Jaclyn & Jesse
Jaclyn & Jesse
Boise's Best
Welcome to Boise!
Thank you for joining us in celebrating our union!
We've created this page to help you explore and enjoy the area during your stay. Click the bolded text to visit local websites and discover fun things to do nearby!
Boise, originally home to the Shoshone and Bannock Native American tribes, became a hub for trapper rendezvous. The French trappers, weary from their travels, were ecstatic at the sight of trees and water, exclaiming, “Les bois! Les bois!” ("The woods! The woods!"). The name Boise (Pronounced BOY-see) stuck, and the city was officially established in 1864 during the Idaho gold rush. Gold mining played a significant role in shaping this Wild West town. The nearby Bogus Basin, named after the fool's gold found there, is now a popular local ski destination.
Boise is also home to one of the largest Basque communities in the United States. The Basque Block in downtown Boise is a cultural hub where visitors can explore Basque history, cuisine, and traditions.
Outdoor Adventurers
Adventure Is Out There!
For outdoor enthusiasts, Boise, Idaho, is a dream destination that draws visitors from around the world. Offering a wide range of activities, it's the perfect place to celebrate a spring wedding. The Boise River is ideal for kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing, while the Boise River Greenbelt features 25 miles of scenic trails for biking or leisurely walks. The nearby foothills boast hiking trails with breathtaking views, and Boise is home to over 100 miles of mountain biking trails suitable for all skill levels. Plus, Boise’s proximity to the Sawtooth Mountains and Snake River means even more adventure, from hiking and fishing to thrilling white-water rafting.
Local Hikes
Table Rock and Chief Eagle Eye Reserve (formerly Castle Rock Reserve) are sacred to the Native American community and offer stunning views of the valley. Hiking to the top, you'll find a cross that lights up at night, visible throughout the valley.
Table Rock Trailhead: 2421 Old Penitentiary Rd, Boise, ID 83712
Chief Eagle Eye Reserve: 451 N Quarry View Pl, Boise, ID 83712
The Greenbelt Trail is an expansive trail with entrances throughout the valley. You can fish along the Snake River, or walk or bike the trail all the way to Lucky Peak Reservoir. For more information, check out the Ultimate Greenbelt Guide!
Jumpcreek Falls
Located about an hour away, this half-mile trail leads to a beautiful waterfall with a pool for swimming.
White Water
People travel from all over the world to experience world-class rafting and kayaking in Boise.
A local whitewater park is located in Downtown Boise, where you can even try river surfing! For more details, visit: Boise Whitewater Park Activities.
If you're craving more whitewater adventure, the Payette River, less than an hour's drive away, offers thrilling rapids. Due to the early season, be prepared for a potentially rowdier ride. For more information, visit: Cascade Raft & Kayak.
Chiller Water Experiences
Paddleboarding is deeply ingrained in Boise’s culture. While it may be early in the season, it’s the perfect time to try it if the days are warm! Some great spots to check out include:
Stand-Up Paddleboarding in Southwest Idaho
You can head to Lucky Peak Reservoir for a day of fun in the sun. Enjoy the white sand beaches, take sailing lessons, go boating, try your hand at wakeboarding or waterskiing, or simply relax with some fishing.
Bruneau Sand Dunes
About an hour outside Boise, Bruneau Dunes State Park offers unique experiences like visiting an observatory or sandboarding. You can even take a night walk to spot scorpions that glow under black light.
Family Friendly Activities
Boise is a family-friendly city with something for everyone. Families can enjoy outdoor activities like exploring the Boise River Greenbelt or visiting local attractions like the Discovery Center of Idaho and Zoo Boise. The Old Idaho Penitentiary offers fun and educational tours, while local parks and playgrounds provide space for kids to play. Here are some links to fun family activities:
Old Idaho Penitentiary (Built in 1870, one of only four territorial prisons open to the public)
Discovery Center of Idaho (Interactive science museum, plus swan paddle boats available for rent on the property)
Center for Birds of Prey (A refuge and rehabilitation center for injured birds of prey.)
MK Nature Center (A learning zone about Idaho's wildlife.)
Wahooz Fun Zone (Arcade, mini golf, laser tag, and go-carts):
Pojos (Arcade with bumper cars and a merry-go-round):
Slick Track Go-Carts
Boise Art Museum (Family workshops and events):
Babby Farms (Petting Zoo)
Albertson Family Bike Park (Bring your own bike):
750 Mountain Cove Rd, Boise, ID 83702
Settler’s Park
3245 N. Meridian Road, Meridian, ID 83642
Golf
Boise offers a variety of golf courses, including excellent public courses. All are known for their scenic beauty and challenging layouts, catering to golfers of all skill levels.
Top recommended courses include:
Terrace Lakes (About an hour outside of town, this beautiful course and resort is nestled among the pines)
Quail Hollow (Known for its challenging and fast-paced play, this course offers a fun golfing experience)
River Birch (Famous for its wide fairways and relaxed atmosphere, perfect for a laid-back round of golf)
Downtown Boise
Freak Alley Gallery
Address: 210 N 9th St, Boise, ID 83702
Freak Alley Gallery is the most extensive open-air mural gallery in the Northwest, showcasing stunning works from multiple artists.
Basque Museum and Cultural Center
Visit the museum to explore the rich history and culture of the Basque community in Idaho.
The Ann Morrison Center hosts Broadway musicals, captivating plays, and performances by the local Boise Philharmonic.
Ballet Idaho is Boise’s premier local ballet company. Unfortunately, there will be no showings during the week of the wedding.
Crafts and More
Boise has a vibrant artist community. Some great spots to explore your creative side are:
Visit Boise Art Glass to book a class, explore the art of glassblowing, or make your own custom glass creation.
Explore pottery classes and workshops at The Potter's Center, where you can learn how to create beautiful handmade ceramics. This studio primarily focuses on throwing clay.
Discover beautifully crafted wood products at Wood Creations Boutique, where you can find unique, handmade pieces for your home or gifts.
Unleash your creativity at Away With Clay Studio, where you can enjoy pottery classes and workshops to create your unique clay pieces. This studio primarily focuses on painting clay.
Unleash your inner artist at The Angry Easel, a fun and creative studio offering painting classes, parties, and events for all skill levels.
Delia Dante Metalsmithing Classes
Learn the art of metalsmithing with hands-on classes at Delia Dante, where you can create your own custom jewelry and metal art pieces.
Explore the world of jewelry-making at Need to Bead, where you can find an extensive selection of beads, supplies, and classes to help you create your own beautiful designs.