The Treasure Valley in Idaho is a fantastic place to spend summer evenings. Whether you're a local or visiting the area, there's no shortage of activities to enjoy. Here are some top things to do to make the most of warm summer nights in this beautiful region.

1. Stroll Through Downtown Boise

Downtown Boise comes alive in the summer evenings with its vibrant atmosphere. Take a leisurely walk and enjoy:

Restaurants and Cafés: Dine al fresco at one of the many eateries offering diverse cuisine.
Live Music: Catch a live performance at venues like the Grove Plaza or various bars and clubs.
Street Art: Explore the local art scene by walking through the streets adorned with murals and sculptures.

2. Attend an Outdoor Concert or Event

During summer, the Treasure Valley hosts numerous outdoor events:

Alive After Five: A free summer concert series held every Wednesday evening at the Grove Plaza in Boise.
Eagle Saturday Market: Although a daytime event, it often extends into the evening with food trucks, crafts, and live entertainment.
Idaho Shakespeare Festival: Enjoy a classic play under the stars at this beautiful outdoor amphitheater.

3. Explore the Boise River Greenbelt

The Boise River Greenbelt offers a scenic escape from the heat:

Biking and Walking: Rent a bike or take a walk along the 25-mile path that winds through the heart of the city.
Picnicking: Pack a picnic and relax at one of the many parks along the Greenbelt, such as Julia Davis Park or Ann Morrison Park.
Float the Boise River: While floating is typically a daytime activity, it can extend into the evening during longer summer days.

4. Visit Local Breweries and Wineries

The Treasure Valley is home to several excellent breweries and wineries:

Breweries: Places like Payette Brewing Company and Boise Brewing offer great outdoor seating and often host food trucks and live music.
Wineries: Head to the Snake River Valley for a wine tasting experience. Many wineries have beautiful patios where you can enjoy a glass of local wine as the sun sets.

5. Take a Scenic Drive

A scenic drive can be a relaxing way to spend an evening:

Bogus Basin Road: Drive up to Bogus Basin for stunning views of the valley. During summer, the resort often hosts events and activities.
Hells Canyon Scenic Byway: Although a bit of a drive from the Treasure Valley, it offers breathtaking views and several lookout points perfect for a sunset stop.

6. Watch a Movie Under the Stars

Several places in the Treasure Valley offer outdoor movie screenings:

Settlers Park in Meridian: Enjoy free movies on Fridays during the summer.
Parma Motor-Vu Drive-In: Experience a nostalgic drive-in movie night with family or friends.

7. Explore Local Farmers' Markets

Evening farmers' markets provide a great way to explore local produce and crafts:

Capital City Public Market: Located in downtown Boise, this market often extends into the evening with food, music, and shopping.
Nampa Farmers Market: Offers fresh local produce, handmade crafts, and live entertainment.

8. Hike the Foothills

The Boise Foothills offer cooler temperatures in the evening and stunning sunset views:

Table Rock: A popular hike that rewards with panoramic views of Boise and the surrounding area.
Camel’s Back Park: Offers several trails with varying difficulty levels and beautiful vistas.

9. Visit Zoo Boise

Zoo Boise extends its hours during the summer months:

Evening Zoo Events: Special events like Zoo Daze allow visitors to enjoy the zoo in the cooler evening hours.
Animal Exhibits: Observe nocturnal animals when they are more active.

10. Cool Off at Roaring Springs Water Park

Spend an evening at Roaring Springs in Meridian:

Late Night Fridays: The park stays open late on Fridays during summer, offering a fun way to cool off and enjoy water rides in the evening.

Whether you’re looking for relaxation or adventure, the Treasure Valley offers a wide array of activities to enjoy on hot summer evenings. Embrace the warm weather, explore the local culture, and make the most of your summer nights!

Enjoying Hot Summer Evenings in the Treasure Valley