Interesting Things to Do in Boise This Winter

Boise transforms into a vibrant winter wonderland as the first snowfall blankets the foothills, holiday lights illuminate downtown, and crisp mountain air sets the tone for a magical season. The city offers a perfect mix of outdoor adventure, festive events, and cozy indoor retreats, making it an exciting time to explore Idaho’s capital. With easy access to skiing, snowshoeing, ice skating, and scenic winter hikes, adventure seekers can enjoy the best of the season, while those who prefer a relaxed pace can embrace holiday markets, live performances, and comforting seasonal foods. Hence, this guide by the best movers in Boise highlights the best things to do in Boise this winter and ways to embrace the season, from iconic local traditions to hidden gems and off-the-beaten-path adventures. So, get ready to discover how to make the most of winter in Boise!

1. Outdoor Adventures in Boise’s Winter Wonderland

Winter in Boise is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you crave high-speed thrills on the slopes, peaceful walks through snowy trails, or an afternoon of ice skating, the city offers endless ways to enjoy the season. Moreover, Boise’s ideal location allows visitors to experience mountain sports just minutes from downtown, while still offering accessible parks and urban winter activities for those who want to stay closer to home.

1.1 Skiing and Snowboarding at Bogus Basin

No winter experience in Boise is complete without a trip to Bogus Basin Mountain Recreation Area. Just 16 miles from downtown, this non-profit ski resort offers an affordable and adventure-packed escape for locals and visitors alike. So, with 2,600 acres of skiable terrain, 91 runs, and seven chairlifts, it provides thrilling slopes for experienced skiers while also catering to beginners with gentle, groomed trails and expert-led lessons.

Bogus Basin sets itself apart from many ski resorts in several ways:

• Night Skiing: The resort features one of the largest night skiing operations in the Northwest. It allows skiers and snowboarders to carve through the snow under the stars.
• Tubing Hill: For those looking for a thrill without skis, the dedicated tubing hill provides a fast, fun, and family-friendly experience with lanes designed for high-speed rides.
• Nordic and Snowshoe Trails: Over 23 miles of Nordic skiing and snowshoe trails allow for a peaceful alternative to downhill skiing with stunning winter landscapes.
• Glade Runner Mountain Coaster: Idaho’s only mountain coaster provides a twisting, turning ride through snow-covered scenery. It is perfect for those who love roller coasters.

With on-site rentals, cozy lodges serving warm drinks, and breathtaking views of the Treasure Valley, Bogus Basin is a must-visit destination for winter sports lovers settling in the area with movers in Nampa ID.

1.2 Snowshoeing and Cross-Country Skiing

For those who prefer a quieter, nature-immersed experience, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing offer an excellent way to explore Boise’s winter landscapes at a slower pace. But, unlike downhill skiing, these activities require minimal gear and no experience, making them accessible to nearly everyone.

Hence, some of the best spots to enjoy snowshoeing and Nordic skiing include:

• Shafer Butte (Bogus Basin Area): A mix of groomed and backcountry trails provides the perfect setting for a peaceful winter hike or a cross-country skiing workout.
• Idaho City Park N’ Ski Trails: Located about one hour from Boise, this area features over 25 miles of marked trails through snow-covered pine forests with varying difficulty levels.
• Ridge to Rivers Trail System: While some foothill trails become inaccessible in winter, several remain open for winter hiking and snowshoeing, offering beautiful views of Boise’s snow-capped skyline.

Local rental shops such as McU Sports, Boise Gear Collective, and Idaho Mountain Touring provide affordable gear rentals, making it easy to try these activities without purchasing equipment.

1.3 Ice Skating at Indian Creek Plaza and The Village at Meridian

Few things capture the joy of winter quite like gliding across an ice rink, and Boise offers several picturesque places to lace up your skates. Two of the most popular rinks in the Treasure Valley offer very different experiences:

• Indian Creek Plaza Ice Ribbon (Caldwell): Unlike a traditional rink, this winding ice ribbon loops through the plaza, creating a fun and dynamic skating experience. Fire pits and a hot cocoa stand make it feel like a storybook scene for all just relocated with movers in Caldwell ID.
• The Village at Meridian Ice Rink: Located in the heart of one of Boise’s most popular shopping and entertainment districts, this rink provides a classic skating experience surrounded by holiday lights, boutiques, and restaurants.

