Boise, often called the “City of Trees,” is a city and county seat of Ada County in Idaho, United States. It is also the state’s capital and most populous city. Its population as of 2023 is 240,713.
Boise has gorgeous parks, spellbinding natural areas, and more unique attractions. This city is an extremely fascinating vacation destination from rivers to mountains and forests.
The city is renowned for being home to the popular Boise State Broncos football team.
Wandering through the top tourist attractions in Boise, you’ll come across stunning parks and gardens nestled along the Boise River Greenbelt, with remarkable scenery and wildlife-watching opportunities.
Check out the best parks in Boise, ID.
Parks in Boise, ID
1. Lucky Peak State Park
Lucky Peak State Park
Spend the day hiking on the trails, picnicking, and swimming while being encircled by the charm of Idaho’s natural wonders at Lucky Peak State Park, encompassing 2,750 acres. Its top features include Sandy Point Beach, Discovery Park, and Spring Shores Marina.
Ride your bike to the Park and enjoy a cool swim at Sandy Point Beach. Its features include picnic tables, Disc golf, open only from Oct 1 to May 1, Volleyball courts, and an amphitheater. In addition, dogs are not allowed here.
Bring your loved ones and furry friends to Discovery Park for a picnic. You can also fish, play volleyball, and go bird-watching at Discovery Park.
For a more intense water adventure, head to Spring Shore, which offers a full-service marina, ample parking, boat ramps, a convenience store, and watercraft rentals.
Additionally, events are held at the Park from time to time. Lucky Peak State Park is no doubt one of the top parks in Boise, ID.
Address: 9725 ID-21, Boise, ID 83716, United States
2. Marianne William Park
Marianne William Park, located on the Boise River in East Boise’s Barber Valley, is a 72-acre natural beauty.
This riverside park features paved walkways, grassy open areas, and a large view of the Boise Foothills. There’s a well-maintained grassy area, which serves as a picturesque play space for kids.
Marianne William Park also has two large ponds, a gazebo, and benches. At this beautiful, well-maintained Park, you may also spot numerous birds, such as yellow finches, blue herons, and red-winged blackbirds.
While bicycles and dogs are not permitted in the Park, they are allowed on the adjoining green belt.
There are restrooms near the parking lot and some shelters for meals and group gatherings.
Address: 3451 E Barber Valley Dr, Boise, ID 83706, United States
3. Julia Davis Park
Julia Davis Park
Julius David Park, the oldest Park in Boise, is a hub of activities with the Idaho State Historical Museum, the Boise Art Museum, the Idaho Black History Museum, and the Zoo Boise within its boundaries.
Thanks to its long list of amenities, outdoor activities, and attractions, Julia David Park has been a well-known spot to spend some time.
It is also part of the Boise River Greenbelt. Its fields, playgrounds, ponds, and paths lie only a short walk from downtown.
The Park also has two pavilions along with sports courts for tennis, horseshoes, and bocce. There are restrooms close to the Agriculture Pavillion.
Julia Davis Park is open daily from 7 a.m. to midnight and is free to the general public.
Address: 700 S Capitol Blvd, Boise, ID 83702, United States
4. Camel’s Back Park
Camel’s Back Park
Camel’s Back Park, located only two miles from downtown Boise, is home to some of the most well-known hiking trails in the city.
From Camel’s Back, exploring the picturesque Ridge to River Trail system in the Boise foothills is not difficult. Or, if you prefer to follow one of the most famous trails in the Park, go to Lower Hulls Gulch Trail.
The boulder-studded 2.5 Mike trail cuts across the scenic Hulls Creek. To enjoy panoramic views, hike up to Crestline and Kestrel trails and head to the summit of Lower Hulls Gulch.
This trail is also well-known among mountain bikers if you like exploring it on two wheels. If you want an easier hike or you are visiting with kids, you will find many scenic trails in the lower trail system of the Park.
If hiking is not your thing, Camel’s Back Park features a playground, tennis courts, an outdoor workout center, and beach volleyball courts. There are also numerous picnic tables where you can enjoy a picnic lunch.
Address: Boise, ID 83702, United States
5. Kristin Armstrong Municipal Park
Kristin Armstrong Municipal Park
One of the primary attractions in Kristin Armstrong Municipal Park is its expansive trail system, which includes paved and unpaved and single-track options for running, biking, and hiking.
The Park also has a playground, picnic areas, and a fishing pond, making it an ideal spot for family outings.
Furthermore, Kristin Armstrong Municipal Park has softball and soccer fields for those searching for more active pursuits.
Kristin Armstrong Municipal Park is revered as one of the most fun parks in Boise, ID. It is open throughout the year and offers activities for all seasons.
Address: 500 S Walnut St, Boise, ID 83712, United States
6. Ann Morrison Park
Ann Morrison Park
Ann Morrison Park is a great option to check out if you are interested in adding in some workouts during your visit.
