boise idaho travel guide

Visit Boise, Idaho: The Ultimate Guide and Tips for Budget Travelers

I never dreamed of traveling to the capital of Idaho. Furthermore, I didn’t even realize that a visit to Boise can change my travel game tremendously.

Our first visit to Boise, Idaho , was unimpressive to say the least. We landed in the capital of Idaho late in the evening when everything was closed, and the city was hiding under thick, dark blanket. By the time we left Boise Airport, gusty October winds forced us to rush to our hotel, located just a 10-minute walk away.

Bundled up and with masks on our faces, we braved the chilly weather. But even during this short first visit, Boise delighted us. There was something about the capital of Idaho that intrigued and made you feel relaxed at the same time.

While we were walking fast to the hotel, our tired eyes observed almost empty streets. At some point, we stopped at a local shop to get some food. Despite the late hour, the place was still busy with customers and management team chatting outside. These encounters along with the short walk was enough to realize how walkable the capital of Idaho was. You could visit Boise and forget about renting a car altogether.

Although walking, biking, or using public transport is popular in Europe , most of the cities in the United States lost this privilege. Boise, though, still remains one of the most convenient state capitals to visit when traveling across the country.

Visit Boise, Idaho: Introduction

Boise is the capital and largest city in Idaho. The place sits on the Boise River and boasts enormous amount of green spaces such as parks and ragged land intermixed with urban architecture. In that respect, you can visit entire Idaho and don’t find any city as green as Boise. Locals lovingly refer to their home city as the “City of Trees”.

The place became the capital of Idaho in 1864. Today, Boise is America’s 17th highly populated state capital city and one of the best places to visit in the Gem State.  Apart from the convenience of traveling to and around the city, Boise enhances your visit with its remarkable landmarks and impeccable food scene.

Why You Should Visit Boise, Idaho

The largest city in Idaho. The cultural and gastronomical capital of the state. One of the most affordable places in the United States… Indeed, there are more reason to visit Boise than staying away from it. Apart from it rich historical and cultural heritage, the capital of Idaho astounds with its impeccable urban vibes, authentic local food scene, and ever-increasing beer bars.  

The abundance of the parks and trees further inspire you to visit Boise, Idaho. The irresistible mix of the city and outdoorsy lifestyles sets the area apart from the other large cities in the country. The locals enjoy diverse activities their adorable home has to offer. The travelers find it enticing and strive to visit Boise again and again. 

The convenient location of the capital of Idaho has insured a steady flow of the visitors for centuries now. As part of the Oregon Trail, Boise inevitably welcomed pioneers, crossing the Snake River south of the city. While the early travelers could hardly enjoy the area, Boise established itself as one of the most important places to visit in the American Northwest even back then. The capital of Idaho is more entertaining and charming today, welcoming millions of the tourists yearly.

The Best Time to Visit Boise, Idaho

Sheltered by mountains to the north, Boise gets away from extremely cold weather that prevents many travelers from enjoying this part of the country. Yet, Boise might not be an ideal area to visit all year round. Summers are dry and hot. Winters are still cold despite the reliable protection from the mountains. 

Shoulder months ensure the perfect temperatures to visit Boise and discover its green spaces brimming with scenic hiking and biking trails. The locals insists that March through May as well as September through November are the best times to enjoy the city. From our experience, though, we’d say that the end of fall feels cold. Thus, bring warm jackets, sweaters, and insulated layers if you plan to visit Boise at this time. 

While the warmer temperatures inspire the majority of the travelers, winters in Idaho entice the most adventurous of them. Endless crowds visit Boise during the colder months to hit ski slopes at Tamarack Resort, located about two hours north of the city.

The temperatures linger in the 80s and 90s in summer, marking it the busiest time to visit Boise. With influx of the tourists, the city increases prices for accommodation and entertainment. Considering this, budget travelers might want to postpone their visit to Boise until fall. 

Arriving in Boise, Idaho

Bustling Boise spares its visitors from any troubles that might arise when planning a trip. The convenient location and abundance of flights ensure easy access to the city. Driving is by far one of the most popular ways to visit Boise. Flying into the capital of Idaho is also in favor. The Boise Airport, located just five miles south of city center, greets the majority of the guests traveling from all corners of the world. 

