50 Best Things to do in Boise!

Welcome to Boise, in Idaho, often referred to as the “City of Trees“, is a captivating blend of metropolitan sophistication and outdoor adventure. Located along the Boise River and surrounded by the majestic Rocky Mountains, this vibrant city offers something for every traveler. Join us on a journey as we showcase top attractions and best things to do in Boise during your visit to Idaho.

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1. Historic Attractions

Old Idaho Penitentiary Site

First opened in 1872, Old Idaho Penitentiary served as a working prison until 1973, holding over 13,000 inmates throughout its operation. Today, visitors can explore many of the original buildings, including the old solitary cells and the execution area, to get a real look at what life behind bars was like back then. Notable prisoners like Lyda Southard and Harry Orchard were once held there, and the site features exhibits such as the J. Curtis Earl Weapons Collection. Visitors can walk through the prison on their own or join guided tours to learn more about how the prison system looked over a century ago.

Idaho State Capitol

The Idaho State Capitol in downtown serves as the main government building for the state. Built between 1905 and 1920 using sandstone from nearby Table Rock and several types of marble from different places, including Georgia, Vermont, and Alaska. Inside, visitors can see the House and Senate chambers, along with displays that explain Idaho’s government and history. The Capitol is open to the public, and people can take guided tours for groups if booked in advance. Outside, visitors can see the statues and memorials, including a replica of the Liberty Bell and a statue of George Washington.

Boise Depot

The Boise Depot is a historic train station, built in 1925 by the Union Pacific Railroad and well-known for its red tile roof, and tall clock tower that overlooks the city. It was once a busy stop for passenger trains but stopped its regular service in the 1990s. Today, the city manages the depot through Boise Parks and Recreation, using it for public visits, weddings, and special events. Inside, you’ll find the Great Hall, which still has its original benches, wood beams, and tile designs that reflect the building’s Spanish-style look. Outside, the Platt Gardens offer a nice place to enjoy plants, flowers, and city views.

Idaho Anne Frank Human Rights Memorial

The Idaho Anne Frank Human Rights Memorial was created by the Idaho Human Rights Education Center and opened in 2002 as a present to the city. This small park, which spans around 0.81 acres, features a full-size bronze statue of Anne Frank, shown holding her diary while looking out from a window. The memorial also features a 180 foot quote wall with words from many people — leaders, writers, and everyday voices, sharing thoughts on justice, peace, and human dignity. One special part of the site is the full text of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, which is displayed for all to read.

The Egyptian Theatre

Opened in 1927, The Egyptian Theatre is a historic venue showcasing an Egyptian revival design inspired by the discovery of King Tut’s tomb. With its tall columns, painted walls, and unique dome, the building stands out as one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. Inside, there’s a large stage, cozy seating, and good sound, making it a popular spot for movies, live music, and community events. Guests can enjoy classic films, live shows, and private rentals for weddings or parties. The theater is officially listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is one of the oldest operating theaters in Boise.

Hyde Park

The Hyde Park is a small historic district in Boise’s North End, and it’s known for its local shops, cafes, and easygoing ambience. The area is listed on the National Register of Historic Places since 1982, brings locals and visitors with its walkable streets and mix of casual eateries, coffee shops, ice cream spots, and small stores. One of the highlights each year is the Hyde Park Street Fair at Camel’s Back Park, which brings people together for food, music, crafts, and family-friendly fun. Most people stop by Hyde Park before or after hiking or biking in the nearby foothills, making it a great place to grab a bite.

2. Outdoor Adventures

Whitewater Rafting on the Payette River

Rafting on the Payette River is a fun and popular way to enjoy the outdoors not far from Boise. The Payette River has several sections, including the Main, South Fork, and North Fork. Some areas have Class II and III rapids, which are good for beginners, while others have Class IV rapids for people looking for more adventure. Rafting companies like Bear Valley Rafting, Cascade Raft & Kayak, and Payette River Company offer guided trips with trained staff who focus on safety and fun. Some trips even pass along hot springs or lush forest areas, giving people a chance to enjoy the natural beauty of Idaho.

