As temperatures climb and the sun shines longer each day, we are reminded that summer is beginning.
Families in Boise and throughout the valley are grateful to call such a beautiful place home. In addition, there are many different ways to keep the kiddos busy all summer long while school is out.
If you’re new to the area or are simply looking for different things to do, we’ve compiled a list of family-fun places and activities to go this summer.
Boise Depot– A scenic overlook of Boise that also houses old artifacts. You can also take a ride up in the elevator to the top of the tower for a more scenic look. The Depot is occasionally rented out to private parties, so many sure to check ahead of time before you make your trip!
The MK Nature Center – Located along the Greenbelt, this center is free and a great place for children to learn more about their natural surroundings. Visit their website for more information on hours:
Boise Public Library – The Library! offers a variety of summer programs for adults and children alike. Check out their events calendar for classes happening near you! Most events are free with a library card!
Boise Parks and Rec – Boise Parks and Rec does free weekly movie screenings every Saturday at 7 p.m. in parks around Boise. Just bring a blanket or lawn chair and watch a classic film under the stars.
Meridian Parks and Rec– Live closer to Settlers Park? You are in luck. Settlers Park hosts a summer film every Friday evening starting at dusk in Settlers Park. Check the website for more information.
Zoo Boise – The zoo is a great place to bring the kiddos for a day out. Prices vary depending on age. Check out their website for more information.
Children’s Museum of Idaho– Explore a museum through interactive exhibits and other family-friendly fun. Children under 2 are free. Ages 2 and up are 8 dollars.
The Sensory Playce– The Sensory Playce was founded with children who have different sensory abilities and other special needs in mind. The Sensory Playce offers a wide variety of play areas for children with different needs. Rates vary. Visit their website for more information.
Altitude Trampoline Park – Looking for your child to expend some energy on a rainy day? The Altitude Trampoline Park is the perfect place for you. Rates start at 13 dollars for a child for one hour of jumping.
Discovery Center of Idaho – The Discovery Center of Idaho offers a place for children to learn more about the world around them through a lens they can understand. Rates vary depending on membership. Typically, children are 10 dollars. Adults are 12 dollars.
YMCA Day Camps – The Treasure Valley YMCA has many different options available. Rates are based on sliding scale – contact your local YMCA for more information.
Basque Museum & Cultural Center – A lazy Sunday spent on the Basque block can be enhanced with a quick trip to the Basque Museum & Cultural Center. An adult ticket is five dollars; children under five are free.
Planet Kid Indoor Soft Playground– An indoor playground for children up to 12. Visit Idaho’s largest indoor playground. Prices vary. Check their website for more information.
Jump Time – Let your child get all their energy out at this indoor trampoline park! Prices vary depending on age and location and special days. Call ahead.
Aquarium of Boise – Visit creatures from around the world at the Aquarium of Boise. The Aquarium of Boise has over 10,000 square feet that houses over 250 different species of animals and marine life in 35,000 gallons of saltwater. Admission varies.
Idaho State Museum – Explore the history of Idaho. There’s something for everyone at this museum. Prices vary depending on age.
City of Boise Pools – The weather is heating up! Check out some of these local pools to cool off during the hot summer months.
Cost varies for these attractions. Please contact the programs directly to find out more! There are of course a plethora of family-friendly activities to do with kiddos. We didn’t even start to mention all the hiking trails and state parks within driving distance of Boise!
What’s something fun that you and your family enjoy doing in the summertime? Let us know so we can add to our list!