Both rinks offer rental skates, themed skate nights, and lessons. They are great options for families, couples, or solo skaters.

1.4 Sledding and Tubing Hills

Sledding is a classic winter pastime that brings out the inner child in everyone relocating to the area with the  movers in Star ID. Boise has several great sledding hills, ranging from gentle slopes for young kids to steeper inclines for adrenaline seekers.

Some of the top spots for sledding in Boise include:

• Camels Back Park: A moderate hill that’s ideal for families with young kids. It is conveniently located near North End cafés for a post-sledding treat.
• Simplot Hill: This iconic sledding location is near the J.R. Simplot Mansion. It offers a long, steep run with plenty of space for multiple sledders.
• Bogus Basin Tubing Hill: A well-maintained tubing hill. It has groomed lanes and a magic carpet lift for an effortless uphill return.

For the best experience, dress warmly in waterproof layers, bring a sturdy sled, and consider arriving early on weekends to secure a good spot.

2. Festive Winter Events and Holiday Celebrations

Boise’s winter season is full of celebrations, community traditions, and stunning light displays. The city comes alive with holiday markets, musical performances, and festive gatherings, making it an enchanting time to explore downtown and beyond.

2.1 Winter Garden aGlow at the Idaho Botanical Garden

Every winter, the Idaho Botanical Garden transforms into a breathtaking light display during its Winter Garden aGlow event. Over 500,000 lights illuminate the gardens, creating a truly magical atmosphere for visitors of all ages. The event features:

• Twinkling tunnels and glowing pathways perfect for a winter stroll.
• Santa visits and holiday characters to delight children.
• Hot cocoa, spiced cider, and warming stations to keep guests cozy.

This beloved holiday tradition runs from late November through New Year’s Eve and is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the magic of Boise’s holiday season.

2.2 Boise Christmas Market & Holiday Shopping

Holiday shopping in Boise is more than just buying gifts—it’s an experience filled with festive sights, sounds, and flavors. Hence, the city’s seasonal markets, craft fairs, and holiday-themed shopping events provide an opportunity to support local artisans and small businesses while picking out unique gifts. Some of the best holiday shopping experiences in Boise include:

• Boise Christmas Market – Inspired by European-style Christmas markets, this annual event showcases handmade goods, gourmet holiday treats, and live entertainment. Shoppers can find artisan crafts, holiday décor, and one-of-a-kind presents while enjoying warm mulled wine or hot cocoa.
• Capital City Public Market (Winter Edition) – Though primarily a summer event, the Capital City Market continues through winter with select vendors selling local produce, handcrafted gifts, and seasonal specialties in downtown Boise.
• Holiday Bazaar at the Western Idaho Fairgrounds – A large indoor event featuring over 200 vendors selling holiday crafts, decorations, and specialty foods.

Beyond markets, Downtown Boise’s small businesses and boutiques go all out with festive storefront displays, special holiday deals, and exclusive winter collections. The BoDo (Boise Downtown) district and Hyde Park are particularly fun places to shop while enjoying the city’s holiday lights.

2.3 New Year’s Eve Idaho Potato Drop

While cities like New York drop a crystal ball, Boise does things a little differently. The Idaho Potato Drop is one of the most unique and quirky New Year’s Eve celebrations in the country. Instead of a traditional countdown, Boise rings in the new year with a giant, illuminated potato that descends at midnight. This free, family-friendly event takes place at Cecil D. Andrus Park (near the Idaho State Capitol) and includes:

• Live music and DJ performances to keep the energy high throughout the night.
• Food trucks and beer gardens featuring local Idaho fare, from gourmet French fries to craft beer.
• Ice sculptures and fire performances for a visually stunning experience.
• Fireworks show at midnight, lighting up the Boise skyline as the famous potato makes its descent.

Many new residents arriving here with movers in Caldwell ID bundle up and head downtown to participate. And all the others watch the event live-streamed on local television. Either way, it’s a one-of-a-kind celebration that highlights Idaho’s fun and quirky personality.

