Things to do in Boise
I didn’t know much about Boise, or even Idaho, when I first arrived in the capital city. However, the city is a cute blend of college town and outdoor adventure. With just one day to explore, I was pleasantly surprised by the variety Boise offers. There are lots of things to do in Boise, but here is my itinerary for a taste of the best attractions in 24 hours.
Best Time to Visit Boise
The best time to visit Boise is typically between May and September, though I visited in October and was rewarded with the beautiful fall leaves. Spring and fall temperatures range from 50°-70°F, making it the perfect time for hiking and biking. October brings a pleasant atmosphere to explore Boise’s nature spots, like Table Rock or Julia Davis Park. I would encourage you to pack layers for any visit as the temperature ranges can be great, especially at night. Winter is pretty cold, so unless you are looking to ski in nearby Bogus Basin, I would avoid a winter trip.
Coffee at Hyde Perk
Start your day with coffee at Hyde Perk Coffee House. This friendly neighborhood café offers monthly specialty drinks and breakfast pastries in a rustic, lowkey environment. The charm of Hyde Park sets the tone for the day.
Hike Table Rock
When you are properly caffeinated, make your way to Table Rock, one of Boise’s most iconic outdoor spots. The hike is a moderately strenuous climb -- 3.6 miles round trip with almost 900 feet elevation gain. The panoramic views of the entire city and surrounding foothills make up for the steep trail sections. Park at the Table Rock Cross Trail Parking (near old penitentiary) and follow the signs to the cross at the top. Sit for a moment and take some time to soak in the beauty before heading back down. This trail is dog friendly.
Lunch at Lemon Tree
After the hike, get ready for a delicious lunch at the Lemon Tree in downtown Boise. I was here for restaurant week and their soup and sandwich combo special drew me in. This small but stylish eater focuses on fresh, locally sourced ingredients with a creative twist and let me say, the flavor combinations are amazing!! The sausage and pear sandwich was incredible but I have heard raves as well for the massaman curry Bahn mi vegan sandwich as well. I could have lingered longer, but downtown was calling my name.
Sights in Downtown Boise
After lunch, take a leisurely stroll through Downtown Boise, a charming mix of shops, public art, and historic buildings. My first stop was the famous Pink Tree, a painted tree sculpture with swings in Cherie Buckner-Webb Park. This quirky piece of public art draws in visitors and adds a splash of color to Boise’s downtown vibe. From there, wander over to the Idaho State Capitol. I learned about the impact Abraham Lincoln had on creating Idaho from the statue out front. The building is open to the public, so you can wander through the halls, and even take a tour if you make a reservation 2 weeks in advance.
One of the best parks in Boise is Julia Davis Park, home to several of Boise’s key attractions, including the Boise Zoo, Discovery Center and Art Museum. I enjoyed sitting in the park near the zoo, watching the giraffes feed off their fencing. It was so cute! Stop at one of the many attractions or walk along the paved trails in the park for a refreshing jaunt after lunch.
Wine Tasting at Telaya Winery
With the day winding down, it was time to indulge in a bit of wine. Just a short drive from downtown along the scenic Boise River is Telaya Wine Co. The winery’s tasting room offers an inviting atmosphere with a patio overlooking the river—an idyllic spot to sip wine and relax after a full day of exploring. I chose a mixed flight for tasting, with a chenin blanc, rose and two reds. Sitting on the outside patio by their firepits overlooking the Greenbelt and river was a perfect way to relax at the end of the day.
Optional Activities in Boise
If you have more drinking in you, head next door to Barbarian Brewing Taproom or Split Rail Winery if you want to continue your wine tasting.
If you are looking to expend more energy, you can rent a Lime bike or scooter and bike along the Greenbelt. I didn’t have any more energy and simply chose to walk 10-15 minutes down the river just to get a taste of the 25-mile path with gorgeous river views.
If you are looking for more hikes, head to Camel’s Back Park, located in the North End neighborhood. This park offers many hiking trails with panoramic views of Boise’s skyline and the foothills beyond. You can hike to the top of Camel’s Back Hill just in time to catch the sunset. Dog friendly.
Dinner at Warehouse Food Hall
Pick your dinner at Warehouse Food Hall. This indoor dining hall offers 12 different local vendors, from BBQ to pizza and craft hot dogs to smashburgers. My choice was the yummy chicken curry bowl from Wok’n’Roll with all the toppings. It was quite filling and helped soak up the wine tastings. 😊 They have some retail shops and a cocktail bar on site for the party to continue. Remember to drink responsibly and Uber. 😊
Places to Stay in Boise
When looking for a place to stay, I always use Booking.com for my accommodations. Boise offers a mix of accommodations from boutique hotels to charming B&Bs and modern chain hotels, each with unique benefits depending on your style and budget. Here are some top recommendations across different neighborhoods:
Hotel 43: A chic, boutique-style hotel featuring local art, stylish rooms, and a popular steakhouse. The location is excellent for exploring downtown on foot.
Hyatt Place: Located in downtown across the street from the Pink Tree, this is a great option for those on a budget and looking to stay centrally.
The Riverside Hotel: Located slightly outside Boise, this inn offers a peaceful, upscale retreat with views of the Boise River. It’s ideal for travelers who prefer quiet surroundings and want to be near a winery (or two).
Boise’s charm lies in its laid-back environment with almost small-town vibes paired with the great outdoors steps from your hotel. One day was just enough to give me a taste and I think there is plenty to do for another trip. If you are planning a trip to Boise, pack your adventurous self – and your hiking boots! There are many things to do in Boise, but I hope this one day itinerary has whet your appetite.
If you are looking for more of Idaho, check out my perfect 7 day Idaho road trip!
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