The 5 Best Things to Do in Boise: Autumn
The Idaho state capital is great year round, but we'd argue that autumn is Boise's best look (and the best time to visit!)
Shorter days. Stunning sunsets. Those crisp, chilly mornings where you can see your breath. The crunch of golden leaves beneath your feet. Fresh air. Sweaters. Warm tea. Pumpkin spice… everything.
At Boise Turnkey, we love this autumn season and all it has to offer, especially in our city of trees. The Idaho state capital is great year round, but we'd argue that autumn is Boise's best look (and the best time to visit!).
Don't believe us?
We've made a list of The 5 Best Things to Do in Boise in the Fall.
Let us try to convince you!
Hike the Hill at Camel's Back Park:
Camel's Back is an incredible place to view the stunning array of colors as the trees turn. For your more active family members, hike straight up the staircase embedded into the front of the hill. Or, if sweating isn't really your thing, climb the winding trail around the side of the hill and meet your friends at the top. Catch your breath and marvel at the views of the city, the fall colors, the downtown skyline, and the blue October sky. Afterwards, walk down 13th into Hyde Park for a coffee or sandwich at a variety of delicious coffee shops, cafes, and restaurants.
The Farmstead in Kuna is the classic fall event. When it comes to pumpkin patches, The Farmstead knows what they are doing. They host the traditional pumpkin patch activities such as Idaho's original corn maze, a large pumpkin patch, and hayrides, but also provide a whole host of family fun: jumping pillows, ropes course, beeline, corn boxes, pig races, potato sack slides (this is Idaho, after all), a bee train, a cow train, pony rides, games, and more, if you can believe it. If you go early enough in the season, they also have a U-Pick flower farm!
In addition to all of this, they have food trucks, hot cocoa, chocolate milk, cookies, incredible sunsets and instagram-worthy photo ops.
This off-the-beaten path requires an hour drive into Weiser, but is well worth the trip. Although it is not flashy like other U-pick orchards, family-run Kelley Orchards provides friendly service, and rows of fresh, premium produce for you to pick, or to purchase from their barn. Cultivate a connection with the Earth, and breathe in the country air as you walk through the rows of delicious fruit. Dogs are welcome to romp as you fill your bags. But be careful, the fruit looks so incredible, you may accidentally pick too much! (Although, that's never a bad problem to have. Applesauce, anyone?)
They have a variety of grapes, plums, pluots, nectarines, peaches, and apples available throughout the fall. They sell delicious salsa and in-house dried fruit as well.
On your way out, stop at Jack Henry Coffee Shop in Fruitland for a delicious chai latte, or other sweet fall treat!
We'd be remiss to not cheer for our Boise State Broncos! Attending football games downtown is a classic fall activity. Hit up one of the many fun events hosted at the plethora of local breweries during October, and follow it up with a BSU game on the blue turf. This eye-catching field has been a Boise highlight since 1986. Incredible weather in October also lends itself well to tailgating in many of the city parks under the changing colors of the oak trees.
Alberton's Stadium is fun to experience as well, and is about to get even better. Construction is underway to replace the small south screen with what is set to be the largest video board in the Mountain West, at 120 by 50 feet.
Fall Harvest at the Botanical Gardens
The Botanical Gardens offer top quality entertainment and beauty year round! Visit the Garden every Saturday throughout October for the family-friendly Fall Harvest Days. Each Saturday offers a unique experience featuring Scarecrow Stroll, artisan vendors, food trucks, local beer, cider, and wine, and live music. There really is something for everyone! Set aside a few weekends to come and enjoy one of the best times to be in the Garden.
The Fall Harvest days are FREE for members, and for children under 3!
If we didn't convince you yet, open your blinds and leave your windows open for an afternoon. Or better yet, open your door and go for a walk. Listen to those leaves crunch under your feet and breathe deeply. You'll be glad you did!