2.4 Winter Carnival in McCall

If you’re up for a winter road trip, the McCall Winter Carnival is one of Idaho’s most spectacular winter festivals. Located just two hours north of Boise, McCall is a charming mountain town that comes alive each year with a 10-day celebration of winter.

The festival is known for its stunning ice sculptures. They are created by professional artists who carve massive, intricate designs from giant blocks of ice. Past sculptures have included castles, animals, famous landmarks, and mythical creatures. Visitors can also walk through town, admire the sculptures, and vote for their favorites. But, beyond the sculptures, the Winter Carnival features:

• Parades and fireworks – Colorful floats and firework displays keep the celebration lively.
• Snowbike and snowshoe races – Competitions for athletes and amateurs alike.
• Live music and street performances – Local bands and entertainers add to the festive atmosphere.
• Polar Bear Plunge – Brave souls jump into the freezing waters of Payette Lake for a fun (and freezing) challenge.

For those staying overnight, McCall’s ski resorts, hot springs, and lakeside lodges make it a perfect winter getaway. Whether you’re going for a day trip or a full weekend adventure, the McCall Winter Carnival is one of the most exciting winter traditions near Boise.

3. Indoor Activities for Cold Winter Days

Boise’s winter months can bring chilly temperatures and snowy days, making it the perfect time to explore museums, theaters, and cozy hideaways. So, whether you’re looking for educational experiences, live performances, or a relaxing escape from the cold, the city offers plenty of engaging indoor activities.

3.1 Explore Boise Art Museum and Local Galleries

For those who love art and creativity, settling in the area with movers in Kuna ID, the Boise Art Museum (BAM) offers an ever-changing lineup of exhibits, interactive installations, and cultural events. Located in Julia Davis Park, BAM houses a permanent collection of contemporary, regional, and international art, as well as seasonal exhibits featuring renowned artists from around the world. Some standout galleries include:

• MING Studios: A contemporary space featuring emerging artists and experimental art.
• Freak Alley Gallery: An open-air street art exhibition that takes on a new charm in winter.
• Capitol Contemporary Gallery: Showcasing Idaho-based artists in a refined setting.

Beyond the museum, Boise’s First Thursday events allow visitors to explore local art galleries, meet artists, and enjoy live music throughout the downtown area.

3.2 Catch a Show at the Morrison Center or Egyptian Theatre

Boise has a thriving performing arts scene, and winter is an excellent time to experience Broadway productions, concerts, and live theater, too. Two iconic venues host some of the best performances of the season:

• The Morrison Center for the Performing Arts – Home to Broadway touring shows, operas, and symphonies, this venue attracts world-class talent.
• The Egyptian Theatre – A historic 1927 landmark that screens classic films, live concerts, and special winter performances. All in a setting reminiscent of the golden age of Hollywood.

Winter is an especially exciting time at both venues! Holiday-themed performances and seasonal concerts bring festive energy to the city.

3.3 Visit the Idaho State Museum and Discovery Center

For a fascinating look into Idaho’s history and culture, the Idaho State Museum offers interactive exhibits and immersive storytelling that bring the state’s past to life. Hence, visitors and new residents settling with movers in Eagle ID can explore Idaho’s Native American heritage. And also early pioneer settlements, and modern developments through a mix of artifacts, multimedia, and hands-on displays.

Families with kids may prefer the Discovery Center of Idaho. It is a science museum featuring STEM-based exhibits, hands-on experiments, and rotating displays that make learning fun. Furthermore, popular exhibits often include robotics, space exploration, and physics experiments, making it an engaging place to spend a winter afternoon.

Make the Most of Interesting Things to Do in Boise This Winter

Boise offers a perfect mix of adventure, culture, and relaxation during the winter months. Whether you’re hitting the slopes at Bogus Basin, exploring festive holiday markets, or warming up with a cup of coffee in a cozy downtown café, the city has something to make every winter day exciting. No matter your interests, the interesting things to do in Boise this winter guarantee a season filled with adventure, joy, and memorable experiences. Bundle up, get outside, and discover everything Boise has to offer this winter!