20+ Amazing Things to Do in Boise in Winter
Have you been wondering what there is to do in Boise this winter?
Well, there’s more than enough to keep you entertained despite the cold weather.
Now I know what you may be thinking – it’s winter, so everything will be closed or canceled. But that’s actually not the case at all.
In fact, Boise offers a whole range of both indoor and outdoor activities.
To name a few, there are terrific skiing and snowboarding resorts just outside the city, ice skating at a beautiful outdoor rink downtown, and cozy cafes everywhere serving hot chocolate and comfort food.
And here, I’ve gathered a fun-filled list of over 20 such things you won’t want to miss.
Table of Contents
Outdoor Winter Activities
Winter Sports
1.Skiing, Snowboarding, and Tubing at Bogus Basin Mountain Recreation Area
Bogus Basin is a fantastic winter sports destination near Boise, only about 16 miles from downtown. For more winter sports spots beyond Boise, check out some of the Best National Parks to Visit in Winter. Besides, they have all kinds of slopes there for skiers and snowboarders of every skill level. Plus, the mountain scenery is just beautiful, surrounding everything. That’s why it’s perfect for skiing, snowboarding, or even tubing down the hills.
Now, if you want some extra comfort while you’re there enjoying yourself, I’d recommend staying at The Grove Hotel. This is because they offer this special Bogus Basin package that makes planning your trip a breeze. It also covers your lodging and lift tickets so you can fully relax and have fun without stressing over the details.
2.Sledding and Tubing at Camel’s Back Park
Camel’s Back Park is this awesome place in Boise for winter fun with friends and family. And it has some really steep hills that are just perfect for sledding down. On top of that, because of where it’s located, you get these beautiful views of the city skyline while you’re there.
Further, it’s so nice to lounge around, taking in the scenery with a touch of a scenic charm after zipping back and forth on your sled. Plus with the friend factor too, it really makes it such an ideal spot to enjoy the snowy season. I bet post-sledding, you could even make some hot chocolate or roast marshmallows over a fire pit if they have one, too.
3. Snow Tubing at Eagle Island State Park
Eagle Island State Park is such a fun place to check out this winter, too. This is because they have this awesome designated tubing hill there with all kinds of amenities to make it a super cozy experience. Like they’ve got food stands and drink stands going so you don’t go hungry or get dehydrated from all that exercise on the hill.
And best of all is the giant fire pit at the bottom – nothing better than swinging by there after a few runs to warm up with friends. It’s honestly such a great set-up if you want to enjoy the outdoors but still have those comforts. Really, it’s such a blast being able to tube with family and friends too in a beautiful park setting like that.
Hot Springs
4. The Springs in Idaho City
Did you know there’s this really cool place just outside of Boise called The Springs in Idaho City? It’s only like a short little drive but so worth it. Because they have these amazing natural hot springs where you can soak in the warm waters and just totally unwind. And get this – you’re basically surrounded by gorgeous snowy scenery while you do it. It’s so pretty and relaxing.
They also have private pools you can book if you want more privacy. Oh, and sometimes on weekends, they’ll have live music playing, which is a nice bonus! Plus you can get food and drinks brought to you too so you really don’t have to leave the warmth. It honestly seems like such a refreshing way to take in nature, even in the winter months.
5. Gold Fork Hot Springs
I found this really cute place up in the mountains called Gold Fork that’s perfect for a family winter day trip. This is mainly because they have several open-air hot pools there with different temperatures. Anyone can find one that’s just right, which is so lovely when you’ve got kids in tow, too.
And can we talk about the views? The pools are right by the most gorgeous snow-capped mountain scenery which just makes it so relaxing and pretty. Surprisingly, it seems like such a charming little destination you could easily spend the whole day soaking and taking in the winter atmosphere. Definitely worth checking out if you’re looking for a low-key outdoor activity the whole family will love.
Winter Hikes
6. Hiking to Hot Springs
It’s the coolest thing to combine a winter hike with visiting some natural hot springs around here. For example, a few that people really like are Pine Flats and Kirkham – they’re both pretty close to Boise if you’re looking to get out of the house for the day. Nothing like working up a sweat on the trails with some views of the snow and then being able to unwind your muscles in the warm waters, right?
In fact, it really is so rejuvenating to get that dose of nature but still have an activity to do followed by relaxing in the pools. It’s definitely an amazing way to spend a winter day that mixes in a bit of exercise, scenery and soothing your body all in one trip.
7. Snowshoeing and Winter Hiking in the Boise Foothills
If you want to get outside and do some exploring even when it’s all snowy, the Boise Foothills have some great options. Tons of trails up there that totally change into these magical winter scenes once covered in snow – it’s gorgeous! You can either hike the trails as is or grab some snowshoes to make it a bit easier.
Either way, the fresh air and just sweeping views you get with all that white scenery make the effort so worth it. Seems like a really nice way to be active outside and take in pretty sights during the colder months.
Festivals and Events
8. McCall Winter Carnival
For an exciting winter festival near Boise, the McCall Winter Carnival is a must-see! Discover more popular Top U.S. Winter Festivals to add to your travel list. It’s only like a couple hours from Boise so totally doable as a day trip. They have these insanely cool and huge snow sculptures that people make, which are so cool to see up close.
Plus,all the yummy food and lively vibes going on make it super fun. And obviously, the scenery around McCall is to die for, especially with snow everywhere. It just seems like such a great low-key event to experience some winter festivities and get out of the house for a day.