Getting Around Boise, Idaho

People who visit Boise on their way to Yellowstone National Park or other destinations in Idaho, ofter arrive by or rent a car . Exploring the city this way certainly has its advantages. You can see the place through and through and drive to the most isolated areas any time you want. 

The visitors can have similar experiences when traveling around the city by public transportation . Time restrains and not always convenient bus routes, however, might be an issue when you want visit all corners and explore hidden gems of Boise. Taxi and ride-sharing services such as Uber and Lyft can solve this problem. Prices they charge, however, are higher compared to the rides on the public transport.

The cheapest way to explore the city is on foot or by bike . Downtown Boise features the majority of city’s attractions. Clustered next to each other, the famous landmarks of Boise inspire you to visit them while walking from one place to other. Not always favorable parking situation further encourages you to trade your car for a two-wheeled vehicle or simply walk around. 

Where to Stay in Boise, Idaho

The capital of Idaho offers accommodations for all budgets and preferences. You can stay near the airport while saying money for all other attractions of the city. If having quick access to the major landmarks is at most importance, book a hotel room in downtown Boise from where you can visit city’s parks and museums in minutes. Here’re a few places you can stay at when in Boise:

Best Western Northwest Lodge ($)

Located just a short walk from the Boise Airport, Best Western Northwest Lodge is a place we chose to stay at. This budget hotel offers comfortable, clean rooms, free breakfast and Wi-Fi. And since it’s only five miles from the city center, you can even visit downtown Boise by walking all the way there.

Hampton Inn & Suites Boise-Downtown ($$)

Hampton Inn & Suites Boise-Downtown is a contemporary hotel in downtown Boise that suits best travelers that prefers to walk around. The place sits within walking distance of Zoo Boise, Julia Davis Park – home to city’s famous museums and the State Capitol Building, – and abundant stores and restaurants of the city. The hotel ensures a pleasant stay by offered fitness center and indoor pool. Thinking about skipping driving during your visit to Boise? Hampton Inn offers free shuttle rides to the airport as well as Albertsons Stadium. 

Inn at 500 Capitol ($$$)

Luxurious stay and visit is guaranteed at Inn at 500 Capitol in downtown Boise. The number one hotel in the city, this boutique place offers modern rooms, suites, and penthouses. A chic restaurant and a 24-hour gym on top of complimentary local wine and beer further pamper and spoil you. The 3.5-star hotel nestles within walking distance of the major attractions and entices with panoramic views of the Boise skyline. 

Where to Eat in Boise, Idaho

Boise gains the reputation as a new culinary darling along with such foodie’s paradises as Portland and Seattle . Focusing on locally-grown products, the capital of Idaho presents the best Northwestern cooking traditions while adding its unique style and taste to it. The abundance of restaurants, cafes, and bars in Boise doesn’t go unnoticed. Gourmands from all corners of the world visit Boise to explore its outstanding food scene. Often, it’s recommended to book a food tour during your first visit to Boise to learn about the famous and hidden culinary gems of the city. 

Visit Culinary Gems of Boise

Whose who prefer to eat their way through Boise at their own pace, should start their excursion at Eighth Street in downtown Boise. The area houses the city’s best diners, bars, and cafes. For hearty lunch and dinner, swing by Fork , the veteran of local cuisine. Feeling like eating Italian? Head over to Alavita , famous for its fresh pasta and variety of seafood. Siblings-owners of BBQ4LIFE feed both vegan and meat-eaters.

If you visit Boise and can’t wait to try its delightfully rich desserts, Janjou Pâtisserie is the best place for you. Doughnuts lovers should pay a visit to Guru Donuts in downtown Boise. The place is modeled after VooDoo Doughnut in Portland and promises sweet pasties all day every day.

The best breakfasts await at Goldy’s Breakfast Bistro and Bacon . Vegan and vegetarian travelers might want to skip the latter as pork dishes dominate the menu here. Beer loving visitors of Boise flock to Bittercreek Alehouse , a place where the alcoholic drink comes in different flavors. 

