10 Best Things to do in Boise with Kids!
Boise is one of the best family destinations in the Northwest because it offers a great mix of outdoor activities, hands-on learning, wildlife experiences, parks, museums, and family attractions. Whether you are visiting for a weekend or planning a longer vacation, we’ll take you through 10 best things to do in Boise with kids, explain each spot in detail, and give tips to make your family trip smooth and memorable.
1. Visit Zoo Boise
Located in Julia Davis Park, Zoo Boise is a popular attraction that covers about 17 acres and is home to more than 300 animals representing over 100 different species. Visitors can observe a variety of wildlife, including lions, penguins, red pandas, and sloth bears while exploring the zoo’s outdoor exhibits. One of the most loved sections is Red Panda Passage, where guests can enjoy a closer view of these playful animals in a specially designed habitat. Throughout the year, visitors can enjoy special seasonal activities, including opportunities to feed giraffes and interact with farm animals.
2. Discovery Center of Idaho
Opened in 1988, Discovery Center of Idaho has become one of Boise’s leading destinations for hands-on learning and science exploration. The center features more than 150 interactive exhibits that change over time, giving families new ways to learn about science, technology, engineering, art, and math. Visitors can discover topics such as space, motion, energy, and the human body through activities that encourage touching, testing, and experimenting. The facility also includes a live workshop area where new exhibits are designed, developed, and tested before being introduced to guests.
3. The Peregrine Fund’s World Center For Birds of Prey
Opened in 1984, World Center for Birds of Prey serves as the headquarters of The Peregrine Fund, spread across 580 acres near Boise, the facility includes research spaces, breeding areas, and care facilities that support bird conservation efforts. Visitors have the chance to see a variety of live raptors, including hawks, falcons, eagles, owls, and endangered California condors. The Velma Morrison Interpretive Center features educational exhibits, videos, and live bird presentations that help guests understand the importance of these remarkable birds and the challenges they face in the wild.
4. Aquarium of Boise
The Aquarium of Boise is an interactive attraction and the only public aquarium in southwest Idaho. It features 38 different exhibits and is home to more than 250 species, including sharks, stingrays, starfish, reptiles, tropical fish, and colorful birds. One of the highlights is the opportunity to interact with certain animals, allowing visitors to touch or feed creatures such as rays and friendly lories. The aquarium includes a large 17,000-gallon display tank, where guests can learn about marine life, animal habitats, and conservation through hands-on experiences and educational displays.
5. Children’s Museum of Idaho
Located in Meridian, Children’s Museum of Idaho provides a playful learning environment filled with many interactive spaces that allow children to pretend they are shopping in a market, making meals in a pizza restaurant, caring for animals in a veterinary office, or exploring a space-themed adventure area. Popular attractions include a large train table, a pirate ship built for climbing and play, an exploration cave, and a special section created just for toddlers. Families can participate in activities like story sessions, music programs, creative art projects, and beginner science and technology lessons.
6. Warhawk Air Museum
Created in 1989 by John and Sue Paul, Warhawk Air Museum gives visitors an up-close look at military aviation and the people who served during major conflicts. The museum displays historic aircraft connected to major war conflicts, including notable planes like the P-40 Warhawk and P-51 Mustang. Inside, guests can explore exhibits filled with uniforms, medals, photographs, letters, and personal belongings generously shared by veterans and their families. Outside, visitors can view military vehicles, aircraft, and equipment that shows how military technology changed through different eras.
7. Skiing & Snowboarding at Bogus Basin
Located just 16 miles from Boise, Bogus Basin is a popular mountain recreation area that is easy to reach for a day outing or a weekend getaway. The resort features 2,600 acres of terrain dedicated to skiing and snowboarding, along with 86 trails, where visitors can access the slopes using 10 lifts. One of the area’s standout features is its night skiing operation, with more than 200 acres available after dark, making it the largest night skiing destination in Idaho. The mountain offers an elevation drop of 1,800 feet, while the highest point reaches 7,582 feet, providing long runs and impressive views.
