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 Largest park in Boise |
Americana Boulevard (south of Boise River; near Capitol and Americana boulevards) Boise, ID 83702 United States +1 208 384 4240 (Boise Parks Office) |
Geese and ducks boldly march past a cascading fountain, while children swing high into the air. Boise's largest park is a bucolic place to spend an afternoon. Stately homes look out from the Boise Ridge while the park unfolds like a green carpet. Named after Ann Daly, who is more famous under her married name of Morrison (as in Morrison-Knudson Company), this 153-acre park opened in 1959. Today, visitors can play tennis, softball, football and soccer or relax next to the Boise River for a picnic. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Jason Abbott and Jessica Wright  |
 Photo: Lewis |
 Photo: Ken Chua iPod Bunster |
 Photo: Steven Strack |
 Photo: Jeremy Pickett |
 Photo: Gizy |
 Photo: Bill Davis |
 Photo: Adam Wise |
 Once tallest dam in the world |
Idaho Highway 21 Boise, ID 83712 United States +1 208 373 4007 |
Soaring 350 feet, this dam once towered over all other dams in the world. Built in 1915, the dam was an integral part of the Boise Irrigation Project and one of several dams along the Boise River. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the dam and 18-mile-long reservoir also hosts campers, fishermen, swimmers and boating enthusiasts. Camping facilities are available at Cottonwood Creek, Irish Point and Willow Creek. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Amy Wang (huimei98) |
 Photo: Kristina Swallow |
 Photo: Jason Stamps |
 Photo: David Lawrence |
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 Night riders unite |
4632 Aeronca Street Boise, ID 83705 United States +1 208 426 8117 http://www.asu-nvg.com/ |
Want to make it big in the field of aviation? Well, Aviation Specialties Unlimited will help you spread your wings nice and wide. Come by to choose courses conducted by professional instructors, and avail of night vision facilities and flying sessions with and without simulators! Charter rental and leasing is available. So help yourself to a piece of the sky. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Wildlife viewing and river rafting |
Highway 21 (six miles east of Boise) Boise, ID 83712 United States +1 208 384 4240 (Boise Parks Office) |
Hugging the Boise River, this park invites visitors to take a dip in the river's blue waters. Most visitors accept the invitation, with about 250,000 people beginning Boise's summer river-rafting ritual at the park. But river-rafting is not the only attraction. Fox, muskrat and beaver make the park their home. Developed sections of the park provide wildlife-viewing opportunities and educational information. Picnic facilities are scattered throughout the park. If you don't feel like packing a lunch, a concession stand is also available. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: captaincucumber |
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Year-round mountain lodge |
2405 Bogus Basin Road Boise, ID 83702 United States +1 208 332 5390 http://www.bogusbasin.com |
This glass-fronted wood and concrete lodge overlooks the Boise Valley from its mountaintop location at the Bogus Basin. Offering a comfortable and cozy place for cross-country skiers to relax and sip warm beverages, the lodge also houses ski rentals and education programs. The lodge is surrounded by 32 kilometers of trails groomed for both classic and skate cross-country skiing. Plans include leaving the lodge open in the summer for mountain bikers, hikers and naturalists. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Watch me ski, ski, ski |
2600 Bogus Basin Road Boise, ID 83702 United States +1 208 332 5151 / +1 800 367 4397 http://www.bogusbasin.com |
Located 16 miles north of Boise, off a twisting mountain road, this folksy ski resort is Boise's winter getaway. Offering great skiing day or night, Bogus has 58 runs, six ski lifts and Bogus Basin Nordic Center. Amenities include ski school, rental and retail shop, restaurants, sleigh rides and the Pioneer Inn Condominiums. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Jim Moiani |
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 Photo: Laura Baran |
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 Photo: Joaquin Bravo Contreras |
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Step back in time |
1015 Robert St Boise, ID 83705 United States +1 208 887 7880 |
Bogus Creek Ranch, located in Meridian, offers a complete western experience for the entire family as well as out of town guests. Come for the Western Action Adventure Show in the summer or enjoy a Winter Sleigh Ride & Dinner at Bogus Basin in the winter. The Ranch is also perfect for corporate events, company picnics, weddings, receptions and fundraisers. There are events for all seasons, and problems about planning and pricing are easily resolved in order to give the customer a complete vacation package that fits any size group or budget. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Burgers, beverages and baseball |
