Are you looking for something fun to do in Boise during the winter months? Look no further! As a local resident, I’ve compiled a list of 37 unforgettable winter activities to keep you entertained and active.
From outdoor adventures to indoor attractions, there’s something for everyone on this list. So bundle up and get ready to make some lasting winter memories in Boise.
What to Do In Boise During the Winter
1. Ice Skating
There are plenty of ice skating rinks in and around the Boise area you can enjoy throughout the winter months. If you prefer an indoor setting, Idaho Ice World provides a large indoor rink suitable for both beginners and advanced skaters.
Want to take in the fresh air while you skate? No problem, The Village at Meridian and the Indian Creek Plaza both offer outdoor ice rinks and skate rentals. I prefer Indian Creek myself as the rink is larger and there’s an inner area for those who want to practice before hitting the crowded rink.
Plus, you can grab a hot slice of pizza from the nearby shop or a hot cup of coffee from Flying M located right around the corner from the rink.
2. Gebert-Arbaugh Polar Bear Challenge
Every new year on January 1st, Make-A-Wish Idaho hosts the Gebert-Arbaugh Polar Bear Challenge at Lucky Peak Reservoir where brave Idahoans gather to take a dip in the near-freezing water to raise money to help grant the wishes of local children with critical illnesses.
The event also features water skiing and a costume contest. If you’re crazy enough to take the plunge, it’s a good time and you get to help support a great cause.
3. World Center for Birds of Prey
In the winter months, the World Center for Birds of Prey offers the opportunity to see some of Idaho’s more elusive raptors, such as the rough-legged hawk and the northern goshawk, which are more likely to be present during the colder months.
In addition, the winter landscape provides a picturesque backdrop for viewing these majestic birds, with snow-covered trees and fields creating a beautiful and serene setting.
If you haven’t checked out what the crew at the World Center for Birds of Prey is doing, it’s worth the $12 entry fee.
4. Bogus Basin Mountain Resort
Bogus Basin is a popular ski resort located just 18 miles north of Boise. A quick drive up the mountain and you’re greeted by snow-covered mountains with numerous hills for all types of skill levels.
No gear, no worries. Bogus Basin provides you with everything you need to ski or snowboard including boots, a helmet, poles for skiing, and bindings for boarding. Moreover, they’re open late so you can choose to shred the slopes early in the morning or late at night.
Don’t worry, they use plenty of lights to brighten up the mountainsides at night. They’re so bright you can see them from the city!
5. Snow Tubing
For those of you looking for a thrill, Boise offers some pretty intense snow tubing courses. Bogus Basin has a crazy 800-foot snow tubing hill perfect for all ages.
However, my favorite place is still Gateway Parks located in Eagle Island State Park. They offer three intense hills with various grades and jumps (yeah, you read that right) that are sure to make your stomach drop.
If you have young kids, no problem. The first hill—although still extremely fast—is not as steep as the others and is perfect for kids who want to try it out for themselves, or even youngsters who might still need to sit on your lap.
Sessions last 90 minutes and include as many rides as you can get to. Go during the weekdays for reduced pricing and smaller lines.
6. Sledding
Want the same thrill of tubing without having to pay? Then grab a sled or garbage can lid and hit one of the local snow-packed hills for a thrilling afternoon of sledding.
The two most popular sledding spots in Boise are Camel’s Back Park and Simplot Hill.
Both are great spots that provide an ample dose of adrenaline. That said, I think Simplot Hill offers more room for sledding, whereas Camel’s Back has one main spot where everyone seems to gather.
If you can get to Camel’s Back early before the crowd arrives, it’s worth it. If you’re headed out mid-day, I recommend checking out Simplot.
7. Snowshoeing
Looking to hike through the wintery wonderlands of the Boise mountains? Look no further than Bogus Basin (they pretty much offer every winter activity you’d expect from a resort).
The resort offers both snowshoe-specific trails and shared Nordic trails that are great for all ages. In fact, if you aren’t up for skiing or snowboarding but you still want to enjoy the view, snowshoeing is a perfect way to relax and enjoy the outdoors.
You can rent snowshoes for a half or full day, and they offer both kid and adult snowshoes. Plus, kids 6 and under get to snowshoe for free!
8. Fishing
Fishing is big in Idaho! More specifically, in Boise. The Boise River runs directly through the city making fishing year-round a breeze without having to travel far. As long as you’ve got a fishing pole and an Idaho Fishing License, you’re all set to start catching some trout, even during the middle of winter.
