Location: Boise
Top Things to do in Boise
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What to do and see in Boise, Idaho (ID): The Best Free Things to do
Nature is a big part of Boise, Idaho. The snow-capped Rocky Mountains serve as a backdrop, the Boise River and its riverfront paths wind through the city and skiing is a short drive away. Boise's varied museums include the Idaho History Museum, the Boise Art Museum, the Basque Museum and Cultural Center and the interactive Discovery Museum of Idaho. Unique attractions include Old Idaho Penitentiary and historic Pioneer Village. Old Boise offers shopping, dining, culture and nightlife.
Restaurants in Boise
1. Boise River Greenbelt
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 1,436 reviews
Flows through Boise and provides more than 25 miles of scenic paths for biking, hiking and jogging.
Reviewed By marmot3 - Boise, United States
The beautiful Boise River flows through the heart of the city. Flanking the river on one side or the other or sometimes both, is the gently winding Boise River Greenbelt, a paved path that runs for 25 miles, from Lucky Peak Dam upriver to the town of Eagle downriver. Along the way, there are many entrances and exits, so you can make your Greenbelt experience as long or short as you wish. Previously, it was totally non-motorized, though recently e-bikes became admissible--with a speed limit. When my family gathered for a reunion in Boise in June, we loved our "bike hike" on the Greenbelt. Some people had brought their own bikes; others rented from bike shops downtown. One family rented a bike trailer/carrier for their little kids. Off we all went, our ride taking us through four leafy city parks, past the zoo, the Anne Frank Memorial, the Fallen Firefighters Memorial, Quinn's Pond and the Whitewater Park and beyond. On the return we stopped off for play time in one of Ann Morrison Park's playgrounds. Many cities are built on rivers, and many cities capitalize on these fortunate features. But I know of no other city that has been as successful as Boise in incorporating their river into the life of the city while preserving its natural beauty. Boise River Greenbelt is an extraordinary gift for the people of Boise and the Treasure Valley, as well as visitors. Just a word of caution: The Greenbelt is extremely popular for recreation, exercise, bike commuting, fun runs, photo shoots, etc. It's busy! The posted "rules" for use state that pedestrians always have the right of way, but many people are oblivious or careless. The yellow stripe down the middle of the path is there for a reason. Treat the path as a highway and stay on the right unless passing. Watch for children or the ubiquitous geese and squirrels straying into your path. Be reasonably careful, share the path, and enjoy this Boise treasure!
2. St. John's Cathedral
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 67 reviews
Reviewed By TravellingMan333 - Greenwich, United States
We went to Sunday mass as tourists. We were amazed at the church and friendliness of the parishioners. The service was beautiful. I was happy to put money in the collection basket.
3. Ridge to River Trail System
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 137 reviews
Reviewed By lonik2016 - Sandpoint, United States
The trails were great and you could see so much beautiful scenery. We only hiked a short trail, but look forward to going back.
4. Esther Simplot Park
5. Snake River Birds of Prey National Conservation Area
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 50 reviews
Habitat for many species, including the golden eagle and the peregrine falcon.
Reviewed By 774sued
We went out to look for raptors and saw red tailed hawks.swainsons hawk and many ravens and kestrals. It is a ways out but worth the drive just to see the canyon carved by the river and time. Old dam has a museum but we had our dog so didn't go in
6. Municipal Park
7. Julia Davis Park
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 246 reviews
Reviewed By J1872HGchrisg - Boise, United States
Julia Davis Park is home to several special features: Zoo Boise, the Boise Art Museum, the Gene Harris Band Shell, and the Anne Frank Memorial. But my favorite feature is the Rose Garden! A slow walk among the many different variety of rose bushes always soothes my soul. Don't forget your camera. The multitude of colors and different bloom varieties make for amazing shots for your social media pages.
8. Veterans Memorial Park
9. Morrison-Knudsen Nature Center
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 153 reviews
Reviewed By Crummy1 - Missoula, United States
This is one of Boise's hidden treasures. Great for people of all ages. It's very educational. The pond and stream features are my personal favorites. Great viewing opportunities for a variety of trout and a couple of giant sturgeon. Great place to get ideas for improving your yard or property to benefit wildlife. Nice indoor exhibits as well, including a little play area for young kids. The little ones loved this place! No charge for admission.
