Boise day trips can be a delightful way to spend a day in the city of Boise or travel to some of the great locations outside the city limits. Boise day trips from the city can include fishing, hiking, rafting and other outdoor pursuits. Boise day trips within the city can be spent touring a museum or exploring the history and culture of this portion of Idaho.

Boise River Greenbelt

Day trips in Boise can offer plenty of things to do. One popular choice is the Boise River Greenbelt. The Greenbelt is a 20 mile stretch of paved pathway for biking, running, skating, walking and more. The trail makes its way through downtown Boise, as well as heading out through Veterans Memorial Park and the Julia David Park. There are restaurants and cafes set up alongside the Greenbelt perfect for grabbing a coffee or a snack as you move along.

Old Idaho Penitentiary

Another popular choice for day trips in Boise is the Old Idaho Penitentiary. Built in 1870, the Penitentiary was used to hold prisoners in the undeveloped Old West. A 90 minute tour is available for visitors, which costs about $4 for adults and is free for children ages 5 and under. This penitentiary remains a popular attraction among day trips in Boise and Boise tours.

Ridge to River Trail System

Over 75,000 acres of trails and open land make up the Boise Ridge to River Trail System. From the Boise Ridge to the Boise River, the open stretch of land is a popular choice for Boise trips and Boise tours. Most visitors choose to mountain bike through the area, though it can also be hiked. There are roads through the area so that you can drive in.

Idaho Shakespeare Festival

Started in 1977, the Idaho Shakespeare Festival is a great way to spend Boise trips and Boise tours in the summer. Each June through September, the Shakespeare Festival takes place at an amphitheatre along the Boise River. Prices for the plays cost $10 for children and $32 for adults, with discounts being offered for groups.

Boise River Rafting

Gentle Boise trips spent coasting down the Boise River are a popular way to spend a summer afternoon in Boise. Since there is not much whitewater to be found on the stretch of river that most folks raft, this is a popular event for people of all ages and abilities. If you don't have your own raft, canoe or kayak, there are a few different spots on the river to rent them. Most trips from Barber Park in the north to Ann Morrison Park in the south take about 3 hours.