At this Park, you can lift weights, play golf, hit the ellipticals at the outdoor gym, play sand volleyball with your friends, or engage in a game of tennis.
Ann Morrison Park is among Boise’s leading points of interest for nature enthusiasts who want to soak in the Idaho wilderness.
You can visit many conservative stations for naturalist education and wildlife observation. Highlights include a milkweed reserve for butterfly observation, a pollinator garden, and an insect hotel.
Ann Morrison Park provides direct access to the Idaho Greenbelt trail for day hiking. It is revered as one of the most fun parks in Boise, ID.
Address: Ann Morrison Park, 1000 S Americana Blvd, Boise, ID 83706, United States
7. The Military Reserve
The Military Reserve
The Military Reserve, located right on the city’s outskirts, is a 734-acre natural area where nature enthusiasts can take a break from the hustle and bustle of downtown Boise.
The area was named after Fort Boise and the associated military operations that were conducted here from the 1860s to the 1940s. The area served numerous purposes for the military, such as being the location for gunnery practice in the hills.
After the military stopped its operation in the area, the city acquired the property for public recreation. The beautiful foothills habitat makes for a lovely escape from the city, as it is filled with plant life and wildlife.
Today, the Military Reserve houses many easy-to-follow trails. The Central Ridge Trail is a well-known choice. It can be blended with a number of other trails to make an enjoyable loop around the reserve. It also offers breathtaking views of downtown Boise.
The Cottonwood Creek Trail is another terrific hiking option. This delightful trail will take you to the groves of cottonwood trees and out onto open sagebrush flats. It’s especially incredible for wildlife viewing.
In addition to the hiking trails, the Military Reserve also boasts an off-leash dog area, an archery range, and access to a military cemetery.
Whether you are looking for a relaxed escape into nature for some hours or a good workout, this pleasant Park will undoubtedly deliver.
Address: 750 Mountain Cove Rd, Boise, ID 83702, United States
8. Kathryn Albertson Park
Kathryn Albertson Park
Kathryn Albertson Park is undoubtedly one of the finest displays of Boise’s natural landscape and wildlife. It is reputed to be one of the best parks in Boise, ID.
During your visit, you will walk through the trails around ponds, waterfall features, and beautiful forested areas surrounded by wildflowers.
Though it’s more developed than other hiking spots around the city, the Park embodies a fun natural experience for everyone
Paved footpaths make Kathryn Albertson Park accessible for young families with strollers and wheelchair users.
The Park is also an excellent spot for hiking groups with different fitness levels.
Address: 1001 S Americana Blvd, Boise, ID 83706, United States
9. Esther Simplot Park
Esther Simplot Park
Esther Simplot Park is a 55-acre attraction situated where the western edge of downtown Boise converges with the Boise River.
The Park is unique since approximately 22 acres of the space is just water, making it even more popular during summer.
This Park has over 23 acres of ponds for wading, fishing, swimming, paddleboarding, and canoeing.
The Esther Simplot Park also features docks, trails, boardwalks, wetlands, bridges, a playground, restrooms, shelters, and grassy open areas.
The Boise Greenbelt runs right through the Park, making it an excellent location to walk or bike in at any time of the day.
The Esther Simplot Park is near the J.A. and Kathryn Albertson Family Foundation Boise Whitewater Park, a well-known in-river recreation spot surfers and kayakers enjoy.
Only service animals are allowed at Esther Simplot Park. The Park is undoubtedly one of the best parks in Boise, ID.
Address: 3206 W Pleasanton Ave, Boise, ID 83702, United States
Plan a Idaho road trip, check out our list of things to do in Lava Hot Springs and things to do in Pocatello for a fun Idaho exploration
10. Barber Park
Barber Park
Barber Park, situated just a few miles outside the downtown core, has a delightful network of trails and walking paths that lead to the Boise River.
The Park’s primary attraction, the Boise River, is perfect for swimming and stocked for fishing. It also features a facility along the banks where you can rent tubes and rafts to glide on the water.
Barber Park also has a terrific space for picnicking. In addition to the gorgeous scenery, there are many tables, BBQ grills, pavilions, and tables for public use. You only have to bring some hotdogs, hamburgers, a blanket, and a cooler.
The Park also has basketball courts and playgrounds to keep everyone engaged.
Address: 4049 S Eckert Rd, Boise, ID 83716, United States
11. The Idaho Botanical Garden
The Idaho Botanical Garden
The Idaho Botanical Garden was originally established in 1984. This natural attraction features 12 themed gardens, all of which guarantee lots of botanical beauty for you to explore.
The garden displays over 35 years of gardening, horticulture, and conservation. Children and grown-ups will enjoy a guided tour through the meandering paths of the Native Plant Garden or the Lewis and Clark Native Plant Garden, where local Idahoan plant life grows.
Walk through the Meditation or Rose Garden for a quiet, reflective afternoon, where peacefulness and scented perfumes nearly float through the air.
