Don’t let the cold scare you away from all the fun things that a winter in Boise has to offer. Living in a place with so many things to do and being surrounded by constant beauty, it’s your job to take advantage and experience Idaho for what it’s worth. So, we’ve compiled a short but sweet list of ways to get out of the house and be adventurous.
Find a Hot Springs and Relax
Idaho is known for being a destination of a multitude of natural hot springs. With so many hot springs, it’s hard to choose! Some hot springs are located deep in the forest, but there are some that can be right off the highway and next to campgrounds. But if you’re looking for more of a resort, The Springs Resort in Idaho City is just 45 minutes away and doesn’t disappoint. Either way, once you’ve picked your hot springs, invite some friends, pack a lunch, and enjoy your soak.
TOTALLY BOISE TIP: Bring a trash bag, to you make sure you take back out anything you bought in. As the old saying goes, “Leave it better than you found it.”
Bogus Basin Roller Coaster
Known as the “Glade Runner,” this mountain roller coaster consists of 4,330 feet of track and two 360-degree circles. Located up at Bogus Basin Ski Resort, you can enjoy a full day of winter activities with the coaster being one of them. Twisting and turning through the beautiful scenery the Idaho Mountains have to offer, it’s a definite must!
TOTALLY BOISE TIP: For those of you who don’t like to go too fast, don’t worry! You have complete control of your speed the entire time.
McCall Winter Carnival
The 2020 McCall Winter Carnival will be held January 24, 2020 through February 2, 2020. A celebration of all things winter, the festival brings more than 60,000 people to town. And the little town of McCall is known for pulling out all the stops during the carnival. From massive ice sculptures to firework displays and even an epic Mardi Gras parade, you don’t want to miss out.
TOTALLY BOISE TIP: If you can’t make it this year don’t worry! Plan for next year.
Future Carnival Dates:
2021: January 29- February 7
Event Schedule
Visit the Village in Meridian
Tis’ the season for holiday shopping and trust us, the Village has all the fabulous stores you can think of. Once you’re done shopping, have some dinner and then hit the ice rink. That’s right, the Village has an ice rink and the main square is decorated for the holidays. It even features a massive Christmas Tree. Decorated for the Holidays, the Village is the perfect place to entertain your family and out of town visitors.
TOTALLY BOISE TIP: Santa is on site from noon to 7 p.m. Monday through Saturday, and on the weekends from noon to 6 p.m. until Dec.24.
Take a Walk in the North End
Going on a date? Or just want something to do in town? Well, we suggest taking a stroll down Harrison Blvd. where residents don’t just go all out for Halloween in October, they also deck out their houses with dazzling light displays for Christmas.
TOTALLY BOISE TIP: Once you’ve seen the lights, walk a couple blocks east and you’ll find yourself in Hyde Park with multiple options for a delicious dinner! We love Parilla!
Winter Garden aGlow
Starting late November through January 1st, the Idaho Botanical Garden turns into something truly magical. The garden is transformed into a whole new world, with over 400,000 enchanting lights and special events. If you’re lucky you might even get to see Santa!
TOTALLY BOISE TIP: If you purchase the “holiday specs” glasses you can see what other’s won’t. The lights transform into special holiday characters and images!
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