go Beyond in Southwest Idaho

Things to Do Near Boise

Framed by beautiful foothills, Boise offers its visitors a plethora of outdoor recreation opportunities and a diverse food and drink scene. Yet, there’s so much more to explore beyond the City of Trees. Those in the know understand that venturing into southwest Idaho’s small towns rewards explorers with a wealth of adventures. Take this as a sign to embrace the wanderlust within and discover the many things to do near Boise.

Pick a Town, and Start Exploring

A group of people outside, at a mining equipment exhibit in Idaho City.

A view of the staircase with blue rails that leads up to Initial Point, a volcanic butte that overlooks the Western Snake River Plain, near Kuna.

Overlooking downtown Boise from the Ridge to Rivers Trail System.

Downtown Caldwell. Photo credit: Destination Caldwell.

Caldwell & Nampa

A quick drive west of Boise will lead you to the neighboring cities of Caldwell and Nampa. There are plenty of activities to enjoy, from sipping award-winning wine to hiking trails. These cities are a great place to recharge.

Don’t Leave Town
Without Visiting…

Sunnyslope Wine Trail

The Sunnyslope Wine Trail shows off 17 wineries and vineyards that produce award-winning wines amongst stunning panoramic views within the Snake River Valley AVA.

Deer Flat National Wildlife Refuge

Deer Flat National Wildlife Refuge is full of year-round interests. Enjoy water activities like boating and swimming, try hiking and picnicking or take advantage of the plentiful wildlife viewing opportunities.

AgVenture Trail

The AgVenture Trail takes you on a journey through the heart of the Snake River Valley. Try the free, self-guided tour where you walk through organic farms and orchards, pick fresh fruit and dine on true farm-to-fork meals.

AMANO

Enjoy a bite to eat at AMANO’s modern craft Mexican kitchen.

Grit 2C

Grit 2C turns locally sourced ingredients into inspired regional American cuisine.

Brick 29

Brick 29’s team of chefs specializes in locally grown comfort foods.

Chop Shop

From starters and sides to salads, sandwiches and family meals, Chop Shop serves up smoked barbecue meals that are cooked to perfection.

Holy Cow Idaho!

Holy Cow Idaho! offers a menu packed with creative, hearty craft burgers.

Warhawk Air Museum

The Warhawk Air Museum is a great place to learn about military aviation history. Experience military aircraft up close, or take a deeper dive and browse the armed forces archives.

Indian Creek Plaza

Indian Creek Plaza is located in downtown Caldwell’s retail district. This plaza goes beyond retail and dining, offering a seasonal ice rink and splash pad.

There’s more to explore!

Find more adventures in the area.

Take Me to Caldwell

Take Me to Nampa

A view of Main Street with houses and cars as the Ponderosa Pine outline the street in a scenic landscape. — Main Street, Idaho City. Photo credit: Visit Idaho.

Idaho City

Idaho City, a must-visit town along Highway 21, is packed with historical stops, outdoor adventures and charming local eateries. No matter how you choose to explore, this town provides a diverse array of unique experiences for anyone seeking things to do near Boise.

Don’t Leave Town
Without Visiting…

Idaho City Visitor Center

The Idaho City Visitor Center is a great place to start your visit to Idaho City. Pick up a walking tour pamphlet here or at the Museum.

Boise Basin Mercantile

View the historic buildings, including Boise Basin Mercantile, which began construction in 1865.

Boise Basin Museum

The Boise Basin Museum contains information about the history of Idaho City.

The Springs

The Springs is a hot springs retreat that allows guests to relax in natural mineral water. Reservations are required.

Hiking Trails

Enjoy a trek on the Charcoal Gulch or Crooked River trails or in the Granite Creek Recreation Area.

Robie Creek Park

Stop for a swim at kid-friendly Robie Creek Park.

Trudy’s Kitchen

Eat at Trudy’s Kitchen, which has been a delicious destination for homemade pies since the mid-1990s.

The Gold Mine Hotel & Grill

The Gold Mine Hotel & Grill is a place where you can get away and enjoy yourself over dinner, with live music every weekend.

Sarsaparilla Ice Cream Parlor

If you are looking to enjoy a fresh coffee or a sweet frozen treat, drop into Sarsaparilla Ice Cream Parlor, a featured Idaho City business for almost 30 years.

There’s more to explore!

Find more adventures in the area.

Take Me to Idaho City

Historic stone steps with a metal hand rail overlooking an open landscape. — Initial Point, Kuna. Photo credit: Visit Idaho.

Kuna

Kuna is a town packed full of possibilities. Fishing, hiking, biking and birdwatching are just a small slice of the recreational activities available. Add in local wineries and delightful dining options, and it’s easy to understand why you’ll want more time to explore this area.

Don’t Leave Town
Without Visiting…

Indian Creek Greenbelt

Take a stroll and unwind on the Indian Creek Greenbelt. There are recreational areas like picnic pavilions, baseball fields and a skate park in this popular, well-shaded hiking area.

Wineries

Sip around town by tasting the vintage at Indian Creek Winery, Vizcaya Winery, Owyhee Vista Vineyard or Syringa Winery.

Initial Point

Used as the starting place for surveying within Idaho in 1867, Initial Point is a volcanic butte rising from the Western Snake River Plain.

Falcon Crest Golf Club

Falcon Crest Golf Club takes your swing to new heights with three premier courses and fantastic views. This 36-hole golf complex blends the natural landscape with sand, water and stone.