Summer break is the perfect time for kids to step away from screens, explore their creativity, and play.
From outdoor adventures to crafts, there are countless ways to keep children active, engaged, and entertained all summer long. From weekend outings to midweek kid-friendly activities, you’ll find plenty of options in Garden City.
This blog shares a list of places to visit that host activities for kids of all ages to enjoy during summer break.
The Treasure Valley is welcoming a new era of professional soccer — and Garden City is proud to host the home field.
Athletic Club Boise will play its first-ever home match on Saturday, April 4 at 7:00 PM against Spokane, Washington at Expo Idaho. With fans traveling in from across Idaho, Washington, and the Northwest, Garden City becomes the center of opening weekend energy in the Treasure Valley.
If you’re planning to attend the inaugural home game, turn it into a full Friday–Sunday getaway. Here’s how to build your soccer weekend around Garden City.
Friday: Arrive & Settle Into Garden City
Skip the game-day rush and arrive Friday evening. Staying in Garden City keeps you minutes from Expo Idaho while placing you along the Boise River Greenbelt, near restaurants, wineries, breweries, and coffee shops.
Where to Stay in Garden City
Riverfront Experience The Riverside Hotel offers scenic Boise River views, on-site dining, live music, and walkable access to the Greenbelt.
Modern Boutique Comfort Arcadia Hotel provides contemporary accommodations with quick access to Expo Idaho and Garden City’s food and wine corridor.
Private Vacation Rentals in Garden City Garden City offers a variety of locally managed short-term rentals ideal for families, friend groups, and fans traveling in for opening weekend.
Cozy BnB features thoughtfully designed river-adjacent stays ranging from modern condos to comfortable townhomes — perfect for groups attending the April 4 match. Guests booking through Cozy BnB can use code KICKOFF10 for 10% off their stay during opening weekend.
35 & Clay offers a beautifully curated stay just minutes from Garden City and Expo Idaho, blending design-forward comfort with easy access to dining, coffee shops, and the stadium.
These private vacation rentals provide additional space, flexibility, and a residential feel — all while keeping you close to Expo Idaho and the heart of Garden City’s game-day energy.
RV-Friendly Option Garden City RV Park offers a convenient and comfortable stay just minutes from Expo Idaho for fans traveling by road.
After check-in, enjoy dinner along the river and explore local tasting rooms. Browse the full lineup of restaurants and gathering spots on our Where to Eat in Garden City page.
Saturday: Explore Garden City Before Kickoff
With a 7:00 PM start time at Expo Idaho, Saturday gives you a full day to experience Garden City before the first home match.
Morning Coffee & Greenbelt Walk
Start your morning with coffee in Garden City:
• Push & Pour — craft coffee in a welcoming space near the Boise River. • Grindz Coffee — a local favorite for espresso and breakfast bites.
Take your coffee to-go and walk the Boise River Greenbelt, just steps from many Garden City lodging options. Early April weather makes for a perfect pre-game morning outdoors.
Midday Lunch in Garden City
Before heading to the stadium, sit down for lunch at:
Caffè Luciano’s — known for fresh pasta, hearty Italian plates, and a relaxed atmosphere ideal for pre-game conversation.
Garden City also offers brewery kitchens, winery tasting rooms, tacos, elevated pub fare, and family-friendly dining. Explore the complete dining guide on our Where to Eat in Garden City page to plan your meal stops.
Late Afternoon: Tailgating at Expo Idaho
Opening night deserves early energy.
Head to Expo Idaho ahead of kickoff and join fellow fans for tailgating before the match. Whether you’re meeting friends in the parking lot, setting up lawn chairs, or soaking in the pre-game atmosphere, tailgating adds to the excitement of the inaugural home game.
Because Expo Idaho is located in Garden City, staying nearby makes it easy to enjoy tailgating, attend the match, and return to your hotel or rental without navigating heavy post-game traffic.
Saturday Night: Opening Match at Expo Idaho
At 7:00 PM, Athletic Club Boise takes the field for its first-ever home game in Garden City.
The April 4 matchup against Spokane marks a milestone moment for professional soccer in the Treasure Valley. Fans attending opening night aren’t just watching a match — they’re part of the beginning of a new sports tradition in Garden City.
Staying local means you can celebrate the win, recap the match with friends, and return to your accommodations within minutes.
Sunday: Slow Morning Before Checkout
Before heading home, enjoy one more slow morning in Garden City.
