A Local’s 33 Best Things to Do in Boise in 2024
LOOKING FOR FUN THINGS TO DO IN BOISE, IDAHO?
You’ve come to the right place! Candice and I are both Boise natives and have come together to bring you the best things to do in Boise. Boise has a fantastic atmosphere of music, culture, food, and outdoor activities. There are so many fun things to do in Boise, making it a great place for any budget, family, and style.
Our guide will walk you through a range of activities such as museums, plays, outdoor adventures, parks, and all the top spots you will want to visit while you venture through the City of Trees.
If you want to look at hiking in Boise or where to eat, check out our hiking guide or our guide to the best restaurants in Boise.
Fun Things to Do in Boise
1. Boise Zoo
General Admission $12.50, Seniors 9.50, Kids (3-11) $9.50, Kids under 2 are free | Purchase Tickets Online at Boise Parks and Recreation | Google Maps
Zoo Boise is a great place to spend an afternoon in the heart of Downtown. It houses over 300 animals from 100 various species. Plan on spending about 3-4 hours at this Boise attraction.
There are numerous special attractions ranging from a season butterfly exhibit to a zoo farm where you can feed the animals. Make sure to bring some cash to ride the carousel and to purchase food to feed the animals at the petting zoo.
Some of our favorite animals to see are the giraffes, the maned wolf, and the black-handed spider monkey. The last time we were at the Zoo, there was a new baby giraffe. Rowen and Raven couldn’t get enough of her.
Local Tips: If you visit on Thursday ticket prices are discounted. General Admission is only $9.50 on Thursday. If you want to the giraffes and not pay admission follow the bike path around the back and you can see the giraffes because their pen is along the fence.
2. Aquarium of Boise
General Admission $13, Seniors $11, Military $11, Children (7-11) $10, Children (3-6) $8, kids under 2 are free | Purchase tickets online at Aquarium Boise | Google Maps
The Aquarium of Boise is home to over 250 species of animals and marine life. There are nine different exhibits ranging from a shark and ray pool to an Amazon Exhibit showcasing cichlids, peacock bass, and red-tailed catfish. They also have a bird aviary with yellow-breasted lory and rainbow lory.
If you are visiting with kids, this is one of the best activities in Boise.
3. Wahooz
Adult All Day Pass (Under 58″) $49.99, Junior All Day Pass (Under 58″) $42.99 | Purchase tickets and Look for Discounts at Wahooz Online | Google Maps
Wahooz is a family fun center with lots of different activities. If you do all of the activities you could be there all day. You can pay by either the attraction or you can get an unlimited pass.
Wahooz has continued to expand over the years and now has a great ropes course, bowling alley, climbing walls, batting cages, bumper cars, go carts and more.
Local Tip: Make sure to check their hours of operations. Their open hours change throughout the year and some of the activities are seasonal.
4. Roaring Springs
General Full Day $44.99, Junior Full Day $39.99, Senior Full Day $39.99, PM Plunge (after 3PM-8PM) $39.99 | Purchase tickets online at Roaring Springs | Google Maps
Right next to Wahooz is Roaring Springs, one of the largest water parks in the country. There is something for everyone to do there. They have a really fun lazy river, a wave pool, a little kids’ section, and endless rides.
If you are going to be around for a little bit purchase a season pass. We have love having a season pass for the summer months.
Local Tips: You can bypass a lot of the lines getting in on a busy day if you purchase your tickets before hand and use the entrance at Wahooz. Walk through Wahooz past the ticket desk and then go right. There is a small entrance that lets you in next to the wave pool.
5. Morrison Center
Ticket Prices vary depending on the event and where you sit. Expect to pay between $30 to $100 | Website | Google Maps
The Morrison Center is found on the campus of Boise State University and is Idaho’s premier performing arts center. It has been named the #2 university venue in the United States for live entertainment.
We have seen multiple performances here and have loved every single one. The Fred Meyer Broadway brings fantastic shows each year, such as Phantom of the Opera, Wicked, and The Lion King.