Besides the river, there are other nearby fishing spots you can check out as well.
- Lake Lowell
- South-Fork of the Boise River
- Snake River near the border of Oregon (make sure you remain on the Idaho side)
Note that anyone who’s 14 years of age or older must purchase an Idaho fishing license to fish legally.
If you’re caught fishing without a license, believe me when I say the fine will cost much more than the cost to buy a license. Additionally, the license is only good for the person it’s assigned to and for one pole unless you purchase a two-pole permit.
9. Botanical Garden Winter Garden aGlow
Every winter, Boise’s Botanical Garden is transformed into the “Winter Garden aGlow“, with over 300,000 lights that make for a truly magical experience. Take a stroll around the garden while you enjoy a steaming cup of coffee or hot chocolate, and let the lights melt away all your worries.
The Winter Garden aGlow will forever hold a special place in my heart as this is where my wife and I enjoyed one of our first dates. So whether you’re going with your family or significant other, it’s a relaxing winter activity.
10. Christmas Lights
Not everyone wants to pay to stare at lights. But, what if you could enjoy dozens of different Christmas light displays around the city for free, all from the comfort of your vehicle? In Boise, you can.
For many locals, Christmas light hunting is a winter tradition the entire family enjoys. And with the addition of numerous houses offering music-synced light shows, it’s even more fun!
You can venture to some of the local Boise neighborhoods and try to find lights yourself, or you can use the convenient Boise Christmas Light Map to locate the exact light show you want to see with ease.
11. Tree Lighting
Boasting a huge 30-plus foot tree and over 5,000 lights, the Boise City tree lighting occurs every year in downtown Boise in November.
There’s no better way to celebrate the holiday season in the city than by watching Boise’s mayor light up the tree, in addition to live performances, food, drinks, and good company.
12. Idaho Potato Drop
It wouldn’t be winter in Idaho without potatoes. I mean just look at the name of the website you’re on! The Idaho Potato Drop is a local favorite event come New Year’s eve.
Every year in downtown Boise, the city drops a massive man-made potato as the clock strikes midnight, signifying the new year has arrived.
The event draws over 40,000 people from all around the state and features a live concert, winter activities, drinks, and several local food trucks. If you want to experience winter in Boise like a local, this is a must-attend event.
13. Boise Depot
Boise’s historic train depot built in 1925, remains one of the most amazing outlooks in the entire city. If you’ve ever seen a photo of the city, it was likely taken from the Boise Depot.
But the pictures don’t even begin to do this spot justice, it’s something you have to experience for yourself.
A quick trip to the depot is a free experience you won’t forget. Not only is there plenty of room for kids to run around and play in the snow, but it’s also the perfect spot to take selfies or that classic wintertime family picture.
14. Build a Snowman
Although there are plenty of winter activities in Boise, you can enjoy the season wherever you are in town by building a snowman. There’s nothing like building a snowman or making a snow angel at a local park or even your house.
It’s simple, it’s fun, and it’s completely free to do. Plus you don’t have to travel far to do it. Throw on some gloves and your winter boots, and you’re ready to make frosty come to life.
15. Downtown Boise
Downtown Boise is full of local shops and eateries you can visit to keep out of the cold. The Boise Record Exchange is a cool place to browse your favorite music, grab an espresso, and just chill.
In the mood for some fine dining while you watch the snowfall? Bardenay Restaurant and Distillery is a local chain that offers excellent food, tasty drinks, and a prime spot to watch winter unfold as it’s located on Boise’s Basque Block in a cozy red brick building.
16. Aquarium of Boise
With over 38 exhibits and 250 different species, the Aquarium of Boise is a neat place to visit and is open year-round, 7 days a week. From sharks to sting rays, there’s no lack of underwater creatures that you can enjoy observing even in the midst of winter.
Tickets range from $8 to $13 for a full-day admission to Boise’s underwater world.
17. Boise Zoo
The Boise Zoo is full of exotic animals even in the winter, making it a perfect activity for families and couples alike. Spider monkeys, anacondas, penguins, and snow leopards are just some of the creatures you can expect to see when you visit the zoo during the winter months.
General admission for adults is $9 and seniors and kids get in for $6. Sometimes during the winter, the Zoo even offers discounted days so make sure to check the site for additional savings.
18. Coffee Shops
What better way to keep warm in the winter than with a hot cup of coffee and a pastry to go with it? If you’re looking for good coffee and relaxing vibes, there are dozens of coffee shops scattered across the entire city of Boise.