For a taste of Spain, visit The Basque Market in Boise. Adjusting southern European culinary traditions to local tastes, the area provides the best paella, bocadillos, and tapas in the city. 

The Best Places to Visit in Boise, Idaho

You can be daring and adventurous at one moment and smitten by cultural heritage of the city an hour later. A visit to Boise opens a whole new world where the outdoors harmoniously coexists with urban vibrance and aesthetics. The Green City doesn’t joke when it promises unforgettable open-air pursuits crowned with the scenic views and wildlife viewings. From its remarkable parks to educational museums, Boise makes every visit special. Strolling around the city, you inevitably find your way to at least one of the following destinations. Frequent travelers, enchanted by the city, often visit the same highlights of Boise again and again.

Visit Boise River Greenbelt

No visit to Boise is complete without exploring the abundant green spaces of the Boise River Greenbelt. The 25-mile park sits along the banks of the Boise River and entices with its stunning vistas and plentiful wildlife. Popular with the outdoor enthusiasts, the area is used best for walking or hiking. A 10-mile self-directed bike route allows to visit the most remote areas of this part of Boise.

The biggest advantage of the Boise River Greenbelt is its close proximity to other landmarks of the city. You can visit one park after another while stopping at some of the largest museums of Boise in the most efficient manner. From nature to the city in a matter of a few minutes – the capital of Idaho surely knows how to keep its visitors entertained. 

Visit Boise Art Museum

Located in downtown Boise, the Boise Art Museum presents a large collection of contemporary art pieces. The structure is part of a chain of cultural landmarks in Julia Davis Park. Established in 1937, the museum was originally known as the Boise Gallery of Art. Its earliest collections included works of local artists and traveling exhibitions that never ceased to inspire and dazzle the residents as well as the visitors of the city. 

The art collection grew with time. The structure, however, deteriorated. A couple of major renovations took place in 1972 and again in 1988. After the latest restoration, the site change its name to the Boise Art Museum.

New name established new mission. Today people can visit the Boise Art Museum and admire its vast collections of contemporary realism and artworks of local creators including acclaimed Idaho’s outsider artist James Charles Castle. 

Visit Capital City Public Market

The Capital City Public Market helps Saturday visitors stock up on food and further experience the lifestyle of the city. Located on West Bannock Street, the place employs more than 150 venders selling local produce, food, baked goods, fish, meat, and a large variety of artisan products. The biggest market in the city occupied four city blocks in downtown Boise. It’s open on Saturdays and occasionally hosts special events such as musical performances. 

Visit Aquarium of Boise

The Aquarium of Boise is known for its many interactive touch tanks that allow its visitors to touch and hold marine creatures such as corals, crabs, rays, starfish, and baby sharks. The place opened to the public only in 2011 and has already spread over 10,000 square feet. The famous exhibits here are an octopus tank, a shark nursery, and a coral reef habitat. 

Visit Idaho Botanic Garden, Boise

Don’t focus only on the animals and marine creatures when in Boise. The Idaho Botanic Garden opens its doors for you to explore its diverse gardens, including the famous Alpine Garden, the Cactus Garden, and the English Garden. The place came to life in 1984 on a parcel of land that was sitting vacant for 10 year prior. Today, the Idaho Botanic Garden occupies 50 acres of land that at some point was a farm and nursery of the Old Idaho State Penitentiary. 

Kathryn Albertson Park

Kathryn Albertson Park is a small sibling of the Boise River Greenbelt. Located near downtown Boise, this 41-acre park connects to the largest park in the city and astounds with its wildlife, ponds, and a modest fountain. Paved footpaths as well as gazebos also promise a relaxing visit.

The park is open sunrise to sunset. Those who travel to Boise with intention to encounter its wild inhabitants should visit the area early in the morning or evening. With less crowds around, salamanders, painted and boxed turtles, raccoons, beavers, rabbits, and occasional red foxes leave their hideouts and roam in the park. 

