Boise, Idaho may not be on many people’s bucket lists, but that’s one of the best things about it.
The Idaho capital has a lively but manageable downtown with easy access to scenic spaces and outdoor adventure. And since it has flown under many people’s radar, it still maintains its small city charm.
Boise’s lesser-known status also makes it a generally more affordable place to stay, whether you’re on a solo trek, a trip with your partner, showing your kids the world or considering a longer-term stay in the area.
All the best things to do in Boise are easy to find, once you know where to look. So, stay a while and get to know this hidden gem.
Key takeaways
- There are many affordable activities for solo travelers, families and couples in Boise.
- Boise is an outdoor lover’s dream, with miles of multi-use trails, boating and fishing locations, places for wildlife viewing and a botanical garden.
- Visitors can explore Idaho’s state capitol building and other historical sites, like a 150-year-old penitentiary.
- There’s a burgeoning art scene in Boise, and visitors have several options for checking out local artists and community events.
- There are many family-friendly options for visitors traveling to Boise with their kids, including a zoo, raptor center and famous bowling alley.
- Boise remains mostly under the radar, making it a generally more manageable and affordable place to visit.
1. Stroll the Boise River Greenbelt
This scenic pathway for walking, biking or jogging is one of the best free things to do in Boise. The River Greenbelt runs along the Boise River and offers more than 25 miles of tree-lined paths with river access and some of the prettiest views of the city.
Along the way, the Greenbelt can take you to other top things to do in Boise, including Barber Park, Ann Morrison Park and Kathryn Albertson Park, which we discuss later in the article.
It’s also just a short drive from the airport, as well as nearby hotels, if you want somewhere to stretch your legs and rest after a flight.
2. Explore the Idaho State Capitol
Boise is the capital of Idaho, and the capitol building there does the state proud.
The neoclassical façade is a striking feature of the skyline, and self-guided access to the building’s rotunda and public areas is free and available most days of the week.
The chance to explore the capitol is one of the best things to do in downtown Boise, whether you’re a first-time visitor or considering a longer-term stay and want to see where the state’s biggest decisions get made.
3. Browse Freak Alley Gallery
A city without art is no city at all, and Boise’s contribution to the scene is one of the biggest in the Northwest.
Tucked into an unassuming alleyway downtown, Freak Alley Gallery is a huge outdoor mural gallery, with rotating designs that are regularly repainted by local and touring artists. It’s free to explore, and one of the best things to do in Boise for adults looking to catch the pulse of the city.
4. Wander the Basque Block
It may surprise you to learn that Boise has a robust Basque population. Strolling this city block, dedicated to Basque culture and cuisine, is one of the most unique things to do in downtown Boise.
Filled with shops, restaurants and murals, the Basque Block offers a free portal to this storied region of Europe. Interested visitors can check out the Basque Museum & Culture Center for a deeper dive into the culture. (The museum charges a small admission fee for adults.)
5. See raptors at the World Center for Birds of Prey
The prestigious Peregrine Fund’s World Center for Birds of Prey is one of the few places in the world to see a California condor up close, or about as close as it gets to seeing a real-life dinosaur.
The foundation has daily presentations featuring the endangered birds and has many other exhibits for bird lovers and beyond.
The museum does charge a modest admission fee for children and adults, but it’s one of the most unique things you can do in Boise.
6. Shop the Capital City Public Market
Every Saturday from April through December, Boise runs the Capital City Public Market at the Grove Plaza downtown.
Browsing the market is technically a free thing to do in Boise, but with the variety of food, crafts and other local goods featured there, we wouldn’t blame you for spending a little money.
It’s also a great place to find local produce, which can be used to whip up a fresh, budget-friendly meal in your hotel room.
7. Explore J.U.M.P.
A creative hub in downtown Boise, Jack’s Urban Meeting Place (J.U.M.P.) is a different experience every time you visit.
This free downtown public space is one of the best things to do in Boise on a rainy day or in between other downtown activities, offering:
- A treehouse
- Spaces for rotating art exhibits
- An amphitheater that houses public meetings and community events
- Studios where visitors can create their own art
8. Hike Camel's Back Park and Hulls Gulch Reserve
One of Boise’s best qualities is its proximity to amazing outdoor venues, and one of the most picturesque is Camel’s Back Park.
