Six delightful day trips from Boise

Who’s ready for a road trip? Set off for a truly memorable outing. From Old West lore to modern culinary scenes, there are a number of unique things to do in Boise to suit every interest. Whether you want to immerse yourself in nature or discover full-flavored vintages in Idaho’s wine country, check out the list below to add new Idaho attractions to your itinerary.

1) Idaho City “Old West” Experience

A scenic 45-minute drive from our community delivers you to a town steeped in pioneer history. Idaho City, once the state’s capital and largest town, swelled into a bustling metropolis during the 1860s Gold Rush. Today, the population is sparse but friendly, and the original townsfolk left behind rich cultural treasures. Walk along rustic plank sidewalks, admiring 19th-century buildings. Check out the old jail, browse antique shops, and treat yourself to a Sarsaparilla at the old-time ice cream parlor.

2) Sunnyslope Wine Trail

No need to fly to France or Spain to visit world-class vineyards! The Sunny Slope Wine District lies just 45 minutes by car from the Terraces. Nestled in the fertile Snake River Valley, the Sunnyslope Wine Trail boasts more than a dozen wineries spread across a picturesque landscape. The volcanic soil and a temperate climate make the region excellent for wine grapes that grow into robust reds and delicate rosés. Stop in at one of the small, family-owned wineries for a tasting and pick up a bottle to share with your residential-living neighbors.

3) Thousand Springs State Park

A 90-minute drive from the Terraces, Thousand Springs State Park is actually a group of parks, each featuring natural springs. View dramatic cliffs and a soaring 60-foot waterfall at Malad Gorge. Traverse the time-honored Kelton Trail and visit historical structures on Ritter Island, where you can also tour an orchard ripe with peaches, pears, and cherries. Fish the waters of Crystal Lake and marvel at the cascades of Niagara Springs.

4) Nampa street stroll

Nampa, Idaho’s second-largest city, is just 40 minutes from the Terraces by car. The one-time modest railroad stop is now a buzzing urban center but retains the flavor of its 19th-century beginnings. Along with several landmark buildings, you’ll find an ornate train depot dating to 1903. For something more modern, choose from a range of eclectic downtown restaurants or sample a stout in Nampa’s budding craft brewery scene.

5) Bruneau Dunes Playground

Home to one of North America’s largest sand dunes, Bruneau Dunes State Park offers sweeping high-desert terrain for a unique nature getaway. Blaze a trail along the massive dunes, or ease along well-worn paths. Two placid lakes teeming with bluegills and largemouth bass dot the sand. Watch the sun go down, then hit the observatory for stargazing through a high-powered telescope. It’s all just a one-hour drive from the Terraces!

6) A day in McCall

Given the more than two-hour drive and an abundance of things to do, your outing to McCall could easily turn into an overnight trip. Set on the panoramic shores of Payette Lake, McCall is a wonderful place to rent a boat and get out on the water or take a guided walk along nature trails. Picnic on a sandy beach to fully enjoy the splendid mountain backdrop. End your day meandering downtown among the shops or stop by one of the local restaurants to satisfy a craving before heading home.