Visit Basque Museum and Cultural Center, Boise

Boise has a large population of Basques. From authentic dishes to a local market and museum, the capital of Idaho helps preserve unique culture and customs of the group. The Basque Museum and Cultural Center is the best place to visit in Boise and learn more about this vibrant European community. The museum features cultural exhibits that promote the Basque history and culture.

The place was created in 1985 as a small museum in the historical Cyrus Jacobs-Uberuaga House. Soon it enlarged its collection. Today, you can visit the Basque Museum and Cultural Center to look into the rich history of the Basques community and its new life in Boise, Idaho. 

Entrance fee is nominal. Adult ticket costs $5. Seniors and students pay $4. Children under 5 visit the Basque Museum in downtown Boise free of charge. 

Visit Julia Davis Park in Downtown Boise

Every visit to Boise starts or ends in Julia Davis Park. Located in the downtown area, the place encompasses several museums including the Boise Art Museum, the Idaho Historical Museum, and the Idaho Black History Museum. Zoo Boise and the Idaho Rose Society also nestle nearby. The outdoor enthusiasts visit this section of Boise to take advantage of a pond with paddle boat rentals and tennis court. 

Julia Davis Park has a bitter-sweet story. In 1907, Thomas Jefferson Davis donated a parcel of land to the city as a memorial to his wife, Julia. The donation was highly appreciated, and the new park was named after Julia Davis.

Don’t feel like planning your own itinerary? Check out the following tours and explore Boise with a local.

Tips: Visit Boise on a Budget

Can you visit Boise on a budget? Absolutely! The city is known as one of the most affordable travel destinations in the Untied States. Using the following tips, you can save even more. 

Visit Boise in September

Fall is the best time to visit Boise on a budget. Flights are cheap. Accommodations are affordable. The weather is pleasant: neither too hot nor too cold. What to not like here? Want to save even more? Then visit Boise in September, the slowest month of the year for tourism. 

Stay in Downtown Boise, Idaho

On top of planning your visit in fall, aim at staying in downtown Boise from where you can walk to all major attractions of the city. No car or taxi is needed. 

Rent a Bike

If you plan to visit some of the isolated area of Boise, rent a bike instead of a car. It’s definitely cheaper and healthier to say the least. 

Visit Free or Almost Free Landmarks of Boise, Idaho

The parks in Boise are usually free to visit. The ample hiking trails inside and outside the city let you explore the area through and through without paying a dime. Make sure to wear comfortable shoes, though. 

If you long for the cultural side of Boise, fell free to visit city’s museums. With the average admission fees ranging from $5 to $10, they won’t drain your budget. 

Interesting Facts About Boise, Idaho

• Boise was named by the 19th-century French Canadian trappers (French word boisé means “wooded”). The tree-lined river near the city provided great support for the travelers crossing the Snake River plain.
• Boise has the second largest Basque population in the United States. The Basque culture is largely presented in the Basque Block neighborhood, the Basque Marketplace, and the Basque Museum and Cultural Center. 
• Boise walks the walk when it come to being an eco-friendly city. The State Capitol Building is the only state capitol that is heated from underground hot springs. The energy is pumped from a source 3,000 feet underground.  

READ MORE : 12 Irresistible Day Trips from Boise, Idaho

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Photo credit: Personal collection & pixabay.com

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PART RUGGED. PART REFINED.

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WELCOME TO THE UNEXPECTED WEST.

Boise is both urban and wild. It’s grit and glamour. Our lively, clean, artistic, vibrant, tree-lined city is just steps from mountains, a river and hundreds of trails. This is where you come to escape and push your limits. So let’s get to it.

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Lonely Planet Best in Travel

“It’s this mid-sized city’s year-round natural beauty, combined with terroir and culinary scene, that landed it on our 2023 list for best places to connect.” Boise is full of surprises, and Lonely Planet agrees. Lex Nelson, a Treasure Valley based writer, explains why Boise was honored and tells you how to spend the perfect day in the City of Trees.

Boise Centre

In the middle of vibrant, walkable downtown Boise is Idaho’s largest convention center, Boise Centre.

