Boise and Beyond
A Southwest Idaho Adventure
Boise, framed by beautiful foothills, has a lot to offer visitors. You will find outdoor recreation, relaxation and a diverse culinary, beer and wine scene. But don’t stop there–the City of Trees isn’t the only thing to see in southwest Idaho. Check out these nearby destinations for a weekend, or a week, of activity and adventure.
Pick a Town and Start Exploring
Downtown Caldwell. Photo credit: Destination Caldwell.
Caldwell & Nampa
A quick drive west of Boise will lead you to the neighboring cities of Caldwell and Nampa. There are plenty of activities to enjoy from sipping award-winning wine to hiking trails. These cities are a great place to recharge.
Don’t Leave Town Without Visiting…
- The Sunnyslope Wine Trail shows off 17 wineries and vineyards that produce award-winning wines amongst stunning panoramic views within the Snake River Valley AVA.
- Deer Flat National Wildlife Refuge is full of year-round interests. Enjoy water activities like boating and swimming, try hiking and picnicking or take advantage of the plentiful wildlife viewing opportunities.
- The AgVenture Trail takes you on a journey through the heart of the Snake River Valley. Try the free, self-guided tour where you walk through organic farms and orchards, pick fresh fruit and dine on true farm-to-fork meals.
- With AMANO’s modern craft Mexican kitchen, Grit 2C’s locally sourced, American cuisine, locally grown comfort foods at Brick 29, smokehouse barbecue at Chop Shop and Holy Cow Idaho!’s premier craft burgers, there are plenty of local options for you to choose from.
- The Warhawk Air Museum is a great place to learn about military aviation history. Experience military aircraft up close, or take a deeper dive and browse the armed forces archives.
- Indian Creek Plaza is located in Downtown Caldwell’s retail district. This plaza goes beyond retail and dining, offering a seasonal ice rink and splash pad.
There’s more to explore! Find more adventures in the area.
Main Street, Idaho City. Photo credit: Idaho Tourism.
Idaho City
Idaho City is a must-visit town along Highway 21. This memorable town offers historical exploration, outdoor adventure and local eateries that are sure to provide a unique experience for all.
Don’t Leave Town Without Visiting…
- The Idaho City Visitor Center is a great place to start your visit to Idaho City. Pick up a walking tour pamphlet here or at the Museum.
- View the historic buildings, including Boise Basin Mercantile, which began construction in 1865.
- The Boise Basin Museum contains information about the history of Idaho City.
- The Springs is a hot springs retreat that allows guests to relax in natural mineral water. Reservations are required.
- Enjoy a trek on the Charcoal Gulch or Crooked River trails, stop for a swim at Robie Creek Park or stroll through Granite Creek Recreation Area.
- Eat at Trudy’s Kitchen, which has been a delicious destination for homemade pies since the mid-1990s, or The Gold Mine Hotel & Grill for a place where you can get away and enjoy yourself over dinner. If you are looking to enjoy a fresh coffee or a sweet frozen treat, drop into Sarsaparilla Ice Cream Parlor, a featured Idaho City business for almost 30 years.
There’s more to explore! Find more adventures in the area.
Initial Point, near Kuna. Photo credit: Idaho Tourism.
Kuna
Kuna is a town packed full of possibilities. Fishing, hiking, biking and birdwatching are just a small slice of the recreational activities available. Add in local wineries and delightful dining options, and it’s easy to understand why you’ll want more time to explore this area.
Don’t Leave Town Without Visiting…
- Take a stroll and unwind on the Indian Creek Greenbelt. There are recreational areas like picnic pavilions, baseball fields and a skate park in this popular, well-shaded hiking area.
- Sip around town by tasting the vintage at Indian Creek Winery, Vizcaya Winery, Owyhee Vista Vineyard or Syringa Winery.
- Falcon Crest Golf Club takes your swing to new heights with three premier courses and fantastic views. This 36-hole golf complex blends the natural landscape with sand, water and stone.
- Used as the starting place for surveying within Idaho in 1867, Initial Point is a volcanic butte rising from the Western Snake River Plain.
- Try Enrique’s Mexican Restaurant for a vibrant, classical Mexican dining experience, visit Lima Limon Peruvian to enjoy the savory flavors of traditional Peruvian cuisine or feast on Big Mic’s Saloon & BBQ’s slow-cooked, authentic barbecue.
There’s more to explore! Find more adventures in the area.
Can’t Get Enough of Southwest Idaho?
The adventure continues… Keep exploring and add one of these towns to your trip.