12+ Fun Things to Do in Boise for Adults (+Tips)

Boise is the Idaho’s capital & most populous city of U.S. It was founded back in 1863 & incorporated in 1864. As per census report, the total population of Boise was recorded 236,634 in 2022.

Whether you want to explore city life, go for hiking/biking trails or enjoy vibrant nightlife scenes, there are countless fun things to do in Boise for adults. Also, various outdoor adventures & cultural experiences await you.

To enjoy urban energy with stunning natural beauty, this blog post covers 12+ unique things to do in Boise for every type of traveler. Let’s dig in detail!

12+ Fun Things to Do in Boise for Adults

Boise is famous for City of Trees. Whether you are history buff, food enthusiast or nature lover, this iconic city offers various things that cater to every need. Our list of 12+ fun things to do in Boise, Idaho will make your experience memorable in this charming city.

Outdoor Adventures

1. Boise National Forest

The Boise national forest is located northeast of Idaho’s capital city of Boise. It comes with more than 500 trails, 250 lakes & reservoirs with preserved beauty.

A truly hidden gem for outdoor enthusiasts who want to enjoy outdoors. From mule deer, mountain goats, lion to black bear, you can see different animals here.

Address

• 1249 S Vinnell Way, Suite 200 | Boise, ID 83709

Nearby Restaurants 

• The Fork Restaurant
• Beacon
• Modern Hotel

Secret Tip

• To enjoy stunning view, hike to hidden lake.

2. Bogus Basin Mountain Resort

Visiting Bogus Basin Mountain Resort is one of the best things to do in Boise. Treasure’s valley year-round destination & recreational area for education, mountain recreation & community. Here, you can enjoy snowboarding, skiing, mineshaft challenge course & the glade runner mountain coaster.

Address

• 750 Mountain Cove Road

Nearby Restaurants 

• Lulu’s Fine Pizza
• Mocha Moose Coffee
• Highlands Hollow Brewhouse

Secret Tip

• Enjoy amazing sunset views from summit.

3. Boise River Greenbelt

One of the most beloved Boise’s parks in the form of recreational & alternate transportation trail alongside the river. If you are in search of free things to do in Boise, must visit this place to reconnect with nature. It provides scenic views, wildlife habitation & pedestrian accessibility to famous riverside parks.

Address

• 150 North Capitol Blvd. Boise, ID 83702

Nearby Restaurants 

• The Sandbar Patio Bar & Grill
• Trillium Kitchen + Cocktails
• The James Kitchen & Bar

Secret Tip

• Do not forget to enjoy kayaking & paddleboarding.

4. Idaho Botanical Garden

The ultimate mission of Idaho Botanical Garden is to connect people, plants & nature. From 32 acres place, signature events, classes & workshops to youth camps & education, this place offers something for everyone. Before visiting this place, keep up-to date on what’s happening that time.

Address

• 2355 Old Penitentiary Rd 
Boise, Idaho 83712

Nearby Restaurants 

• Barbacoa Grill
• Subway
• The Griddle

Secret Tip

• Must attend the garden’s festivals or events.

5. Zoo Boise

Zoo Boise is one of the fun things to do in Boise with family. This family-oriented place is a combination of conservation, recreation & education.

Fall zoo camps allows you to engage your kids in learning & having infinite fun. Also, be ready to enjoy funny wildlife conservation on 30 August evening.

Address

• 355 Julia Davis Dr, Boise, ID 83702

Nearby Restaurants

• The Wylder
• Richard’s
• The Basque Market

Secret Tip

• Do not forget to bring your kids for ultimate fun.

Cultural Experiences

6. Boise Art Museum

Explore beautiful Idaho’s history & culture at Boise Art Museum. The welcoming environment, educational programs, interactive exhibitions and collections urge visitors to visit again & again. On first Thursday of every month, the entry to this museum is free so you can grab this free opportunity.

Address

• 670 Julia Davis Dr, Boise, ID 83702

Nearby Restaurants 

• White Dog Brewing Boise
• The Gas Lantern Drinking Company
• Flicks Theater & Rick’s Cafe Americain

Secret Tip

• Check their calendar for special exhibitions and events.

