10 Ways to Make the Most of Summer in Boise (and the Local Businesses That Make It Easy)

1. Hit the Trails on Two Wheels

Boise's Foothills offer hundreds of miles of trails just minutes from downtown. If you don't own a mountain bike—or simply want to try something new—rent a bike and head for the hills.

Tri Town Bicycles in Hyde Park rents mountain bikes, e-bikes, cruisers, and more, and they're conveniently located just blocks from trail access leading to Hulls Gulch, Camel's Back Park, and the extensive Foothills trail system.

 

2. Pack a Picnic and Head to the Park

Grab a blanket, find a shady spot along the Greenbelt, Kathryn Albertson Park, Eagle Island, or one of your neighborhood parks, and enjoy a slow summer afternoon.

For picnic supplies, stop by Atavola for artisan cheeses and specialty foods, Porterhouse Market in Eagle for local favorites, Boise Co-op for fresh produce and prepared foods, or Lark & Larder on the Bench for a curated selection of gourmet provisions.

 

3. Learn to Garden

Summer is the perfect time to develop a green thumb. Whether you're interested in flowers, vegetables, pollinator gardens, or simply making your outdoor spaces more beautiful, there are plenty of local resources to help.

Edwards Greenhouse offers workshops, events, and even live music among the flowers. The Idaho Botanical Garden hosts educational programs throughout the season, while Lovely Hollow Farm provides opportunities to experience locally grown flowers and farm life in a beautiful setting.

 

4. Enjoy Wine by the Water

Telaya Wine Co. remains a Boise favorite with its riverside patio along the Greenbelt, especially after last year's updates to their outdoor spaces. Eagle's Dude DeWalt Cellars opened a tasting room along the Greenbelt as well. For something new, check out Laissez Faire at The Boardwalk, one of Boise's newest gathering places along the river.

 

5. Paddleboard or Kayak

Paddleboarding and kayaking continue to be some of the most popular summer activities in Boise. Whether on the Boise River, at Eagle Island, Lucky Peak, or Quinn's Pond, Idaho River Sports offers rentals, lessons, and gear for every experience level.

 

6. Grab an Acai Bowl After a Day Outside

Looking for a refreshing summer treat that isn't ice cream? Acai bowls are the perfect post-adventure snack.

True Fuel Superfood Café serves some of the best acai bowls in town and is conveniently located just minutes from Quinn's Pond and the Boise Whitewater Park. Grab one after a paddle session, bike ride, or walk along the Greenbelt.

 

7. Take Your Yoga Practice Outdoors

It doesn't get better than fresh air and movement! YogaPop at Edwards Greenhouse hosts weekly yoga sessions in a lush garden setting, creating a unique yoga experience. Meanwhile, Bogus Basin's Yoga on the Mountain offers incredible views and a peaceful mountain setting for your practice.

 

8. Enjoy Paella on the Basque Block

The Basque Block regularly hosts events featuring authentic Basque food, community gatherings, and plenty of opportunities to enjoy one of Boise's most unique cultural districts. If you've never experienced a community paella event, summer is the perfect time. Learn more at the Basque Museum & Cultural Center.

 

9. Treat Yourself to Local Ice Cream

The STIL continues to be a local favorite with creative flavors and collaborations. Goody's offers old-school charm and classic treats, while Lovejoy's Real Ice Cream and Dee's Sweet Treats provide delicious handcrafted options worth seeking out on a warm evening.

 

10. Hit Some Golf Balls

You don't have to be an avid golfer to spend an afternoon at the course. Hit a bucket of balls at the driving range or work on your putting on the greens without booking a tee time. There are some fabulous public courses throughout the Valley that make this an easy afternoon activity.

Warm Springs Golf Course remains one of Boise's most accessible public courses. Recently updated with a new restaurant and patio dining area, it's a great place to play a round, practice your swing, or enjoy a drink while taking in the views of the course and surrounding foothills.

 

---

Lysi Bishop Real Estate is an expert in the Boise Real Estate market, offering unmatched expertise and unparalleled service to clients around the Treasure Valley. With over 30 years of in-depth knowledge and experience, Lysi Bishop inspires and leads her team of dedicated agents towards earning the title of the Best Boise Real Estate Team, year after year.

Our team specializes in luxury homes and five-star, concierge-style service in Boise and all surrounding areas, including neighborhoods like the North End, East End, Highlands, Collister, Harris Ranch, Warm Springs Mesa, East End Foothills, Boise Bench, SE Boise, Barber Valley, and West Bench, and extending into Eagle, Two Rivers, Hidden Springs, Meridian, Nampa, and Kuna.