8. Hot Air Balloon Tours
Taking a hot air balloon ride offers a unique way to experience Boise from high above the ground. Companies like Treasure Valley Balloon Rides and Idaho Balloon Adventures provide small-group experiences, which helps create a private and relaxing atmosphere. The time spent in the air is usually about one hour, while the complete experience lasts around 3 hours when setup, safety preparations, and packing equipment are included. These tours conclude with a traditional celebration that may include a toast with cider or champagne, a long-standing custom in the ballooning community.
9. Expo Idaho
The Expo Idaho is one of Boise’s largest event venues and serves as a gathering place for a wide variety of community activities throughout the year. It is best known as the home of the Western Idaho Fair, which takes place every August and attracts visitors from across the region. The site includes indoor facilities along with large outdoor spaces that accommodate events ranging from car shows and pet expos to trade shows, sporting competitions, and seasonal markets. Visitors can also attend cultural celebrations, and specialty collector gatherings featuring items such as trading cards and coins.
10. Meridian Speedway
The Meridian Speedway is a popular racing venue features a quarter-mile asphalt oval with four tight turns, creating exciting and fast-paced competition for both drivers and spectators. Throughout the racing season, the track hosts weekly events as part of the NASCAR Advance Auto Parts Weekly Series, featuring several racing divisions including late models, modifieds, street stocks, and mini stocks. In addition to its regular race schedule, the speedway presents major events such as the Idaho 208, the Firecracker 50 held around Independence Day, and the Les Schwab Tires Pink Lady Classic.
FAQ’s (Frequently Asked Questions)
1. What are the top kid-friendly museums in Boise?
The Discovery Center of Idaho is one of the most popular because kids can interact with exhibits and learn through hands-on activities. The Children’s Museum of Idaho is another favorite, especially for younger children who enjoy pretend play and interactive learning. Families also enjoy the Idaho State Museum, and for kids who love airplanes and history, the Warhawk Air Museum offers exciting aircraft displays and real stories from military veterans.
2. Are there indoor activities for kids in Boise?
The Discovery Center of Idaho provides hands-on science exhibits that keep kids busy while learning. The Children’s Museum of Idaho offers creative play areas where children can explore different roles and activities. Families can also visit the Aquarium of Boise to see marine life and interact with selected animals. Museums, indoor learning centers, and educational programs throughout the city make it easy to find family-friendly entertainment indoors.
3. What are the best outdoor attractions for kids in Boise?
The Zoo Boise is one of the most popular family attractions because it allows kids to see animals from around the world. The Boise River Greenbelt offers scenic trails for walking and biking, while Julia Davis Park provides playgrounds and nearby attractions. Families also enjoy visiting the World Center for Birds of Prey to see live birds and learn about wildlife conservation. During warmer months, floating the Boise River is another popular family activity.
4. Are there seasonal events for families in Boise?
During the holiday season, visitors can enjoy festive light displays, community celebrations, and special activities for children. Spring and summer often bring outdoor festivals, farmers markets, and family events in local parks. Fall offers seasonal attractions, harvest events, and community gatherings that appeal to all ages. Many museums also organize special programs and workshops during school holidays, giving families plenty of options throughout the year.
5. What sports experiences can kids enjoy in Boise?
Families can visit the Boise Bike Park, which offers trails and pump tracks for riders of different skill levels. During winter, Bogus Basin provides skiing, snowboarding, and tubing activities suitable for kids and beginners. The Boise River Greenbelt is popular for family bike rides, while parks throughout the city offer sports fields and recreation areas. Kids can also try paddling, kayaking, and other water activities in suitable locations around Boise.
6. Are there any unique experiences for kids to enjoy in Boise?
The World Center for Birds of Prey allows visitors to see raptors such as falcons, eagles, and owls while learning about conservation efforts. The Old Idaho Penitentiary gives older children a chance to explore a historic prison and learn about Idaho’s past. The Aquarium of Boise offers opportunities to interact with certain animals, creating a more personal experience. Families can also float the Boise River or visit the Basque Block to learn about one of Boise’s most unique cultural communities.
