Katie Williams worked in partnership to create this Travel Tip.
Are you ready for an unforgettable adventure in Boise? Then you must check out the popular tree-lined Boise River Greenbelt! This 25-mile scenic pathway, most commonly referred to as just the Greenbelt or Boise Greenbelt, stretches through downtown Boise and embraces approximately 850 acres of parks and natural habitats along the Boise River.
This route offers something for wine enthusiasts to nature lovers to those in search of relaxation. In this post, we’ll highlight ten must-visit stops along the Boise Greenbelt that will make your trip to Boise even more memorable.
Before adventuring out on your Greenbelt journey, be sure to review this Boise Greenbelt trail etiquette guide.
Getting around the Boise Greenbelt
There’s a multitude of ways to explore the Boise Greenbelt. Many people prefer to walk, skateboard, or rollerblade, while others love riding bikes or using scooters.
Biking is a fantastic way to cover more ground along the Greenbelt, particularly if you’re pressed for time. You’ll find bike rental services at various downtown hotels and rental shops throughout the city, including those conveniently located along the Greenbelt. George’s Cycles, McU Sport, and Idaho Mountain Touring are a few notable options for traditional bike rentals. If you want e-bikes for an extra boost, Pedego Boise or Greenbelt Market are excellent choices.
Rest assured; you’ll find convenient fix-it stations scattered along the Greenbelt, should any unexpected bike troubles arise. These handy stations are equipped with tire pumps and essential tools to help you give your bike a quick tune-up.
For a bike tour guided by a knowledgeable Boise local, check out Boise Bike Tours. They offer a 3-hour tour where you’ll gain an insider perspective on the Boise Greenbelt.
10 Must-Visit Stops Along the Boise Greenbelt
Please note that the following stops are listed without any specific order. However, if you wish to organize your route around these locations, consult this Boise Greenbelt Map for navigation and planning.
1. Start your day right at Push & Pour
Begin your Boise Greenbelt adventure with a cup of coffee and a delicious grab & go breakfast at Push & Pour. This skateboard-influenced cafe is a local favorite and is conveniently located a few blocks from the Greenbelt. They have an outdoor patio to enjoy the nice weather, and the coffee is all roasted on-site in Garden City!
Find it: Push & Pour, 214 E 34th St., Garden City, ID 83714
2. Eat and enjoy live music at the Green Acres Food Truck Park
Make a stop at the Green Acres Food Truck Park, where you can enjoy a variety of delicious food truck options and local beer and wine. On select days, you can even enjoy live music performances! With its lively ambiance and local food options, the Green Acres Food Truck Park is a fantastic destination for the entire family. Before you go, remember to check the park’s hours and schedule.
Find it: Green Acres Food Truck Park, 1401 Shoreline Drive, Boise, Idaho 83702
3. Visit the Anne Frank Human Rights Memorial and 8th Street Tunnel Mural
Take a moment to reflect on the importance of equality and justice at the Anne Frank Human Rights Memorial. This memorial is a powerful reminder of our shared responsibility to protect human rights. You’ll find the 8th Street Tunnel Mural beside the memorial, crafted by muralist Addie Boswell in collaboration with local Boisians. With its theme of “shining a light however you can,” the mural amplifies the message of hope and encourages individuals to make a positive impact in their own unique ways.
Find it: Anne Frank Human Rights Memorial, 770 S. 8th Street, Boise, Idaho 83702
4. Watch surfers conquer “The Wave” at the Boise Whitewater Park
Stop by the Boise Whitewater Park to watch surfers ride “The Wave,” one of the country’s top artificial river surfing waves. Surfers, kayakers, and stand-up paddle boarders frequent this unique Whitewater Park. It’s also a great stopping place for spectators on the Greenbelt. Grab some drinks and snacks at the nearby Greenbelt Market and watch the surfers on the patio, or rent some e-bikes from the Market and continue your Greenbelt journey.
Find it: Boise Whitewater Park, 3400 W Pleasanton Ave, Boise, ID 83702
5. Have a glass of wine on Telaya Wine’s patio
Make a stop to try some wine at one of Boise’s most popular wineries, Telaya Wine. Enjoy their newly remodeled patio and sip their delicious wine while enjoying the Boise River views. This is a lovely spot to spend the evening when the weather is nice and a perfect stop directly along the Boise Greenbelt!
Find it: Telaya Wine Co., 240 E 32nd St, Garden City, ID 83714
6. Connect with nature at the MK Nature Center
Explore the incredible biodiversity and wildlife of the MK Nature Center. This center is 4.6 acres along the Boise Greenbelt and is full of exhibits and walking paths. The StreamWalk and Visitor Center both focus on showcasing Idaho’s wildlife and landscapes. It also provides an excellent opportunity to observe various bird species, fish and occasionally even spot deer in their natural habitat.
Find it: MK Nature Center, 600 S Walnut St, Boise, ID 83712
7. Unwind at Yardarm, the popular sand bar
If you’re looking for a lively outdoor bar experience, Yardarm is the perfect stop. This unique bar is situated along the Greenbelt in a shipping container! It’s laid-back and open-air, with a sandy floor. Mister on scorching hot days make for a delightful outdoor experience. You’ll also find a food truck open at select times of the day for some tasty food to accompany your drinks.
Find it: Yardarm, 314 E 35th St, Garden City, ID 83714
8. Explore Esther Simplot Park and Quinn’s Pond
Make a point to visit the picturesque Esther Simplot Park and Quinn’s Pond during your Boise Greenbelt adventure. You can participate in numerous activities here, including paddleboarding on the waterways and pond, picnicking in the park, and enjoying the sandy beach at Quinn’s Pond. Conveniently located next to Quinn’s Pond, Idaho River Sports provides equipment rental services for kayaks, paddleboards, tubes, and rafts. This park is truly a fantastic spot to spend the day!
Find it: Esther Simplot Park, 3206 W Pleasanton Ave, Boise, ID 83702
9. Discover gems inside Julia Davis Park
Julia Davis Park is a true oasis in the heart of Boise.Check out the Boise Rose Garden, visit the Boise Art Museum, the Idaho Black History Museum, or explore the Idaho State Museum. Zoo Boise is also located within this park and is a great place for kids to get up close and personal with some fascinating animals.
Find it: Julia Davis Park, 700 S Capitol Blvd, Boise, ID 83702
10. Cheers to craft brews at Payette Brewing
Raise a glass and toast to a day well spent at Payette Brewing. Payette Brewing is the perfect destination for beer lovers. Sample their craft brews, and take advantage of their expansive patio. They also host food trucks on their lawn at select times, so you can grab delicious food to accompany your brews.
Find it: Payette Brewing Company, 733 S. Pioneer St, Boise, ID 83702
The Greenbelt Fun Continues
Be sure to take advantage of the Boise River Greenbelt during your trip to Boise! This scenic pathway showcases what makes Boise truly special. With wine tastings, brewery stops, vibrant parks, inspiring memorials, and so much more, the Greenbelt is the perfect way to spend a day in Boise.
These are just a fraction of the stops you can make along the Boise Greenbelt. For a full map and locations, check out this Greenbelt map.
Feature image credited to Katie Williams.
Katie Williams is a world traveler and blogger at Traveling Spud. She documents her adventures around the globe and shenanigans in her home state of Idaho. Follow her on her blog Traveling Spud or her Instagram.
More From This Author
A Day Trip to Idaho City: The Perfect Getaway
Published on June 27, 2023
View My Itinerary