Top Things to Do in Summer in Boise

Boise in the summertime is a treasure trove of activities to keep the whole family entertained. From outdoor endeavors such as floating the river or paddleboarding to events such as the Western Idaho Fair, there is no shortage of things to do. Check out our list of our favorite ways to spend the summer months in Boise, Idaho.   Float the Boise River: One of Boise’s signature attractions is the Boise River, a 102-mile-long tributary of the Snake River that is a beloved spot to float down, enjoy the scenery, and relax during the warmer months of the year. Floating season officially begins in June when water levels are lower after the Spring runoff. The put-in for the Boise River float starts at Barber Park, located in SE Boise off of Eckert Road (about 6 miles from downtown). For more information on floating the Boise River, check out this blog.   Paddleboard at Lucky Peak Discovery Park or Esther Simplot Park/Quinns Pond: Cool down on the hot summer days and enjoy the thrill of paddleboarding at Lucky Peak Discovery Park or Quinn's Pond. At Lucky Peak Discovery Park, take in the breathtaking mountain views in the calm, clear waters perfect for both beginners and experienced paddlers. For an adventure closer to downtown, head to Esther Simplot Park and Quinn's Pond, a popular spot that provides an excellent opportunity to cool off, get some exercise, and paddleboard with beautiful mountain views.   Boating at Arrowrock Reservoir: Located just 20 minutes from downtown Boise, Arrowrock Reservoir offers the perfect place to cool off amidst breathtaking natural beauty. With its vibrant blue waters surrounded by beautiful foothill landscapes, Arrowrock Reservoir is perfect for all types of boating, from relaxing cruises to water sports such as wake surfing and wakeboarding.    Swim at one of the local pools or splash pads: Photo credit to Daniel Olson.  As Boise summer temperatures rise, beat the heat in Boise by taking a refreshing dip at one of the local pools or splash pads. There are many public pools in Boise, from the iconic Natatorium Pool & Hydrotube, Ivywild Pool, Fairmont Pool, and more (check out the full list here). Or, check out a splash pad, an interactive water feature that kids will love. Splash pads are located at Molenaar Park, Borah Park, Comba Park, and more (full list here). With these great spots, Boise offers plenty of ways to stay cool and have fun in the sun!     Grab an Ice Cream Potato at Westside Drive In: Photo credit to West Side Drive In.  Nothing tastes better in the warm summer months than some freezing cold ice cream. The Westside Drive-in is a classic Boise staple that might be best known for its famous Idaho Ice Cream Potato, which is vanilla ice cream coated with cocoa powder and other toppings that looks just like a baked potato! This must-try fun dessert celebrates Idaho’s potato-filled history, and this popular drive-in even had its 5 minutes of fame on the show Diners, Drive-ins, and Dives with Guy Feiri.     Cool off in the mountains: Photo credit to Bogus Basin. Escape the heat and head to Bogus Basin, just a short drive from the city. With its higher altitude, Bogus Basin offers a refreshing retreat with cooler temperatures (sometimes up to 20 degrees cooler than the valley!) and stunning alpine scenery. Bogus Basin is also fully operational in the summer, with activities including hiking, mountain biking, and scenic chairlift rides. They also offer an exhilarating mountain coaster for those seeking a thrill.      Visit the Idaho Botanical Gardens: Photo credit to the Idaho Botanical Garden. Summer in Boise means the Idaho Botanical Gardens are in full bloom. This lush, 50-acre garden offers a stunning array of themed gardens, vibrant plant collections, and scenic walking paths. The Idaho Botanical Garden also hosts a variety of events, workshops, and concerts, so make sure to check their calendar before you go. They are open from 9 am to 5 pm, with admission starting at $14 for nonmembers and discounts offered for children, seniors, and students.     Visit Green Acres Food Park: Photo credit to Green Acres. Tucked away on the Boise Greenbelt right by Payette Brewing Co., Green Acres offers local food trucks, drinks, and live music in a relaxed park setting. It is family-friendly and dog-friendly with plenty of yard games to keep everyone entertained. They are typically open from 11 am to 8 pm, but check the daily schedule before you go for more details!     Enjoy an outdoor concert: Boise has no shortage of outdoor concerts in the summertime. The Neighborhood concert series offers free pop-up concerts in parks around Boise with food trucks, vendors, and beer from Lost Grove Brewing. The summer schedule includes 6 concerts and can be found here. Another great spot is Outlaw Field, a wide-open grassy, park-like setting with a backdrop of the foothills located by the Old Idaho Penitentiary and the Idaho Botanical Gardens. For more information on outdoor concerts this summer, check out this blog.   Go to the Western Idaho Fair: Photo credit to Expo Idaho. Held annually in August, the Western Idaho Fair offers a fun-filled mix of thrilling rides, live entertainment, and delicious fair food. With plenty of agricultural exhibits, lively concerts, and exciting rides, the fair is sure to have something for everyone. This summer it will take place from August 16th through 25th, and more information can be found here.    

