Should I spend 3, 4, or 5 days in Boise?

Should you spend 3, 4, or 5 days in Boise?

Many travelers spend one to two days in Boise during their visit. After all, the friendly city has plenty to explore such as the famous sights and museums, the nightlife scene, and the many shops.

Boise is the capital of the state of Idaho. It is a cultural city with a good number of museums and many nice outdoor spaces. The city offers visitors the opportunity to explore a relaxing and laid back destination that is often overlooked by travelers.

Do you have 3, 4, or 5 days to visit Boise? Here's our comprehensive breakdown of how much time you might need for your trip along with some suggestions for things to do.

Is 3 days enough time in Boise?

Three days is more than sufficient for an in-depth trip to Boise, giving you the freedom to set your own pace. The famous sights and museums, the nightlife scene, and the many shops on your own schedule. Then, unwind at your hotel or use Boise as a hub for some nice day trips in the surrounding areas.

How to spend 3 days in Boise

This city offers some good museums and historic landmarks, so it's worth your time to spend a day exploring a few of them. Pick the ones that appeal to you the most and get started. As the state capital, there's a nice selection of local museums around town. Favorites include the Boise Art Museum, the Basque Museum & Cultural Center, the Idaho Black History Museum, and Discovery Center.

This city is very popular for nightlife. After the sun goes down, head out to one of the many popular venues around town. In downtown Boise you'll find a selection of bars, lounges, and breweries. There's enough around town to keep the nightlife scene interesting.

Shopping in Boise is very popular, and it's easy to see why. Spend time exploring the many shops and boutiques to find the perfect gift, souvenir, or outfit. You'll find a mix of local boutiques, independent vendors, and suburban shopping centers where you'll find anything that you might need.

After you've explored most of Boise, take a day trip to one of the many beautiful destinations nearby.

Is 4 days enough time in Boise?

Four days is more than enough time to see everything that Boise has to offer. After all, it's not such a huge city. Many visitors prefer to spend one to two days here, so you'll be able to take in all of the famous sights and museums, the nightlife scene, and the many shops at your own pace. We have a few suggestions of things to do while you're visiting, and then you can take a day trip if you're looking to explore further around the area.

Boise, Idaho

How to spend 4 days in Boise

With 4 days in Boise, you'll have a bit more time to enjoy everything that the city has to offer.

With so much time here, you should absolutely take another day trip to one of the many nearby destinations around Boise. Plenty of amazing options are available.

Is 5 days enough time in Boise?

Five days is more than enough time to see pretty much everything in Boise, as it's not as large as some other cities. You can move at your own pace and relax in your hotel. Wander through the museums, take advantage of the local nightlife, and browse the shops. You could also use Boise as a base for exploring the nearby destinations. You'll find some great day trips in the region.

How to spend 5 days in Boise

With 5 days in Boise, you'll have plenty of time to enjoy everything the city has to offer at your own relaxed pace. You'll want to spend plenty of time perusing the musuems, hopping around the bars and clubs, browsing the shops, and dining at local restaurants. You can also relax at your hotel, or casually explore this city looking for hidden gems. Also, consider taking some day trips to nearby destinations where you can explore more of the region.

A few trip suggestions:

Hells Canyon Kirkwood Jet Boat Tour near Boise, Idaho ($218)
Boise Scavenger Hunt Adventure ($21)
Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Boise by 3Quest Challenge ($10)

More Info

If you're looking for more information about Boise, we have even more advice to help you plan your journey.