Top 10 Things To Do in Boise (and Beyond) in Winter

Boise and the immediate surrounding areas are known for its easy access to all things outdoors and long summers, but the colder months offer plenty of fun activities for the whole family to enjoy. With mild winters (an average of 18" of snow per year and high temperatures in the low 40's), Boise is the perfect winter wonderland for a staycation or seasonal destination. Thinking about moving to Idaho? Check out our relocation page! 1. Hit the Slopes at Bogus Basin Photo courtesy of Bogus Basin Mountain Recreation Area Located a short 45-minute drive from Boise, local resort Bogus Basin Mountain Recreation Area has over 2,600 acres of powdery goodness to play in all winter long. Aside from dozens of groomed ski runs and backcountry terrain, the area offers a winter tubing hill, snowshoe/Nordic skiing trails, a mountain coaster, and cozy lodges to rest in. More info 2. Wander the Winter Garden Aglow Photo courtesy of Tony Moody The Idaho Botanical Garden in Boise transforms into a magical world of color and light during Winter Garden Aglow. More than 500,000 lights are strung throughout the garden, creating a captivating and Instagram-worthy photo opportunity! Bundle up the family and enjoy strolling through the garden with complimentary hot cocoa and cookies. Open nightly from November 25th-December 31st. Other light displays to consider: Scentsy campus in Meridian and Indian Creek Plaza in Caldwell. Order tickets 3. Go to a Steelheads Hockey Game Photo Courtesy of Boisy.org Perfect for an indoor activity, minor league 'Steelies' hockey games are great for date nights or the entire family. Traditions include 'Chuck the Puck,' meeting Blue the mascot, and the First Goal Fish Toss. Located in the Grove Hotel at the Idaho Central Arena in the heart of downtown Boise. Season runs from October-March. View schedule 4. McCall Winter Carnival Photo courtesy of Local Guides Connect A beloved event dating back to 1961, the McCall Winter Carnival is a must-do on anyone's winter Idaho list. The charming mountain resort town of McCall rests on the shores of Payette Lake and hosts this spectacular winter carnival featuring creative snow sculptures, dog sledding races, fireworks over the lake, and more! Located a 2.5 hour drive from Boise, this is the perfect day trip or overnight stay if you include a few ski runs at Brundage Mountain. Starting January 28, 2022 and lasting until February 6, 2022. Learn more 5. Visit a Greenhouse Photo courtesy of Edwards Greenhouse There's no better way to beat the winter blues than with a little hint of spring. Edwards Greenhouse, located on Sand Creek Street off of Hill Road in Boise, is a great option to stay out of the cold and take in the greenery and warmth. They host a variety of events, including wreath making, to keep your green thumb green over the winter. Keep an eye out for their events calendar or Facebook page for specific dates. Calendar of Events 6. Winter Wonderland at Indian Creek Plaza Photo courtesy of visitidaho.org A hidden gem for family-friendly fun lies in the heart of downtown Caldwell. Located about 40 minutes west of Boise, this charming small town hosts their Winter Wonderland, decorating their downtown with over ONE MILLION lights. Enjoy outdoor ice skating, dining, horse-drawn carriage rides, and an amazing light display at Indian Creek Plaza. The lights are currently on display and will be on until January 9th, 2022. Learn more 7. Watch The Nutcracker at the Morrison Center Photo Courtesy of The Morrison Center A holiday tradition, The Nutcracker takes the stage after Thanksgiving to early December at the Velma V. Morrison Center on campus at Boise State University. The joy of the season is captured with beautiful ballet and live music from the Boise Philharmonic. A true Boise classic! Get tickets 8. Shop 'Til You Drop at The Village in Meridian Photo Courtesy of Doug Petersen Photography The Village in Meridian opened after much anticipation in 2013. Since then, it has been a source of family-friendly fun and incredible shopping. This beautifully designed outdoor mall hosts dozens of shops, restaurants, a gym, a luxury movie theater, and a gorgeous plaza centered around a water fountain. In the winter, strung lights and festive cheer fill the air. The plaza becomes an ice rink, and photos with Santa are a fan favorite! See Shops 9. Head to the Forests to Cut Your Own Christmas Tree Photo courtesy of Victoria Greenery Photography Nothing says Christmas in Idaho like a fresh-cut Christmas tree. With thousands of acres of forest land surrounding the Treasure Valley, there are many areas to venture out to. For a great day trip, pack lunches and a few thermoses of warm beverages to make this an unforgettable family experience. AWD or 4x4 vehicles are recommended due to snowy conditions. Permits are required and cost $10 per tree. They can be ordered online, or picked up at any forest service office. More Info 10. Tour Holiday Light Displays in Our Neighborhoods                   A wonderful 'indoor' activity that gets you out of the house is getting in the car and touring to neighborhoods throughout the Treasure Valley to view light displays. Some folks take decorating to the next level, setting up complex light displays coordinated to music that is played over the radio. View Map

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