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4 Events in Boise & Beyond - May 24th - 27th

Photo Credit: pexels-skyler-ewing 4 Events in Boise & Beyond 1. Brew School Where: Dawson Taylor Coffee When: Saturday, May 25th Time: 10:00 - 11:00 AM EVENT DETAILS HERE   2. Boise Hawks vs. Grand Junction Jackalopes Where: Memorial Stadium When: Sunday, May 26th Time: 12:00 - 3:00 PM EVENT DETAILS HERE   3. Paint & Ride Where: 4807 W Little Feather Lane When: Saturday, May 25th Time: 2:30 - 4:30 PM EVENT DETAILS HERE   4. Bird Walk: Boise River Greenbelt Where: 3451 E Barber Valley Drive When: Saturday, May 25th Time: 8:00 - 11:00 AM EVENT DETAILS HERE    

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Why Boise is a Recreational Haven

Photo credit to Lysi Bishop Real Estate Boise is rapidly gaining a reputation as a recreational haven, and for good reason. Not only are the surroundings of the city diverse and full of natural beauty, but these recreation spots are mere minutes from downtown Boise, adding a huge convenience and ease of use. From the rugged beauty and stunning skylines of the foothills trails to the meandering waters of the Boise River, Boise has something for every nature enthusiast and fun-lover. Check out these beloved recreation spots and discover why Boise provides an unparalleled experience for outdoor recreationists.    Foothills Trails: Photo credit to Lysi Bishop Real Estate Boise's natural beauty shines through in the Ridge-to-Rivers foothills trails system, a sprawling network of trails that wind through the hills surrounding Boise. Whether you're an avid hiker, runner, mountain biker, casual walker, or even equestrian, the foothills trails offer an escape into nature just minutes from neighborhoods and downtown. These trails vary in difficulty, from exhilarating downhill bike trails and steep climbs to slow, rolling hills. Trails feature breathtaking views of the city skyline and surrounding mountains, making each day on the trails a beautiful and exciting part of Boise’s recreation scene.   The Boise River: Photo credit to Lysi Bishop Real Estate Flowing through the heart of the city, the Boise River is a cherished escape to nature for locals and visitors alike. Known for its meandering and gentle currents, the Boise River offers a variety of water-based recreational activities. During the summer, the river comes alive with rafters, tubers, and paddleboarders. Flyfishers wade in and hope to catch the elusive Rainbow or Cutthroat Trout. The Boise River Greenbelt, a paved pathway that hugs the water's edge on both the north and south sides, provides the perfect path for a relaxing stroll or bike ride by the water. With easy access just minutes from downtown, the Boise River is a beloved recreation spot by Boiseans.    Lucky Peak Reservoir: Photo credit to Lysi Bishop Real Estate A short drive from Boise and just minutes from Bown Crossing, Lucky Peak Reservoir is the water enthusiast's dream with crystal-clear waters and stunning surroundings. Boating, fishing, and picnicking opportunities are plentiful on this large reservoir that is surrounded by expansive foothills. Whether you're bringing the whole family out on a boat or enjoying a sunset swim from the docks, Lucky Peak Reservoir is a peaceful escape from the city.    Bogus Basin Ski Area: Photo credit to Lysi Bishop Real Estate In the winter season, Bogus Basin Ski Area transforms into a snowy wonderland, attracting skiers, snowboarders, and tubers. Just 16 miles from Boise, this ski resort is only a 30 to 45-minute drive from downtown. Bogus Basin offers a variety of runs to cater to all skill levels, with 1,800 feet of vertical feet and 2,600 acres of terriorty plus a terrain park. The crisp mountain air and stunning panoramic views perfectly complement the exhilarating ski runs, making Bogus Basin a premier winter destination. The fun doesn’t stop come spring - Bogus also has an extensive trail system with lifts running for downhill biking and hiking in the summer. A ropes course and mountain coaster are also available for thrill seekers!    Whitewater Park: Photo credit to Lysi Bishop Real Estate Located in Garden City by Quinn’s Pond, the Boise Whitewater Park is a river surfing and kayak wave that is open year-round. Positioned on the Boise River, this park contains an expertly designed wave that alternates days for kayaking and surfing. Whether you're a seasoned river surfer, a beginner looking for a thrilling experience, or just want to watch the fun from the banks, the Boise Whitewater Park offers a unique adventure right in the heart of Boise.

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