This unique venue boasts beautiful views of the Boise Foothills, with modern amenities, the latest in technology and personalized service. Boise Centre offers 31 versatile meeting and event spaces to suit groups of up to 2,000 attendees.

EXPLORE BOISE

Boise Bench

The Bench offers some of the city’s best views. Architectural styles vary wildly here, and each street brings a new experience.

Boise State University

Downtown is jam-packed with cultural and culinary experiences, more than 100 restaurants, bars and the Basque Block.

From stately historic mansions and sprawling parks to meandering trails, East Boise has it all.

Garden City

Garden City is nestled next to the Boise River. This area is filled with many cultural experiences, from tastings at wineries and breweries to creative studios and shops.

Greater Boise

Boise’s iconic North End has stunning tree-lined streets and historic homes. It’s equally charming and trendy, and has easy access to trails, parks, restaurants and shops.

Southeast Boise

Southeast Boise includes Boise State University and the Micron Technology campus. Amenities include the Greenbelt, Boise River access and several large parks.

Where Boise meets the neighboring city of Meridian. It’s equal parts residential and commercial.

ROSE Awards

The Boise Convention & Visitors Bureau has always believed in recognizing exceptional service. The ROSE (Recognition of Service Excellence) Awards honor exceptional employees in the tourism and hospitality industry who enhance the visitor experience. The awards cover several categories and are presented to employees who provide exemplary service at a celebratory event held at Morrison Center on April 5th, 2023.

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Boise can catch you unawares. Refreshingly modern, urban and trendy, Idaho's largest city has a lively downtown scene – complete with walking streets, bistros and sophisticated wine bars.

Best Things to Do

Attractions, must-see attractions.

Basque Block

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Boise River Greenbelt

The glowing emerald of Treasure Valley began as an ambitious plan in the 1960s to prevent development in the Boise River's floodplain and provide open…

World Center for Birds of Prey

The Peregrine Fund's worldwide raptor conservation programs have brought many species back from the brink of extinction – including the iconic California…

Idaho State Capitol

The joy of US state capitol buildings is that visitors can admire some of the nation's best architecture for free. The Boise building, constructed from…

Idaho State Museum

After a multi-year renovation, which brought this museum back to life, traditional exhibits now share space with multimedia installations for a…

Basque Museum & Cultural Center

Sandwiched between the ethnic taverns, restaurants and bars is the Basque Museum & Cultural Center, a commendable effort to unveil the intricacies of…

Boise Art Museum

Inside 90-acre Julia Davis Park, this small but bright museum displays mostly contemporary art in all media, including the occasional Warhol, and touring…

Anduiza Fronton Building

Originally a boarding house from 1912, this building is home to Boise's popular indoor pala (Basque racquetball) court – check at the Basque Museum for a…

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Best in Travel - 2023

Nov 15, 2022 • 7 min read

Boise's year-round natural beauty, outdoor activities and culinary scene make it a great place to connect. Lex Nelson shows how to spend the perfect day.

Sep 21, 2022 • 10 min read

Sep 21, 2020 • 5 min read

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19 Best Things To Do in Boise

Updated Oct. 17, 2022

As the capital and most populous city in Idaho, Boise contains a host of things to do, ranging from outdoor attractions, such as the Boise River Greenbelt , the Kathryn Albertson Park and the Bogus Basin Mountain Recreation Area . But its downtown area

• All Things To Do

Boise River Greenbelt Boise River Greenbelt free

The Boise River Greenbelt stretches 25 miles along both sides of the Boise River and offers runners, joggers, walkers and cyclists a beautiful place to stretch their legs. The tree-lined trail also winds past several of the city's most popular parks, including Kathryn Albertson Park and Julia Davis Park along with Boise State University . What's more, the city created a scavenger hunt with a map and clues on its website that promotes visitors to explore the trail and learn more about the city's history along the way. Additionally, the Boise River Greenbelt offers prime bird watching along with opportunities to see other wildlife.

Travelers commonly described the area as relaxing and peaceful. They liked walking their dogs or riding their bikes (scooters too) on the trail. Others enjoyed exploring the attractions that are connected by the greenbelt, especially the Idaho Anne Frank Human Rights Memorial . A few note that this gorgeous space is popular, so expect to contend with lots of foot traffic.