9. Idaho Potato Drop for New Year’s Eve
So did you hear that Boise does this really fun thing for New Year’s Eve? Instead of a ball, they have this giant illuminated potato called “Glow Tattoo” that gets lowered at midnight – it’s their play on the usual ball drop tradition.
I hear they have live performances, fireworks, and just a really upbeat vibe going on in general as everyone counts down to the new year. Sounds like such a quirky and festive way to celebrate – definitely has to be an experience seeing that giant potato lit up while ringing in the new year.
10. Polar Bear Plunge at Lucky Peak Reservoir
Did you hear about this crazy New Year’s tradition in Boise? It’s called the Polar Bear Plunge at Lucky Peak. Basically, people brave jumping into the freezing lake waters on January 1st! I can’t even imagine how cold that must be.
But it seems like a really fun, wild thing people do to celebrate the new year and support Make-A-Wish Idaho. Pretty awesome people are willing to withstand that chill, all for a good cause.
11. Idaho Dog Sled Challenge
There’s this really cool thing you can see in Idaho called the Dog Sled Challenge! You basically get to watch experienced mushers and their dog sled teams as they compete on winter trails.
Besides, It must be so amazing to see the dogs and their owners all working together smoothly over snow. It really gives you a new perspective on dog sledding and what an art it is. I’ll bet the puppers look like they’re having a great time, too – seems like such a fun tradition to check out and maybe learn something new!
Indoor Winter Activities
Arts and Culture
12. Boise Art Museum
Did you know about this awesome place in Boise called the Art Museum? It’s such a treat to visit since they always have different exhibits showcasing various styles of art. Whether it’s modern pieces or more traditional works, there’s always something new to check out since the displays change throughout the seasons.
And It’s really neat being able to explore different artists and topics. In fact, it’s definitely a nice escape and a fun way to experience something cultural whenever you’re looking for something new indoors to do!
13. Idaho State Museum
The Idaho State Museum is such a cool place to check out if you’re into history at all. Since they really take you through the entire history of Idaho’s culture and landscape in an interactive way. Besides, All the exhibits do such a great job of bringing it all to life, so it feels really immersive.
And it’s engaging for people of all ages, too, which is nice. If you want to learn more about where we live, it’s a really fun museum to spend an afternoon exploring.
14. Old Idaho Penitentiary
You have to check out the old prison tours they do in Boise; they’re so interesting! They really dive into the history there, and because it’s not used anymore, it has this kinda spooky vibe, too, which gives it that little mystery element.
So, If you’re into history but also like things on the creepy side, the tours are just so cool for learning about the past in such a unique environment.
15. Classic Holiday Films at the Egyptian Theatre
Have you been to the Egyptian Theater yet? They show classic movies there around the holidays, and it’s such a fun, unique experience. More interestingly, the building itself is just gorgeous – it kind of feels like you go back in time when you’re inside.
And the atmosphere is always really cozy and intimate. Definitely, it’s just the perfect place to watch old films, especially around this time of year.
16. Boise Philharmonic
Have you checked out any of the concerts done by the Boise Philharmonic? Their shows seem like such a lovely winter activity – the perfect thing to do on a cold night!
Besides, you really get swept up in the gorgeous music they play, from classical pieces to modern composers. I suggest it would be amazing to immerse yourself in the performances for an evening out.
Family Activities
17. Idaho IceWorld
Did you know IceWorld does family skating nights on Wednesdays? It seems like such a cute winter thing to do with the kids or other family members. Getting some fresh air and exercise while spending quality time together sounds really lovely. And I love that they also make it affordable for everyone on those nights.
18. Winter Garden aGlow at the Idaho Botanical Garden
The Botanical Garden, around the holidays, has this impressive light display called Winter Garden aGlow that you seriously need to check out. As they string up lights all over the greenhouses and plants – it looks straight-up magical.
Plus, they have fun foods that really get you into the festive spirit of the season. It just seems like the most beautiful, cheerful place to take family or friends to make awesome winter memories together.
FAQ: Boise Winter Activities
Q: What are the best places for winter sports in Boise?
A: Bogus Basin Mountain Recreation Area offers skiing, snowboarding, and tubing. Camel’s Back Park and Eagle Island State Park are excellent spots for sledding and tubing.
Q: Are hot springs available year-round in Boise?
A: Yes, several hot springs, such as The Springs in Idaho City and Gold Fork Hot Springs, are open year-round, making them perfect winter destinations.
Q: What family-friendly activities can we do in Boise during winter?
A: Family-friendly options include Idaho IceWorld, Winter Garden aGlow, and interactive museums like the Discovery Center of Idaho.
Q: Are there any unique Boise winter festivals?
A: The McCall Winter Carnival is a must-see, with incredible snow sculptures and events. Boise’s Idaho Potato Drop is another unique celebration for New Year’s Eve.
Q: How can we experience the arts in Boise during winter?
A: Boise Art Museum, Idaho State Museum, and performances by Boise Philharmonic and Ballet Idaho provide enriching cultural experiences.
Wrapping Up
As you can see, Boise truly transforms into a winter wonderland filled with diverse and exciting activities during the colder months. With so many options, whether you want to enjoy the outdoors, fun family time or cultural experiences, you’re sure to make lasting winter memories during any visit. I hope this guide has inspired your plans to explore everything this charming city has to offer in the season!