5600 Glenwood Street Boise, ID 83714 United States +1 208 322 5000 http://www.boisehawks.com |
You can sip on a cold beverage, taste a burger off the grill and watch professional baseball. All at the same time? Absolutely! This Class A affiliate of the Chicago Cubs, play at 5,000-seat Hawks Memorial Stadium from mid-June to early September. The Hawks Nest, located down the left-field line, serves up smoked salmon and fine wine. Former Hawks include major-leaguers Garrett Anderson, Troy Percival and Todd Greene. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Greg Raburn |
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Million-acre playground |
1249 South Vinnell Way Boise, ID 83709 United States +1 208 373 4100 http://www.fs.fed.us/r4/boise/ |
Have you run out of things to do in Boise proper? Less than an hour's drive away is the nation's seventh largest forest, offering about 2.6 million acres of recreational opportunities. Towering ponderosa pine and Douglas fir dot the forest, located northeast of Boise. Home to Bogus Basin, the forest offers more than 70 campgrounds and picnic facilities. Fishermen haunt the streams and rivers looking for trout, while hunters concentrate on deer. Mountain bikers and hikers explore the many trail systems and river kayakers enjoy the white water. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Josh Laughtland |
 Photo: Josh Laughtland |
 Photo: TJ Turner |
 Photo: Bryan P. Whalen |
 Photo: pauljess999 |
 Photo: pepe_scott |
 Photo: Dena Abdallah |
 Photo: Michelle Swift |
 Photo: Andy Perkins |
 Photo: Ron Ellis |
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28-mile linear park |
700 South Capitol Blvd Boise, ID 83706 United States +1 208 384 4240 (Boise Parks Office) |
Stretching more than 20 miles from Eagle Island State Park eastward to Discovery State Park at the base of Lucky Peak Dam, this paved pathway offers inline skaters, joggers, walkers and cyclists a year-round paved pathway. The well-marked trail meanders through downtown Boise, Veterans Memorial Park, and Julia Davis Park following the serpentine Boise River. Trailside restaurants offer refreshments and people watching opportunities. Once you leave Boise's boundaries, the pathway provides views of rolling brown mountains and wildlife, such as herons and bald eagles. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Mark Mauno |
 Photo: James Festi |
 Photo: James Festi |
 Photo: Robert McDiarmid |
 Photo: Jeff Love |
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Guide with 33 years of experience |
111 Broadway Suite 133 Boise, ID 83702 United States +1 208 333 0003 http://www.boiserivertours.com |
Meandering through Boise, the Boise River seduces visitors with its mellow rhythms. This outfitter, with more than 33 years of experience at the Idaho Fish and Game Department, introduces the uninitiated to the river's seductive charm. A bright blue raft carries the boaters down the river from Barber Park to Ann Morrison Park or from Garden City to Eagle. Look for bald eagles along the river in the spring and the changing colors in the fall. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Frank Sharp |
 Photo: danibelle2906 |
 Photo: Alison Livingston |
 Photo: Jo Shively |
 Photo: steven Miller |
 Photo: paulspages |
 Photo: John Burnett |
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Neon-lit entertainment complex |
7701 West Overland Road (Overland Road and Interstate 84) Boise, ID 83709 United States +1 208 376 8521 |
Like a Las Vegas-style beacon in Idaho's sagebrush desert, this entertainment complex lights up the night sky. Neon, stretching seven miles, highlights this Boise anomaly. Its flagship business is the Edwards Boise Stadium 21 & IMAX. Ameritel Inn-Boise Spectrum sits on the property, as well as several chain restaurants like the Cracker Barrel, McGrath's Fish House and the popular Chuck-A-Rama. The complex attracts families from all over the valley. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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Best way to tour Boise |
815 Ann Morrison Drive Boise, ID 83707 United States +1 208 336 4038 http://www.boisetours.net/ |
A wonderful touring experience can be had "all aboard" Boise's Tour Train. The 1890s style puffer-belly open-air train is a classic. It is available for charter and customized tours with meals, as well as individual tour rides. Tours cost $9.00 for adults, $8.50 for seniors, and $6.00 children. Guests can get on and off at their leisure. Bus parking, souvenirs and snacks are available at the ticket booth. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Buddy Stone |
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Historic depot with valley views |
Vista Avenue (Corner of Vista Avenue and Capitol Boulevard) Boise, ID 83702 United States +1 208 384 4014 |
