Boise, the capital of Idaho, is often called a hidden gem due to its pretty parks, interesting museums, and impressive historic attractions. Despite being a big city, it retains a charming small-town atmosphere with family-owned shops and restaurants in the downtown area.
The city is located by the Boise River, surrounded by the beautiful foothills of the Rockies. The Greenbelt, a scenic pathway connecting many parks and green spaces, provides great opportunities for outdoor activities. Besides, Boise offers splendid hiking, skiing, and mountain biking options in the nearby mountains and forests.
And if you’re not into nature, the city has a vibrant arts, dining, and nightlife scene to explore. You can also enjoy lively markets, animal exhibits, and thrilling sporting events. In short, there’s something for everyone in the family to enjoy in Boise.
17. Bogus Basin Mountain Recreation Area
If you’re looking for powdery snow and exciting slopes, Bogus Basin Mountain Recreation Area is the perfect destination. Located just north of town, surrounded by the beautiful Boise National Forest, this ski resort offers a wide range of outdoor activities all year round.
It only takes forty minutes to drive there, and once you arrive, you can showcase your skills in the terrain parks or race down the resort’s numerous trails. The ski resort has a vertical drop of 1,790 feet and is equipped with several chairlifts, including Shafer Butte, the highest peak.
Visitors can also enjoy snowboarding or tubing while taking in the breathtaking views of the mountains. In the summer, the area transforms into a hiker’s paradise, with visitors exploring the lush forest on foot, bike, or horseback.
Additionally, there are fantastic features like a climbing wall, alpine coaster, and disc golf course spread throughout the mountainside.
16. Ridge to Rivers Rail System
If you want to see more of the city and its surroundings, a great way to do so is by exploring the Ridge to Rivers Rail System. The trails in this system are well-maintained and have signs, making it easy to navigate. There are over 190 miles of paths and roads that will take you through the beautiful and untouched wild spaces of Idaho.
Nature lovers will especially appreciate the trails as they wind through the picturesque Boise Foothills, forests, and rugged ravines. Hiking, biking, or horseback riding on these trails will allow you to enjoy the breathtaking scenery. You can also experience some amazing views on popular trails like Camel’s Back, Table Rock, and Schafer Butte.
15. Camel’s Back Park
Camel’s Back Park is a beautiful green space located in the foothills. It has playgrounds, picnic areas, and playing fields, and offers stunning views of downtown. The park is named after its distinctive hump shape and provides many amenities for both locals and tourists.
There are tennis and volleyball courts, practice fields, and an outdoor gym with trails that wind through the hills. Although the trails are steep, the effort is worthwhile for the breathtaking views at the top.
Visitors can also easily explore the nearby foothills, as Hulls Gulch and the pristine reserve with the same name are located alongside the popular park.
14. Idaho Anne Frank Human Rights Memorial
The peaceful Idaho Anne Frank Human Rights Memorial is located next to the Boise River Greenbelt. It is a tribute to Anne Frank’s belief in humanity and includes over sixty quotes from famous leaders and human rights figures. The main attraction of the memorial is a beautiful statue of Anne Frank looking out from her family’s hiding place.
The statue is surrounded by reflective pools, sparkling waterfalls, and native plants, creating a harmonious atmosphere. Visitors can sit and reflect while reading touching passages and tributes by activists, poets, and politicians such as Albert Einstein, Eleanor Roosevelt, and Martin Luther King Jr.
This memorial is the only one in the United States dedicated to Anne Frank and provides a calm and quiet space.
13. Freak Alley Gallery
Freak Alley Gallery is a unique and ever-changing place with a collection of colorful murals. The murals are painted over and replaced every couple of years, which keeps the experience fresh. The art installations are visually striking and make for great photos and viewing.
It all started as simple graffiti in 2002, but has grown into a massive gallery with contributions from multiple artists. The murals vary in size, with some being small and showing surreal scenes or realistic figures, while others are huge, stretching multiple stories high. This mix of street art gives the alley its appeal.
