Idaho is home to a lot of attractions that suit just about any interest and budget. From outdoor recreational pursuits to waterparks to auto racing, there’s something for everyone here in Idaho. In what follows, we’ve compiled a list of area attractions, or things to do, for Idaho’s Treasure Valley, as well as some venues that are located in other areas of the state, to help you find something to do to your liking.
Indoor Boise Area Attractions
While Idaho truly has four seasons, it’s essential to have access to good area attractions during snowy winters, rainy days, or hot summer afternoons to beat the heat. With Idaho’s unpredictable and dynamic weather, it’s good to have options. Let’s take a look at some of the region’s indoor attractions.
Wahooz Family Fun Zone – Located in Meridian, Wahooz is home to various arcade-style games, miniature golf, go-karts, bumper boats, the Pinz bowling alley, and other indoor entertainment. The facility also boasts a large conference center perfect for meetings or other larger events.
Big Al’s – Like Wahooz, Big Al’s is also located in Meridian and has various arcade-style games. In addition, it has two separate bowling alleys with a restaurant and bar.
Boise Area Stadiums and Arenas
Albertsons Stadium – Albertsons Stadium is the home of the Boise State Broncos football team. It has also hosted concerts and other events. In 2019, Garth Brooks played the stadium as part of his stadium tour.
Idaho Central Arena (Formerly CenturyLink Arena) – This arena is the home of the Idaho Steelheads ECHL hockey team. It also hosts MMA and Boxing events as well as concerts.
Extra Mile Arena – Located on the campus of Boise State University, Extra Mile Arena (formerly Taco Bell Arena) has hosted performances by Elton John, Train, KISS, and others. It is also the home of the Boise State Broncos basketball team.
Ford Idaho Center and Amphitheater – Located in Nampa, the Ford Idaho Center and outdoor Amphitheater host several concerts and events throughout the year. From Monster Trucks to home shows, the Ford Idaho Center is a premier indoor and outdoor entertainment destination. The center is also home to the Snake River Stampede Rodeo during the summer.
Other Venues in Boise
The Egyptian Theater – The Historic Egyptian Theater in downtown Boise hosts classic movies, more minor musical acts, and standup comedy. It also is a favorite for movie screenings as part of indie movie festivals and other special events.
Expo Idaho – Formerly the home to horse racing in Idaho, Expo Idaho is the current home for the Western Idaho Fair in August. Additionally, the location hosts the annual Boise Music Festival and other significant events throughout the year.
Idaho Botanical Gardens – The Idaho Botanical Gardens is home to the Outlaw Field Concert Series, which features different musical acts during the summer months. Previous performers include the Barenaked Ladies and Josh Groban.
The Botanical Gardens also hosts a variety of events throughout the year. One such event is the Winter Garden Aglow, where the gardens are adorned with festive Christmas lights.
JUMP Boise – Jack’s Urban Meeting Place, or JUMP, offers a wide variety of classes and events designed to spark creativity, engage with the community, and inspire people to try something new. From courses to experiences, JUMP brings the community together in downtown Boise at an impressive campus
The Knitting Factory – Located in BoDo (Downtown Boise), the Knitting Factory presents various live entertainment annually. Performances include musical acts, comedy, and film festivals.
Morrison Center for the Performing Arts – Located on the campus of Boise State University, the Morrison Center is home to Boise’s Broadway, featuring a season of traveling theatrical productions, with many being hits on Broadway. The venue also hosts smaller musical acts, comedians, magic, and variety shows throughout the year.
Revolution Concert House – The Revolution Concert House is a small venue located in Garden City where touring acts and comedians perform. In addition to concerts, it hosts fitness events and food festivals.
Outdoor Attractions
People who live in Idaho enjoy the state’s convenient access to outdoor recreation. Idaho attractions that feature outdoor activities or venues are a natural draw for residents and visitors to the area. Below are some of the outdoor attractions that are near the Boise area.
Bogus Basin Recreation Area – Bogus Basin is the closest area for skiing and snowboarding in the Treasure Valley. During the summer months, though, it offers many hiking and biking trails to use. It also has a mountain roller coaster where patrons can zip through the treetops.
Idaho Shakespeare Festival – The Idaho Shakespeare Festival is an outdoor venue that features theatrical performances beginning in the spring and running through the early fall. During each season, a couple of the plays were penned by the namesake playwright.
Meridian Speedway – During race season, which runs from the spring through the fall, you’ll hear the thundering roar of Nascar-style racing as racers take to the track. The speedway also hosts other non-Nascar racing events as well as demolition derbies.
Roaring Springs Water Park – Adjacent to Wahooz in Meridian, Roaring Springs is the Treasure Valley’s only water park, featuring many different attractions, including a diverse collection of water slides, a lazy river, and a fantastic kids splash zone. Roaring Springs is the largest waterpark in the northwest.
Silverwood Theme Park – Located in the northern part of the state, Silverwood is the northwest’s largest amusement park. Featuring an assortment of roller coasters and water slides, Silverwood has something for everyone.
Tamarack Resort – Located near McCall, Tamarack offers four seasons of recreational fun. In addition to being a haven for winter sports, Tamarack is quickly becoming known for its spring and summer recreational pursuits. The resort offers mountain biking, rafting, ziplining, and more.
Boise Zoo – The Boise Zoo, centrally located in Julia Davis Park in downtown Boise, is home to over 300 animals. Offering various exhibits and experiences, including “Boo at the Zoo” and “ZooPawLooza,” the Zoo is a family-friendly venue worth visiting.
The Last Word
The Boise Area is home to a variety of attractions. From indoor venues to outdoor experiences, Idaho and the Treasure Valley offer many attractions that appeal to any age and interest. One of the great things about living in Idaho is exploring the many attractions and recreational opportunities the Gem State offers its residents and visitors.
If you’re looking to move to Idaho, let our team help you find your new Idaho Home.
Main Photo Credit: iStock.com/StellaMc