Grab coffee, take another Greenbelt walk, visit a winery tasting room, or explore local maker spaces before checkout. Turning opening weekend into a full two-night stay allows you to experience Garden City beyond the stadium.
Make It a Soccer Weekend in Garden City
Athletic Club Boise may represent the region — but opening night lives in Garden City.
When you travel to the Treasure Valley for the April 4 home opener at Expo Idaho, staying in Garden City puts you closest to the action while giving you access to dining, coffee, river walks, and post-game gathering spots.
Plan your Friday–Sunday stay, secure your tickets, and build your soccer weekend around Garden City. It all starts with your stay in Garden City, a true oasis from ordinary.
Looking for a Valentine’s weekend that feels thoughtful, relaxed, and easy to plan? Garden City, Idaho offers a riverfront setting filled with cozy places to stay, locally loved dining, and live music and events that make it simple to turn Valentine’s Day into a full weekend experience.
This Eat, Stay & Play: Valentine’s Day Edition highlights where to stay, where to eat, and what to do in Garden City—so whether you’re visiting for the weekend or planning a special night out, everything is right here along the Boise River.
Where to Stay in Garden City
Choosing the right place to stay sets the tone for the weekend, and Garden City offers accommodations that keep you close to the river, dining, and nightlife.
The The Riverside Hotel is a longtime favorite for Valentine’s weekend stays, offering a resort-like experience with restaurants, live music venues, and direct access to the Boise River Greenbelt—all on site.
For a modern, boutique-style stay, the Arcadia Hoteloffers a centrally located option with easy access to Garden City dining and entertainment.
For something more private, The Lofts @ 35th & Clay feature boutique loft-style stays with private rooftop hot tubs—ideal for a cozy Valentine’s escape. Nearby, Garden City Retreat offers cozy-themed stays with a hot tub close to Garden City’s best amenities
For RV travelers, Riverside RV Park offers year-round RV hook-ups and seasonal camping along the Boise River.
Where to Eat in Garden City This Valentine’s Weekend
Garden City’s dining scene makes it easy to plan a Valentine’s weekend that feels personal—whether that means a romantic dinner, a stylish night out, or a casual brunch date.
For romantic dining, Riverside Grill pairs classic date-night fare with river views, while Telaya Wine Co. and Split Rail Winery offer relaxed wine-forward experiences perfect for lingering conversations. Live music and an intimate lounge setting make The Sapphire Room another Valentine’s favorite.
Comedy lovers can catch stand-up shows at Western Collective, while Clubhound hosts game night, live rock, and tipsy bingo. Late-night creatives can stop by Karuna Kava Bar for open mic night.
For a quieter moment, enjoy a sunset walk or Lime scooter ride along the Boise River Greenbelt.
Enter to Win a Valentine’s Weekend Getaway
We’re celebrating Valentine’s weekend with a Garden City getaway featuring a one-night stay at The Riverside Hotel, breakfast for two at Riverside Grill, a $50 food and beverage credit, and a $25 gift card to Grindz Coffee.
Plan Your Valentine’s Weekend in Garden City
From riverfront stays and local dining to live music and relaxed experiences, Garden City makes Valentine’s weekend easy to plan and even easier to enjoy.
Save this guide, share it with your Valentine, and start planning your weekend in Garden City.
Winter in Southwest Idaho brings a quieter kind of magic—and Garden City is the perfect place to experience it. With inviting places to stay in Garden City, a walkable Craft Beverage Corridor, and easy access to the region’s best winter adventures, Garden City offers a balance of warmth, creativity, and exploration.
Make Garden City your home base, then head out for snow-filled day trips, scenic drives, and winter experiences—all within easy reach.
Stay Where the Warmth Is: Garden City Lodging
After a day in the snow, there’s nothing better than returning somewhere comfortable and close to it all. Garden City offers inviting places to stay that keep you near the river, local dining, and the heart of the neighborhood.
The Riverside Hotel A longtime Garden City favorite, The Riverside Hotel sits along the Boise River and Greenbelt, offering riverside views, onsite dining, and a welcoming atmosphere that feels especially inviting in winter.
Arcadia Hotel A modern, thoughtfully designed stay in the heart of Garden City, Arcadia Hotel blends clean style with comfort. Its central location makes it an ideal home base for exploring the Craft Beverage Corridor and setting out on winter day trips throughout the Treasure Valley.
Staying in Garden City keeps visitors connected—to the river, local flavor, and winter adventure—without ever needing to move hotels.
Eat, Sip & Linger Close to Home
Winter is the perfect time to slow down and savor. Garden City’s Craft Beverage Corridor makes it easy to warm up with local pours and comforting bites—often just steps apart.
