Summer is meant for traveling and visiting new places and Boise summer’s are slim to none. From the food and culture, to the outdoors activities, it’s hard to squeeze everything into one day. Totally Boise has compiled a list of the top 10 places to take your friends and family around Boise when they are visiting the City of Trees.
Capital City Public Market
One of our favorite Saturday activities include the Capital City Public Market. At the market you will find an endless amount of vendors selling food from sweets to BBQ, drinks from coffee to wine, and apparel. The market is open from 9am-1:30pm and it is great way to get outside and support local businesses around the Treasure Valley. Totally Boise’s favorite vendors include Blue Feather Bakery, City Peanut Shop, Leialoha’s Lemonade, Good Vibes Kombucha,and Classic Lines Pottery.
Photo Credit: Capital City Public Market Facebook
Support Local Artists- Freak Alley
Near the market, you’ll find yourself in an alley filled with beautiful art. Freak Alley was started in 2002, and it has continued to grow with over 200 artists since. It is free and open to the public all day, everyday, but donations are always accepted. Donations can include paint, empty cans, stir stick, brushes, etc. They also accept monetary donations you can make here:
Donate to Freak Alley
Photo Credit: Totally Boise
Table Rock
A hike for everyone! This approximately 4 mile hike is a must-do in Boise. When you get to the top, there is a beautiful cross waiting for you and an amazing view overlooking the mountain. Make sure to bring water and have shoes that are in good condition due to some steep parts of the hike.
View The Trail
Photo Credit: Moleskines & Legal Pads
Let's Float The Boise River
If your visitors are traveling in August, floating the river is a great activity! Grab a tube, some rope to tie multiple tubes together, and get ready to cool off. If you start near the Parkcenter entrance, it will take about two hours to make it down to Ann Morrison Park to exit. There are a few tips when floating the river: wear waterproof shoes because the bottom of the river is pretty rocky. Next, make sure to bring water! As mentioned, it does take some time, and it gets hot on the water. Finally, to protect your phone, keys, and/or wallet- we suggest putting them in a Ziploc plastic type bag and then into a waterproof bag. With all of this, you’ll be floating the river like a pro!
Photo Credit: Mapio.net
Lucky Peak
If you’re looking for more fun in the water, Lucky Peak offers boating, biking, and relaxing. Spring Shores Marina is on the shore of Lucky Peak and includes a full service marina, where one can dock their boat. There is also a boat and personal watercraft rentals. There is also Sandy Point that sits on the base of Lucky Peak dam. There is a swimming area with water toys, and two beach volleyball courts.
View Lucky Peak
Photo Credit: Outdoor Project
The Flicks Theatre
After the many outdoor activities Boise offers, it is time to take a load off. The Flicks Theatre showcases independent, foreign, and art films. There is also a Rick’s Cafe American that serves hot meals, snacks, desserts, wine, beer, and coffee. Matinees (before 6pm) are $7.50 and general admission is $9.50. Currently, the movies playing include On Chesil Beach, First Reformed, the Rider, and RBG.
View The Flicks
Photo Credit: The Flicks Facebook
Barbarian Brewery
Barbarian Brewery is our recommendation for a true Boise brewery. Even though the beers are very unique, you will be able to find a beer that suites everybody’s palette. Barbarian is known for their sours and IPAs. Make sure to check out their website to see which beers they have on tap at their Downtown or Garden City location. Totally Boise heard word of a beer called ‘Unicorn Farts’ being released at their 1,000 Anniversary Party and Summer Bottle Release on June 30th, so be sure to check it out!
See What's on Tap
Photo Credit: Barbarian Brewing Facebook
COILED Wines
If a brewery isn’t in the cards for your group, then that must mean wine! COILED Wines has a tasting room in Downtown Boise and Chinden Blvd. COILED brings great wine, with reasonable prices. The Downtown location includes a tasting bar, with small food options and happy hour specials. While the Garden City location brings a more relaxed vibe with a tasting room. Check out their website for more information!
View Wine Selection
Photo Credit: Kazzit
Dinner Time- Juniper
Much like the breakfast scene, Boise dinner spots are top notch! Our recommendation for dinner is the delicious Juniper. With a unique menu and ambiance, it creates the perfect meal spot. The employees are super friendly as well. If your visitors are in town for multiple nights, 8th street offers countless other restaurant options for those evenings too.
See Juniper
Photo Credit: Juniper Facebook
Breakfast Time- The Griddle
From our experience, Boise’s breakfast/brunch scene is one that can’t be beat. If you are looking for a family friendly environment, with a twist on traditional breakfast- The Griddle is the place for you. At the Griddle, one can go savory with the traditional eggs & meat any style. Or sweet with their filling, but simple fresh crepes. Flavors include raspberry, peach, pecan with bacon caramel, or fruit and granola. Not sold? Check out the menu here, and thank us later!
Griddle's Website
Photo Credit: The Griddle Facebook