Julia Davis Park Julia Davis Park free

As the oldest park in Boise, the Julia Davis Park is a hub of activities with the Zoo Boise, Boise Art Museum, Idaho State Historical Museum and the Idaho Black History Museum within its boundaries. The park also features two pavilions (one set in the Rose Garden) along with sports courts, like bocce, tennis and horseshoes. The Boise River Greenbelt passes nearby and there is access to the Idaho River for those who fish. Julia Davis Park is a stop on the Idaho Birding Trail, a network of sites that offer the best bird-watching. Families gravitate towards the playground, geared for kids 12 and younger. Additionally, this space is part of the 'Ribbon of Jewels," a series of parks named for prominent women of Boise.

According to recent visitors, the rose garden is not-to-be-missed in late summer when hundreds of roses are in bloom. Additionally, several guests enjoyed the zoo and museums set in the landscaped park. Most visitors commented that the park is one of the top destinations in the Boise.

Idaho Anne Frank Human Rights Memorial Idaho Anne Frank Human Rights Memorial free

Occupying less than an acre of space, the Idaho Anne Frank Human Rights Memorial is a park "inspired by Anne Frank's faith in humanity," according to the City of Boise. Designed by Idaho Falls architect Kurt Karst, the educational park incorporates natural elements, such as water, stone and native flora, to extend a message of hope and spread information about human rights issues. Visitors will also find an amphitheater along with a classroom. Two of the park's highlights are a 180-foot quote wall (inscribed with words from humanitarians) and a bronze sculpture of Anne Frank. Visitors may be surprised to learn this is the only Anne Frank memorial in the United States. It also boasts a sapling from the Anne Frank chestnut tree in Amsterdam .

Recent visitors described the memorial as powerful and well done, highlighting Anne Frank as well as human rights fighters through the generations. Others called the memorial thought provoking and an important place to visit while in Boise.

Popular Tours

Boise Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour

from $ 14.17

1 / 2 Day Whitewater Rafting Trip near Boise, ID

(38 reviews)

from $ 79.00

Boise Scavenger Hunt Adventure

(3 reviews)

from $ 20.60

Idaho Botanical Garden Idaho Botanical Garden

The Idaho Botanical Garden occupies 33 acres of what used to be the grounds of the Old Idaho Penitentiary , but now succulents, roses and native Idaho plants fill those acres. There are also vegetable, herb and meditation gardens. You'll also find a lineup of workshops and events, such as the Winter Garden aGlow , during which the garden lights up with hundreds of thousands of holiday lights. You're welcome to tour the garden on your own; but, if you want a guided experience, time your visit for May to September, when a garden ambassador guides a tour (available twice monthly). Another bonus for visiting in the summer? The Outlaw Field Summer Concert Series.

Most gardengoers commented on the lovely grounds, especially the rose gardens. They also recommend wearing good walking shoes, as there is plenty to see. Other reviewers remarked on the diverse visitors that this attraction appeals to – from children to adults. Finally, a few reviewers mentioned it was an excellent concert venue.

Kathryn Albertson Park Kathryn Albertson Park free

The 41-acre Kathryn Albertson Park features broad footpaths and gazebos, which are ideal for the main attraction here: wildlife-watching. Along with various waterfowl, herons and owls, this park contains salamanders, turtles, bullfrogs, beavers and rabbits, among other fauna. A park refresh completed in 2021 brought in new grass, wildlife-friendly meadows, pollinator gardens and more. The park's namesake is Kathryn Albertson, a Boise native and philanthropist.

Recent visitors praised the Kathryn Albertson Park, saying it's Boise's best. One recent visitor commented on the wildflowers and ponds. Another parkgoer recommended travelers visit in the fall, when the park is drenched in vibrant foliage. Most mentioned it was popular with visitors and locals alike and the park is large.

