“Can you please make a post with some ideas of what to do around the valley with all this smoke?? I have a 3 year old and 1 year old and we’re getting so stir crazy.”
– DM from a local mom
Ask and you shall receive!
This is such a good question and one I’d love to help with since it looks like the smoky, hazy air might be here for awhile. Here are some ideas for getting out of the house and avoiding the smoke in Boise and the surrounding areas while enjoying some family entertainment.
Visit an Indoor Play Place
We’re lucky to have a handful of wonderful options across the Treasure Valley. Check this roundup for all their deets. Don’t forget the other indoor family entertainment centers like Pojos, Wahooz, Big Al’s or Chuck E. Cheese!
Hit up the Library
You won’t have to drive too far to get to one of our many local libraries. Go to your local favorite or do a little “Tour de Libraries” and check them all out! They’ve each got wonderful story times and other events happening this summer throughout each day. Most also have a great kids area where the kiddos can explore and play with toys and participate in other learning activities. We especially love the Children’s area of the Eagle library and that the Garden City library’s tagline is that they are “not a quiet library!”
Membership Magic
These sorts of situations are the perfect time to pull out whatever membership your family has! The Children’s Museum of Idaho, Idaho State Museum, the Discovery Center, or even Costco (lol) are all great options. If you don’t have it already, snag the GetOutPass which allows you access to 77 entertainment venues across Idaho. Use code BOISEWITHKIDS and get 30% off (or more depending on current GetOutPass sales!). Another great option is the Funfull pass – another membership that gives you access and discounts to a variety of fun spots across the Treasure Valley (ie: Jabbers, JumpTime, movie theaters, etc). The best part is that you can use them as many times as you want!
Tour the Capitol
Take a trip to the Idaho State Capitol in Boise and unleash your inner history buff. Interactive exhibits, majestic architecture – it’s such a special place and open to the public to explore. The basement level is especially perfect for little learners and has a fun gift shop.
“It’s fun to stay at the YMCA”
Grab a day pass at one of our local YMCA locations and spend a couple hours splashing around their indoor pool. Each Y location has their own vibe and opportunities so check this article for an insider’s perspective.
I scream, you scream, we all scream for ICE CREAM!
Check this roundup for the best ice cream options in Boise!
Rockin ‘N Bowlin 4 Free!
Kids Bowl Free was created by bowling centers across the country to give back to their local communities and provide kids with a safe and fun activity during the summer months. Registered kids can get two free games of bowling EACH DAY of the Kids Bowl Free summer program at each of the participating bowling center locations. (This does not include shoe rentals so be prepared! Check rental fees before you go as they vary from alley to alley.) Adults need to pay to bowl but there is a Family Pass option available for up to four adults (adult family members, babysitters/nannies or older siblings) to enjoy two free games each day as well. When I did the math it was totally worth it for my family. It’s just a one time payment and such a good deal.
BWK Events Calendar
My friend and I work hard to keep the BWK community events calendar as packed as possible so that you have options at your fingertips at all times. Check it regularly to see if there’s a fun (indoor) option that works well for your fam!
What did I miss? What other smoke-free ideas do you have? Drop them in the comments or email/DM me!