Hiking & Nature Trails

Boise has many hiking and nature trails that are easy to reach and good for all kinds of walkers. One of the most popular spots is the Table Rock Trail, which gives wide views of the city and takes you past old quarry areas. Hulls Gulch Interpretive Trail is another favorite, with a mix of trees, small waterfalls, and a dry creek bed that fills after rain. For a more relaxed walk, the Bethine Church River Trail runs along the Boise River and its ideal for families or anyone who wants to stroll. Camel’s Back Park is also a great place to start a hike, with trails that lead into the foothills and give nice views of the city.

Biking at the Boise Bike Park

The Boise Bike Park, also called the J.A. and Kathryn Albertson Family Foundation Bike Park, is a free public space made for riders of all skill levels, from beginners to experts. It has different trails marked by color, just like ski slopes — green for easy, blue for medium, black for hard, and double black for expert. There are two paved pump tracks that are fun for both kids and adults. There are benches for people who want to watch, and signs with maps to help riders choose the right trail. This park is an ideal spot to ride your bike, work on your balance, or just take a challenging trip through the hills.

Skiing & Snowboarding at Bogus Basin

The Bogus Basin is a ski and snowboard area just 16 miles north of downtown Boise, making it easy to reach for a day trip or weekend visit. It has 2,600 acres of skiable land with 86 runs and 10 lifts, including high-speed quads that help cut down wait times. The mountain has trails for all levels, and offers night skiing on over 200 acres, which is the largest night skiing area in Idaho. The vertical drop is about 1,800 feet, and the summit reaches 7,582 feet, giving great views and long runs. The area also has a terrain park for freestyle riders and lessons for people who are new to skiing or snowboarding.

Kayaking & Canoeing

The Boise River runs right through the city and is one of the most popular spots for paddling. Many people start near Barber Park and float down to Ann Morrison Park, which takes about 2 to 3 hours. You can bring your own gear or rent from local shops like Idaho River Sports, which also offers lessons and safety tips. For those who want to learn more, Boise Paddle Boat Rentals provides tours and classes for all levels, including indoor pool sessions and outdoor lessons. Some areas near Boise, like Lucky Peak Lake and Quinn’s Pond, also offer calm waters suitable for paddling and ideal for families.

Hot Air Balloon Tours

Hot air balloon tours offers a beautiful way to see Boise and nearby mountains from above. Most flights take off early in the morning, when the air is cool. Companies like Treasure Valley Balloon Rides and Idaho Balloon Adventures give small group rides, usually for two or three people, so the experience feels personal and quiet. The ride lasts about an hour, but the full trip takes around 3 hours, including setup and packing up. Some tours end with a small toast using cider or champagne, which is a tradition in ballooning. It’s a best option to book the tour early, especially in summer or around holidays.

Golfing Courses

Boise has a good mix of public and private golf courses that are easy to reach and offer something for all skill levels. Warm Springs Golf Course is a public 18-hole course near the Boise River with nice views and a layout that works for players. Quail Hollow Golf Course sits in the foothills and has some hills and turns that make the game more fun and a bit challenging. Shadow Valley Golf Course is just outside the city and is known for its quiet setting and creative course design. Boise Ranch Golf Course is another public option with wide fairways and a friendly feel, good for casual games or practice.

Kathryn Albertson Park

Covering 41 acres, Kathryn Albertson Park is a green space donated to the city by Joe and Kathryn Albertson. The park opened in 1989 and was made to give people a quiet place to enjoy nature. It has wide paved paths that are easy to walk and there are two small gazebos that can be reserved for events like weddings or gatherings. Visitors are asked to stay on the paths and watch wildlife from a distance to help protect the animals. Signs along the paths share facts about the plants and animals that live there. The park is also part of the Idaho Birding Trail, which makes it a good place for birdwatching.

Ann Morrison Park

Covering 153 acres, Ann Morrison Park is a large public park in Boise and is managed by Boise Parks and Recreation. The park has many open areas and is a popular place for walking and relaxing. Visitors can enjoy picnic spots, try the disc golf course, play bocce, toss horseshoes, or join a game at the sand volleyball court. It also features tennis courts, a playground, and fields for soccer, softball, and football. A highlight of the park is Together Treasure Valley Dog Island, where dogs can run freely without a leash. Most people come here during the summer for events like races, fireworks, and picnics.

