As autumn casts its spell over Boise, the city bursts into a mosaic of vivid colors and festive activities. From spooky Halloween celebrations to delightful fall festivals, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy this vibrant season. Here’s your guide to the best fall events and scenic spots in Boise.

Fall Events in Boise

Boo at the Zoo
Zoo Boise is hosting one of the most anticipated Halloween events in town. On October 26th and 27th, 2024, from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM, the zoo will be transformed into a Halloween wonderland with costumed characters handing out candy, costume contests for all ages, games, face painting, and more. Admission is free for Friends of Zoo Boise members, $10 for adults, $8 for seniors, and $7 for kids (infants 2 and under are free).

Villains in the Village
The Village at Meridian invites you to their annual Villains in the Village event on October 23rd, 2024, from 6:00 PM to 7:00 PM. This family-friendly event features a lair of villains, activities such as face painting and balloon twisting, and special appearances by nationally recognized animal expert Corbin Maxey and the Treasure Valley Children’s Theater.

YMCA Halloween Monster Mile & Freaky 5k
Celebrate Halloween with a dash at the YMCA Halloween Monster Mile & Freaky 5k on October 26th, 2024. The Freaky 5k begins at 10:00 AM, followed by the Monster Mile at 10:15 AM. Participants can run in costume and each runner receives a glow-in-the-dark t-shirt and a medal. It’s a fun and active way to enjoy the season with your family.

Lowe Family Farmstead Corn Maze & Pumpkin Festival
From September 14th through October 30th, 2024, the Lowe Family Farmstead, known as Idaho’s “original corn maze,” invites you to explore its maze and enjoy various family-friendly activities. The festival includes hayrides, a ropes course, pony rides, and more.

Boise Fall Festival at Expo Idaho
On October 5th, 2024, from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM, Expo Idaho will host a free fall festival. Enjoy face painting, games, live music, and various food vendors. This festival offers a cozy atmosphere perfect for embracing the fall season with your loved ones.

Fall Harvest at the Botanical Garden
Every Saturday in October, the Idaho Botanical Garden celebrates fall with family-friendly activities. Enjoy different experiences each week, including vendors, food trucks, live music, and the Scarecrow Stroll featuring creatively designed scarecrows by community members.

See Spot Walk
Join the fun at Julia Davis Park on October 5th, 2024, at 10:00 AM for the See Spot Walk. This dog walk and festival features dog-related goodies from vendors, food and drinks, and a 1k walk. Each registration includes a See Spot Walk t-shirt, making it a great event for pet lovers and their furry friends.

Apple Picking
Experience the quintessential fall activity of apple picking in the Treasure Valley. Thanks to Idaho’s rich soil, local orchards offer some of the juiciest and crispiest apples. Head to one of the area’s farms to pick your own apples and savor the taste of fall.

Best Fall Views in Boise

Bogus Basin
Located at 2600 N Bogus Basin Rd, Boise, ID 83702, Bogus Basin offers spectacular panoramic views of the valley below. It’s an easy drive from downtown and provides a stunning backdrop of fall colors without the need for a hike.

Table Rock Trail
The trailhead is at 4600 N Table Rock Rd, Boise, ID 83702. The moderate hike to Table Rock is a 3.7-mile round-trip, leading to a breathtaking view of Boise and the surrounding foothills. The fall foliage from the summit creates a vibrant landscape that’s well worth the effort.

Camels Back Park
Located at 1200 Heron St, Boise, ID 83702, Camels Back Park is an easy-access spot to enjoy picturesque views of the city and the Boise Foothills. The walking paths through the park are adorned with beautiful fall colors, perfect for a relaxed stroll.

Hulls Gulch Interpretive Trail
The trailhead can be found at 4800 N Bogus Basin Rd, Boise, ID 83702. Hulls Gulch offers a serene 7.4-mile round-trip hike through a picturesque canyon with diverse fall colors. It’s a moderate hike that immerses you in the natural beauty of Boise’s fall landscape.

Shingle Creek Trail
The Shingle Creek Trailhead is at 4800 N Bogus Basin Rd, Boise, ID 83702. This easy to moderate 5-mile round-trip trail is lined with vibrant fall foliage and follows a babbling creek, providing a tranquil and scenic hiking experience.

With a mix of festive events and stunning fall views, Boise is the perfect destination to celebrate autumn. Whether you’re enjoying local activities or exploring the colorful landscapes, there’s something for everyone this fall season.