6. Bogus Basin
Winter Season Pass $699, Midweek Season Pass $399, Twilight Season Pass $179, Night Season Pass 119 | Check Pricing, Mountain Conditions and Hours of Operations at Bogus Basin | Google Maps
No matter what season you are visiting, the Bogus Basin Recreation Area is a fun place to spend the day. During the summer, you can head up for some mountain hiking as well as riding on the Glade Runner, a mountain roller coaster, as well as summer tubing, climbing walls, and a scenic chairlift ride.
During the snowy months, Bogus is the closest place to go alpine skiing and snowboarding. There are 10 lifts at the resort with 80+ runs. They also have a fun winter tubing hill, Nordic skiing trails, and snowshoeing. The Glade Runner Mountain Coaster runs in the winter as well.
The ski resort is a full service resort with ski and snowboard rentals, food and condo rentals. Bogus Basin also does night skiing for those who can’t make it to the hill during the day or who want to take advantage of the cheaper ticket prices.
7. World Center for Birds of Prey
General Admission $12, Senior $10, Youth (4-16) $7, Child 3 and under are free | Fall Flights Program Adult $20, Senior $18, Youth (4-16) $15, Child 3 and under Free | Purchase Tickets Online at the Peregrine Fund | Google Maps
The World Center for Birds of Prey is the headquarters for The Peregrine Fund, a nonprofit that works to conserve birds of prey throughout the world. You will get up close and personal at the center with eagles, owls, vultures, hawks, and falcons.
There are also live raptor presentations throughout the day. When you are getting your tickets, ask when the next presentation will be. During the presentation, you will be able to see a bird of prey up close, learn more about the birds, and ask questions to the presenter.
8. Bruneau Sand Dunes
Admission and Parking $7 | Bruneau Dunes Website | Google Maps
About an hour outside Boise is North America’s tallest single-structured sand dune. The sand dune is in the Bruneau Sand Dunes State Park. It is a fun day trip, and you can even camp there if you would like.
It gets very warm there, so heading out in the middle of the summer is not a good idea.
You can rent sandboards to ride down the dunes at the sand dunes, visit the Bruneau Sand Dunes Observatory, and hike the dunes. There are also two small lakes for swimming, boating, and paddleboarding.
Local Tips: Bring a black light and search for scorpions at the dunes. Scorpions have a protein that glows in the dark when under a black light. The Bruneau Observatory is the largest available telescope for public use in Idaho and a great way to see planets and the stars.
9. Idaho City
Free | Google Maps Idaho City | The Springs Hot Springs
Idaho City is about an hour north in the scenic Boise Basin. It was once the biggest mining town in the Pacific Northwest due to the gold in the area. Today, you can see remnants of the old town as well as beautiful mountains in the area.
The historic district is in the heart of Idaho City, along with several restaurants, hotels, and shops. Charcoal Gulch Hike and the Buena Vista Loop are two popular trails if you want to do some hiking.
If you do make the drive up to Idaho City, be sure to visit The Springs. It is a natural hot springs pool and a perfect place to spend a relaxing afternoon or evening. They also have private pools and massages.
Things To Do in Boise – Museums
10. Boise Art Museum
General Admission $9, Senior $7, Student $5, Military $7, Children under 5 are free, BSU student free | Purchase Tickets Online at The Boise Art Museum | Google Maps
The Boise Art Museum also know at BAM usually has 12-16 new rotating exhibits each year covering a variety of media, time frames, and cultures. The staff is always on hand to answer any questions and tell you more about the art pieces. A lot of the exhibits do have a modern style.
You should expect to spend one to two hours at the museum when you visit. The museum is very close to the zoo so combining the two activities would work well.
11. Idaho State Museum
General Admission $10, Youth $5, Senior $8, Children 5 and under are free | Purchase Tickets Online at the Idaho State Museum | Google Maps
The Idaho State Museum looks at the people who have lived in Idaho, ranging from Sacajawea to Olympic-medalist Kristin Armstrong. There are a lot of interactive displays and activities about people who have lived in the Gem State.
It is a great museum to visit to deepen your understanding of the lands of Idaho and how the state got to where it is today.