3. Iconic Landmarks

Boise Art Museum

Opened in 1937, Boise Art Museum has grown over time to include more space for art displays, classrooms, and special events. It focuses on modern and contemporary art, featuring paintings, sculptures, and ceramics, and it holds the largest public collection of work by Idaho artist James Castle. Along with its permanent art pieces, the museum also brings in exhibits from across the country. Visitors can join art programs like hands-on activities, tours, and workshops made for kids. Every first Thursday, admission is “pay what you can,” and there are events like artist talks and guided art projects.

Idaho State Museum

The Idaho State Museum is part of Julia Davis Park and shares the story of Idaho’s land, people, and history through more than 500 artifacts, 800 photos, and 40 multimedia displays. It covers topics like Native American heritage, early settlers, mining, agriculture, and changes to the environment, with interactive exhibits that make the experience engaging for visitors of all ages. School and homeschool programs are offered both in-person and online, making it easy for teachers and families to include the museum in learning plans. There is also a gift shop inside with books, souvenirs, and local items.

Idaho Military History Museum

The Idaho Military History Museum highlights the role Idaho has played in American military efforts over the years. Opened in 1995, the museum has shared stories from World War I, World War II, the Korean and Vietnam Wars, and more recent missions in Iraq and Afghanistan. Visitors can see uniforms, flags, photos and small weapons that tell the history of Idaho’s soldiers and airmen. A special exhibit honors the USS Boise, a Navy ship named after the city, while the outdoor area displays tanks, trucks, and aircraft. Inside, there’s a small library with books and papers for those doing research.

Warhawk Air Museum

Founded in 1989 by John and Sue Paul, Warhawk Air Museum features aircrafts from major wars including World War I, World War II, Korean War, and the Vietnam War, with famous planes like the P-40 Warhawk and P-51 Mustang on display. Inside, there are uniforms, medals, letters, and personal items donated by veterans and their families that help tell the real-life stories of service. The museum organizes events such as the Kilroy Coffee Klatch, where veterans meet and share their experiences. Outside, visitors can see restored military vehicles and planes, showcasing all old service equipment.

Basque Museum and Cultural Center

Opened in 1985, Basque Museum and Cultural Center is the only museum in the U.S. that focuses on Basque heritage. It’s located in the old Cyrus Jacobs-Uberuaga House, which was once a boarding home for Basque immigrants, giving visitors a chance to see how people lived when they first arrived in Idaho. One part of the museum lets you look inside a real sheep wagon, which was often used by Basque shepherds working in the fields. The center also runs a Basque language preschool and holds events during like music performances, food tastings, and culture nights for community gatherings.

Meridian Speedway

The Meridian Speedway is a small oval racetrack near Boise that’s been hosting races since 1951. The track is a quarter-mile oval with an asphalt surface and four turns, making it a tight and fast place for racing. It hosts weekly races as part of the NASCAR Advance Auto Parts Weekly Series and features different types of cars like late models, modifieds, street stocks, and mini stocks. The track also hosts events such as the Idaho 208, the Firecracker 50 on July 4th, and the Les Schwab Tires Pink Lady Classic. These events bring in drivers from across the Northwest and offer a mix of speed and fun for fans.

Boise Centre

Located near the Grove Plaza, Boise Centre is the largest convention center in Idaho, offering 86,000 square feet of event space that includes 31 meeting rooms, exhibit areas, and a large ballroom. The rooms can be arranged in different ways to suit small meetings or large events with up to 2,000 guests. Most areas shows views of the Boise Foothills, adding a scenic touch for visitors. The center offers its own catering, audio-visual help, and event planning to make sure everything goes well. Boise Centre is part of the Greater Boise Auditorium District, which supports local business through event hosting.

Freak Alley Gallery

The Freak Alley Gallery is an outdoor art space in downtown Boise, started in 2002 with one small painting on a doorway and has grown into a large alley full of murals and street art. Artists from Boise and other places come to paint here, and the walls are updated every year with new work. The space lets people enjoy art in a casual way, just by taking a walk downtown. There’s also an indoor gallery that shows and sells work from local artists, helping support them directly. Money from sales goes back into keeping the project alive. Visitors often take photos and learn more about local art and voices.

