Planning a trip to Boise, Idaho? You’ll find lots of things to do in Boise, Idaho, from hiking to cultural spots. The city mixes vibrant city life with outdoor fun, offering something for everyone to enjoy.
Boise is known for its sunny weather and downtown charm. With over 100 restaurants and bars, it’s perfect for exploring. Don’t miss out on Boise events today to see the city’s vibrant spirit.
Discovering Boise Vibrant Downtown Scene
Planning for Boise events this weekend? Downtown Boise is buzzing with activities. It’s filled with restaurants, bars, and shops. With over 100 places to explore, you’ll find something you love.
8th Street Restaurant Row is a must-see. It’s lined with local eateries serving tasty dishes. You can enjoy farm-to-table meals or try gourmet food trucks. Don’t miss the unique boutiques and art galleries, too.
Exploring 8th Street Restaurant Row
This lively street offers a variety of restaurants. You’ll find everything from traditional American dishes to international cuisine. Plus, there are bars and pubs for a drink with friends.
Shopping at Local Boutiques
Downtown Boise is great for shopping. You’ll find unique boutiques and specialty stores. Whether you’re looking for clothes, accessories, home decor or gifts, you’ll find it here.
Street Art and Urban Culture
The downtown area showcases Boise vibrant street art. You’ll see murals and public art installations everywhere. Catch the city’s urban culture at the many events and festivals held here.
Hiking the Iconic Boise Foothills
When planning your trip to Boise, check the Boise events calendar. It lists outdoor events and top activities. The Boise Foothills offer hiking trails for all, from easy walks to tough climbs. You’ll see amazing views of the city and nature.
The Ridge to Rivers trail system has almost 200 miles of trails. They’re great for hiking, trail running, and more. Trails like Table Rock and Lucky Peak Loop offer something for everyone. Look for guided hikes and outdoor events on the Boise events calendar.
Some favorite trails include:
- Table Rock trail, a 3.7-mile loop with sweeping views of Boise
- Lucky Peak Loop, a 15-mile long trail with tremendous views of Lucky Peak Reservoir
- Wild Phlox / Seaman’s Gulch loop, a 2.1-mile trail ideal for trail running
Always respect nature and wildlife. Follow trail etiquette to keep the Boise Foothills beautiful. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or just want a casual walk, the Boise Foothills have something for you. So, check the Boise events calendar and explore top things to do in Boise for a great visit.
Essential Things to Do in Boise Idaho for Nature Lovers
Boise, Idaho, is a haven for nature enthusiasts. It boasts a variety of outdoor activities and attractions. To find fun in Boise, explore the city parks and trails.
The Boise River Greenbelt is a 25-mile path through the city. It offers scenic views, wildlife habitats, and easy access to parks.
Boise River Greenbelt Adventures
The Greenbelt is perfect for walking, biking or jogging. Check out Boise outdoor festivals and events, like the Boise River Festival. Floating the Boise River is a relaxing way to see the city beauty.
Wildlife Viewing Opportunities
Boise is home to deer, birds, and fish. Parks and trails here are great for spotting wildlife. The Boise River Greenbelt is a top spot for wildlife watching.
Seasonal Outdoor Activities
Boise has hiking, biking and kayaking all year. Its mountains and rivers make it perfect for outdoor lovers. Plan your weekend and enjoy Boise outdoor wonders.
Exploring the Historic Idaho State Capitol
When you’re in Boise, Idaho, don’t miss the Idaho State Capitol building. It’s a historic gem that shows the state past and present. You can find guided tours by checking Boise events today. These tours need to be booked at least two weeks in advance for groups of five or more.
The Capitol building welcomes visitors every day. You can visit from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. on weekdays. On weekends and holidays, it’s open from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. As you explore, look for the unique geothermal water heating system and the marbles from different places.
Some key features of the Idaho State Capitol building include:
- A scale replica of the Liberty Bell, located on the front steps of the building
- A statue of George Washington, originally gifted to the Idaho territory in 1869
- Modern works made from old-growth trees removed during the Capitol expansion
- The Capitol Curation Program, which includes a collection of over 1,000 artifacts and historic furnishings connected to the Idaho State Capitol
While you’re there, find the 56 stars in the Rotunda. They represent the 13 original American colonies and Idaho as the 43rd state. The Idaho State Capitol building is a must-see in Boise. It’s a great place to explore and check out Boise events today.
Immersing Yourself in the Basque Block Experience
Looking for fun things to do in Boise? Check out the Basque Block. It’s a cultural hub that shows off Boise’s Basque heritage. With many Basque descendants, Boise gives you a real taste of the culture.
The Basque Block has historic landmarks like Basque restaurants, museums, and buildings. You can wander around, learn about Basque history and try local food. Don’t miss the Basque Market for fresh paella every Wednesday and Friday at noon.
