives and visitors simply love because it brings out the cream of Idaho’s agricultural and entertainment produce.
What should I expect to see at the Idaho Botanical Garden?
Idaho Botanical Garden is an oasis with beautiful gardens that are strikingly attractive, with pathways for walking and events according to the seasons. It’s also one of the best places to learn about local flora, take part in workshops, or just display lights during the winter holiday seasons.
What is the Idaho Shakespeare Festival?
The Idaho Shakespeare Festival is a special outing during the summer, enacted in the open air at an unusually sylvan amphitheater. A mix of Shakespearean plays with other theatricals is staged here, balancing culture and entertainment in nature.
What does Boise mean?
The word “Boise” comes from the French word meaning “wooded.” This area was named by early French-Canadian fur trappers because of the several lush, tree-lined riverbanks they found, which in turn earned it the nickname “City of Trees.”
What are some events in Boise that one should not miss during the summer?
It’s during the summer, though, that Boise can boast of several events, such as the Boise Music Festival, the Boise Pride Festival, and the Boise Brewfest, among many others. The Ultimate Boise Summer is just replete with outdoor concerts, food festivals, and sports games—Boise Hawks baseball games being part of the latter.
What are the Boise Center Highlights?
The Boise Center is downtown Boise’s main convention and event center; throughout the year, this hosts a broad range of conferences, exhibitions, and cultural events and is the focal meeting point for large gatherings within the city.
What are the scenes along the Boise River that I can take in?
Scenic Boise River: The views are stunning, especially up and down the Boise River Greenbelt—a 25-mile pathway perfect for walking, cycling, and nature observation. It is a great way of touring the city while being surrounded by natural beauty.
What is the Boise Goathead Festival?
The Boise Goathead Festival: A uniquely weed-like awareness-raising event for the invasive goathead plants. It stages a community bike ride amongst other activities to increase bike culture and sustainability in Boise.
What is the Boise Hawks Game like?
The Boise Hawks are a minor league baseball team, and catching a game is one of the fun, family-friendly summer activities to take in within the city. The games take place at Memorial Stadium, offering an exciting atmosphere for sports fans.
What should be on my Boise bucket list?
A Boise Bucket List has to include the game-watching of Boise Hawks, a visit to the Idaho Botanical Garden, the Idaho Shakespeare Festival, floating the Boise River, and fun downtown Boise. Watch out for events such as the Boise Pride Festival or a day spent at the Western Idaho Fair.
What is the Boise Pride Festival?
The Boise Pride Festival is an annual event to celebrate the community of LGBTQ+ with parades, live performances, and other cultural events in downtown Boise. It is one of the most anticipated events in Boise during the summer.
Where can I do local product shopping in Boise?
If you’re looking to shop Idaho products, downtown Boise has several local shops and markets, most notably the famous Capital City Public Market. Along the Boise River, unique shops and boutiques offer everything from handmade crafts to fresh, locally grown produce.