Some of my favorite local spots include Hyde Perk Coffe, Flying M, Big City Coffee & Cafe, The District Coffee House, and Neckar Coffee.
If you prefer to sip on coffee from the comfort of your car, Dutch Bros is one of the most popular drive-through coffee spots in town. If you’re a coffee junkie like me, check out the 9-1-1 here. It’s 6 shots of espresso. Think you can handle it?
19. Boise Little Theater
One of my absolute favorite things to do during the winter is watching a live performance at the Boise Little Theater. This non-profit theater has served the city for over 70 years and brings in over 12,000 people every season.
The actors and actresses are of all ages and from all parts of the world with varying levels of experience. Nonetheless, there hasn’t been a single show that my wife and I didn’t absolutely enjoy. During intermission, you can purchase coffee, cookies, and other snacks to consume while you enjoy the show.
If you’ve never experienced live theater, I can’t recommend BLT enough.
20. Catch a Movie
Whether you want to see the current Hollywood blockbuster or a classic film, Boise has plenty of movie theaters to choose from. For blockbuster films, check out Regal Edwards Boise.
If you’re into indie movies or “oldies but goodies”, you have to check out the Egyptian Theater in downtown Boise.
This theater has been serving the city for nearly 100 years and continues to do so effortlessly. It’s not uncommon for movie directors to make an appearance at the showing either.
21. Comedy Clubs
Boise is home to several comedy clubs that will have you laughing your pants off, while you keep warm! Recycled Minds Comedy is an award-winning club that offers an interactive experience that’s suitable for all ages, and is a perfect date-night activity.
If you’re looking for a more relaxed and chill club, Liquid Lounge is a nightclub serving up laughs, drinks, and quick bites.
22. Local Breweries
How about a cold beer on a crisp winter day? You got it! Boise has several delicious local breweries to choose from. Payette Brewing is arguably one of the most popular breweries, but by no means should you limit yourself.
Mad Swede Brewing Company, White Dog Brewing Co., Lost Grove Brewing, and Mother Earth Brew Co are all among the best of the best when it comes to local breweries.
Just don’t drink and drive! Instead, get an Uber and discover your favorite local brew.
23. Indoor Trampoline Park
Just because it’s wintertime doesn’t mean you can’t get active. Boise’s trampoline parks provide a warm and fun environment to get some exercise and are suitable for both kids and adults alike.
My favorite park in Boise is still FlyHigh. I’ve attended several of my nephew’s and niece’s birthday parties here and everyone always has a great time. Along with numerous trampolines and foam pits, there’s a dart room, a soft play space for kids, and a dodgeball court!
If you want to try out another park, I recommended Jump Time in Meridian.
24. Top Golf
For those who enjoy swinging a club or two, Boise’s Top Golf climate-controlled bays offer golfers a warm place to practice their swing even when it’s snowing outside.
Combine the warm atmosphere with food, drinks, music, and tv and you’ve got yourself the ultimate winter wonderland—or rather the ultimate man cave. There’s really no other place to play golf during the winter in Boise, so this is the place to be.
25. Indoor Rock Climbing
Rock climbing in Idaho is a popular outdoor sport. However, the winter weather means you have to look elsewhere to satisfy you’re climbing itch. Fortunately, there are multiple indoor climbing gyms in Boise offering beginner-friendly and advanced walls to climb.
My wife tried rock climbing for the first time at Vertical View and she absolutely loved it even with no prior experience. Since then, she’s been hooked! If you don’t have any of the gear, most gyms will provide you with everything you need.
Other climbing gyms in the area include Asana and The Commons Climbing Gyms.
26. Discovery Center of Idaho
Take a break from the cold winter weather and discover something new at the Discovery Center of Idaho located near downtown Boise.
With several thousand square feet of different types of interactive exhibits, including real dinosaur remains, the Discovery Center has always been a popular choice among kids and families.
In fact, I remember taking field trips to this center as a child. So now that I’m older, I feel like a dinosaur whenever I go in. Nevertheless, it’s still just as awesome as when I was a kid. Tickets range from $13 for kids up to $20 for adults.
27. Boise Art Museum
Hosting an array of exhibitions, classes, workshops, and tours, the Boise Art Museum (BAM) is a true one-of-its-kind experience in the area, showcasing masterpieces such as paintings and sculptures.
