When people think of Idaho they usually think of one of two things: potatoes or gem stones. While the state is known for both, there’s much more to do in the mountainous state other than preparing hash browns or looking at jewelry. The capitol of Idaho, Boise, has several attractions for all ages that will make your stay both enjoyable and memorable.
Family Attractions in Boise, Idaho: Barber Park
Located at 4049 S. Eckert Road, Boise, Idaho is Barber Park, one of the most popular picnic areas in the state. The thing I enjoy most about this park is that there’s something to do for all ages. Younger children can burn off energy by running around and exploring the park. If they’re lucky, they may even spot beavers, foxes, or other wildlife.
Rental equipment is supplied at the park for those who would like to do more than exploring. Inner tubes, rafts, canoes and kayaks allow visitors to enjoy the nearby Boise River. When you’re done cooling off in the water, you can enjoy a nice lunch in one of the many picnic areas throughout the park.
Barber Park is one of the great attractions for those who are in Boise, Idaho with nothing really planned. Unlike other parks in Boise, Barber Park is open all day and all year. There are enough attractions at the park where you can easily spend a day there.
Family Attractions in Boise, Idaho: Discovery Center of Idaho
The Discovery Center of Idaho is a hands on learning center located at 131 Myrtle Street, Boise, Idaho. The learning center offers over 200 attractions for children as young as two, though there is plenty to do for older children, teens and adults as well.
Some of the attractions include a full sized super market where children 5 and under are given their own pint-sized buggie and are encouraged to explore to store, ‘purchasing’ items with fake money. Older children may enjoy the Bernoulli Blower that shoots an invisible air flow around the room. Items are then placed within the air flow, causing them to levitate before your eyes. Teenagers and adults will enjoy creating their own 7 foot tornado and watch as it forms from the ground up.
The Discovery Center of Idaho is definitely one of the best attractions located in Boise. The center has done an amazing job at creating educational, yet awesome attractions for all ages. There’s so much to do that even if you go several times, you’ll never be bored.
Family Attractions in Boise, Idaho: Boise Idaho Zoo
Boise Idaho Zoo is home to over 200 animals and over 80 different species. This includes giraffes, monkeys, lions and penguins. The zoo also offers other attractions as well, such as a large butterfly garden that is sure to amaze younger children.
The Boise Idaho Zoo has a smaller selection of animals than most, but it offers something that others don’t. Rather than confine their creatures in small cages, the Boise Zoo allows their animals to roam freely. This creates a much more natural viewing experience. You’re also more likely to see the creatures up close.
My favorite part of the Boise Idaho Zoo was the penguin attractions. There are several of them and they put on quite a show. I heard many children exclaim that they reminded them of the “Penguins of Madagascar,” a Nickelodeon show that is a spin off of the “Madagascar” movie. If you have children who enjoy the show or movie, they’ll be sure to love this zoo.
Family Attractions in Boise, Idaho: All About Fun Hot Air Balloon Rides
All About Fun Hot Air Balloon Rides, is, as the name says, all about fun. These hot air balloon rides start at sun rise and last about an hour. If you’ve never ridden in a hot air balloon before, you’re in for quite a ride. The view of Boise, Idaho at sunrise is amazing from the balloons.
Three passengers plus the pilot can fit comfortably in each hot air balloon, though there are larger balloons for larger groups if needed. If you’d rather fly in two separate balloons, that’s also allowed and makes for fun pictures. Just imagine snapping a family photo of your grandmother flying 60,000 feet above the ground!
Once you’ve finished your one hour balloon ride, you will land for a Champagne Brunch where lunch is also served. After eating, a special ceremony will take place for those who rode in the balloon. Each passenger will be given a signed flight certificate that can be framed and displayed at home.
Family Attractions in Boise, Idaho: Arrowrock Reservoir
The Arrowrock Reservoir allows visitors to enjoy the Boise River and it’s 60-mile shoreline. Once at the park, windsurfing and boating equipment can be rented for a small fee. Fishing is also one of the popular attractions at the river, as it is home to many fish, including the rainbow trout, kokanee salmon and whitefish.
Campsites are provided for those who would like to spend the night in Boise, Idaho, though the reservoir is a great place to simply spend the day as well.
The park is open summer through winter and is located at 1249 S. Vinnell Way, Suite 200, Boise, Idaho.