Over the years, more than 200 artists have contributed their creative artworks to the gallery. The gallery is maintained by volunteers and art enthusiasts, and it has received several awards.
12. Idaho Botanical Garden
Located beside the Old State Penitentiary is the Idaho Botanical Garden, which is a beautiful nature spot in the city. It used to be the farm, yard, and nursery of the penitentiary before being transformed into a garden in 1984.
The garden has well-maintained lawns, landscaped grounds, colorful flower beds, shady avenues, and untouched wild spaces. There are over a dozen specialty sections to explore, including a rose, meditation, and herb garden. In addition to the variety of native and exotic flowers, plants, and trees, there are also water features and ponds to enjoy.
The garden hosts concerts, workshops, and tours regularly, and it is also a popular venue for weddings and special events.
11. Capital City Public Market
The Capital City Public Market is a vibrant and colorful market located in the historic heart of town. It is held every Saturday from April to December and offers a variety of stands and stalls. Here, you can find an abundance of fresh fruits, vegetables, baked goods, and unique artisanal products.
Over the years, the market has grown from a small number of stalls in the early nineties to a massive open-air market that now covers four city blocks. With more than 150 vendors to choose from, you can easily spend time exploring all the different offerings.
Not only do farmers sell their produce, but local artists and specialty food sellers also establish their presence. The market has a lively and relaxed atmosphere, with street musicians enhancing the overall ambiance. Additionally, you can find scattered coffee stands and food stalls throughout the market.
10. Idaho State Capitol Building
The Idaho State Capitol is an important symbol and landmark in the city. It is located in the centre of town and is hard to miss. The building is surrounded by beautiful gardens and has a stunning Neoclassical design. You can take tours inside and see the grand interior of the Capitol.
It was built between 1905 and 1912 and has a large dome and many pillars on the outside. The Capitol is made mostly of marble and was inspired by famous buildings like St. Peter’s Basilica and the US Capitol. Inside, there are many chambers, halls, and a lovely rotunda to explore.
You can see artifacts, portraits, and artwork that decorate the rooms. Outside, there are historic trees and statues. On the tours, you will also learn about the interesting history of the Capitol and the presidents who planted trees on the property.
9. Zoo Boise
If you want to see amazing animals, Zoo Boise is the perfect place to visit, especially for families. It has a wide variety of animals, including red pandas, penguins, lions, snow leopards, and giraffes. The zoo was established in 1916 and is located in Julia Davis Park, which covers a large area.
You can find over 300 animals, birds, and reptiles from around a hundred different species. It’s a great experience to explore the zoo because you can see fascinating creatures of all sizes roaming freely.
Besides the main attractions, such as a butterfly house and a petting zoo for kids, you can also enjoy relaxing boat rides or arrange special encounters with sloths and giraffes.
8. World Center For Birds of Prey
Boise has an interesting place called the World Center for Birds of Prey. It is located on a hill just south of town. The center takes care of sick, injured, and orphaned birds, such as falcons, eagles, hawks, owls, and vultures. They started the center in 1970 to teach people about these majestic birds and protect their natural homes.
Throughout the years, they have been successful in breeding rare and endangered birds. Their research is so good that other organizations have started their own programs. If you visit their modern facility, you can learn all about these incredible birds.
They also do live shows where you can see condors and other birds flying in the clear blue sky above the center.
7. Downtown Boise
Downtown Boise is the largest city center in the state, sprawling just north of the river. It’s not just a place for dining and nightlife; there are plenty of attractions and entertainment venues to explore.
The busy streets are lined with diverse local shops and restaurants, along with numerous bars and cafes scattered around. Despite the lively atmosphere, downtown also offers several parks and the Boise Green Riverbelt for a peaceful break from the hustle and bustle.
Key attractions include the impressive Idaho State Capitol Building and the quirky Freak Alley Gallery. Additionally, there are many live music venues, delicious steakhouses, and trendy whiskey bars worth checking out.