Downtown Boise Downtown Boise free

Downtown Boise sits north of the Boise River and welcomes visitors with its local restaurants, shops, craft breweries and coffeehouses, many featuring Idaho products. Here you'll find the Idaho State Capitol , Freak Alley Gallery  and the Boise Art Museum. There's the Capital City Public Market (a combination farmers and artisan market), operating from the spring until late fall. Additionally, downtown Boise hosts a collection of popular events, such as First Thursday and the Boise Marathon, that fill its calendar.

Visitors say you could spend hours walking around downtown Boise. Others highlight the high-caliber dining establishments and nightlife venues.

Basque Museum & Cultural Center Basque Museum & Cultural Center

Established in 1985, this museum celebrates worldwide Basque culture. The exhibits tell a narrative of Basque history in northern Spain and shine a light on the Basque community that settled in Boise as sheepherders. The museum houses oral history archives, manuscripts, and a variety of artifacts and photographs, among other items. Located next to the museum, the Cyrus Jacobs/Uberuaga House has been restored to its boardinghouse origins and offers a glimpse at the lives of former residents.

Recent visitors said it was fascinating to learn about the Basques, adding that the exhibits were interesting and informative. According to several museumgoers the boarding house drove the history home as they walked through the living quarters of first-generation Basque people. After visiting the museum, many reviewers suggested taking time to explore the whole block, which features other Basque food and landmarks.

Ridge to Rivers Ridge to Rivers free

The Boise Foothills, always an ever-present and gorgeous backdrop to the city, offers more than an opportunity for a pretty picture. You can head out for an hour, or even a day, of adventure on the Ridge to Rivers system, an interconnected network of roads and trails running through the foothills. The 190-mile trail system links neighborhoods to public lands with hiking, horseback riding and mountain biking suitable for all ages and skill levels. Landscapes run the gamut from grasslands to scrub slopes to tree-lined creeks leading to the Boise National Forest.

Both locals and visitors rave about the accessibility, the variety of trails and most especially the view. Reviewers were pleased with the well-marked trails and said it's easy to purchase a paper map from stores around town. Several recent summer hikers mentioned the lack of trees (and shade) on their hikes and recommended seeking out trails with trees.

A Macabre History of Boise Walking Tour

(4 reviews)

from $ 25.00

Adventurous Scavenger Hunt in Boise by Operation City Quest

from $ 10.00

Self-Guided Boise Scavenger Hunt: Boise Hidden Treasures

from $ 12.31

Bogus Basin Mountain Recreation Area Bogus Basin Mountain Recreation Area

As a year-round, nonprofit mountain destination, the Bogus Basin Mountain Recreation Area attracts visitors to its ski and snowboard slopes in the winter and its hiking and mountain biking trails in the summer. For winter recreation, Bogus Basin provides skiing and snowboarding lessons along with night skiing. Visitors can also enjoy snowshoeing and snow tubing, neither of which require much experience to enjoy. For summer visitors, the ski runs transform to hiking and biking trails, complete with bike lift service and scenic chairlift rides. Take a mountain coaster ride for an adrenaline rush without lugging a bike. Regardless of the season, head to the lodge to relax and enjoy a bite and a drink after being outdoors.

Recent visitors couldn't say enough about the beauty of Bogus Basin's views and its variety of ski runs. Reviewers rave about the area's hiking and mountain biking opportunities. Summer visitors enjoyed the scenic chair lift and the alpine coaster. Some note that an experience here is pricey.

Old Idaho Penitentiary Old Idaho Penitentiary

As one of only four territorial prisons open for tours (like the infamous Alcatraz ), the Old Idaho Penitentiary offers a look at life behind bars. In 1872, it started receiving criminals to its cellblocks, solitary confinement and even gallows. It closed in 1973 due to a rising prison population and outdated conditions. During its operation, Old Pen – as it's sometimes called – housed more than 13,000 inmates, including 217 women. Now listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the purportedly haunted site is open to visitors who wish to learn more about its notorious inmates and the harsh prison conditions.  

Recent reviewers found their visits fascinating. With solitary confinement cells, rumored hauntings and lots of peeling paint, it was well worth the time visitors spent exploring. Several commented on the lovely roses planted outside the buildings. A handful of others recommended the guided tour for an additional $2.