12. Old Idaho State Penitentiary
General Admission $8, Youth $5, Senior $6, Student w/ID $7, Veteran $7, Children under 5 are free | Purchase Tickets Online at Idaho State Penitentiary | Google Maps
The Old Idaho Penitentiary opened in 1872 and held some of the West’s worst criminals. It was a functioning prison for 101 years and received over 13,000 inmates. The Penitentiary was closed in December of 1973.
Today, you can tour the prison and see solitary confinement, cell blocks, and the gallows. You can also tour exhibits to learn more about the history of Idaho and the Penitentiary.
We recommend going on one of the tours of the Penitentiary. The tour is included in your ticket price, and the tour guides can answer any questions you have and tell you more about each spot in the prison.
Local Tip: The Old Idaho Penitentiary is at the bottom of a the popular Table Rock hike. If you have time check out the Penitentiary and hike Table Rock.
13. Basque Museum and Cultural Center
General Admission $7, Seniors and Students $6, Children (6-12) $5, Children 5 and under are free. | Check out the Basque Museum website for hours of operations, events and exhibitions | Google Maps
The Basque Museum and Cultural Center gives visitors an idea of the heritage of the Basque people in Idaho. One cool thing is that it is the only Basque Museum in the United States! Along with the museum, your admission includes a tour of the Cyrus Jacobs/Uberuaga House and Fronton Building when tour guides are available.
The staff is very friendly and eager to share information about the Basque culture. This Boise attraction will take about an hour to walk through.
While visiting the museum, be sure to leave some time to explore the Basque Block. It is a great opportunity to try some authentic Basque food.
14. Discovery Center of Idaho
General Admission $25.50, Senior $22.50, Youth $17.50, Children 2 and under are free | Purchase tickets online at The Discovery Center Idaho | Google Maps
The Discovery Center of Idaho is an interactive STEM hands-on science center. There are over 150 exhibits that both kids and adults will enjoy. There are also special rotating exhibits that come through the museum.
This is a great educational stop for families.
Things to Do in Boise for Free
There are a lot of fun things to do in Boise, ID that you can do for free. There are so many beautiful parks, hiking trails, and outdoor spaces to enjoy. The downtown area is very walkable and a great place to spend the day.
15. Idaho State Capitol Building
Free | Google Maps
The Idaho Capitol is one of the most beautiful buildings in the state of Idaho. There are beautiful sandstone walls and well-manicured lawns and gardens. The Capitol is very open to visitors who are welcome to explore. You can see the governor’s office and see where the House and Senate meet. Visitor hours are found online.
Make sure to stand underneath the dome and take a picture looking up!
Local Tip: Take a tour of the capital building and learn all about the Idaho Legislature. Tours must be scheduled at least 2 weeks in advance so make sure you plan ahead. Schedule your tour at the Idaho Legislature Website by filling out a tour request form.
16. Boise River Greenbelt
Free | Greenbelt Map and Access Points at Boise River Greenbelt
The Greenbelt is a 25-mile path that goes through the heart of Boise. Along the Greenbelt, you will find beautiful views of the Boise River, wildlife, and many of the city’s riverside parks. Whether you walk, skate, or bike, there is a lot to see.
Some of the points of interest along the Greenbelt are Ann Morrison Memorial Park, the Boise River Park, and the Anne Frank Memorial. The Greenbelt’s tree-lined path is a great way to spend some time in the outdoors.
17. Freak Alley
Free | Google Maps
Freak Alley is an outdoor gallery in Boise that is free and open to the public year-round. You can find beautiful murals, public art, and graffiti from local artists. Freak Alley started as a single doorway in 2002 but now extends out of the alley into a gravel parking lot. The walls are replaced with new artwork every two years.
Stop by to check out the artwork and take a couple of pictures while you are there.
18. Boise Train Depot
Free | Google Maps
The Boise Depot is a place filled with history. It was designed by New York architects and opened in 1925 as a Union Pacific passenger depot. The Boise Depot served as a train station until Amtrak opened in May 1971. Today the Boise Depot serves as a community center for tours and special events and is one of the fun things to do in Boise, Idaho.
The grounds have beautiful views of the downtown area, a beautiful park, a gazebo, and a koi pond. Also, around the back, you can find Engine 2295, also known as Big Mike. Big Mike was used as a freight engine along the Union Pacific’s mainline until he retired and donated to the city in 1956.
