13 Things to Do in Boise, Idaho: Free & Cheap Boise Attractions
(Updated: 2023)
Photo by Alden Skeie of Unsplash
Boise is the capital city of Idaho and the largest city in the state. It has this beautiful mix of city life and nature sitting at the foothills of mountains and Boise River flowing through the area. Such a contrast in the landscape provides quite a variety of activities suitable for anyone. So you only have a short 24-48 hours here? Here are 13 attractions to check out next time you are in Boise, ID to make the most of your visit. (Bonus: everything in this list is either free or very affordable!)
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1. Go for a walk at Boise River Greenbelt
The Boise River Greenbelt is a park that lines the Boise River providing miles of walking and bike tree-lined trails in the middle of the city.
Cost: Free
Location: Get directions on Google Maps
2. Stroll around Freak Alley Gallery
Located in Downtown Boise is Freak Alley Gallery, the largest open-air mural gallery in the Northwest.
Cost: Free
Location: 210 N 9th St, Boise, ID 83702, United States - Get directions on Google Maps
3. Grab food from the famous Boise Fry Co
Boise Fry Company serves its fries as the main dish and its burgers as the side. While in Idaho…load up on fries!
Cost: Depends on your order
Location: 204 N Capitol Blvd, Boise, ID 83702, United States - Get directions on Google Maps
4. Have lunch on the Capitol lawn
The Boise Capitol Buildings’ lawn (Cecil D. Andrus Park) is beautiful and has shaded picnic tables available to the public. The perfect lunch spot!
Cost: Free
Location: 601 W Jefferson St, Boise, ID 83702, United States - Get directions on Google Maps
5. Kayak or SUP on Boise River
Get on the Boise River by renting a kayak or SUP from Idaho River Sports. These services are seasonal so be sure to check their website!
Cost: $25-110 depending on your rental and time slot
Location: 601 N Whitewater Park Blvd, Boise, ID 83702, United States - Get directions on Google Maps
6. Visit the Basque Museum and Cultural Center
Boise has a large Basque community. The Basque Museum and Cultural Center is a great place to learn more about the Basque heritage in the American West. If you can’t get to the museum, do at least take a walk around the beautiful Basque Block!
Cost: $7/adult
Location: 611 W Grove St, Boise, ID 83702, United States - Get directions on Google Maps
7. Shop small at Capital City Public Market
Capital City Public Market is a farmer’s market that occurs every Saturday from July to October in Boise. If you are lucky enough to be in town, visit the market where you can experience local vendors and shops.
Cost: Free to visit; the cost depends on what you choose to buy
Location: 827 W Main St, Boise, ID 83702, United States - Get directions on Google Maps
8. Indulge in Ice Cream and Beer Flights from The STIL
The STIL (The Sweetest Things in Life) is famous in Boise for being a locally sourced and owned ice cream shop where you can pair its unique flavors with its wide selection of local beers. They offer dairy-free, vegan, and even beer-infused ice creams.
Cost: Depends on your order
Location: 786 W Broad St, Boise, ID 83702, United States - Get directions on Google Maps
9. Walk around the city streets
Enjoy the sights and sounds of just taking a stroll through the city! There aren’t crowds and traffic here like in most large cities. Boise has a relaxed vibe and as a woman, I felt safe walking around here after dark. Still, always stay aware of your surroundings.
Cost: Free
Photo by Ben Hoskyn of Unsplash
10. See the sunset at Table Rock
Table Rock has a 3.7-mile hike roundtrip loop trail to the top in the foothills of the Boise Range which is a notable spot to watch the sunset. This trail is a good length and incline for a great cardio workout. Along the way, you will have views of the city and wildflowers during the summer.
Cost: Free
Location: Get directions on Google Maps
11. Visit the Idaho Museum of Mining & Geology
The Idaho Museum of Mining & Geology shares the importance of this science and how it impacts Idaho by showcasing collections and exhibits of mining materials through the decades.
Cost: Free
Location: 2455 Old Penitentiary Road next to Old Penitentiary Entrance, Boise, ID 83712, United States - Get directions on Google Maps
12. Watch rock climbers at Black Cliffs
Black Cliffs are basalt cliff pillars, popular for year-round rock climbing. Even if you aren’t a rock climber yourself, you can visit to spectate and see this volcanic, natural structure in a beautiful setting.
Cost: Free
Location: Parking lot, 43°32'14.3"N 116°05'16.4"W, ID-21, Boise, ID 83716, United States - Get directions on Google Maps
13. The Peregrine Fund's World Center For Birds of Prey
The Peregrine Fund's World Center For Birds of Prey is a conservation center in Boise protecting raptors (hawks and eagles) and educating visitors about the importance of their protection and conservation.
Cost: $12/adult
Location: 5668 W Flying Hawk Ln, Boise, ID 83709, United States - Get directions on Google Maps
Are there any places you would add to this list?
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