Morrison Center

The Morrison Center is a well-known performing arts venue, located on the Boise State University campus. It opened in 1984 and was named after Velma Morrison, who helped make her late husband’s dream of building a theater in Boise come true. The main hall has about 2,000 seats and hosts a wide mix of shows, including concerts, plays, dance performances, and the popular Broadway in Boise series. Local groups like the Boise Philharmonic, Ballet Idaho, and Opera Idaho also use the stage for their shows. It also supports student programs and local events, helping people of all ages enjoy the arts.

ExtraMile Arena

Opened in 1982, ExtraMile Arena is a large event space on the Boise State University campus, used year-round for all public gatherings. More than 12,000 fans can watch basketball games inside the arena, and even bigger crowds can fit for concerts. It is home to the Boise State Broncos men’s and women’s basketball teams, as well as the gymnastics team. The arena also hosts national music tours, comedy shows, and events for families, making it one of the busiest venues in the area. In addition to sports and entertainment, it’s often used for local events, school graduations, and university ceremonies.

4. Family-Friendly Activities

Zoo Boise

Located in Julia Davis Park, Zoo Boise covers 17 acres with over 300 animals from more than 100 species. Visitors can see animals like lions, penguins, red pandas, and sloth bears. One popular area is the Red Panda Passage, which gives guests a closer look at these animals. The zoo focuses on conservation, and helps protect animals in the wild. It offers seasonal experiences like feeding giraffes and farm animals. The zoo also hosts summer camps, birthday parties, and guided tours. It has interactive areas where kids can play, while visitors can enjoy the hands-on exhibits and open-air animal spaces.

The Peregrine Fund’s World Center For Birds of Prey

Opened in 1984, World Center for Birds of Prey is the main site for The Peregrine Fund, a group that works to protect birds of prey around the world. The center covers 580 acres and includes research areas, and places where birds are raised and cared for. Visitors can see live raptors like hawks, falcons, eagles, owls, and even California condors. The Velma Morrison Interpretive Center has displays, videos, and live bird shows that help people learn about these birds and why they matter. It also has the Archives of Falconry, which shares the history of falconry and shows items from around the world.

Discovery Center of Idaho

Opened in 1988, Discovery Center of Idaho is a hands-on science museum, features over 150 changing exhibits that help kids and adults explore science, technology, engineering, art, and math in simple and fun ways. Visitors can learn about space, energy, the human body, and motion through touch-and-learn activities. One popular exhibit, Grossology, teaches how the body works using playful displays. The center also includes a lab where staff create new exhibits and test ideas. It offers guided tours and educational programs for schools, families, and camps, designed to spark curiosity in all ages.

Aquarium of Boise

The Aquarium of Boise is a hands-on learning center known as the only public aquarium in southwest Idaho. It features 38 exhibits and more than 250 species, including sharks, stingrays, starfish, reptiles, and birds. Visitors can touch or feed some animals like rays and colorful lories, making the experience more personal. At the aquarium, one of the biggest tanks holds 17,000 gallons, and visitors can also see a coral reef area, tide pools, and a section for baby sharks. The staff works to teach people about ocean life in a fun way and visitors can learn more about animals and how to take care of them.

Children’s Museum of Idaho

Located in Meridian near Boise, the Children’s Museum of Idaho offers a fun setting where little kids can explore and learn by playing. Aimed at children ages 2 to 8, the museum offers pretend play areas like a grocery store, pizza kitchen, vet clinic, and space-themed zone. It also includes a large train table, a pirate ship for climbing, a small cave for exploring, and a toddler-only play zone. Families can enjoy special activities such as storytime, music, art projects, and beginner STEM programs held throughout the year. The museum features a planetarium with short shows that can be added for a small fee.

Expo Idaho

The Expo Idaho is a large event space in Boise, known for hosting community events, fairs, and shows throughout the year. Every August, people from all over come to enjoy the Western Idaho Fair, which is the event the place is best known for. The property includes several indoor buildings and open areas used for everything from car and pet shows to trade fairs, holiday markets, and sports events. The Park at Expo Idaho is a newer section offering green space for walks and outdoor gatherings. The venue also hosts several cultural festivals, health expos, and collector events like card and coin shows.