If you’re traveling with kids, you can stop by the well-cared-for playground and picnic area. If you’re looking to break a sweat, you can hike down the trails and take in the Boise Foothills.
Nearby Hulls Gulch Reserve has mountain biking paths, as well, and off-leash trails for visitors traveling with their dogs.
9. Catch sunset views from Table Rock
Take in a whole new view of Boise from the top of Table Rock, one of the most prominent natural features in the area.
The free hike takes about two hours to complete and starts just minutes from downtown. Hikers who make it to the top are rewarded with a gorgeous panoramic view of the city.
Sunset is a popular time to make the trek, and while anyone can enjoy the view, it makes for an especially romantic evening activity if you’re traveling with someone special.
10. Catch a movie at The Flicks
This beloved movie theatre, located in downtown Boise, has been around for decades and is a staple of the town.
Tickets are $10 or less each and the theatre plays a mix of hot new releases and independent, foreign and art films. The atmosphere is cozy and an on-site café offers a variety of full meals and drinks, making it a fun thing to do in Boise for adults who are looking for a great date night spot.
11. Bowl with the family at Big Al's
Boise may have its share of wonderful outdoor activities, but there are some fun things to do indoors, too.
Located in nearby Meridian, this vintage-themed bowling alley is the perfect place to spend a night out with the family.
In addition to bowling, there is also an arcade and bar food available to order, making it a fun thing to do in Boise for visitors of all ages.
12. Float the Boise River
This is one of the coolest things to do in Boise, literally.
Taking a relaxing float down the Boise River is a summertime tradition in the city. You can rent a tube at Barber Park ($19 for a three-hour rental) and float all the way down to Ann Morrison Park.
Return shuttles are available for $5, and there may also be a fee for parking at Barber Park. You can also park for free at Ann Morrison Park and take the shuttle back up to Barber.
13. Tour the Old Idaho Penitentiary
If you’re looking for one of the more offbeat things to do in Boise, you can check out an old penitentiary.
Operated from 1872 through 1973, the historical site saw its share of escapes and scandals in its day. Today, it houses 30 preserved buildings that visitors can explore. It’s one of just four territorial prisons open to the public.
There is a small entry fee for adults, seniors and children ages 6 and up. Children under 6 can visit for free.
14. Take in the greenery at the Idaho Botanical Garden
If you’re planning a longer stay in town and have some time to stop and smell the roses, the greenery at the Idaho Botanical Garden is a great place to spend an afternoon.
Set on the former penitentiary grounds, the garden includes seven different themed areas, including an English garden, native plant area and meditation garden. There are admission fees for adults, seniors, students and youth, but children under 3 get in free.
15. Meet the animals at Zoo Boise
Tucked into Julia Davis Park, this family-friendly zoo is one of the most fun things to do in Boise if you’re traveling with kids.
Along with hosting rotating community events, the zoo is home to animals from around the world and prides itself as a source of education and conservation for the animals.
Entrance is $15 for adults, $12 for kids and seniors and free for members and children under 3. The zoo also offers discounted tickets every Thursday in the fall and winter.
16. Relax at Kathryn Albertson Park
One of the best free things to do in Boise is to enjoy all the nature in and around the city. Kathryn Albertson Park is one of the best examples of green space in the area.
Boasting 41 acres of quiet, wildlife-friendly grounds, the park includes ponds, walking paths and plenty of access to birdwatching. It’s a great place to take in a slow afternoon or relax after a long cross-country move.
17. Swim and boat at Lucky Peak State Park
This park is one of the best places to visit in Boise when it’s warm out. It’s a local water sports wonderland, where visitors can enjoy kayaking, sailing and swimming. If you’re traveling with family, there’s a designated area for children to swim, too.
Idaho State Parks do have a day-use fee, and Lucky Peak charges $7 per vehicle to enter the park.
Start planning your stay in Boise
From outdoor recreation to historical sites to indoor fun, Boise certainly has plenty of affordable activities to enjoy for all kinds of travelers.
Extended Stay America makes it even easier to appreciate this hidden gem of a city. With convenient locations nearby, amenities like a full kitchen and the flexibility to extend your stay if needed, Extended Stay America provides everything you need to try all the best things to do in Boise, and then some.
Book your hotel in Boise today, and see for yourself what makes this city so great.