The Idaho Botanical Garden also features the city’s local art along its numerous paths. Arts exhibitions of sculptures and statues take place throughout the year.
If you are planning to visit the city during the summer, remember to check out that garden’s Great Garden Escape series or Outlaw Field Summer Concerts, where local and global singers take to the stage for a night of festivity.
Address: 2355 N Old Penitentiary Rd, Boise, ID 83712, United States
12. Boise River Greenbelt
Boise River Greenbelt
The Boise River Greenbelt provides 25 miles of picturesque parkways and trails for locals and tourists to enjoy.
Located along the Boise River Greenbelt is the cherished “Ribbon of Jewels,” a series of parks that line the Greenbelt.
Each Park commemorates a civic leader of Boise and features various amenities with traditional features ranging from playgrounds, baseball fields, streams, picnic areas, and ponds for everyone to enjoy.
Visitors can also enjoy different activities besides picnics and playgrounds. Wildlife viewing remains a popular activity along the luxuriant paths of the Greenbelt.
Also, several of the rivers and ponds are filled with fish, and you are allowed to fish in them.
Amazingly, all of Boise River Greenbelt amenities are free to enjoy.
Address: Boise, Idaho, United States
13. Nampa Dog Park
If you are traveling with your pup, you can visit the Nampa Dog Park for a fun experience. This Dog Park is a safe place to allow your puppy to enjoy the outdoors.
Since Nampa Dog Park opened in 2009, it has welcomed numerous dogs looking for a safe and fully-fenced facility in the center of Nampa.
Nampa Dog Park is indeed a terrific place to bring your pup, as they will always be welcome here. Since it is an off-leash dog park, your pup will have fun playing with other dogs.
Nampa Dog Park is in Nampa, ID, 28 minutes from Boise, ID.
Address: 2833 2nd St and S Kings Rd Nampa, ID, USA
14. Julius M. Kleiner Memorial Park
The Julius M. Kleiner Memorial Park has been existing since 2012. The Park’s name is derived from Julius M. Kleiner, a local industrialist and philanthropist.
While at this Park, you can enjoy many recreational activities, such as taking a walk and riding a bike. Scenic and lovely to behold, Julius M. Kleiner Memorial Park has a number of landmark attractions, such as the Grand Promenade and Kleiner Park Loop.
The Park was constructed around an expansive area and thus has been split into different sections. The center of the Park houses two gorgeous ponds and also contains an amphitheater. If you come here during summer, you may be able to catch a concert in the Park.
Ensure you check out the statue of Julius M. Kleiner situated by the Grand Plaza close to the North Pond.
Julius M. Kleiner Memorial Park is in Meridian, ID, 18 minutes from Boise, ID.
Address: Kleiner Memorial Pkwy, Meridian, ID 83642, United States
15. Deer Flat National Wildlife Refuge
Deer Flat National Wildlife Refuge
The Deer Flat National Wildlife Refuge is an expansive natural area where the local flora and fauna grow.
Deer Flat National Wildlife Refuge is your go-to place if you are looking for an outdoor adventure that consists of local flora, fauna, and spectacular scenery.
The Wildlife Refuge draws nature enthusiasts and wildlife who want to explore its extensive area through hiking.
Along the way, you will come across birds, small reptiles, and mammals only found in the state.
Deer Flat National Wildlife Refuge also has picnic and camping sites where you can relax before continuing your outdoor excursion.
Address: 13751 Upper Embankment Rd, Nampa, ID 83686, United States
16. Enjoy a Lovely Picnic at the Lakeview Park
Lakeview Park is Nampa’s oldest Park. This 44-acre Park was formerly a homestead and has been around since 1888.
It primarily features picnic areas, a lush green space, a children’s playground, a rose garden, a duck pond, an amphitheater, a sand volleyball court, a horseshoe pit, and a bike trail.
Aside from picnicking, you can enjoy fishing, hiking, sightseeing, or playing sports at Lakeview Park.
This Park is among Nampa’s best places in the city that won’t require you to spend any money.
Address. 1304 7th St N, Nampa, ID 83687, United States
17. Liberty Park
Liberty Park
Liberty Park was built in 1995 through the Mercy Hospital. It is a popular place for residents and tourists to let their kids have fun.
It has a stunning playground with many features ensuring that your kid will have a swell time.
At the same time, the Park has multiple sports facilities for softball, basketball, soccer, and baseball for more fun activities.
Liberty Pak is also an ideal spot for a picnic, making it a great place to spend your time when you visit this city.
Address: 600 Constitution Way, Nampa, ID 83686, United States
Check out more cities in Idaho. Here is a guide on things to do in Pocatello, and things to do in Driggs, for a fun time
Plan Your Trip to Boise
The incredible city of Boise, set against the spectacular backdrop of the Boise Mountains, awaits your presence.
You will undoubtedly have a memorable time exploring the spectacular parks in Boise, ID.
Plan your Boise, ID trip today.