Looking out over downtown Boise and the Boise River, this glass-fronted train depot has welcomed visitors since 1925. Union Pacific stopped using the depot in 1971, resulting in a dilapidated building. Luckily, the Morrison-Kundsen Company financed a restoration, based on old photographs and plans. Today visitors can view the valley from the bell tower or wander through the manicured Platt Gardens that surround the building. The depot is also available for special events, such as weddings. Admission is free. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Michael |
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Informative downtown tour |
850 Front St (Boise Centre on the Grove) Boise, ID 83702 United States |
Old sandstone buildings, dating from the 1800s, line Boise's downtown area. The Belgravia Building, U.S. Assay Office, Idaho State Capitol Building and C.W. Moore Park highlight Boise's Wild West past. This tour operator leads visitors on a walking tour past these attractions and other highlights of downtown Boise. Covering many topics, including Boise's ethnic origins, the tours last about 90 minutes. The tours are only available in the summer. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Hands-on gallery |
598 West Main Street Boise, ID 83702 United States +1 208 342 3822 |
The brightly colored walls of this Old Boise gallery match the equally bright pottery scattered throughout the store. If the artist inside you is itching to get out, then check out this hands-on gallery. Customers can either order dinnerware to their specifications or make their own. The store provides all the materials, including pottery, paints, kiln and, of course, guidance. The gallery also provides party entertainment and offers a bridal registry. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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Science center for children |
131 Myrtle Street Boise, ID 83702 United States +1 208 343 9895 http://www.scidaho.org |
Have you ever wondered why you see colors in soap bubbles? Your answer waits at this educational center, a science museum that features interactive and hands-on displays. Visitors check out the House of Science to see how machines and devices work, and what scientific principles take effect. More than 40 different exhibits, in addition to traveling exhibits, are featured. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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Recreation for everyone |
1050 West State Street Boise, ID 83702 United States +1 208 344 5501 http://www.ymcaboise.org |
Brightly clad aerobic instructors lead students through their moves while, at the lap pool, swimmers slog through seemingly endless laps. Conveniently located in the downtown area, this Boise mainstay offers visitors athletic facilities at a reasonable price. Bursting with activities, the YMCA's schedule includes spinning classes, aerobics and a full swimming schedule. The locker rooms are modern and comfortable, offering such amenities as hand-held hair dryers. A second facility, West Family YMCA and Aquatic Center, is located on the West Boise Bench at 5959 North Discovery Place. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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Hot air balloon tours |
5610 Glenwood Street (Western Idaho Fairgrounds) Boise, ID 83714 United States +1 208 362 5914 |
Take in Boise's sights from high in the sky on a colorful hot air balloon. Launching from the Western Idaho Fairgrounds, this balloon company leads as many as four passengers on a one-hour tour over Boise. Drifting over the Boise River, passengers get a birds-eye view of the Boise Valley. A champagne buffet waits for the passengers once they are safely back on ground. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Baseball Boise style |
5600 Glenwood Street Boise, ID 83714 United States +1 208 322 5000 http://www.boisehawks.com |
The home to the Boise Hawks Baseball Club, this old-fashioned stadium serves as a multipurpose facility with seating for 5,000 baseball fans. The seating capacity can be increased for summer concerts and special events. Hungry fans munch on chips from the snack stand or check out the Hawk's Nest for more refined munchies. Regardless of the event you attend, you will always find a friendly and helpful staff. You need to call to find out the schedule of events. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Nearby trail offers bird watching |
Eighth Street Boise, ID 83702 United States |
So close to Boise yet feeling far away, this trail is popular with bird watchers and wildlife lovers. Located in the Ridge to Rivers Trail System, the trail is found about 10 miles north of downtown Boise on dirt Eighth Street Road. Hikers can choose from a two-mile loop or a seven-mile out-and-back trail. Rabbits, lizards, snakes, porcupines and badgers call this area home. Views of the Boise Valley are endless, and hikers can test their tree knowledge while identifying Rocky Mountain Maple, Hawthorne and Water Birch. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Rami Harasimowicz |
