Boise, Idaho, sizzles in the summer, but don't fret—there are plenty of ways to stay cool and make the most of the season. Whether you're a local or visiting, here are 10 fantastic ideas and specific locations to beat the heat in Boise:
Boise River Float
Various access points along the Boise River, including Barber Park and Ann Morrison Park.
Floating down the Boise River is a quintessential summer activity in Boise. Starting from various access points like Barber Park and Ann Morrison Park, you can rent inner tubes or kayaks to leisurely drift along the scenic river. The riverbanks offer lush greenery and occasional wildlife sightings, providing a refreshing escape from the summer heat. Before setting out, it's wise to check river conditions and ensure you have sunscreen and plenty of water for hydration.
Roaring Springs Water Park
400 W Overland Rd, Meridian, ID 83642
Open daily during summer; hours vary, check website for details.
Located in nearby Meridian, Roaring Springs Water Park is Idaho's largest water park and a paradise for thrill-seekers and families alike. Open daily during the summer, the park features exhilarating water slides, lazy rivers, wave pools, and safe kiddie areas. Shaded seating areas and food concessions ensure visitors can relax comfortably between rides, making it an ideal destination for a full day of fun in the sun.
Lucky Peak Lake
Lucky Peak State Park, Hwy 21, Boise, ID 83716
Just a short drive from Boise, Lucky Peak Lake at Lucky Peak State Park offers a serene setting for boating, swimming, picnicking, and sunbathing. Surrounded by the Boise National Forest, the lake's cool waters provide a perfect respite from the summer heat. Whether you're renting a boat to explore the lake or simply lounging on the beach with a picnic, Lucky Peak Lake promises a tranquil escape close to the city.
Quinn's Pond and Esther Simplot Park
3206 W Pleasanton Ave, Boise, ID 83702
Quinn's Pond and Esther Simplot Park are popular spots for outdoor recreation within Boise city limits. Quinn's Pond is renowned for stand-up paddleboarding and kayaking, with rental options available nearby. The sandy beach area invites visitors to swim or sunbathe, while Esther Simplot Park features shaded picnic areas and a tranquil pond surrounded by walking paths and lush greenery. It's an ideal spot for families and individuals looking to cool off and enjoy nature in the heart of Boise.
Hyatt Hidden Lakes Reserve
5301 N Maple Grove Rd, Boise, ID 83704
Tucked away in Boise's urban landscape, Hyatt Hidden Lakes Reserve offers a peaceful retreat with shaded walking paths, fishing ponds, and opportunities for birdwatching. The reserve's quiet ambiance and natural beauty make it a favorite spot for locals seeking to escape the summer heat without leaving the city. Whether you're strolling along the paths or casting a line into the pond, Hyatt Hidden Lakes Reserve provides a refreshing outdoor experience.
Idaho IceWorld
7072 S Eisenman Rd, Boise, ID 83716
Public skating sessions vary, check website for details.
Located near downtown Boise, Idaho IceWorld offers a cool escape from the summer heat with its indoor ice skating rink. Open for public skating sessions throughout the year, the rink provides a fun and family-friendly atmosphere for skaters of all ages and skill levels. Whether you're practicing your skating skills or attending a themed skating event, Idaho IceWorld offers a refreshing indoor activity to beat the summer heat in Boise.
Julia Davis Park
700 S Capitol Blvd, Boise, ID 83702
Boise's oldest park, Julia Davis Park, spans along the banks of the Boise River and offers plenty of shade, green spaces, and scenic pathways. It's an ideal spot for picnicking, leisurely walks, or simply relaxing by the water's edge. The park is also home to several cultural attractions including the Boise Art Museum and Zoo Boise, making it a comprehensive destination for families and visitors seeking both recreation and enrichment.
Camel's Back Park
1200 W Heron St, Boise, ID 83702
Nestled in Boise's North End neighborhood, Camel's Back Park is a favorite among outdoor enthusiasts for its challenging hiking trail up Camel's Back Ridge. The park also features shaded picnic areas and breathtaking views of the city skyline. Early morning hikes are particularly refreshing, offering cooler temperatures and spectacular vistas of Boise and the surrounding foothills. It's a perfect spot for starting your day outdoors before the summer heat sets in.