Settle in at places like Telaya Wine Co.
Enjoy bold, creative brews at Barbarian Brewing
Sip local vintages at Cinder Wines or Split Rail Winery, both offering welcoming tasting rooms ideal for winter afternoons.
For a relaxed meal and casual gathering spot, Twisted District Brew Co. delivers an easygoing atmosphere that feels right at home in the colder months.
Fly Fishing on the Boise River — Right in Garden City Winter fly fishing is one of Garden City’s quiet seasonal highlights. The Boise River is open to fishing year-round, offering peaceful stretches along the Greenbelt where anglers can cast on milder winter days—often just steps from local tasting rooms and restaurants.
It’s a simple way to enjoy the outdoors without leaving town, and a reminder that some of Garden City’s best winter experiences happen right along the river.
Skiing & Snowboarding at Bogus Basin Just under an hour from Garden City, Bogus Basin ski area offers downhill skiing, Nordic trails, and snowshoeing with sweeping mountain views—perfect for a full winter day without a long drive.
Tubing at Eagle Island State Park A favorite for families and easy winter fun, the Eagle Island State Park tubing hill delivers laughter-filled runs just 30 minutes away.
Winter Hot Springs Escapes Cold days pair perfectly with hot water. Nearby favorites like The Springs offer a memorable winter soak before heading back to Garden City for dinner and drinks.
Snowmobiling & Scenic Winter Drives The mountains surrounding the Treasure Valley offer designated snowmobile routes and scenic winter drives for those hoping to chase fresh snow and wide-open views—without needing to pack up and relocate.
End the Day Back in Garden City
The beauty of winter in Garden City is returning somewhere that feels welcoming. Tasting rooms glow a little warmer, the river moves quietly beside the Greenbelt, and evenings invite you to slow down—while keeping fingers crossed for a fresh snowfall.
Whether your day is spent on the slopes, in the snow, or savoring the indoors, Garden City offers the perfect winter rhythm: explore by day, unwind by night.
Plan your winter escape—and let it all start with your stay in Garden City. #AnOasisOutofOrdinary
As winter settles along the Boise River and the trees take on their familiar cold-weather glow, Garden City transforms into one of the most inviting winter destinations in the Treasure Valley. Whether you’re looking for things to do in Garden City Idaho, planning a close-to-home getaway, or searching for new winter experiences across the valley, Garden City offers the perfect blend of creativity, comfort, and community.
This is your official Garden City winter guide—a friendly roadmap to help you eat, stay, sip, play, and explore your way through the season in our oasis from the ordinary.
Warm Up With Garden City’s Craft Scene
Few places capture the magic of winter in Garden City Idaho like our breweries, cideries, and wineries. Cozy tasting rooms and small-batch makers come alive this season, creating the perfect setting for a winter afternoon.
You’ll find:
Riverside breweries pouring seasonal winter ales
Intimate wineries hosting curated tastings and weekend events
Cider houses experimenting with warm winter blends
If you’re searching for where to visit in Idaho for unique craft experiences, Garden City is one of the best cold-weather stops.
Explore Creative Corners & Maker Spaces
When temperatures drop, Garden City’s creative community turns inward—in the best way. Local galleries, makers, and studios open their doors with new winter exhibitions, hands-on workshops, and holiday-inspired creations.
Take a slow afternoon to explore:
First Friday Art & Studio Strolls at the Surel Mitchell Live-Work-Create District — open studios, art shows, and surprises every other month.
Visual Arts Collective — a bold gallery and performance venue featuring art, music, and seasonal workshops in Garden City.
Merry Makers Market (106 W 31st St) — pop-up workshops, ornament bars, local maker booths, and festive activities throughout the winter season.
It’s the perfect way to support local artists while experiencing an unexpected side of winter in Garden City.
Stay Close to the River
The Boise River Greenbelt becomes a peaceful winter retreat—quiet, scenic, and full of soft seasonal color. If you’re looking for things to do in Garden City Idaho that blend nature with relaxation, winter walks along the river are unmatched.
Bundle up and enjoy:
Birdwatching along the Greenbelt, where the calm water and colder air bring a quieter energy.
Frosty sunrise or sunset strolls, when winter light turns soft pink and golden.
A peaceful moment on your favorite stretch—pause, breathe, and take it in.
It’s a beautiful reminder of why so many choose to visit Garden City throughout the year.