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Idaho's famous fly fishing |
1682 South Vista Ave Boise, ID 83705 United States +1 208 389 9957 / +1 800 787 9957 http://www.idahoangler.com |
The new brick building sits in a residential area, not particularly known for its bodies of water. Yet, this fly fishing shop offers one of the best fishing and guide services in Boise. Claiming the largest fishing tackle selection in Idaho, the store also offers fly-tying services, fishing trips and classes on almost every topic of fly fishing imaginable. Guided trips include day trips exploring local rivers and ponds or longer excursions to Idaho's famous Salmon River. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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Nation's Capitol look-alike, only smaller! |
700 West Jefferson Street Boise, ID 83702 United States +1 208 334 5174 |
Built in 1905 and in the image of the U.S. Capitol, the Idaho Capitol is the only statehouse in the country to be heated by geothermal water. The building was completed in 1920 and features a rotunda floor in a marble pattern called the Compass Rose. The grounds are well kept and have several notable trees, some of which were planted by U.S. Presidents. The building is surrounded by the Capitol Mall, which includes many older public buildings and monuments. Tours are available upon request. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Idaho's highest court |
451 West State Street Boise, ID 83702 United States +1 208 334 2246 |
Completed in 1970, this limestone courthouse does not have the historic look of the much older Idaho State Capitol Building, but history is made here every day. Built of travertine limestone from Idaho Falls, the building boasts floors made from granite chip. Four times each year, the Supreme Court of Idaho can be heard in Boise, while it carries out the other eight sessions at different venues around Idaho. The library and court sessions are open to the public, and tours can be arranged through the clerk's office. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
 Hilly course offering pool and pub |
4700 South Umatilla Road Boise, ID 83709 United States +1 208 362 5771 http://www.indianlakesgolf.com |
Trees line the paths at this public course, designed for all golfing levels. Surrounded by mountain views, golfers enjoy well-maintained greens on a naturally hilly course. After a full day of golf, the Pub & Grill offers cool beverages, including wine and beer, homemade soups, hearty sandwiches and omelettes. Overheated golfers can escape the hot Boise sun by taking a dip in the club's pool. A pro shop, lessons and banquet facilities fill out the club's offerings. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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Attention nature-walkers |
Americana Boulevard Boise, ID 83705 United States |
This urban park, completed in 1989, is one of Boise's newest additions to its extensive park system. Ideal for nature-walkers, it features a self-guided tour, which explains its unique plant and animal habitat, on a peaceful paved pathway. Ducks float on a pond while fish occasionally break the water's surface. Gazebos, a fountain and the largest cross-section of a Ponderosa Pine on this planet can also be found here. Named after the wife of the Albertsons' grocery store founder, the park is located across from Ann Morrison Park and allows leashed pets. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Andy Dopieralski |
 Photo: Travis Downey |
 Photo: Julie Walton |
 Photo: Shawna Foster |
 Photo: Gerry Slabaugh |
 Photo: Madhu Muraleedharan |
 Photo: Zeb Palmer |
 Photo: David Dubrall |
 Photo: Allen Parks |
 Photo: Alisha Donahue |
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 Photo: Denise Hughes |
 Explore living waters |
600 South Walnut Street Boise, ID 83707 United States +1 208 334 2225 |
Offering a view of the Boise River's underwater world, this unique and interesting center allows visitors to see what happens under the rippling surface of a river. Hands-on computers help visitors understand and learn about the complex world of a living river. This learning center is a must for both tourists and residents, especially if you are a science buff. You will leave the center with a new appreciation for science and river habitats. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Marie Paulhamus |
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Learn about fire-fighting technology |
3833 South Development Avenue Boise, ID 83705 United States http://www.nifc.gov/ |
