10 Must-Do Things in Boise - A Complete Guide to Idaho's Capital

If you’re planning to visit the capital city of Idaho, this list has you covered on all the top things to do in Boise. This city might not always top the list of must-visit U.S. cities, but it truly deserves a spot on your travel map.

Boise offers a blend of art and nature. The city also has a booming food and wine scene, especially the lava-mineral notes that make their wine unique. Moreover, it is known as the “City of Trees,” and you’ll know why as soon as you hit the River Trail. Whether you’re here for a weekend or a day trip, here are the best things to do in Boise, curated from my recent trip to the city.

You can also read about more things to do in Idaho here and watch my Boise travel guide on YouTube to get an idea of this hidden gem.

Table of Contents

Tour Idaho State Capitol Building

The Idaho State Capitol Building is a stunning marble structure that stands as both a symbol of Idaho’s history and a striking piece of neoclassical architecture. You can see the building welcoming you from afar as soon as you enter the city limits. Its airy dome and elegant halls invite a quiet sense of pride and curiosity. The building is open to the public for visits, and you can also join one of the free guided tours offered on certain days to learn about the state’s heritage and political milestones.

Location: 700 W Jefferson St
Ticket & Hour: Mon–Fri (7 AM–7 PM), Sat-Sun (7 AM–5 PM) | FREE

Please Note: Walk-in Guided Tours are only available on Mondays and Fridays at 10:30 AM and lasts until noon. Other Guided Tours happen upon request, more details here.

Learn About Idaho’s History at The Idaho State Museum

The Idaho State Museum offers an interactive journey through Idaho’s history, culture, and landscapes with over 500 artifacts, 800 photographs, and 46 multimedia exhibits. Housed in Julia Davis Park alongside Zoo Boise and the Boise Art Museum, it explores how the state’s land has shaped its people, from Native American heritage and pioneer trails to mining booms and modern industries.

Location: 610 Julia Davis Dr.
Ticket & Hour: Mon–Sat (10 AM–5 PM), Sun (12–5 PM) | $10 | Website

Wander Through Freak Alley Gallery

If you love exploring art galleries, I highly recommend checking out this open-air art gallery located just a few blocks from the Capitol. Freak Alley Gallery is one of the most vibrant outdoor art spots in the Pacific Northwest. Every wall in this open-air alleyway bursts with color through murals and graffiti by local artists. And the best part is that the artwork keeps changing, so no two visits are ever alike.

Location: 210 N 9th St (between 8th & 9th street; Bannock & Idaho)
Ticket & Hour: Daily, open 24 hours | FREE | Website

Visit the Basque Museum and Cultural Center

Explore one of Boise’s most fascinating cultural sides at the Basque Museum and Cultural Center. The museum celebrates the heritage of the Basque community, one of the largest outside of Spain. Through its exhibits and preserved boarding house, you can explore Basque traditions, food, and history, a unique perspective that adds depth to your Boise experience.

Location: 611 W Grove St
Ticket & Hour: Tue–Fri (10 AM–4 PM), Sat (11 AM–3 PM), Closed on Sun & Mon | $8 | Website

Discover the Boise Depot

The Boise Depot is a historic Spanish-style train station perched on a hill overlooking the city. It’s just a short drive from downtown and surrounded by beautiful gardens and koi ponds, making it an ideal spot for photography, especially at sunset. You can climb up to the observation deck for sweeping views of downtown framed by the Boise Foothills. It’s one of the best panoramic photo ops in town.

Location: 2603 W Eastover Terrace
Ticket & Hour: Sun & Mon (11 AM–5 PM), Closed all legal holidays | FREE | Website

Stroll Through Boise River Greenbelt

Located along the Boise River, the Boise River Greenbelt is a 29-mile trail lined with tree-covered walking paths, ponds, and shaded picnic areas. It’s also home to the Boise Art Museum, the Idaho State Museum, and Zoo Boise, making it a versatile stop for both families and culture enthusiasts. If you have time, you can rent a bike or a kayak, or simply relax under the trees. This peaceful spot offers a refreshing break from the bustling downtown.

Location: Multiple entry points including, Julia Davis Park, Bernadine Quinn Park and Idaho Fallen Firefighters Memorial Park
Ticket & Hour: Sunrise to Sunset | Website

Visit Zoo Boise

If you’re traveling with kids, a trip to the zoo is a must! Zoo Boise is a family-friendly attraction dedicated to conservation and education. It’s home to animals from around the world, including red pandas, sloths, lions, and giraffes, and features informative exhibits that highlight Idaho’s role in wildlife preservation. One thing to keep in mind is that the zoo is quite large, so plan for at least two hours to explore it fully and be prepared for plenty of walking.

Location: 355 Julia Davis Dr
Ticket & Hour: Daily (10 AM–5 PM) | $12 | Website

Explore Main Street’s Eateries

If you’re looking to dine at some of Boise’s top eateries, head to Main Street in downtown. This bustling hub is lined with quirky shops, cafés, and restaurants. We tried two local favorites: Pie Hole, a laid-back pizzeria known for its pizza-by-the-slice menu, and Boise Fry Company, famous for its variety of potato options and uniquely flavored dips.

Location: Between 5th and 14th Street on Main Street

Browse Downtown Local Shops & Bookstores

One of my favorite things to do in a new city is explore the local shops and bookstores, and I’m happy to say that Boise has plenty of both. The entire downtown area is walkable and filled with indie boutiques and cozy bookstores. One bookstore I highly recommend visiting is the Rediscovered Bookshop, a beloved local spot known for its friendly staff and carefully curated collection of books, manga, and thoughtful gifts.

Location: Near the State Capitol

Try Idaho’s Unique Wine and Brews

Idaho is an up-and-coming wine and craft beer destination in the U.S., offering a unique character to its drinks thanks to the region’s mineral-rich soil. We explored two popular spots during our trip: Telaya Wine Co., a riverside winery in Garden City offering Idaho-grown tasting flights, and Barbarian Brewing, the city’s original barrel house known for its small-batch, sour, and barrel-aged beers.

Location: Garden City

Unique Boise Tours & Activity Recommendations

If you have more than a day, here are some fun tours and activities to enjoy around the city, from tasting wine and cheese with a local to joining a scavenger hunt.

Boise River Wine Walk: Sip and Stroll Through Urban Wineries – Explore the boutique wineries, vibrant eateries, and hidden local hangouts of Garden City with a friendly guide.
Epic Scavenger Hunt: Downtown Boise Bonanza Escapade – One of the most interactive ways to discover the city with friends and family.
Culinary and Cultural Tour of Boise – Experience the best of both worlds on this 3-hour journey through the city’s history, culture, and local eats.
1/2 Day Whitewater Rafting Trip near Boise – Feel adventurous? This thrilling rafting excursion is one of the area’s most popular activities.

Boise exceeded our expectations with its rich mix of art, food, and small-town warmth. Between the murals, museums, and riverside wine tastings, the city offered just the right blend of culture and relaxation. If you find yourself in Boise or planning a road trip to Yellowstone or nearby areas from PNW states, I highly recommend adding Boise to your list; you won’t be disappointed! And if you’re looking for more things to do near Boise, check out my Idaho guide or my post on Bruneau Dunes State Park.