Boise Trolley Tours

The Boise Trolley Tours starts from 1800 West Fairview Avenue with rides running daily in the summer. Each tour lasts around 75 to 120 minutes depending on traffic and the type of tour. The trolley is enclosed, with air conditioning and heating, so it stays comfortable in any season. Riders learn about Boise’s history and landmarks like the Capitol, Hyde Park, and the Old Idaho Penitentiary. Tour guide shares local stories and facts during the ride, making it easy for visitors to follow along. Special themed tours are held during holidays, like ghost tours for Halloween and Christmas light rides in winter.

Roaring Springs Water Park

The Roaring Springs Water Park is a popular summer destination, known as one of the biggest water parks in the Northwest and has more than 20 water rides and play areas for all ages. The park has a wave pool, a lazy river called the Endless River, and several big slides, including a looping slide and family raft rides. Kids can enjoy Bearfoot Bay, a large play area with smaller slides and water features. There’s also a new section called Camp IdaH2O with more slides and a big tipping bucket. Visitors can rent cabanas for shade and relaxation, and there are food stands and restaurants inside the park.

Urban Air Trampoline and Adventure Park

The Urban Air Trampoline and Adventure Park is an indoor place where kids and families can stay active no matter the weather. The park includes wall-to-wall trampolines, climbing walls, a ropes course, and a Sky Rider that lets you glide overhead. Kids can try the ninja-style obstacle course, dodgeball, battle beam, and even laser tag for more fun. Children have their own safe play zone designed just for them. It’s a good place for birthday parties or group outings, with party rooms and staff to help set everything up. Everything is designed especially for kids to use their energy in a fun and active way.

Idaho IceWorld

The Idaho IceWorld features two large ice rinks where visitors can skate, take lessons, or join hockey games. Visitors can join public skating sessions, figure skating classes, or hockey programs, with special beginner classes like Learn-to-Skate and Learn-to-Play Hockey available throughout the year. For experienced players, there are adult and youth hockey leagues along with times set aside for pickup hockey and stick time. The center also supports a freestyle skating schedule for those practicing routines. Families and school groups are welcome, and staff are nearby to help guests feel comfortable.

Wahooz Family Fun Zone

The Wahooz Family Fun Zone is a large indoor and outdoor center featuring go-karts, mini golf, bumper cars, laser tag, arcade games, and a ropes course. There’s also the XD Dark Ride and a 24-lane bowling center called Pinz, which is great for families and groups. The site offers daily specials, like unlimited play on certain weekdays, and combo passes that include access to nearby Roaring Springs Water Park. Wahooz has party rooms and event packages for birthdays, school groups, and company outings. The connected Galaxy Event Center hosts larger events such as banquets and corporate meetings.

5. Natural Attractions

Idaho Botanical Garden

Covers about 15 acres, Idaho Botanical Garden was once part of a farm and nursery linked to the Old Idaho State Penitentiary. Since opening in 1984, the garden includes areas like a native plant garden, English garden, and a children’s adventure garden. Paths throughout the space let visitors explore plants that grow well in Idaho’s dry climate. The garden hosts events such as concerts, art nights, and seasonal festivals throughout the year. It also offers classes and workshops for visitors to learn about nature and gardening. People often visit here to walk the trails, special events, or hands-on learning.

Boise River Greenbelt

The Boise River Greenbelt is a 25 miles trail that runs through Boise, and connects several parks like Julia Davis Park, Ann Morrison Park, and Esther Simplot Park, giving people easy access to open spaces and nature. The trail stays mostly flat and is easy to walk, making it a good choice for people of all skill levels. Signs along the way help guide visitors and share facts about plants, animals, and the area’s history. It’s also part of the Idaho Birding Trail, so bird watchers enjoy visiting. Some parts of the trail are part of the “Ribbon of Jewels,” a group of parks named after important women in Boise’s past.

Julia Davis Park

The Julia Davis Park is the city’s oldest park and has been part of the community since 1907, when Thomas Davis gave the land to the city in memory of his wife, Julia. The park covers about 89 acres and is located beside the Boise River, making it easy for people to visit. Inside the park, you’ll find many places to explore, like the Boise Art Museum, Zoo Boise, and the Idaho State Museum. There’s also a rose garden, a playground, tennis courts, and a pond where you can rent paddle boats. The Gene Harris Bandshell is a popular place for concerts, including free summer shows like Opera in the Park.