6. Albertsons Stadium
The Albertsons Stadium is located just south of the river on the Boise State University campus. It is famous for its blue playing surface and hosts the exciting home matches of the Boise State Broncos. The stadium was built in 1970 and has great views from all of its seats and suites.
The stands are huge and passionate football fans have witnessed many of Idaho’s most memorable sporting victories there. Game days are especially lively because of the university team’s ongoing success. In addition to enjoying the thrilling atmosphere and participating in tailgate parties, visitors can also explore the Hall of Fame.
The stadium is also used for basketball, gymnastics, and athletics competitions, and you can find food stands and concession stalls throughout the venue.
5. Kathryn Albertson Park
Located just a short drive southwest of the center, Kathryn Albertson Park is a beautiful place with breathtaking scenery. It was named after a well-known Boise native who generously donated the land. The park is home to a variety of wetlands and wildlife, providing a haven for many creatures.
Even though it is close to downtown, it feels like a peaceful retreat away from the busy city life in Boise. Many birdwatchers and wildlife enthusiasts are drawn to the park because of its tranquil ponds, woods, and meadows. Visitors have the opportunity to spot waterfowl, herons, owls, rabbits, beavers, salamanders, and turtles.
The park is also part of the Boise River Greenbelt and features lovely paths for leisurely strolls. Besides admiring the magnificent views and wildlife, visitors can take advantage of the gazebos, benches, and picnic areas available in the park.
4. Boise River Greenbelt
The Boise River Greenbelt is a long pathway that stretches for 25 miles through the center of the city. People can walk, jog, run, or ride their bikes on it, and it connects many parks and nature spots together. The idea for the greenbelt was first thought of in the sixties, and now it is one of the most popular and beautiful parts of the city.
The paved paths offer great views of the river and take you through different landscapes and neighborhoods, including downtown, the college campus, Julia Davis Park, and Ann Morrison Park. Both locals and tourists really like the Boise River Greenbelt because there are many nice, green areas to discover.
3. Julia Davis Park
Julia Davis Park is a popular place to visit because it has many attractions and outdoor activities. It is located near downtown Boise and is part of the Boise River Greenbelt. The park has playgrounds, playing fields, paths, and ponds.
It is not just a green space, but also has important sites like the Idaho Black History Museum, Science Discovery Centre, art museum, and zoo. Inside the park, you can also find the historic Gene Harris Bandshell, a rose garden, and several statues. In addition to all of these, the park has tennis courts, picnic areas, and paddle boats for people to enjoy.
2. Boise Train Depot
A surprising place to visit for beautiful views is the Boise Train Depot. It is located on a hill and offers a stunning sight of the city. The historic landmark was built in 1925 by the Union Pacific Railroad and has amazing Spanish Colonial architecture.
The highlight of the depot is its 96-foot tall belltower, but you can also explore its grand halls and lobbies. During tours, you can learn about its interesting history and see a Mikado-type steam locomotive called ‘Big Mike’.
In addition to enjoying the breathtaking views of the city and the capitol, visitors can also take a leisurely stroll in the award-winning Platt Gardens. From there, you can capture some beautiful photos of the large rolling hills in the foreground of Boise.
1. Old Idaho Penitentiary
One of Boise’s notable historical sites is the Old Idaho Penitentiary, located on the southeastern edge of the city. It is a popular tourist spot with over thirty cell blocks and dilapidated buildings to explore.
The prison was established in 1872 and served as a correctional facility for slightly over a century before being transformed into a museum. The prison is exceptionally well-preserved, showcasing various artifacts and exhibitions in its cell houses, chapel, control room, and wards.
Informative plaques provide details about the lives, crimes, and executions of some of the prominent former inmates. Many visitors to the penitentiary also participate in intriguing ghost tours or attempt to understand the experience of solitary confinement.
Subsequently, they often relax and unwind at the Idaho Botanical Garden, conveniently located at the same site.
