Day plans in Boise, ID

A whole outing, planned: the main thing to do, a stop on the way, somewhere good to eat, and a treat after — matched to the day's weather.

Sunday, August 23

Full dayFestival day Fair-weather plan

Ages 3–12 $$ ~18 mi driving (est.) 91°F, overcast, 9% rain

On the way 2.5 mi · ≈5 min drive
Pamela J. Beaumont Riverfront Park
Scenic park along the river with walking paths and natural areas.
Free
The main thing 2.6 mi · ≈6 min drive
Dinos & Dragons2:00 PM
at Carnival Gate
An interactive spectacle featuring life-like animatronic dinosaurs and dragons roaming the fairgrounds.
Ages 3-12
While you’re there 3 mi · ≈6 min drive
Veterans Memorial Park
Riverside park with walking paths, monuments, and a playground.
Ages 1+Free
Lunch 3.8 mi · ≈8 min drive
Uncle Giuseppes
Casual deli and sandwich shop serving classic Italian-style subs and meats.
Ages 2+$$
“Offers catering trays like lasagna, spaghetti, and sandwiches. Note: tomato sauce can be messy for a large group of kids.” — a local parent
A treat after 2.6 mi · ≈6 min drive
Stella’s Ice Cream - State Street
Popular local ice cream parlor with creative flavors and waffle cones.
$$
For the drive
Playlist DJ Battle
Each family member selects a song (or a 10-minute segment) for a collaborative road trip playlist, arguing why their choice is the best fit for the current moment or destination.
Ages 5+Free60-120 min

MorningDay out Fair-weather plan

Ages 4–13 $$ ~8 mi driving (est.) 80°F, overcast, 9% rain

On the way 2.6 mi · ≈6 min drive
Esther Simplot Park
Large park with ponds for swimming, fishing, and paddleboarding, plus walking paths and playgrounds.
Free
The main thing 1.7 mi · ≈4 min drive
Ann Morrison Park
Expansive riverside park with playgrounds, sports courts, gardens, and walking paths.
Free
“Free music and movement for toddlers Fridays at 10:30 a.m. at the Old Timer's Shelter, followed by playground time.” — a local parent
Lunch 0.3 mi · ≈2 min drive
Green Acres Food Truck Park
Outdoor food truck gathering spot with rotating vendors and casual seating.
$$
“Outdoor food truck park located near the Greenbelt and Post Office, great for casual dining.” — a local parent

AfternoonOutdoor adventure

Ages 5–17 Free ~8 mi driving (est.) 91°F, overcast, 9% rain

On the way 3.1 mi · ≈7 min drive
Willow Lane Playground
Neighborhood playground with basic play structures.
Ages 2-10Free
The main thing 2 mi · ≈4 min drive
4-H/FFA and Open Alpaca Obstacle Classes2:00 PM
at Western Town Barn
Watch alpacas navigate various obstacles in this competitive event open to 4-H, FFA, and other participants.
Ages 5+