Winter in Boise is nothing short of magical, and it brings the perfect excuse to cozy up with your special someone. If you want to keep the romance alive through the chilly months, Boise offers endless opportunities for unique winter dates. From gliding hand-in-hand on the ice to sipping hot cider by a warm fire, here are some top winter date ideas to create memorable moments with your loved one.
Ice Skating at Indian Creek Plaza
Kick off your winter date with a classic! Ice skating at Indian Creek Plaza in Caldwell is just a short drive from Boise and offers an idyllic setting for a romantic winter outing. Twinkling holiday lights, festive music, and the open-air rink create an unforgettable experience. Whether you're a seasoned skater or a bit wobbly on the ice, holding hands as you glide (or stumble!) together is a great way to spark connection and laughter.
Totally Boise Tip: Warm up with a cup of hot cocoa from a nearby café or head over to the nearby Winter Wonderland light display in Caldwell for an added dose of winter magic.
Sleigh Rides in the Boise Foothills
For a truly memorable winter date, why not go for a sleigh ride? Just outside Boise, several local ranches offer horse-drawn sleigh rides through the snowy landscapes of the Boise Foothills. The sound of sleigh bells, the crisp winter air, and the soft blankets make for a picture-perfect romantic setting. It’s a charming way to experience Boise's winter beauty and feel like you've entered a classic winter wonderland.
Totally Boise Tip: Some sleigh rides include a cozy cabin stop with hot drinks, so check ahead for these options to keep your winter date extra warm and toasty!
Warm Up at a Brewery with a Fireplace
Boise has a fantastic brewery scene, and many local spots offer a cozy ambiance complete with fireplaces—perfect for winter dates. Head to places like Barbarian Brewing Downtown Taproom or White Dog Brewing, where you can sip on seasonal craft brews while warming up by the fire. From spicy winter ales to dark stouts, you and your date can discover new flavors and enjoy a relaxed evening in a warm and welcoming environment.
Totally Boise Tip: Try ordering a flight to sample a few seasonal beers together and make it a taste-testing date.
Explore the Art at Freak Alley Gallery
While most think of Freak Alley as a summer destination, this iconic open-air gallery in downtown Boise transforms into a unique winter date spot. Bundle up and take a romantic stroll through the ever-changing murals that make Freak Alley so special. The snow-dusted artwork creates a striking contrast, and it’s the perfect backdrop for snapping a memorable couple’s photo.
Totally Boise Tip: End your art-inspired adventure with a hot coffee or spiced chai from a nearby café like District Coffee House or Flying M Coffee.
Stroll Through a Winter Market
Boise’s winter markets are ideal for a laid-back, romantic date filled with unique shopping and local treats. The Capital City Public Market and other holiday pop-ups around Boise feature vendors selling handcrafted gifts, seasonal produce, and holiday goodies. Wandering the stalls together, you can pick out special treats, try locally made cider, and even grab some cozy gifts for each other to remember the day.
Soak in the Winter Views at Bogus Basin
Nothing says winter in Boise quite like a trip to Bogus Basin. If you and your date enjoy a little adventure, take the scenic drive up to Bogus and experience its stunning winter landscape together. Go for a day of skiing, snowboarding, or simply snowshoeing along the scenic trails. Afterward, cozy up with hot drinks at the lodge and watch the snowfall over the mountains.
Totally Boise Tip: Bogus Basin also offers twilight skiing, so consider a nighttime visit for a magical experience under the stars. Don’t forget to dress warmly—it can get chilly up in the mountains!
Whether you’re gliding across the ice, sipping hot cider at a winter market, or cozying up by a brewery fireplace, winter in Boise brings countless ways to keep the romance alive. These date ideas will help you make the most of the season with your special someone, creating warm memories even on the coldest days. So, bundle up, hold your loved one close, and enjoy all that Boise offers this winter!