Boise Wineries Boise Wineries

With fertile volcanic soil and a climate perfect for grapes, Idaho's wine industry has experienced remarkable growth. According to Visit Boise, the state contains more than 65 wineries. Below you'll find a few favorites from recent Boise visitors.

Don't be turned off by Cinder Wines ' warehouse exterior: Inside you'll find a large, tastefully decorated tasting room to enjoy a sip. The winery, known for its syrah and tempranillo wines, among others, is located less than 4 miles from downtown Boise in Garden City. Recent visitors praised the red wines and friendly and knowledgeable staff at Cinder. Split Rail Winery is another Garden City spot worth trying, and you'll find everything from brut roses to zinfandels to cabernet sauvignon. You'll find wine by the can as well as by the bottle here, and recent patrons called the service and wine top-notch. Coiled specializes in syrah and dry riesling wines. Telaya Wine Company is located on the Boise River Greenbelt. At Telaya, enjoy one of its wines by the glass, bottle or flight outside on the patio (which is dog-friendly)  

World Center for Birds of Prey World Center for Birds of Prey

The World Center for Birds of Prey is an indoor-outdoor education center. Visitors get a chance to see all sorts of raptors, including eagles, vultures, hawks, and falcons from around the world. Four live bird presentations run each day the center is open. The 20-minute show highlights the physical and behavioral adaptations of the bird while handlers discuss its conservation status. Birds could be falcons, kestrels, owls or hawks. The outdoor Fall Flight programs demonstrate the flying ability of the raptors in a 40-minute presentation. After watching the birds take flight, head inside for museum exhibits that detail even more about the birds.

The seasonal Fall Flight programs were particularly popular with visitors, especially with the birds flying free over the crowd. Recent visitors praised the educational component and found the center impressive. Others note that the facility is overall small.

Idaho State Capitol Building Idaho State Capitol Building free

As a focal point of the Boise skyline, the Idaho State Capitol's dome peaks at 208 feet, adding a piece of Renaissance Revival architecture to the laid-back Western vibe of Idaho. Construction began in 1905 and was completed in 1920. Today, visitors can marvel at a highly decorated interior while touring the interpretive displays. Tours are usually self-guided, but you can arrange for a guided tour, which must be done at least two weeks before you visit.

Recent visitors enjoyed their time exploring the Idaho State Capitol Building, citing its architecture as a draw. Several reviewers commended the exhibits on the ground floor. Keep in mind that you may be prohibited to enter certain sections of the building if the legislature is in session.

MK Nature Center MK Nature Center free

Set on more than 4 acres next to the Boise River Greenbelt , visitors can learn about Idaho's varied wildlife at the Morrison-Knudsen Nature Center (often abbreviated as MK Nature Center). You'll get to view fish via the underwater viewing windows along the stream walk. In addition to Idaho's aquatic landscapes, visitors can see sagebrush, an eagle's nest, a butterfly garden and more on land. Wildlife gravitate to this area and trout, bass and whitefish all swim in its waters while ducks, geese and kingfishers fly overhead.  

A hit with families, the nature center is a manageable size for little kids. Recent visitors appreciated all the interpretive signs along its trail. Most visited during the spring, summer or fall and enjoyed their visit. A winter visit means less animal activity, according to reviewers. Nearly all the recent reviewers appreciated it was free to enter.

Freak Alley Gallery Freak Alley Gallery free

Freak Alley Gallery, a large open-air multiartist mural, started in 2002 with a drawing on the doorway of a local cafe. As an evolving work, artists add new pieces each year. With artwork stretching from buildings' foundations to the roofs, the entire area has been transformed by color and design.   

Several recent visitors stumbled upon the alley when in Boise and loved the gallery. Others appreciated its proximity to restaurants and the Capitol , making it an easy stop during your day. The art itself earned mixed reviews, though several reviewers noted that was due to their personal tastes. 

Zoo Boise Zoo Boise

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Discovery Center of Idaho Discovery Center of Idaho

Idaho State Museum Idaho State Museum

Aquarium of Boise Aquarium of Boise

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