Garden City Places to Stay: Hotels & Cozy Rentals
Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or searching for Garden City Idaho hotels, the city offers comfortable, convenient places to stay—perfect for exploring winter events, restaurants, and riverfront activities.
The Riverside Hotel, BW Premier Collection
A favorite among travelers, this riverfront stay offers walkability, on-site entertainment, and easy access to Garden City’s wineries and breweries.
CozyBnB (Garden City Vacation Rentals)
If you’re looking for where to stay in Idaho with a more home-style feel, CozyBnB offers a variety of Garden City vacation rentals. Use promo code RIVER for $100 off a 3-night minimum stay (valid through Dec 31, 2025; Garden City stays only; cannot be combined with weekly/monthly discounts).
Whether you’re after comfort, convenience, or creativity, there are many great Garden City places to stay this winter.
Savor Seasonal Eats at Garden City Restaurants
Winter is a delicious time to explore Garden City restaurants, warm cafés, and neighborhood eateries. From comfort-driven dinner menus to seasonal pastries and drinks, the food scene here thrives during the colder months.
Try:
Caffè Luciano’s
A Greenbelt-adjacent Italian café and wine bar perfect for a cozy brunch or winter evening.
Whether you’re a visitor or a local, this season is filled with new flavors worth discovering.
Garden City Idaho Winter Events
If you’re searching for Garden City Idaho winter events, you’ll find a mix of holiday markets, creative workshops, and community gatherings happening all season long.
Merry Makers Market
A beloved month-long pop-up featuring 25+ local makers, artisan gifts, workshops, and festive flavors.
34th Street Market (Seasonal Market Days)
An artisan-focused market offering seasonal goods, food vendors, and handcrafted treasures—perfect for holiday gifting.
Whether you’re looking for local shopping or community-driven events, winter brings a full calendar of creativity and connection in Garden City.
Discover Winter—Garden City Style
Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway, wondering where to visit in Idaho, or simply exploring new local experiences, Garden City is one of the Treasure Valley’s most inviting winter destinations. Cozy, creative, and filled with ways to eat, stay, play, and explore—there’s something here for every season.
This winter, take time to enjoy the warmth, energy, and creativity that make Garden City an oasis from ordinary.
September in Garden City is a month of transformation. The long, golden days of summer gently fade into cooler mornings, and with each week the leaves along the Boise River Greenbelt begin to shift into warm shades of amber, crimson, and gold. It’s a season that reminds us to slow down and notice the beauty all around.
One of the best ways to experience the changing season is with a stroll or bike ride along the Greenbelt. The trees that line the river create a canopy of color, mirrored in the water as the leaves drift down. Whether you’re an early riser catching the soft glow of sunrise or out at sunset as the sky turns pink, September is the beginning of nature’s most breathtaking show.
Local wineries, breweries, and cider houses capture the harvest spirit this month. With grapes and apples ripening, tasting rooms offer the perfect place to raise a glass to the new season. Pair your drink with a patio seat where you can watch the leaves slowly change around you.
As the air turns crisp, Garden City’s creative side comes alive. From art walks to live music, community gatherings take on a cozy, welcoming feel. It’s the ideal time to meet up with friends, discover something new, and enjoy the simple joy of autumn in the city.
The season’s change is more than just cooler weather—it’s a reminder of how much beauty can be found in transition. September invites visitors and locals alike to breathe deeply, take in the colors, and embrace the rhythm of nature as summer drifts into fall.
Whether you come for the river, the art, the flavors, or simply the turning leaves, September in Garden City offers a view worth savoring.
Each August, Garden City transforms into a hub of excitement and tradition with the arrival of the Western Idaho Fair. For over a century, this beloved event has been bringing together families, friends, and visitors from across the Treasure Valley to celebrate community, agriculture, and entertainment in one unforgettable setting. The Western Idaho Fair has deep roots in Idaho history, dating back to 1897. What began as a small agricultural showcase has blossomed into one of the state’s largest annual events. Today, the fair is hosted at Expo Idaho in Garden City, making it one of the most anticipated celebrations of the summer. From the thrill of the Ferris wheel to the laughter-filled fun of carnival games, the midway a place where fairgoers of all ages can find joy. Whether you’re braving the Zipper ride or winning a giant stuffed animal, the energy is infectious and a highlight of every visit. The fair’s lineup is packed with shows and performances that keep the fun going day and night. Nationally known musicians, comedy acts, and local talent take the stage, ensuring there’s always something to enjoy. The Western Idaho Fair is especially known for its concert series, bringing big-name artists right to the heart of Garden City. Food lovers rejoice, the Western Idaho Fair is a foodie’s paradise. Indulge in everything from classic corn dogs and funnel cakes to more adventurous eats like ice cream potatoes and deep-fried Oreos. Local vendors showcase Idaho flavors, making it a delicious experience from start to finish. True to its roots, the fair remains a celebration of Idaho’s agricultural heritage. Livestock shows, 4-H competitions, and agricultural exhibits showcase the hard work of local farmers and ranchers. Artisans and crafters also display their creations, from handmade quilts to intricate woodworking, honoring the creativity and skill of the community. Whether you’re reliving childhood memories or creating new ones, the Western Idaho Fair is the perfect way to celebrate summer in Garden City. Don’t miss your chance to be part of this treasured tradition!