Lucky Peak State Park

Covering 240 acres, Lucky Peak State Park is an outdoor destination, known for its three main areas — Discovery Park, Sandy Point, and Spring Shores. Discovery Park is near Highway 21 and has open fields, picnic areas, and space for fishing or playing games, making it a nice spot for families. Sandy Point sits at the bottom of the dam with shaded picnic areas and is popular for its clean beach areas, disc course, and volleyball courts. Spring Shores is farther up and good for boating, with ramps, a marina, and a small store. Visitors have the option to either bring their own boats or rent one nearby.

Hulls Gulch/Camel’s Back Reserve

The Hulls Gulch and Camel’s Back Reserve sit at the edge of Boise’s North End and offer a quiet place to enjoy nature close to the city. Camel’s Back Park is a great place to begin, offering a kids play area, open grass, and a tall hill that gives a panoramic view of the city. From there, you can reach the trails that lead into Hulls Gulch Reserve. The trails go through hills, trees, and open land, and some are easy while others are more steep. The Curlew Connection Trail links Hulls Gulch to other trails nearby, with guided tours and signs that talk about native plants, animals, and the history of the region.

Deer Flat National Wildlife Refuge

Started in 1909, Deer Flat National Wildlife Refuge is a peaceful outdoor area with its main entrance is nearby Nampa, ID. The refuge has two main parts: the Lake Lowell Unit and the Snake River Islands Unit. Lake Lowell covers nearly 9,000 acres and is surrounded by trails, wetlands, and open land. The Snake River Islands stretch across more than 100 islands along the river and provide safe places for birds and other animals. The visitor center has maps, exhibits, and trails recommendations, and is managed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and is meant to protect both animals and their homes.

MK Nature Center – Idaho Fish and Game

Covering about 4.6 acres, MK Nature Center offers a walking path called the “StreamWalk” , where visitors can see close-up look at fishes swimming through underwater windows built into the stream. The area also has small waterfalls, ponds, and manicured gardens that attract birds, insects, and other wildlife. Inside the visitor center, there are interactive displays about Idaho’s animals and habitats, including a beehive and bird viewing windows. The center also offers guided tours for families and field trips for school groups, to learn more about nature and local ecosystem with hands-on activities.

The Military Reserve

The Military Reserve is a large open space in northeast Boise that covers about 734 acres and is used for outdoor activities and nature protection. It was once used by the military for training, but now it’s a public area managed by the City of Boise for recreation and wildlife. The land includes trails for hiking, biking, and running, along with a dog park, bike park, and an archery range. There’s also an old military cemetery where veterans from the Mexican War, Civil War, and other early conflicts are buried. Trails like Cottonwood Creek and Central Ridge offer stunning views and are popular for short hikes.

6. Day Trips & Excursions

Boise National Forest

Start a day trip from Boise and drive nearly 2 hours to reach Boise National Forest, which covers over 2.5 million acres of land. It has rivers, lakes, mountains, and forests that are open for hiking, fishing, and camping. One of the easiest spot to start is the Lucky Peak area, where you can enjoy a picnic or walk along the water. If you drive a little farther, you can visit places like Idaho City or the Kirkham Hot Springs, which are both popular stops for day visitors. The forest has many trails for all skill levels, and roads are well-marked, and ranger stations provides maps, exhibits and trail recommendations.

Sawtooth National Forest

From Boise, a day trip to Sawtooth National Forest takes about 3.5 hours drive, and the most popular areas to visit is near Stanley, where you’ll find Redfish Lake and views of the Sawtooth Mountains. The lake has a beach, boat rentals, and picnic spots, making it a nice place to relax, swim, or enjoy a walk along the shore. Short hiking trails nearby let visitors enjoy mountain views and maybe spot wildlife like deer or mountain goats. The drive to the forest is scenic, with spots along the way where you can stop for photos, and its ideal to bring your own food, since services are limited inside the forest.