7. Idaho Museum of Natural History

Do you want to explore natural history in Boise? Go to Idaho Museum of Natural History. Exploring this place is one of the best things to do in Boise today.

This antique museum showcases the anthropology, earth science, vertebrate paleontology, and the life sciences collections.

Address

• 698 E Dillon St, Pocatello, ID 83201

Nearby Restaurants 

• Jamba Juice
• Elmer’s Restaurant – Pocatello
• Pizza Hut

Secret Tip

• Explore museum’s interactive exhibits.

8. Shakespeare Festival

Idaho’s Shakespeare festival allows you to enjoy the timeless beauty of plays under the Idaho sky. Experience the live theatre magic with amazing scenery of Idaho’s natural beauty. Various dramas & plays are presented every day. Visit their website to see calendar before going to watch drama.

Address

• 5657 E Warm Springs Ave, Boise, ID 83716

Nearby Restaurants 

• Lucky 13 Pizza
• Barbacoa Grill
• The Wylder

Secret Tip

• Pack picnic essentials with yourself and enjoy under the stars.

9. Egyptian Theatre

Performing movie & arts venue known as the Ada theatre. The Egyptian Theatre is Boise’s premier place enriched with arts culture. It was built back in 1927 and considered as Boise’s oldest theatre. Various events are being conducted in this theatre so it is advised to check their event calendar earlier.

Address

• 700 W Main St, Boise, ID 83702

Nearby Restaurants 

• Tony’s Pizzeria Teatro
• Goldy’s Corner
• Goldy’s Breakfast Bistro

Secret Tip

• Book yourself in advance for classical performances.

Nightlife and Entertainment

10. Knitting Factory

Going to knitting factory is one of the best things to do in Boise at night. Knitting factory is a small & spacious concert venue with attached adults-only restaurant.

Also in Knitting Factory, you can celebrate various events to make splendid & unforgettable memories. Before going, must visit their website.

Address

• 416 S 9th St, Boise, ID 83702

Nearby Restaurants 

• Bodovino
• P.F. Chang’s
• Chandlers Prime Steaks & Fine Seafood

Secret Tip

• Must check music lineup for upcoming shows.

11. The Sapphire Room

The Sapphire room at the Riverside hotel is a live music venue & one of the best things to do in Boise for couples. It’s a treasure valley icon that features salt water pools, amazing fitness center, daily live music, dining & more. For booking & ticketing information, you can visit their website to get further details.

Address

• 2900 W Chinden Blvd, Garden City, ID 83714

Nearby Restaurants

• Fork
• Bittercreek Alehouse
• Reef

Secret Tip

• To enjoy exclusive access, purchase a VIP ticket.

12. Boise Casino

Boise Casino is centrally located between Boise, Portland & Spokane. One of the luxury destinations for family get together, large conventions & business meetings.

Casino remains open 24/7 where you can enjoy amenities like bowling center, RV park, five-screen cineplex & championship golf course.

Address

• 1101 W. Front St., Suite 100 Boise, Idaho 83702

Nearby Restaurants 

• The Warehouse Food Hall
• Baraboo Supper Club
• Lock Stock & Barrel

Secret Tip

• Make your bookings on poker tables.

13. Crescent Brewery

Our last pick is the crescent brewery. Taste the best crafted quality beers at the Crescent Brewery. Their tasting room comes with laid-back culture that welcome guests with amazing atmosphere.

By visiting this place, you not only enjoy the quality beers but also make your evening at Idaho memorable.

Address

• 1521 Front St, Nampa, ID 83651

Nearby Restaurants 

• Soto Sushi Bar
• CRUSH American Grill
• The Grill at Grand Z Casino Hotel

Secret Tip

• Ask about their seasonal or limited-edition brews.

Final Thoughts!

We concluded our blog post here on 12+ fun things to do in Boise for adults. Now you get the travel idea what Idaho city has to offer for adults.

Whether you are in search of outdoor adventures, want to explore vibrant nightlife scenes & entertainment and famous attractions, Boise promises a wealth of memorable experiences.

So, be ready to explore Boise, Idaho to create stunning memories. Book your tickets in advance to get discounted deals or promotions.

Frequently Asked Questions