You can go inside the Boise Depot on Sundays and Mondays from 11 AM – 5 PM. If you can’t make it during those hours, still go see the grounds, views of Boise, Big Mike, and the outside of the building.
Hiking
There are a lot of beautiful hiking trails within minutes of downtown Boise. You can also head up into the Boise National Forest for more hiking trails. Hiking is one of the fun things to do in Boise.
19. Hike Table Rock
Free | Google Maps
The Table Rock Trail is about a 3.7-mile loop with rewarding views of Boise throughout the hike. There are some steep sections, and it takes about 45 minutes to an hour to hike it.
At the top is a Cross and a fun sandstone quarry you can explore. The top of the hill is also a great place to take pictures with the Treasure Valley in the background.
If you cannot hike or don’t want to, you can drive to the top for the views and explore the area. There is very little shade, so bring some water and sunscreen.
20. Hulls Gulch Nature Trail
- Length: 6.3 miles
- Elevation Gain: 1,131 feet
- Route Type: Out & Back
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Google Maps
This is a beautiful hiking trail near downtown Boise. There is some shade on the trail as well as fun features like bridges and creeks. It is a steady incline to the top, where you will find beautiful views of the creek. It is a pretty easy trail to navigate. This is one of our favorite things to do in downtown Boise.
Dogs are able to use this trail. Ticks are common on the trail, though, so be sure to check yourself and your pets.
Boise Parks
21. Camel’s Back Park
Free | Google Maps
Camel’s Back Park is one of our favorite parks in Boise. There is a playground, tennis courts, picnic area, outdoor gym, and great access to the Boise foothills and Hulls Gulch Reserve.
There are dozens of miles of mountain biking, hiking, and running trails, as well as off-leash dog trails. Be sure to climb the hill right next to the park. There are beautiful views of downtown Boise and beyond.
Keep an eye out for wildlife like deer, foxes, rabbits and more.
22. Barber Park
Free | Google Maps
Barber Park is the most common launch area for floating the Boise River. In addition to the launch, there are picnic shelters, a playground, nature trails, and a basketball court.
If you are interested in floating the river, you can rent tubes, rafts, and kayaks from Boise River Raft and Tube at Barber Park. There is a shuttle running from Ann Morris back up to Barber Park. The shuttle runs from 10 am to 6 pm.
23. Julia Davis Park
Free | Google Maps
Julia Davis Park has great Greenbelt Access as well as large grassy fields, play equipment, tennis courts, and horseshoes. Rowen and Raven learned how to ride their bikes without training wheels next to the playground. We love riding on the Greenbelt and then playing at Julia Davis Park after our ride.
Julia Davis is also a popular spot to get out of the Boise River when you are floating.
24. Quinn’s Pond
Free | Google Maps
Quinn’s Pond is a great place for every member of the family to enjoy a sunny day in Boise. The park has fishing docks, sandy beaches, picnic areas, and some play equipment. There is a 22-acre pond perfect for fishing, paddleboarding, kayaking, and swimming.
Idaho River Sports is right next door and rents canoes, kayaks, and stand-up paddle boards if you want to explore the pond from beyond the shore.
25. Morrison-Knudsen Nature Center
Free | Google Maps
The Morrison-Knudsen Nature Center also know as the MK Nature Center is a fun stop to see the wildlife that is native to the Boise area. It is a fun stop along the Greenbelt if you are biking as well!
There is a small Visitor Center with displays about the animals in the area and then several trails that branch out from there. Along the trails, you will see lots of wildlife, and there are underwater viewing windows for a better look.
The trails are open from sunrise to sunset but are closed on Mondays.
Things to Do in Boise – Markets
Markets are going on year-round in Boise and are a great way to spend the morning. During the summer, we love browsing the markets and then going to brunch. The markets all offer unique and local goods.
26. Boise Farmers Market
Free | Google Maps
The Boise Farmers Market is home to local honey, jams, meat, seasonal vegetables, and fruit. Most vendors specialize in food and agriculture, but there are a few non-food vendors.
