Your Perfect Boise Weekend with Kids

Late morning to afternoon

Rent bikes and cruise along Boise’s scenic Greenbelt, a paved riverside trail that winds through parks, over bridges, and past splash pads and shady spots perfect for a quick break. Plan for a relaxed five- to seven-mile loop, with plenty of time to stop and explore. Pause at one of the riverside playgrounds or grassy parks to run around or grab a snack at one of the restaurants along the way. The ride is smooth and mostly flat, making it great for young riders or trailers, and there are plenty of fun distractions along the way to keep little legs moving.

Dinner & evening

Head to Boise’s laid-back Brewery District for a casual, walkable evening that’s surprisingly family-friendly. While adults sample local beers, ciders, or small-batch spirits, kids can sip on homemade frozen lemonades and play giant Connect Four or cornhole in relaxed outdoor spaces. Many of the breweries offer kid-pleasers like soft pretzels, wood-fired pizzas, tacos, and fries, with patios that welcome families and often have live music. It’s a perfect mix of grown-up fun and kid-approved energy to end the day on a high note.

Morning

Start your day with breakfast at the hotel or grab something fun and local—like flaky pastries and lattes for the grown-ups and hot chocolate or fresh juice for the kids—at a nearby café. Then head to JUMP Boise (Jack’s Urban Meeting Place), a creative and interactive space that’s part playground, part art installation, and entirely kid-approved. The outdoor slides tower high above the lawn, offering thrilling rides for big kids and more gentle options for little ones. Inside, climber zones range from toddler-sized foam structures to challenging nets and ropes for older kids, and there’s even a splash zone with misters to cool off on sunny mornings. Younger children will love the dedicated soft play area, complete with a foam pit and imaginative play zones.

Afternoon

After a morning of play, walk over to The Warehouse, a relaxed food hall offering everything from burgers and fries to fresh salads and kid-friendly rice bowls, plus craft sodas and milkshakes to cool off. Once you’ve refueled, take time to explore downtown Boise on foot. Browse quirky local boutiques, let kids pose in front of the bold and colorful murals of Freak Alley Gallery, and, if time allows, pop into the Discovery Center of Idaho, where hands-on science exhibits and interactive displays make learning fun for all ages.

Evening

Wrap up the day with a casual, early dinner—grab pizza, tacos, or a picnic pack from a local spot and head to one of Boise’s many riverside parks to dine with a view.

Morning

Start the day with a hearty breakfast at Big City Coffee, a cozy local favorite in the Linen District known for its oversized cinnamon rolls, breakfast burritos, and kid-approved Belgian waffles. With full bellies, head over to the Morrison Knudsen Nature Center, a fun and educational stop to visit with kids in Boise. Located right along the Greenbelt, it’s a peaceful place to explore nature together. Kids will love the underwater viewing windows where they can spot fish swimming in the stream, and the easy walking paths are perfect for little legs. The interactive exhibits at the visitor center help bring Idaho’s wildlife and ecosystems to life, making it both an engaging and free family outing.

Afternoon

After visiting the Morrison Knudsen Nature Center, stretch your legs with a scenic family stroll or bike ride along the Boise River Greenbelt, easily accessed just outside the park. Head west and stop at Discovery Playground, a whimsical, inclusive play space with musical features, climbing walls, and plenty of shade for a break. In summer, splash pads and riverside misting areas offer a great cool-down. For kids who still have energy, take a short drive to Camel’s Back Park, where older kids can climb to the ridge for panoramic city views while younger ones enjoy the fun rock structures and sandbox area below. If your family loves quirky history, the nearby Old Idaho Penitentiary adds an intriguing twist—older kids might enjoy peeking into the preserved cells, learning about escape attempts, and hearing spooky tales from Boise’s past.

Evening

For your final dinner in Boise, grab a table at The Wylder, a family-friendly brick oven pizza spot known for its chewy sourdough crust, fresh toppings, and cozy ambiance. They offer kid favorites like cheese and pepperoni, while adults can indulge in the mushroom and goat cheese pie or a glass of local wine.

If your crew still has energy—and it's summertime—cap off the night at Roaring Springs Water Park in nearby Meridian (open in the evenings during the summer), where the lazy river, water slides, and kiddie splash zones offer one final splashy thrill before heading home.