This summer it’s time to get off the couch and back outside for some great fun for the whole family. One of the best things about living in Boise is that there is always something fun going on. Here are a few ways your family can have a little fun this summer without totally breaking the bank. This list of activities is sure to keep your family pleasantly entertained.

Learn About Your Local Environment

Want something that’s fun and educational and off the beaten path? Look no further than the Boise Water Renewal Facility. The Boise WaterShed is where you’ll be introduced to water protection and conservation through hands-on exhibits. There are some fun activities planned this summer. Check out their event calendar and find an activity that interests you. Pro Tip: This will be a killer Instagram story that none of your friends will have!

Edwards Greenhouse

Gardening is a lifelong hobby that everyone should know how to do, even if it’s the very basics. Get your kids started early this year every Saturday at Edwards from 11:00am to 12pm. Children ages 3 to 12 are invited to experience gardening through stories and hands-on activities through the Edwards Earthworms club. Be sure to check out their website for a list of activities.

Libraries in the Treasure Valley

Libraries are rarely just about books alone these days. Did you know that the Library offers some great free and fun activities for kids, youth, and adults all summer long? Be sure to check out their list of fun build your own Lego creations or STEM classes. Click on the Library locations listed below to find a program.

Meridian Library: Summer reading program & other activities

Boise Public Library: Summer reading program & other activities

Nampa Public Library Activities

Eagle Public Library

Kuna Public Library: Summer reading program

Caldwell Public Library: Summer reading program

Kids Bowl Free Program

Sign up for a summer of fun and save big on bowling! Kids Bowl Free starts rolling Tuesday, May 28th. Kids 15 and under will receive two free games of bowling every day 'til Sunday, September 15th. Family Passes available for purchase, too! Visit kidsbowlfree.com/BigAlsID to sign up.

Complete the experience with the Unlimited Shoe Pass, which goes on sale in-store, 5/28, for all registered participants!

Movie Under the Stars

Settlers Park in Meridian and several Boise parks offer free movie nights for families throughout the summer. Check out the list of movies using the links below and save the date.

Settlers Park Family Night Movie: A fun family-friendly free tradition that happens every summer from June to August in Meridian.

Movies Under the Stars Boise: Another fun option to watch family-friendly hits in Boise.

Ice Skating

It’s going to be a hot one this year! Why not cool off a bit at Idaho Ice World? Family Night is Wednesday from 6:45 to 8:45 pm, $6 per person includes skate rentals. This is a great way to stay cool and safe in the summer while also staying active and learning new skills.

Bike the Greenbelt

The Boise Greenbelt is one of the best and most treasured amenities that Boise has to offer and is a great place to kick off summer activities. Enjoy a ride on the Greenbelt along the Boise River. You and your kids will be able to see plenty of wildlife, beautiful scenery, and stay active and healthy all through the summer!

Ribbon of Jewels: Ride through several of Idaho’s parks named after some remarkable women in Boise.   

Have a great time trying new things and getting outdoors this summer. If you try something and love it, then it could become a family tradition for years to come. You’ll never know until you get out there and do it!