Idaho Botanical Garden
2355 N Penitentiary Rd, Boise, ID 83712
Open daily, check website for hours and admission fees.
Located at the base of the Boise foothills, the Idaho Botanical Garden is a serene oasis featuring lush gardens, tranquil ponds, and shaded pathways. Open daily, the garden offers visitors a chance to explore themed gardens, seasonal plant displays, and educational exhibits. Special events such as concerts and garden tours are often held during summer evenings, providing a delightful opportunity to enjoy cooler temperatures while surrounded by natural beauty.
Boise Farmers' Market
1500 Shoreline Dr, Boise, ID 83702
Saturdays, 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM (May - October)
Held every Saturday at Shoreline Park from May to October, the Boise Farmers' Market is not just a place to shop for fresh produce and artisanal foods—it's also a lively hub for cooling off with refreshing treats like popsicles and fruit sorbets. Live music adds to the vibrant atmosphere as visitors browse stalls selling everything from local honey to handmade crafts. It's a perfect weekend destination for supporting local farmers and artisans while enjoying a cool summer morning in Boise.
Settlers Park Splash Pad
3245 N Meridian Rd, Meridian, ID 83646
Settlers Park in nearby Meridian features a popular splash pad that's perfect for cooling off on hot summer days. The splash pad includes various water features and is surrounded by shaded picnic areas and playgrounds, making it a great spot for families with young children to enjoy outdoor water play without venturing far from Boise.
Borah Pool
801 Aurora Dr, Boise, ID 83706
Open daily during the summer; check website for exact hours.
Borah Pool offers a refreshing outdoor swimming experience with a large pool, diving boards, and shallow areas for kids. The pool is well-maintained and provides a safe and supervised environment for swimmers of all ages to beat the heat and have fun in the water.
Boise Whitewater Park
705 S Whitewater Park Blvd, Boise, ID 83702
Located along the Boise River, the Boise Whitewater Park offers a thrilling water sports experience with its kayak and paddleboard courses, wave shapers, and play waves. It's a popular spot for adventurous individuals looking to cool off while enjoying the excitement of whitewater activities in the heart of downtown Boise.
Eagle Island State Park
165 Eagle Island Pkwy, Eagle, ID 83616
Just a short drive from Boise, Eagle Island State Park offers a refreshing retreat with its lake for swimming, sandy beach areas, and shaded picnic spots. The park is surrounded by scenic views of the Boise foothills and provides ample opportunities for boating, fishing, hiking, and wildlife watching, making it an ideal destination for a day of outdoor relaxation and recreation.
Downtown Boise Water Features
Various locations in downtown Boise, including The Grove Plaza and Capitol Park.
Downtown Boise offers several public spaces with water features that are perfect for cooling off while exploring the city. The Grove Plaza fountain invites children and adults alike to splash and play in the heart of downtown. Nearby, Capitol Park features interactive water jets and shaded seating areas, providing a refreshing break during summer outings in downtown Boise.
As Boise, Idaho embraces the summer heat, it offers a wealth of ways to stay cool and savor the season. Whether you're drifting along the Boise River, enjoying the thrills of Roaring Springs Water Park, or finding tranquility at Eagle Island State Park, each location provides a refreshing escape. From urban delights like Settlers Park Splash Pad to the natural beauty of Lucky Peak Lake and the adrenaline of Boise Whitewater Park, the city caters to every preference for beating the heat. Whether you're a local exploring familiar haunts or a visitor discovering Boise's charms, the city's commitment to outdoor enjoyment shines through its parks, markets, and attractions. Remember to stay hydrated, protect your skin, and plan your outings wisely to fully enjoy Boise's summer offerings—from shaded picnics in Julia Davis Park to cooling off in downtown's interactive fountains. Boise invites you to embrace the warmth, make memories, and revel in summer's pleasures.
