Idaho’s capital is a small city with a big heart and a hometown feeling. Nestled along the river where the desert softly meets the Rocky Mountains, Summer is full of outdoor activities!
GREENBELT/BOISE RIVER
The Boise River Greenbelt stretches 25 miles along the Boise River providing a place for fishing, biking, rollerblading, jogging or a leisurely stroll. Bicycles are available for rent at a variety of bike shops.
WHITEWATER RAFTING
Whitewater raft along the Payette River. You’re invited to experience Idaho whitewater rafting at its best. Whether you want a wild ride on the Payette River or a cool fl oat on the Boise River, rafting is the perfect western adventure.
PUBLIC GOLF COURSES
The Boise area has over 22 public golf courses that are located in the lush foothills of the Boise Valley or along the banks of the Boise River.
WORLD CENTER FOR BIRDS OF PREY
Visitors can enjoy live bird presentations and guided tours – getting nose to beak! Explore the world of raptors through interactive displays and multi-media shows. There is something fun for all ages!
FLY FISHING THE BOISE RIVER
Trout, rainbow, steelhead and whitefish are plentiful and waiting to be caught. Idaho is famous for its fishing.
SOUTHWEST WINE REGION
The history of Idaho wines dates back to 1864 when the first grapes were planted. A perfect combination of soil, climate and wa-ter, Idaho is home to more than 50 wineries to explore.
BASQUE MUSEUM & CULTURAL CENTER
Only one block from the convention center, this unique attraction provides a look into the heritage of the Basque communities of Idaho. Tour the Cyrus Jacobs-Uberuaga Boarding House, one of the few remaining in the west.
WAHOOZ FAMILY FUN ZONE / PINZ BOWLING / ROARING SPRINGS
A year-round destination for family fun! Featuring go-karts, miniature golf, Pinz Bowling, laser tag, bumper boats, arcade games, water slides and more!
SATURDAY FARMERS MARKETS
A favorite among locals and visitors, Boise’s markets are a gathering place where local farmers, producers and artisans sell their products to the community. Enjoy a diverse selection at both locations: www.theboisefarmersmarket.com and www.capitalcitypublicmarket.com.
BOISE TOWNE SQUARE MALL & DOWNTOWN BOUTIQUE SHOPPING
Stores in the mall include: Macy’s, Apple, Dillards, Pottery Barn, Williams Sonoma, Forever 21, Express and more! For more information, click here: www.boisetownesquare.com. Shop downtown and enjoy unique shops, restaurants and galleries: www.downtownboise.org.
IDAHO SHAKESPEARE FESTIVAL
Dine under the stars at the Idaho Shakespeare Festival. Savor a gourmet picnic along the banks of the Boise River while watching the bard. Summer performances are held in an outdoor, 700+ capacity amphitheater located along the Boise River, which off ers a host of patron amenities including riverside dining, habitat viewing and state-of-the-art theater facilities for nearly 105,000 patrons who attend each season.
TRAIL RIDES/BACKPACKING
Idaho’s outfitters and guides offer trail rides and backpacking trips into just about every corner of the state. Often combined with fishing, river running or hunting – whatever activity you choose, you will have the opportunity to explore spectacular scenery.
ZOO BOISE
Zoo Boise delivers on its mission to connect visitors with animals that inspire and to involve the community in conservation of wildlife worldwide. Activities designed for all ages. For a complete list of events, educational opportunities and special attractions visit www.zooboise.org.
RIDGE TO RIVERS
With over 180 miles of trails to explore, the Ridge to Rivers trail system has something for every outdoor enthusiast. This unique trail system is an interconnected network of roads and trails through the foothills of Boise that link neighborhoods to public lands enabling people to connect to the natural environment. View the extensive trail maps at www.ridgetorivers.org.
ALIVE AFTER 5
The annual Alive After Five Summer Concert Series is a Boise favorite. The concert series runs June through August, every Wednesday and is held in the Grove Plaza in downtown Boise. The event starts at 5pm, lasts until 8pm and is free to attend.
BOISE WHITEWATER PARK
Conveniently located close to downtown, the Boise Whitewater Park is a haven for kayaking, rafting, river surfing, fishing and paddleboarding. Head over to Quinn’s Pond for a swim or rent some gear from Idaho River Sports!
OLD IDAHO PENITENTIARY
Only five minutes from downtown Boise and adjacent to the Idaho Botanical Gardens. Visitors can experience over 100 years of Idaho’s unique prison history.
BOGUS BASIN MOUNTAIN RECREATION AREA
Created by the Boise community in 1942 and located just 16 miles from Boise, Bogus Basin isn’t just for winter fun. There are an abundance of trails tailored for the beginner mountain biker to the expert rider utilizing the Ridge to Rivers Trail System. Start your riding adventure with a quick bike shuttle via the chairlift taking you up to Pioneer Lodge. Open dates vary based on snowmelt, for more information and prices visit www.bogusbasin.org.