If you’ve ever wished your favorite brewery or hangout spot had more dogs and less guilt about leaving yours at home, Clubhound in Garden City is your new favorite place.
Clubhound is a one-of-a-kind indoor/outdoor dog park that combines the best of both worlds: a social club for humans and a safe, fun play space for pups. Whether you’re a local looking to mix up your usual routine or a visitor exploring the area with your furry travel buddy, this spot is a must-visit.
The outdoor yard is fully fenced, spacious, and thoughtfully designed so dogs can run, wrestle, and roam off-leash while you sip a local craft beer or cold seltzer in the sunshine. The indoor area offers plenty of shade and comfy seating for when the Idaho heat kicks in.
One of the best things about Clubhound is how effortlessly it brings people together. Whether you’re a regular or stopping in for the first time, it’s easy to strike up a conversation while your dogs play. It’s the kind of place where strangers become friends over shared stories of vet visits, quirky habits, and “how did you train that?” moments.
It’s not just social time for the pups (although they’ll get plenty of tail wags and playtime in). It’s a laid-back way for humans to connect too, with the bonus of great drinks, rotating food trucks, and plenty of tail-wagging entertainment.
First Time at Clubhound? Here’s What to Know:
Make sure your pup is up to date on vaccines and register online before your visit.
Bring a leash and maybe a towel as playtime can get muddy!
Don’t have a dog? That’s okay! Dog lovers are welcome too.
Have you ever found yourself looking for a place to sit back, have a drink, and laugh with some friends? Western Collective in Garden City has you covered! Every Friday and Saturday night you can find a variety of comedians performing at their very own Cowboy Room.
Located off of Chinden Boulevard, Western Collective is hard to beat when it comes to events and social outings. If you’re looking to laugh, come visit their Cowboy Room any Friday or Saturday night and you’ll find an array of talent sure to have you rolling on the floor. Outside of laughs and events, they offer a wide variety of taps and seltzers. The best drink of all, of course, is one of their slushies. Choose a flavor and a booze and they’ll fix it right to your liking! During the summer, Western Collective will be offering their Slush and Seltzer specials, just in time for the show! So if you’re feeling thirsty or tense, come on down and let Western Collective wash (down) those woes away! On second thought, maybe we should leave the jokes to the professionals…
Imagine a day where you can indulge in rich flavors and nature’s pleasures…well you can find that and more nestled in the heart of Garden City! Supported by the scenic backdrop of the Boise River, you can find yourself sipping on wine or enjoying a rustic Italian meal with some friends. All it takes is a bike ride and some good company!
One of the unique treasures Garden City has to offer is the 6 mile long Greenbelt trail, marrying the two ends of the city together. The trail runs alongside the Boise River and gives you access to a myriad of local businesses and recreational activities to enjoy, Ranging anywhere from decadent wines to river wake-surfing, hop on at any of the many entry points and you’ll surely find yourself on an adventure!
To offer a taste of what you may find, start your journey at Telaya Wine Co. Here you can sit and sip right by the water. Whether you fancy a Chablis, or prefer a rich Cabernet Sauvignon, here you can’t go wrong. Take a ride up the trail and through the city to arrive at Cinder, another local winery. Their Express Bar makes it easy to grab a quick refreshment to enjoy in their garden. Sit back and relax in one of their reclined chairs while you soak in the sun! Both wineries have their own wine clubs offering a community for indulgence.
The perfect finish to the day is to make your way back to Caffe Luciano’s, a contemporary take on authentic Italian cuisine. Established in 2017, Caffe Luciano’s is a Garden City must! For something light, we recommend their Margherita flatbread, and for something more rich, you can’t go wrong with their manicotti. Whatever you choose, their food is sure to make you feel right at home.
