Visiting Boise this summer but only for a day? Aside from finding your new dream home with one of our amazing agents, there’s a lot to do in this little city! You might find yourself wondering where your time would be best spent. We’re here to help! We’ve broken down some of our favorite spots and activities for a fun filled, jam packed day in Boise, Idaho.

Waking up and walking around downtown you’ll instantly notice the small town charm Boise still has while being an active and growing city. You’ll see people walking the streets, biking around, hanging out and just being all around friendly. If there’s one reputation Idahoans have across the board, it might just be their friendliness! 

If you’re a coffee drinker than you’re in luck, we have loads of coffee shops in town! Some of our personal favorites in downtown Boise are Slow by Slow, Push and Pour, Form and Function, and The District. You really can’t go wrong at any of these options for a great way to start your day. If you're not a coffee drinker but still need some help getting the day started, check out Rise and Grind for one of their tea bombs. This is a sure fire way to get some pep in your step! 

Since you’re visiting in the summer, you have the unique opportunity to check out our Capitol City Public Market. Located around the intersection of 8th Street and Idaho Street in downtown Boise. The Capital City Public Market is one of the best representations of the importance Boise places on it’s local vendors and artisans. Don’t just take our word for it though, see it for yourself! The market is open from 9:30am-1:30pm and runs from July 17th through October. 

After browsing through the market, if you weren't tempted by any of the delicious street food, you might be wanting some breakfast/brunch. Right next to the market is Fork Restaurant which is always a crowd pleaser. They are one of the most loyal to local restaurants in the area, sourcing all of their ingredients from only local suppliers. Oh, and did we mention they have an amazing brunch! 

Now that you’re all fuled up for the day, no better time for a quick hike. While there are many beautiful hiking opportunities in and around the Boise area, we know you’re on a tight schedule so we’ll just suggest one. Camel's Back Park is located in the beautiful North End of Boise. Here you’ll find a massive 11 acre park providing access to a variety of hiking trails throughout the Boise foothills. You don’t have to go far for an amazing view though! By either climbing the stairs or weaving through the short trail to the top of the park hill, you’ll be able to enjoy the breathtaking views of the Boise city scape peeking through the trees. This is one of many viewpoints in Boise that perfectly solidifies its nickname  “The City of Trees”.

While in Camel’s Back Park, walk down 13th st and you’ll find yourself in Hyde Park. While walking, take time to look around and soak in some of the beauty this quiet little part of town holds. The North End is one of the more affluent neighborhoods filled with beautiful and historic architecture. In Hyde Park you’ll find a variety of restaurants and specialty shops, all with their own unique style perfectly embodying the culture of Boise. 

Another outdoor excursion that’s quick but totally worth it would be Quinn’s pond and the Boise Whitewater Park. Located west of downtown, this is a must see destination for any water sports enthusiasts. Quinn’s pond offers a relaxing park atmosphere with large ponds for paddleboarding and swimming. Right next to Quinn’s pond in the Boise River you’ll find the Whitewater Park, which is a series of man made waves for surfing and kayaking in the Boise River. You read that right, surfing in the Boise River!  

If you’d like to grab a drink and enjoy more time by the river, cross the bridge and make a stop by Yardarm. This is a seasonal outdoor bar constructed out of an old shipping container. With refreshing misters and shade this is a great spot to cool off and beat the heat. 

Around dinner time, you couldn't possibly ask for better options in downtown Boise. With an abundance of restaurants right in the heart of downtown, take a stroll down 8th street and decide what you’re in the mood for. If there’s a wait time, don’t worry about it! While you’re waiting, utilize your time by checking out the local street art found on Freak Alley off 8th Street in downtown Boise. This is a constantly changing art gallery with more than enough to keep you busy until your table is ready. 

Finally if you have access to a car, there's no better way to wrap up your big day in Boise than taking in the sunset from Table Rock. With scenic views of Boise and the entire surrounding area. The sun doesn't set in Boise till about 9:30pm in the summer so you should have ample time to catch it. Ending your day with a view like this will surely make you want to call this place your new home!