Boise’s pride and joy is the Greenbelt, a 25 mile green stretch running the length of the city along the Boise River. The greenbelt has many trails connecting to riverside parks, lovingly known as the “Ribbon of Jewels.” Locals use the trails for alternative transportation needs, including biking, walking, skating, and jogging.

Check out the best attractions near Boise:

• Explore the shops, galleries, and tourist attractions in Downtown Boise
• See a show at the classic Egyptian Theater
• Get a bird’s eye view of the city from Boise Hot Air Company
• Spend the day in Julia Davis Park downtown
• Backpack or hike the south fork of the Boise River

The Oregon Trail Reserve in the most famous and historical landmark in Boise. The 77-acre public trail is the remains of the large wagon emigrant route used to travel from the Mississippi to Oregon. Check out the rare Avard Fairbanks sculpture and Oregon Trail monument.

Other popular attractions near in Boise include:

• The U.S. Assay Office on Main street is a National Historic Landmark
• Idaho State Capitol offers scheduled tours and a gallery on the fourth floor
• The Idaho Black History Museum aims to educate the community about culture
• Boise Art Museum has more than 2,300 works of art in the permanent collection
• The Idaho Anne Frank Human Rights Memorable is home to an inspiring 180-foot Quote Wall

One of the largest heritage hubs in Boise is Basque Block on Grove St. Visitors to the block can enjoy the Basque restaurants and shops or visit the Basque Museum and Cultural Center wto learn about the Basque culture.

Check out these exciting activities in Boise today:

• Explore the shops at the Boise Towne Square Mall
• Grab a well crafted beer at 10 Barrel Brewing
• Explore the specialty shops and restaurants in the Hyde Park historic District
• Learn about the Idaho mountains at the Foothills learning center.
• Tour the grounds and gardens at the Boise Depot

The Egyptian Theater is one of Boise’s most treasured historical buildings, decorated and restored in the Egyptian architectural style. Stop in to watch one of the many local and touring performances, including movies, concerts, concerts, and theatrical productions.

Nighttime attractions near Boise include:

• Having a full-course Basque meal at Leku Ona
• Taking improv classes at ComedySportz Boise
• Beating the highest score at Spacebar Arcade
• Walking around the ponds at the Kathryn Albertsons Park
• Singing karaoke at 44 Club

The City of Trees is a popular nesting ground for birds. The World Center for the Birds of Prey is an educational facility with exhibits on birds, conservation, and biology. However, kids interested in learning about birds may prefer to see them in the wild at the Birds of Prey Natural Area, a wildlife refuge along the Snake River.

Top family-friendly attractions in Boise include:

• Ann Morrison Park has a disc golf course and a horseshoe pit
• Zoo Boise in Julia Davis Park is the best place to see big cats in Idaho
• Boise Watershed teaches visitors about water conservation
• The Discovery Center of Idaho offers educational summer camps for kids
• Veteran’s Memorial Park has two playgrounds

If you want an indoor event, the Boise Public Library hosts a variety of events and workshops to really get creative juices flowing. Stop by to sign up to use the 3D printer, join in on a Fandom Friday, or listen to tales during Family Storytime.

Top indoor attractions near Boise include:

• Admiring the Benjamin Victor Gallery and Studio on BSU campus
• Watching a show at the Velma V. Morrison Center for the Performing Arts
• Attending a performance at the Idaho Ballet
• Finding balance at Yoga Tree Boise
• Taking a beginner class at Boise Art Glass

One of the most popular things to do in Idaho is to take a dip in the geothermal hot springs. Head just outside of Boise to The Springs in the Boise National Forest, Rocky Canyon on the Payette River, or the LIttle Anderson Hot Spring in Garden valley for a relaxing soak in the great outdoors.

Other outdoor activities near Boise include:

• The Grove Plaza at the Boise Center is full of shops and dining options
• Eagle Island State Park is full of hiking trails just outside of town
• Boise National Forest covers acres of forest and grasslands
• The Old Idaho Penitentiary is open year round for visitors to tour
• The Roaring Springs water park in Meridian is a fun way to cool off in the summer