Traditional Basque Restaurants
Some top spots include:
- Leku Ona
- Bar Gernika
- The Basque Market
These places serve Basque favorites like paella and tapas. It’s a unique way to dine.
Cultural Museums and Events
The Basque Block has cultural events all year. Like the San Inazio and Jaialdi festivals. These celebrate Basque culture and let you dive into the vibrant scene. Plan your weekend in Boise and join one of these festivals for a fun experience.
Discovering the Boise Art Scene
Exploring Boise reveals a lively arts and culture scene for all. Keep up with the latest by checking the Boise events calendar. The city boasts galleries, museums, performance venues and street art, making it diverse and vibrant.
The Boise Art Museum, founded in 1932, and the Idaho Shakespeare Festival are highlights. The Morrison Center hosts plays, musicals, and Broadway shows. The Boise Philharmonic, with over 80 musicians, adds to the cultural richness.
Art galleries and studios like Delia Dante Gallery & Fire Fusion Studio and Picture This Gallery and Frame Shop are must-visits. Boise street art and public installations, like Freak Alley, add to the city charm. By exploring, you’ll see Boise love for art and culture.
Other notable spots include:
- Opera Idaho, known for its wide-reaching arts programs
- The Boise Jazz Society, featuring renowned jazz artists
- The Boise Little Theater, supporting local productions and workshops
Adventures at the Boise River Recreation Area
When planning for Boise events this weekend, think about the Boise River Recreation Area. It’s a great place to find fun things to do in Boise. You can enjoy water sports, fishing, and picnicking here. The area is beautiful, with scenic views and lots of wildlife.
Water Sports and Activities
The Boise River is perfect for water sports like kayaking, canoeing and rafting. You can also rent tubes and float down the river. For more excitement, try surfing at the Boise Whitewater Park.
Riverside Parks and Picnic Spots
The Boise River Greenbelt has a 25-mile pathway for walking, running and cycling. There are parks and picnic spots along the river with amazing views. It’s a great place to relax and enjoy the weekend.
Fishing Locations
The Boise River is known for its fish, including Rainbow trout, Brown trout and Smallmouth bass. It’s calm and scenic, making it perfect for fishing. Remember to check the fishing rules and get any needed permits before you go.
Exploring the World-Class Boise Botanical Garden
When you’re in Boise, Idaho, don’t miss the Boise Botanical Garden. It’s a 32-acre oasis in the city heart. The Garden is filled with stunning plants and offers beautiful views. It’s a great place to find peace and calm away from city noise.
Looking for something to do in Boise? Check out Boise events today. The Garden hosts many events and exhibitions. You can join educational classes, workshops, guided tours, and field trips. There’s something for everyone.
The Garden is home to many highlights. For example:
- The Muriel and Diana Kirk English Garden, featuring over 1,300 perennials
- The Rose Garden, with roses bred and introduced before 1920, alongside more modern varieties
- The Herb Garden, with various herbs, including thyme, oregano, and rosemary
- The Meditation Garden, which can be up to 20 degrees cooler than open, exposed locations in the afternoon
Whether you love nature, gardening, or just need a quiet spot, the Boise Botanical Garden is a must-see. So, explore top things to do in Boise, Idaho, and check out Boise events today to plan your visit to the Garden.
Family Fun at Zoo Boise
Looking for fun things to do in Boise with your family? Zoo Boise is a great spot. It has lots of activities and attractions for all ages. It’s a perfect place to visit this weekend, to connect with nature and wildlife.
The zoo has many animal exhibits, educational programs, and special events. These are fun for both kids and adults. Programs like the Preschool Zoo Series, Homeschool Zoo, and Critter College teach in a fun way.
Animal Exhibits and Educational Programs
The zoo shows off a wide variety of animals. You can see mammals, birds, reptiles, and amphibians. The educational programs are for different ages. They teach about conservation, wildlife, and science in a fun way.
Special Events Calendar
Zoo Boise has special events all year. There’s Earth Day Family Night, Adaptive Evening at the Zoo, and Wild at Twilight. These events offer animal encounters, behind-the-scenes tours, and live music.
Zoo Boise is a top choice for families and nature lovers. It has many activities and attractions. It promises a memorable visit for everyone, no matter their age.
Making the Most of Your Boise Adventure: Tips and Recommendations
To enjoy Boise to the fullest, check out the Boise events calendar. It’s packed with festivals, concerts, and cultural events. Highlights include the Basque cultural festival, Jaialdi, and the Goathead Fest, which celebrates bike culture and weed removal.
Boise also has plenty of year-round activities. You can hike the Boise Foothills, kayak the Boise River Whitewater Park, or explore the city art scene. Don’t miss the Boise Botanical Garden. With its history, nature, and culture, Boise has something for everyone.