The market is held every Saturday from 9 AM – 1 PM.
27. Capital City Public Market
Free | Google Maps
If you’re looking for farm-fresh produce, beautiful pieces of artwork, hand-crafted jewelry, freshly baked pastries, and more, the Capital City Public Market is for you. The market is held on Saturdays from 9:30 am – 1:00 pm.
Boise Athletics
Boise is not home to any professional athletic teams but has a few semi-professional sports teams and the Boise State Athletic programs. If you know anything about Boise, you know it is a city that is passionate about the Broncos!
28. Boise Hawks Game
Season Typically Runs June to July | Google Maps | Boise Hawks Website
The Boise Hawks are a minor-league baseball team from Boise. You can’t go wrong with spending a relaxing evening at the baseball game in Boise. The weather is usually really nice, and the stadium isn’t big enough to be overwhelming. There are delicious food vendors with small lines.
The Hawks usually play from mid-June through the end of August. Check their schedule online to see if they have a game during your visit.
29. BSU Football Stadium
General Admission Starts at $35 and Up | Visit Bronco Sports For More Information | Google Maps
If you’re not from Boise, probably one of the few things you know about Boise is that it has a blue football field, commonly referred to as the “smurf turf.” It was the first non-green football field and remained the only one for about 20 years.
The Boise community loves and fully supports the Boise State Broncos on game day. It seems like the whole town dresses in blue and orange on game day.
If you’re in town on game day – go to the game! You won’t forget the “Boise State” chants echoing throughout the stadium and “The Hammer,” carried out by a player at the beginning of the game.
Best Restaurants in Boise
30. Boise Fry Company
Idaho is famous for potatoes, so you better make sure you get some while visiting. Boise Fry Co serves seven different kinds of potatoes, served five different ways. Oh, and don’t forget to order a burger to go with it.
There is a sauce bar boasting all different kinds of sauces, including fry sauce! If you haven’t heard of it, make sure to try it. We can’t believe when we travel how few places offer fry sauce. There is also blueberry ketchup, garlic aioli, and more.
31. Fork
Fork is located in the heart of downtown Boise, so it is easy to get to with lots of fun. We love going through the Saturday markets in the morning and stopping in at Fork for brunch on the patio.
The restaurant places a high priority on locally sourced ingredients. Be sure to try the salmon sandwich. This is one of our favorite restaurants in Boise, especially on a Saturday morning.
32. Bacon
If you’re looking for breakfast comfort food any time of day, head to Bacon. To get started, be sure to try the bacon sampler shots. There are five different kinds of bacon that come out in shot glasses!
They also have a variety of different pasta and breakfast dishes. The berry-crème Frenchy with bacon and eggs special is something I still crave! So yummy!
33. Guru Donuts
If you’ve got a sweet tooth, Guru Donuts, Boise’s answer to Portland’s Voodoo Donuts, won’t let you down. This brunch and donut shop is such a fun place to stop by when you’re passing through town.
We love the Hipsterberry Donut, and your kids will be thrilled to choose from many creatively sprinkled options. With new flavors and creations popping up often, you never know your next favorite, so plan to visit more than once!
Things to Do in Eagle, Idaho
There are so many things to do near Boise, Idaho too! Eagle is a suburb that is about 20 minutes outside of Boise. This area of the Treasure Valley is growing quickly, but the city has done a fantastic job of leaving plenty of places for outdoor activities like playing at the park, shopping, and playing golf.
Here are some of our favorite things to do in Eagle:
- Play in the river and on the slide at Eagle Island State Park
- Bike the Boise Greenbelt
- Stroll downtown and enjoy some takeout at Heritage Park
- Play a game of golf at Banbury Golf Course
- Hike in the foothills north of Eagle
- Grab a bite to eat at Crave
Things to Do Near Boise State University
The majority of Boise attractions on this list are fun things to do near Boise State. BSU is in the heart of downtown making it very easy to ride on the greenbelt, spend time at any of the beautiful parks in the area, or head over to the zoo. You can see the zoo from campus!
