Six Things to do in Boise Before the Cold Hits
1.Enjoy the Greenbelt
The Boise River Greenbelt is a 25 mile long chain of parks, hiking trails, and riverside. Beginning with the Lucky Peak Dam and stretching right through downtown Boise, the Greenbelt boasts fine fishing along the river, the 18-hole Warm Springs Golf Course, many fine nature trails, and a pickleball complex is in the works!
Other attractions include the Idaho Anne Frank Human Rights Memorial, the Zoo Boise (be sure to say hello to the capybaras!). Whether you enjoy biking, hiking, skating, or walking your dog, there are many paths to explore and enjoy.
2. Do a Little Shopping at the Capital City Public Market
Since 1995, every Saturday from 9:30am-1pm Boise brings you the joy of a farmer’s market all year round. You can enjoy an espresso infused root beer at the Bucksnort Soda Company stall, pick up fresh bread at one of the bakeries, or eat Thai-inspired hand-rolled ice cream at C4 Creamery.
There are glassblowers, a creperie, vegan ice cream, elk and buffalo meat, wines, pottery and ceramic art, art from recycled materials, artisanal dog treats, children’s clothes, and so much more!
Whatever your interest, Boise’s Capital City Public Market is sure to catch your fancy.
3. Climb Camel’s Back
Camel’s Back Park is 11 acres of hiking trails, beautiful scenery, a playground and a grassy park where the kids can get that energy out, as well as a tennis and a volleyball court, and an outdoor gym. The park gets its name from the ridge of hills that a pleasant hiking trail wanders through. Climb the incline of Sandy Hill to get an amazing view of the sunrise.
4. Grab a beer with a friend
Boise citizens love their craft brewed beers almost as much as they love to spend time relaxing with their friends after work. Payette Brewing Company is a popular location with the locals both for its smooth beers and for the pet friendly policy that allows you to relax on the shaded patio with your pooch. It boasts an outdoor firepit, and lawn games to play with your friends.
With food trucks and live music many nights, not to mention their excellently crafted beers, Powderhaus is a well-known brewery. Another fun place to visit is the Meriwether Cider Company, with flavors like ERTH’s Elderflower Citrus Gingerbeer, huckleberry cider made with local fruit, or Once More Unto the Peach, a peach cider with small bubbles similar to champagne, created for the Idaho Shakespeare Festival, you’re sure to find a new favorite.
5. Go see some awesome birds at the World Center for Birds of Prey
Open from Friday through Sunday for the fantastic flight shows, here you can learn about ospreys and secretary birds, kestrels and condors, harpy eagles, gyrfalcons, merlins, and more! The center is free to children under age 4.
6. Admire Freak Alley Gallery
Open the first Thursday of each month, Freak Alley Gallery is both an indoor and outdoor gallery showcasing graffiti and murals. This beautiful display of creativity and colors is a must-see for any art enthusiast visiting Boise.