Morley Nelson Snake River Birds of Prey National Conservation Area

A day trip to the Morley Nelson Snake River Birds of Prey National Conservation Area takes about 30 minutes from Boise and covers over 485,000 acres along the Snake River. It’s known for having one of the highest numbers of nesting birds of prey in North America, including hawks, falcons, and eagles. The best time to see these birds is from March to June, when they are nesting and teaching their young to fly. A good place to start is Dedication Point, which has a short trail with signs that explain the birds and the land. There are also hiking trails like the Halverson Bar Trail and places to picnic or ride bikes.

Sun Valley

Planning a day trip to Sun Valley takes about 3 hours drive, so it’s best to start early from Boise. The route goes through towns like Mountain Home and Fairfield, with chances to stop for gas, snacks, or a quick walk. Once reached, you can explore the town of Ketchum, which has shops, cafes, and local art. The Sun Valley Resort area is nearby and offers walking paths, bike rentals, and scenic spots to relax. In summer, you can ride the gondola up Bald Mountain for breathtaking views. In winter, the area is known for skiing, you can enjoy the snow-covered views and warm up with a hot drink in the village.

Shoshone Falls

From Boise, a day trip to Shoshone Falls takes roughly 2 hours and is a good way to see one of Idaho’s most famous natural spots. Shoshone Falls gets the nickname “Niagara of the West” since it rises 212 feet — taller than the famous Niagara Falls. The best time to visit is in spring, from March to May, when the water flow is strong from snowmelt. There’s a viewing area, picnic spots, and walking paths where you can enjoy the view. Sunrise and sunset are perfect times for photos. Visitors can also stop at nearby places like Malad Gorge or Perrine Bridge for stunning views of the Snake River Canyon.

Bruneau Dunes State Park

The Bruneau Dunes State Park is about 1.5 hours drive from Boise to reach by car. It’s located near Mountain Home and is easy to find by following I-84 and then heading south. The park is known for having the tallest single-structured sand dune in North America, which stands about 470 feet high. Visitors can hike up the dunes, walk around the small lakes, or try sandboarding, which is available to rent at the visitor center. There are also spots for fishing, bird watching, and having a picnic. The park also has an observatory with a large telescope, and on some nights, visitors can look at stars and planets.

Craters of the Moon National Monument

Start a day trip to Craters of the Moon National Monument and the drive takes roughly 3 hours, so it’s best to leave early from Boise. This area was shaped by lava flows from volcanic eruptions that happened thousands of years ago. The land looks like a black rock desert, with lava tubes, cinder cones, and open fields of hardened lava. There’s a 7 miles loop road that takes you to the main sights, and you can stop to walk short trails or climb small hills made of lava rock. The visitor center offers trail recommendations, maps, and exhibits that share stories about the region’s history and its natural features.

How to Reach Boise

Boise is easy to reach by air, road, or bus, depending on where you’re coming from. The Boise Airport (BOI) is the main airport and is just about ten minutes from downtown. It’s served by major airlines like Delta, United, Alaska, and Southwest, with direct flights from cities like Seattle, Denver, Phoenix, and Chicago. Once you land, you can take a cab, Uber, Lyft, or rent a car right at the airport. If you’re driving, Interstate 84 is the main highway that connects Boise to cities like Portland and Salt Lake City.

You can also reach Boise from Twin Falls using Interstate 86. The roads are well-marked, and there are plenty of gas stations and rest stops along the way. For a more affordable option, Greyhound and Northwestern Trailways offer bus service to and from Boise, with stops in nearby towns and cities. While Amtrak doesn’t currently run passenger trains directly to Boise, the nearest station is in nearby towns, and you can connect by bus or car.

Local Transportation

Getting around Boise is simple, with a few easy options for both locals and visitors. The main public bus system is run by Valley Regional Transit, which covers Boise and nearby towns. Buses run on set routes, and most rides cost $1.50, or you can get a day pass for $2.50. You can pay with cash, a City Go card, or the Umo Mobility app, which also lets you track your bus in real time. If you prefer to ride a bike, Boise has many bike lanes and paths, including the Boise River Greenbelt, which runs through the city.

For those who don’t want to drive, taxis and ride-share services like Uber are available in Boise. Green City Taxi is a local company that runs 24/7 and offers rides to nearby cities too. Boise Shuttle Services also provides rides to and from the airport and other locations. If you need help getting to medical appointments, Your Best Transport offers non-emergency rides for seniors and people with special needs.

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FAQ’s (Frequently Asked Questions)

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