Spring Break Ideas for Kids in Boise, Idaho

Spring break is a great time for families to take a break from the daily routine and spend some quality time together. If you're looking for a few family-friendly ideas for your spring break vacation, Boise, Idaho, is a great place to explore. This city has a lot to offer, from outdoor adventures to cultural experiences. Here are some things to do with kids in Boise during spring break.

1. Treefort Music Festival

Treefort Music Festival is an annual 5-day event held in downtown Boise that brings together a diverse range of musical acts and performers. It originated right here in Boise in 2012 and has since grown into a nationally-recognized music and arts festival, drawing in thousands of visitors every year.

Like its name suggests, the festival also features other forms of art set up in different “forts”, including Yogafort, Storyfort, and Filmfort. One unique aspect of the festival is Kidfort, a special area designed for children that includes interactive activities, workshops, and performances. Kidfort allows families to enjoy the festival together, with activities for children of all ages.

Get tickets here.

2. Get Outside

Boise is home to an amazing trail system that skirts the northern boundary of the city in the foothills. The Ridge-to-Rivers trail system, along with several city parks, nature paths, and the Boise River Greenbelt offer a multitude of options to take the family outside for sunshine and fresh air. Studies show that spending time in nature can help reduce stress, promote focus, increase creativity, encourage physical activity, and more.

• Discover the Ribbon of Jewels, a network of parks along the Boise River named after prominent women in Boise’s history. These include Ann Morrison Park, Julia Davis Park, and Kathryn Ann Albertson Park.

• Take a hike! Check out these kid-friendly hikes in Boise. The most popular trail for kids is Camel’s Back, where a set of steps lead you up to an incredible bird’s eye view of beautiful Boise.

• Go for a bike ride on the Greenbelt

3. Visit the Zoo

Zoo Boise is a wonderful option for entertainment for the entire family. It is home to over 300 animals from around the world, including tigers, giraffes, penguins, and monkeys. The zoo also has a petting zoo and play structures. Spring is a great time to visit the zoo as the animals are usually more active in the cooler weather. 

Learn more about Zoo Boise here.

4. Visit the Discovery Center of Idaho

The Discovery Center of Idaho is a family-friendly space for learning science and technology. The center has many interactive exhibits, such as a hurricane simulator, a virtual reality experience, and a giant musical instrument. DCI also hosts educational programs and events for kids of all ages. They host world-class exhibits covering topics from the t-rex to Star Wars.

Get tickets here.

5. Visit the Aquarium

The Aquarium of Boise is a great option for an indoor activity when weather can be drizzly in the spring. The aquarium has many exhibits, including a touch tank, where kids can interact with sea creatures including anemones and sucker fish. The aquarium also offers educational programs and events, such as feeding demonstrations and behind-the-scenes tours. It isn’t limited to sea life, the aquarium has features reptiles, insects, and birds.

Get tickets here.

6. Sign Up for Spring Camps

Spring camps are the perfect opportunity for children to stay engaged over their spring break, and allow parents to keep up with their normal routines if needed. Various spring camps are offered for all age groups in Boise. From STEAM-focused learning camps to rock climbing, there is something for even the most discerning of children. 

Check out a list of spring camps here.

7. Check Out the Children’s Museum of Idaho

Another indoor option for enrichment and play is the Children’s Museum of Idaho. Located in Meridian, Idaho, the Children’s Museum of Idaho is full of interactive exhibits that help children learn and explore through play. Exhibits include a kids-size version of Trader Joes that teaches kids real-life skills like grocery shopping, the theater exhibit where kids can dress up in provided costumes and perform, and the outdoor exhibits that focus on agricultural lessons. 

Learn more about the Children’s Museum of Idaho here.

Boise, Idaho, is a great destination for families looking for a fun and educational spring break vacation. With so many outdoor adventures and cultural experiences, there's something for everyone in this city.