Idaho is often ravaged by summer forest fires, so it is appropriate that this wildland-firefighting support center is located in Boise. Founded in 1965, the facility houses equipment that helps firefighters across the western United States, including Alaska. During the free tours, visitors learn about special equipment for detecting lightning storms and the role of smokejumpers. The Wildland Firefighters Monument pays homage to firefighters with poetry along the pathway and statues by Larry Nowlan. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Bob Minton, Boise ID |
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Wander through Boise history |
516 South Eighth St Boise, ID 83702 United States +1 208 344 7777 (Boise Tourist Bureau) |
The Eighth Street Marketplace in downtown Boise commemorates Boise's 19th century past. This area is perfect for a lazy ramble through Boise's history. At 516 South Eighth Street, the Idaho Laundry building has been in operation since 1897. The nearby Boise Junk House at 521 South Eighth Street is where boys traded iron and other "junk" for cash. Other nearby landmarks are the Idaho Candy Company, in business since 1909, the Oregon Trail Memorial Bridge, and the Log Cabin Literary Center. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Course for a quick game |
5812 North Pierce Park Lane Boise, ID 83703 United States +1 208 853 3302 |
With views of the surrounding mountains and trees dotting the greens, this nine-hole golf course gives golfers-on-the-go an alternative to Boise's longer 18-hole courses. Designed for all abilities, the course offers a relaxed atmosphere for beginners, and expert golfers will find challenges on the hilly greens. The par-three course also offers a driving range and pro shop. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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Indoor carnival |
7736 Fairview Avenue Boise, ID 83704 United States +1 208 376 6981 http://www.pojos.com |
Colorful bumper cars crash into each other, while a giant rabbit and 15 other animals carry children around a whimsical carousel. This entertainment arcade offers a 22,000-square-foot indoor playground, including simulated games, prize center and entertainment for young children. Bright awnings and blue tables highlight the cafe where families can munch on pizza, hot dogs and hamburgers at a very affordable price. The entertainment complex specializes in parties and other special events. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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Challenging course with mountain views |
4520 North 36th Street Boise, ID 83703 United States +1 208 344 7807 |
Mountain views highlight this 18-hole public course, perched in Stewart Gulch. Offering rolling terrain, the course keeps golfers alert with many challenging areas. Hosting golfers for more than 17 years, the course has a generous sprinkling of trees in the valley, as well as water to master. After surviving the course, players can retire to The Pub at Quail Hollow and enjoy a microbrew from the Highlands Hollow Brewhouse. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Trail system for hikers and bikers |
1104 Royal Boulevard Boise, ID 83706 United States +1 208 384 4240 |
Stretching from the Boise River to the Boise Ridge, this trail system offers hikers and mountain-bikers 75,000 acres of trails. Through the cooperative efforts of several government agencies, private landowners and other organizations, the trail system was created to preserve Boise's foothills. The old roads and trails allow for outdoor exploration practically from downtown Boise. Maps are available from the Boise Parks and Recreation, U.S. Forest Service, Bureau of Land Management and Boise outdoor stores. Some of the easier trails to hike include #27 Cottonwood Creek, #28 Crestline Trail and #31 Corrals Trail. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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Greenbelt access and lake fishing |
960 Veterans Parkway (State Street and Veterans Parkway) Boise, ID 83703 United States |
Flags fly high over the small memorial at this city park. Children play at the jungle gym, while inline skaters and bikers cruise along the Boise River Greenbelt. Pathways lead to the Boise River where the park joins the Boise River Greenbelt. Offering access to the Boise Cascade Lake, the park is also popular with fishermen and wildlife viewers. Its location makes it ideal for a quick after work picnic or for a relaxing stroll along the Boise River. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Josh |
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Boise River golfing |
2495 Warm Springs Avenue Boise, ID 83712 United States +1 208 343 5661 |
Following the Boise River, this golf course offers city golfing close to downtown and most of the major hotels. Attractive homes line the course and the Boise River Greenbelt twists along next to it. Sensibly laid out, the course poses few problems except for the occasional tree. Facilities include a putting green, driving range, practice bunker, golf shop, cafe and lessons. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