This museum is a good option for those of you looking to keep an open mind during the winter cold. I also think it’s a great date choice or family experience. And for only $6, you gain complete access to the entire museum.
28. Idaho State Museum
There’s no better time to explore Idaho’s culture than during the winter. Through exhibitions, artifacts, and educational programming the Idaho State Museum is the place to go if you’re curious to learn more about the history of the great spud state.
The museum is open 7 days a week. Adults get in for $10, seniors for $8, and youth for only $5. Children 5 and under are free!
29. Old Idaho Penitentiary
If you’re looking to make it a package deal, you can explore both the Idaho State Museum and the Old Idaho Penitentiary on the same day! Or if you just want to visit the penitentiary you can for $5 to $8.
Built in 1870, the Old Idaho Penitentiary is one of four prisons still open to the public today and provides serious insight as to what life in confinement would have been like back in the late 1800 and 1900s. For an additional two dollars, you can get a professional tour guide to show you around the place.
30. Idaho Capital Tour
Idaho’s Capital building is one of Boise’s most significant landmarks. Located smack dab in the middle of downtown, the 208-foot-tall dome structure is open to the public to check out via a guided or self-guided tour.
It’s not only a great place to get out of the cold, but it’s super cool to see all the rooms and various structures.
This is another one of my and my wife’s first date spots. Call us old-fashioned or just call us curious, because this place is awesome to explore if you have some free time.
You can download the self-guided tour or fill out the reservation form for a guided tour.
31. Idaho Steelheads Game
You might as well stay cool while doing something fun, like watching the Idaho Steelheads! The Steelheads are a professional minor league ice hockey team that is a blast to watch—especially considering they’re actually really good.
So grab your friends and family, get a beer and some concessions, and get ready for an intense night inside the Idaho Central Arena in downtown Boise.
32. Boise State Basketball
Idaho might not have a professional basketball team, but we have the next best thing—college ball!
Boise State’s men’s and women’s basketball runs throughout winter with home games played in the ExtraMile Arena, located on the campus of Boise State University.
33. Glass Blowing Class
Since 2004, Boise Art Glass has been teaching Boiseans the fine art of glass blowing. There’s literally no better way to keep warm than crafting your own unique piece of work over an open flame (safely of course).
With several different classes to choose from, ranging from $75 for a furnace class to $250 for a group of 4, Boise Art Glass offers an experience that everyone can enjoy.
Those under 18 will either need to be accompanied by a legal parent or guardian or have a signed waiver.
34. Local Cooking Class
Learn how to prepare some delicious comfort food for cold winter evenings by attending a local cooking class.
Two of the most popular classes in town include Season and Taste Cooking School, offering adult, family, and pastry classes, and The Basque Market which includes wine tasting.
Be sure to book these classes ahead of time as they often fill up weeks in advance.
35. Go Shopping
Would it really be wintertime without a little holiday shopping spree? Boise has tons of local shops and large shopping centers to satisfy your shopping needs. Want to shop local? Then check out Idaho Made—a modern shop offering clothing and art handcrafted by Boise’s very own artisans.
If you’re in the mood to go all out The Village at Merdian offers popular stores like Vans, Lulu Lemon, Columbia, and H&M, plus a ton more including restaurants and a movie theater.
Or take a trip to the Boise Town Square Mall where you’ll enjoy a variety of stores from Macy’s to Apple, and a large food court. If nothing else, the mall is a warm place to go to just stroll around and burn some calories. Seriously, people go here just to walk (workout gear and all).
36. McCall Winter Carnival
If you don’t mind taking a little road trip, McCall’s Winter Carnival is a must-experience event! McCall is a small resort town located just 2 hours away from the city, located on the southern shore of the beautiful Payette Lake.
During the winter, the town is turned into a huge winter carnival with snow sculpting, sledding, fireworks, and live music, along with over 100 other events! The town itself has adorable local shops and delicious eateries as well.
You can make it a day trip or stay for the entire multi-day event at one of the local inns or book an Airbnb—it’s worth it. It’s generally held at the end of January and lasts till early February.
37. Winter Farmer’s Markets
From April to the end of December, Boise Farmers Market provides the Treasure Valley with locally-grown food and local food vendors regardless of if it’s hot or cold outside. If you want to experience the city like a local, you’ve got to shop locally—even in the winter.
No matter which winter activity you choose to try, make sure you know how to dress for Boise’s winter and be prepared for winter driving in Boise by knowing what to expect.