Here are some attractions and things to do near BSU:
- Float the Boise River
- Catch a show at the Morrison Center
- Rent a bike to ride the greenbelt
- Hike Tablerock
- Walk to the public markets in downtown
- Attend a BSU sporting event
- Admire the views of downtown Boise from the Train Depot
- Tour the Boise Art Museum
Things to Do in Boise, Idaho in December
If you are wondering what to do in December or any of the winter months, there are a lot of fun things to do in Boise, Idaho! There are a lot of different holiday events in Boise during the month of December, like the Festival of Trees, visiting Santa Claus, ice skating, and Christmas markets.
You can even cut down your own Christmas tree!
Another fun option if you want to get out in the snow is to head up to Bogus Basin for downhill skiing or snowshoeing. They also have a tubing hill.
Some of the best places to see Christmas Lights are at Indian Creek Plaza in Caldwell, the Boise Botanical Gardens, and Scentsy Commons in Meridian. There are lots of fun things to do in Boise in the winter.
Where to Stay in Boise
There are a lot of lodging options in the heart of downtown Boise, making it easy to enjoy all of the fun things to do in Boise. Along with hotel options, there are some Airbnb’s and hostels.
Hotel 43 (Luxury)
⭐️ Rating 8.8/10 | 📍Location: 981 Grove St. in Boise | 🏩 View on Expedia.com
We have stayed in Hotel 43, and it is so nice inside! All of the rooms come with large TVs, very comfortable bedding, and bathrobes. If you are looking for a nice place to stay in Boise, this is it! Be sure to visit Chandler Steakhouse inside the restaurant as well.
There is a complimentary airport shuttle as well.
▶️ Check Rates & Availability at Hotel 43
Hyatt Place Boise/Downtown (Mid-Range)
⭐️ Rating 9/10 | 📍Location: 1024 W Bannock Street in Boise | 🏩 View on Expedia.com
The Hyatt Place is about a mile from Boise State’s Taco Bell Arena and a few minutes from the Idaho State Capital. They have an outdoor swimming pool and hot tub on-site as well. This is a great location if you are in the Boise area without transportation.
Continental breakfast is included in your stay.
▶️ Check Rates & Availability at Hyatt Place Boise/Downtown
Holiday Inn Express Boise (Budget)
⭐️ Rating 9/10 | 📍Location: 475 W Parkcenter Blvd. in Boise | 🏩 View on Expedia.com
Holiday Inn Express Boise is a popular budget-friendly hotel near Boise State University. This is a fun place to stay for the whole family. With thoughtful conveniences like free cribs and a complimentary continental breakfast each morning, it’s a parent’s dream come true.
Kids will love the outdoor pool and the hotel’s game room.
▶️ Check Rates & Availability at Holiday Inn Express Boise
FAQ: Things to Do in Boise
What is Boise Famous For?
Boise is well known for it’s beautiful valley location. It’s lush and green with many trees. And the foothills that offer so much outdoor recreational fun also provide a lovely backdrop to the city.
Boise’s downtown area is also something that sets this city apart. It’s full of parks for families or people of all ages to enjoy in so many ways. Some of the most unique things to do in Boise can also be found downtown, whether exploring The Old Penitentiary or floating the Boise River.
How Do I Spend a Day in Boise, Idaho?
There are so many wonderful ways to spend a day in Boise, Idaho. We definitely recommend spending some time outside in this beautiful city. Boise activities like going for a hike or a bike ride on the green belt are great ways to spend the day. Or just enjoy the sunshine in one of its many parks.
Is There a Lot to Do in Boise, Idaho?
There are many fun things to do in Boise. We love spending time outside, so that’s where our minds turn to first, especially when coming up with things to do in Boise with kids. There really are so many beautiful parks to run or ride their bikes through, as well as family fun centers like Wahooz or Roaring Springs Waterpark.
Is Boise Worth Visiting?
There are so many attractions in Boise and fun things to do. It’s definitely worth visiting!
Conclusion: Things to Do in Boise
We hope you’ve enjoyed this in-depth look into the best things to do in Boise. Next time you’re in town, you won’t have to ask yourself, “What to do in Boise, Idaho?,” Instead, you will remember all of our suggestions and end up having a great time in our beautiful city!
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