Things to do in Downtown Boise

Mark your calendar for March 26–30 this year and prepare to immerse yourself in Boise’s arts and music scene at the Treefort Festival. Spanning venues like Treefort Music Hall and more, this event offers something for everyone—whether you’re discovering up-and-coming artists or indulging in delicious food truck fare.

Idaho Central Arena is a multi-purpose arena in the western United States, located in Boise, Idaho. Its seating capacity is 5,002 for ice hockey, 5,300 for basketball, 5,732 for end-stage concerts, 6,400 for boxing, and up to 6,800 for center-stage concerts.

Upscale, contemporary hotel restaurant preparing modern American cuisine with local ingredients.

Boise Centre is the epitome of convention centers that takes place in Boise; a substantial venue that is located adjacent to The Grove Hotel. Adding new renovations to their building, the convention center has implemented a profound amount of meeting rooms along with the expansion of their square footage. Restaurants, entertainment, outdoor activities, and hotels surround the extraordinary structure. 

Bogus Basin is the closest mountain for anyone in the Boise area. Enjoy Nordic and downhill skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, snowtubing and amazing views of the Treasure Valley as you tackle the terrain.

Located just 16 miles from downtown Boise, in the summer, Bogus Basin offers lift-served mountain biking and hiking, summer tubing, a climbing wall and other activities. The mountain coaster is open year-round.

Bernardine Quinn Riverside Park is a 31-acre park and home to the popular 22-acre Quinn's Pond. Swimming, paddleboarding, kayaking and fishing are popular activities at the park. Amenities include fishing docks, walking paths, a pollinator garden, improved pond access and a shelter with seating.
 

In the heart of downtown, walk through the famous Freak Alley to observe the tremendous work of art demonstrated. Freak Alley has been present since 2002 and is one of the many things to feel a part of in the heart of our city. An intriguing gallery of uniqueness that presents a fun, vibrant feel to the warming atmosphere of Boise. Blend in with the culture of our Northwest art gallery.

Take a tour at the Boise Train Depot and explore the history of it all. The depot overlooks the amazing landscape of downtown Boise; a perfect spot to observe a sunset or sunrise as well. A place to learn more of what our Boise history has to present.

Adventure out into the foothills of Boise and be a part of the scenery that contributes to the beauty of our city. Multiple trails in the terrain as activities can include running, mountain biking, or walking. The trail system is a great way to enjoy the nature we have to offer.

During the fall time, visit Boise to check out a Boise State football game! The Albertsons Stadium upholds a capacity of 38,000 screaming fans that cheer on for our Broncos. With the college-day game feel, includes our very own blue turf. Known as the "Smurf Turf", it is an unique turf field that draws in fans from all over the country.

The beautiful, monumental Idaho State Capitol building serves as a historic standpoint in the capitol city of Boise. Ancient rich history of Idaho is surrounded inside the building along with magnificant pieces of artwork that glorify and portray the past years of our state. Schedule a tour to explore the capitol building and learn about different variances of what Idaho history has offered to our state.

Head to the tranquil center of Julia Davis Park for an up-close and personal look at over 200 animals from around the world. Zoo Boise is home to rare and endangered species not to be found in any other Idaho zoo, ranging from pandas to penguins, and features special exhibits such as “Butterflies in Bloom” and “Giraffe Encounters."

The Treasure Valley is home to a deeply proud, close-knit Basque community of nearly 16,000 first- and second-generation immigrants. Known as “The Basque Block,” the area between 6th and Capitol Boulevard on Grove Street features lively museums, shops, restaurants, and events celebrating the heritage of this autonomous region of Spain.

In addition to permanent collections and weekly community events, Boise Art Museum hosts 20 special exhibitions per year. “BAM” has hosted classical and contemporary collections from artists of various nationalities and specialties, continuously offering an educational visual experience for Boise citizens and visitors alike.

Expanding over 25 miles, this scenic pedestrian and bicycle path winds its way along the Boise River and the many coffee shops and outdoor cafés of Boise, Garden City, and Eagle. In addition to the wildlife and endless greenery, it also offers easy access to historical monuments such as the Black History Museum, the Idaho Anne Frank Human Rights Memorial, Julia Davis Park/Zoo Boise, Lucky Peak, the Western Idaho Fairgrounds, and the Boise State University campus.

Immerse yourself in the legends and lore of Idaho, from the prehistoric era through the fur- trading days, the gold rush, and pioneer settlements. Established in 1907, Idaho's largest and most popular museum offers a fascinating look at Idaho’s history and people.

Ever wonder how hot air balloons fly or what makes a musical instrument sound the way it does? Let your imagination run wild at this interactive science center, where the exhibits and activities are so fascinating your kids will never know they’re actually learning something.

Known for its historic architecture, beautifully restored homes, wonderful antique shops, and inimitable restaurants, The North End is teeming with local charm and character. It also happens to be the natural hub for Boise’s die-hard cycling, hiking, and mountain-biking enthusiasts.

Located on what was once the Idaho State Penitentiary’s nursery, the Botanical Garden takes you from felons to flowers with the beautiful Heirloom Rose Garden, flavorful Herb Garden and Children’s Adventure Garden, to name just a few. This is also the site of Boise’s best concerts, festival and outdoor events. At the penitentiary museum, visitors can sit in old prison cells, find out what solitary confinement feels like and get a behind-the-scenes look at daily life in the Idaho pokey.

If you haven’t taken the lazy five-mile float down the Boise River, you can’t claim to have experienced Boise. Whether you choose a tube, raft, or stand-up paddle board to float the course, there’s no better way to spend three hours on a beautiful Pacific Northwest day.

Enjoy an action packed night with family and friends at an Idaho Steelheads hockey game. Our Idaho Steelheads hockey team is part of the ECHL. Come watch the team battle it out on the ice at the Idaho Central Arena; adjacent to The Grove Hotel.

Creative, farm-to-table American dishes & craft cocktails served in a vibrant, brick-&-wood space.

Reservations required.