As Boise continues to heat up this summer, it's nice to have an abundance of summer activities lined up for the kids. Real Estate Agent Tyler Horn is a father of two and is constantly looking for fun activities and events for the whole family.
Read below for Tyler's top 10 favorite family-friendly Boise activities to enjoy this summer!
1. Visit one of the 90 Boise Parks
Boise alone has 90 parks with endless summer activities — Barber Park, Camel's Back, and Ann Morrison are some of Boise's most notable parks. Each park has its unique charm to fit different ventures that your family may want to plan.
- Walk the trails
- Play Volleyball
- Bocce Ball
- Host BBQ's and summer celebrations
2. Hangout by the Boise River
The Boise Greenbelt is 25-miles long, surrounded by trees with overflowing opportunities for the family. Along the greenbelt, you'll see many people lounging in chairs, hammocks, and kids with water toys relishing in the water.
- 34th Street Market Wednesdays and Saturdays
- Make a day camp and relax along the river
- Float the Boise River
- Surf the Whitewater Park wave
Boise River opening updates:
Boise River Info
3. View the Hundreds of Animals Who Call Zoo Boise home
A popular, local attraction, Zoo Boise is an easy family outing for all ages. Zoo Boise has an array of wildlife inhabitants, and you can even book private animal experiences with anteaters and giraffes!
Sign up for an animal experience here:
Zoo Boise Encounters Info
4. Support & Shop at Local Farmers Market
Perusing the local farmers markets is an excellent start to the weekend! The Treasure Valley markets are filled with local produce, handmade goods, diverse food options, and (super important) coffee.
You are showing your kids a more local way to buy and support the local community.
A weekly routine for many, the farmers market is a perfect way to grab fresh groceries for the week, support local farmers, creators, and food stands and while spending quality time with the family.
Find your closest farmers market here:
Saturday Farmers Market
5. Play, Camp & Boat on Lucky Peak Reservoir
Close to downtown and accessible by the Boise Greenbelt, families can enjoy day-long activities without the long drive. Find a sandy beach to post up for the day and cool down with a dip in the water.
Lucky Peak activities include:
- Biking
- Boating
- Paddleboarding
- Scenic drives
- Camping
6. Explore Boise Foothills At Any Accessibility Level
One of the perks of living in Boise is how easily accessible the foothills are. Boise has 70 moderate trails ranging in trail length. Whether you and the family are just starting to explore the foothills or frequent them often, there is always a fun trail to discover.
Family Friendly Boise trails:
- Hulls Gulch
- Military Reserve
- Camel's Back
- Dry Creek
7. Having a Splashing Good Time at Roaring Springs Water Park
Boise's 2021 summer is looking like a hot one, and what better way than to spend it on a lazy river, splashing in the water playgrounds and flying down the water slides.
Roaring Springs has rides for all ages and is perfect for family fun all day long. Pack a cooler lunch to bring in or purchase a delicious cheeseburger at the concession stand.
"Don't forget your sunscreen!" -Dr. Portela of Treasure Valley Dermatology
Read more about Dr. Portela's tips for the summer sun:
Sunscreen Tips from Dr. Portela, An Expert in Skin Cancer Prevention
Photo Credit: IG:@roaringspringswaterparkidaho
8. Try the vast variety of Food Trucks in The Treasure Valley
Food trucks in Boise finally have a place to call home. Located in Harris Ranch, The Switchback Boise is a hub where local food trucks can park throughout the week. Live music and games are also hosted by The Switchback, making it an excellent option for a weekday night or weekend outing with the family.
View Totally Boise's food truck page here:
Food Truck Locations
Read more about our food truck round up:
Find A Food Truck Catered For Any Diet
9. Wander the Street of Downtown Boise
Downtown Boise is fun and accessible for many reasons — plenty of food options, events, and walking friendly. Grab the family and spend an afternoon visiting different businesses. Check out a movie theater, a local art museum and end the day with a delicious dinner and dessert.
Businesses to explore:
10. Mountain Biking the Boise Trails
Many of the trails in Boise aren't just for hiking. Grab some mountain bikes and helmets and head for the hills! Don't have everything you need to shred the trails? No worries, visit a local bike shop to rent your gear for the day, including kids-sized options.
There are trails for all skill levels, so you can find a route that the whole family can enjoy.
Mountain Biking Trails:
- Polecat Gulch Reserve
- Bogus Creek Trail
- Kestrel, Crestline, and Lower Hulls Gulch Loop
- J.A. and Kathryn Albertson Family Foundation Bike Park
Growing up in Idaho and playing football for BSU, Tyler is an enormous outdoor and sports enthusiast. This summer, you'll likely find him outside with his family exploring the wonderful city of trees.
Photo Credit: IG:@bogusbasin
11. BONUS: Take an Exhilarating Ride Rafting Down Idaho's White Water Rapids
Just 45 minutes up from Boise area are whitewater rafting experiences to last you a lifetime. With a number of rafting guides and companies prepared to take you on a ride down the Payette River. Whitewater rafting down the Payette will give you a chance to ride Class II, III, and IV rapids, guaranteed to give you the exhilarating experience you're looking for.
Check out the Totally Boise Experience:
Rafting The Payette
Planning family fun activities may seem challenging. But, by making a plan and adventuring your way down Tyler's list for a family-fun, activity-filled summer this year, you will create lasting memories.
As the Boise housing market continues to rise, Tyler is currently offering free home assessments for families whether you are looking to sell or just curious about the value of your home.
Contact Tyler Horn:
(208) 871-9671