Looking for fun that won’t drain your wallet? Whether you're exploring Boise for the first time or rediscovering your own backyard, this city is packed with memorable experiences that don’t cost a thing. From riverside trails and vibrant street art to live music and splash pad movie nights, there’s something for everyone...and it’s all free. We’ve rounded up 10 of the best no-cost activities in the Treasure Valley, complete with handy details, fun facts, and seasonal tips to help you make the most of your time in our beautiful, welcoming city.
1. Boise River Greenbelt
Location: Trail access from Ann Morrison Park, Julia Davis Park, Garden City, and more
Website: cityofboise.org/greenbelt
Description: This 25+ mile scenic path winds along the Boise River and connects parks, wildlife areas, and neighborhoods. It’s ideal for biking, jogging, or a peaceful stroll.
Fun Fact: Some sections have wildlife viewing areas where you can spot herons, deer, and even bald eagles in winter.
2. Freak Alley Gallery
Image rights: (n.d.). https://www.freakalleyboise.com/
Location: Between 8th and 9th Streets off Bannock, Downtown Boise
Website: visitboise.com/directory/freak-alley-gallery
Description: The largest outdoor mural gallery in the Northwest, Freak Alley is constantly evolving with vibrant, large-scale street art.
Fun Fact: The gallery began in 2002 with a single mural and now spans an entire alleyway and adjacent courtyard.
3. Idaho State Capitol Building
Image rights: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Idaho_State_Capitol
Location: 700 W. Jefferson St., Boise, ID 83702
Website: https://legislature.idaho.gov/capitol/tours/
Description: Open to the public daily, the Capitol features historic exhibits, public galleries, and incredible architecture.
Fun Fact: It’s the only U.S. state capitol heated by geothermal water from a natural underground source.
4. Julia Davis Park
Location: 700 S. Capitol Blvd., Boise, ID 83702
Website: cityofboise.org/julia-davis-park
Description: Boise’s oldest park offers rose gardens, shaded walking paths, river views, and proximity to the Boise Art Museum and Zoo Boise.
Fun Fact: The rose garden blooms with over 2,400 rose bushes from late spring through early fall.
5. Anne Frank Human Rights Memorial
Image rights: https://visitidaho.org/travel-tips/visit-the-anne-frank-human-rights-memorial/
Location: 777 S. 8th St., Boise, ID 83702
Website: wassmuthcenter.org/anne-frank-memorial
Description: A tranquil outdoor memorial dedicated to human rights, featuring inspirational quotes and educational plaques.
Fun Fact: It is one of the only Anne Frank memorials in the United States and sits beside the Boise Greenbelt.
6. Ann Morrison Park
Image rights: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ann_Morrison_Park
Location: 1000 S. Americana Blvd., Boise, ID 83706
Website: cityofboise.org/ann-morrison-park
Description: A 153-acre park with disc golf, bocce, a playground, and open spaces for floating the Boise River in summer.
Fun Fact: It was once a gravel pit and was transformed into one of Boise’s most cherished recreational parks.
7. Camel’s Back Park & Hulls Gulch Trails
Image rights: https://www.cityofboise.org/departments/parks-and-recreation/parks/camels-back-park/
Location: 1200 W. Heron St., Boise, ID 83702
Website: https://www.cityofboise.org/departments/parks-and-recreation/parks/camels-back-park/
Description: This popular park features volleyball courts, open green space, and stair trails leading to panoramic foothill views.
Fun Fact: The “camel’s back” name comes from the rolling hill formation that resembles a camel’s hump.
8. Morrison-Knudsen Nature Center
Image rights: https://idfg.idaho.gov/visit/mknc
Location: 600 S. Walnut St., Boise, ID 83712
Website: idfg.idaho.gov/mknaturecenter
Description: This educational nature preserve offers walking trails, fish viewing windows, and exhibits on Idaho’s ecosystems.
Fun Fact: It’s a favorite spot for elementary field trips and offers up-close views of rainbow trout, sturgeon, and local birds.
9. Neighborhood Concert Series in Boise Parks
Location: Various neighborhood parks like Quail, Pierce Park, and Camel’s Back Playground
Website: https://www.cityofboise.org/departments/community-engagement/neighborhood-concert-series/
Description: Boise’s Neighborhood Concert Series delivers free live music in shaded community parks throughout the summer. Bring lawn chairs or a blanket and enjoy performances by local bands in a relaxed, family-friendly setting. Food trucks and local vendors frequently accompany the events.
Fun Fact: Now in its fifth year, this pop-up concert series turns small city parks into amphitheaters with music, snacks, and neighbors mingling on the lawn.
10. Free Outdoor Movies & Splash Pads
Location: Kleiner Park, Settlers Park, and Julia Davis Park
Websites:
cityofboise.org/parks
Description: Summer evenings bring family-friendly movie nights under the stars and free splash pads for kids to enjoy during the day.
Fun Fact: Julius M. Kleiner Park’s splash pad is one of the largest and most popular in the Treasure Valley.
Bonus Seasonal Events & Food Trucks to Check Out
Spring & Summer:
Boise Farmers Market (Saturdays, April–October) on Shoreline Drive.
Green Acres Food Truck Park (May–October) located along the Boise Greenbelt with shaded seating and rotating trucks.
Spirit of Boise Balloon Classic (late August at Ann Morrison Park) featuring morning balloon launches and evening glow events.
Fall:
Hyde Park Street Fair (mid-September) in the North End, featuring artisan booths, local bands, and food trucks.
Fall foliage hikes at Camel’s Back or Hulls Gulch, followed by coffee or a quick bite from a Hyde Park food cart.
Ongoing Food Truck Favorites Near Attractions:
Mad Mac – gourmet mac and cheese, often found at festivals and events.
Off the Grid Pizza – wood-fired pizza near concerts and breweries.
The Rusty Dog – corndogs and comfort food, frequent at Ann Morrison and Alive After Five.
Brown Shuga Soul Food – Southern-style eats that appear at many downtown festivals.
Whether you're visiting Boise for the weekend or looking to enjoy your hometown on a budget, there's no shortage of fun, free, and family-friendly activities waiting to be discovered. From scenic river walks and colorful murals to neighborhood concerts and splash pad movie nights, Boise offers experiences that make it easy to connect with nature, creativity, and community...without spending a dime. The best part? These hidden gems are often tucked right into the neighborhoods we serve and love.
At RentWise Property Management, we've been part of the Treasure Valley community for decades, and we know how special this area truly is. If you’re new to the area, planning a visit, or simply looking for more tips, tricks, or local favorites, don’t hesitate to reach out. We’d be happy to share our insight and help you make the most of your time here. Contact our team anytime at office@rentwisepm.com. We’d love to hear from you!
