Photo: Dennis Hanson
Photo: Jeremy assayah
Photo: Simplygizel1
Julia Davis Park
★4.7(4,468 reviews)FreePark
🕑 Plan for 2-4 hours if just enjoying the playgrounds and park grounds, or make it a full day (5-7 hours) if visiting the zoo and museums👶 Perfect for all ages, from infants to teens. Toddlers love the age-appropriate playground equipment and ducks by the pond, while elementary-aged kids enjoy the zoo and museums. Older kids and teens appreciate the paddle boat rentals and exploring the park's trails.🧡 Saved by 50+ families
About
Julia Davis Park is Boise's ultimate family destination, packing an entire day's worth of activities into one beautiful downtown location. With Zoo Boise, multiple museums, expansive playgrounds, a charming rose garden, and plenty of open green space for running around, this 89-acre park offers something special for every family member without ever having to move your car.
Highlights
- ✓Zoo Boise featuring red pandas, penguins, and a great petting zoo area
- ✓Two excellent playground areas with modern equipment for different age groups
- ✓Idaho State Museum and Discovery Center of Idaho for hands-on learning
- ✓Paddle boat rentals on the lagoon during summer months
- ✓Beautiful rose garden perfect for a leisurely family stroll
Pro Tips
- 1.Arrive early on weekends and during summer to snag parking near your main destination,the park gets busy after 10 AM
- 2.Bring a wagon or stroller even for older kids; the park is large and little legs tire quickly when trying to see everything
- 3.Pack a picnic to enjoy under the mature shade trees,there are plenty of tables and grassy spots, saving money and time between activities
- 4.Don't miss the Gene Harris Bandshell area where free concerts often happen in summer evenings
- 5.Purchase a combo pass if planning to visit multiple museums and the zoo,it saves significantly over individual admissions
Best Time to Visit
Weekday mornings (8-10 AM) offer the most peaceful experience with easy parking and smaller crowds. Late spring through early fall provides the best weather, though the park is beautiful year-round. Summer evenings (after 5 PM) are magical when it's cooler but still light out.
What to Know
Park admission is free, though individual attractions like Zoo Boise and museums charge separate entry fees (typically $8-15 per person). Free parking is available throughout the park with multiple lots, and restrooms are conveniently located near the playgrounds and main attractions.
Seasonal Notes
The park shines in spring with blooming roses and mild weather. Summer brings concerts, food trucks, and special events. Fall offers gorgeous foliage and fewer crowds. Winter access remains open, though some facilities and paddle boats close seasonally. Zoo Boise and museums operate year-round with reduced winter hours.
Nearby Eats
Walk to Goody's Soda Fountain (just across the street) for classic diner food and ice cream sundaes kids adore, or hit Rockies Diner on Broadway for family-friendly burgers and milkshakes in a fun retro atmosphere.
More Activities Near Boise
Park
Julius M. Kleiner Memorial Park
★4.7Free❤️237
Julius M. Kleiner Memorial Park is a beloved Meridian neighborhood gem that consistently ranks as one of the area's top family destinations. With its well-maintained playground equipment, spacious grassy areas perfect for impromptu soccer games, and plenty of shaded picnic spots under mature trees, it's an ideal spot for everything from quick after-school play sessions to full-day family gatherings.
Adventure
Boise River Greenbelt
Free
The Boise River Greenbelt offers 25 miles of paved, scenic pathways perfect for family biking adventures, leisurely stroller walks, and nature exploration. With multiple access points throughout Boise, families can customize their journey to match their energy levels while spotting ducks, fish, and other wildlife along the beautiful river corridor.
Adventure
15 Table Rock Trail
Free
Table Rock Trail offers families an achievable hiking adventure with a rewarding payoff,sweeping views of Boise and the iconic illuminated cross that's visible from across the city. This moderate 3.7-mile round-trip hike gains about 700 feet in elevation, making it challenging enough to give kids a sense of accomplishment without being overwhelming for most school-aged children.
Nature
MK Nature Center - Idaho Fish and Game
★4.8Free❤️72
The MK Nature Center offers an exceptional free nature experience where kids can observe native Idaho fish through impressive aquarium windows, walk easy nature trails along the Boise River, and learn about local wildlife through hands-on exhibits. With its combination of indoor aquariums and outdoor exploration, it's perfect for introducing children to the natural world right in the heart of Boise.