Ten fun fall activities to do in Boise

Illustration by Kelsey Mason

Fall is one of the most beautiful seasons in Boise, and with Halloween fast approaching, there are so many ways to take advantage of the gorgeous weather and festive ambiance. 

Lowe Family Farmstead 

Throw on your cowboy boots and head out to the Lowe Family Farmstead. From corn mazes to adorable farm animals, this outdoor event is a great way to embrace the not-so-scary side of October while still getting in the spirit of the season. With delicious food and drinks, and an exciting hayride through the farm, you’ll be sure to make this a fall tradition. General admission is typically anywhere from $21-$25, but if you plan your visit for a Tuesday you can get a discounted price of $12. 

Idaho Penitentiary

Although the ghost tours for the season are all booked up, experiencing even a standard guided tour through the Old Idaho Penitentiary is sure to send a shiver down your spine. On Oct. 27, enjoy food trucks, drinks and two haunted houses: Cell Block Four and, for the first time, the haunted infirmary. Admission is $20 a person. 

Botanical Gardens

If the penitentiary gets too spooky for you, walk on over to the Idaho Botanical Gardens which will be having festive themed events every Saturday throughout the month of October. Members can experience any of the following events for free while general admission is priced at $12. Oct. 28 is sure to be a day jam-packed with thrills and fun. Wear your best costume to dawn in the costume parade and enjoy the musical stylings of High Pine Whiskey and of course lots of treats. Be sure to stop by the Botanical Garden’s poetry writing workshop which will be held Nov. 2 priced at $20 for members and $25 for non–members, as well as their yoga class which will be held Nov. 29 from 5:30 to 6:45 and includes admission to Winter Garden A’Glow.

Rocky Horror Picture Show

Let’s do the time warp again, Boise. The Egyptian Theater will be showcasing a viewing of the musical while featuring live performers on Oct. 28th. Experience a wild ride with Janet and Brad as they stumble upon a household that has more to it than meets the eye. Dress up and be ready to dance but leave the toast at home, please.

The Haunted World

If you live for the thrills of the Halloween season look no further than The Haunted World which is running until Oct. 31. Self-proclaimed as the “scariest haunted house in Idaho”, this event is a screaming good time. If these scares aren’t enough for you, be sure to check out Requiem, a 13,000-square-foot haunted house running until Oct. 31. Located in a century-old building, don’t be surprised if the actors aren’t the only spooks you encounter.

Haunted Trolley Tour

Ride in style on the famous Boise trolley as you stop at notable landmarks and hear some chilling tales about Idaho’s history. Halloween tours began Oct. 14, so be sure to grab your tickets for this thrilling Boise excursion. 

Forever Pumpkins Patch

With Boise’s vibrant art scene, it’s no surprise that pumpkin carvers here are next level. Take a walk through a showcase of professionally carved pumpkins, grab a drink and sweet treat, and stick around to watch an outdoor movie. If you’re feeling inspired yourself, check out some of these creative pictures for some carving inspiration. This event will be held at 1613 S Londoner Ave. Boise, Idaho 83706 on Oct. 27-28 from 8-11 p.m. 

Halloween Movie Marathon

If a cozy night in is more your scene, cuddle up with a blanket, turn on the fireplace (or put on the nine-hour YouTube video of one), and watch some classic Halloween flicks. Feeling stumped on what to watch? Look no further than this breakdown of 31 spooky movies to get you in the spirit. Or, see a Halloween classic at The Egyptian Theater where Hocus Pocus will be playing Oct 28 with showtimes at 3:30 and 5:30. 

Boo at the Zoo

Even the animals are getting in on the festivities here in Boise. While the event may be geared toward a younger crowd, there is something for audience members of all ages to enjoy. Witness the animals getting Halloween treats and enjoy the food and drink as well by the various vendors at the Boo at the Zoo. Admission is $12, but zoo members get in for free. 

Escape Rooms

Put yourself and a group of friends to the test with one of Treasure Valley Escape Room’s whimsical or terrifying themed rooms. From Alice in Wonderland and The Wizard of Oz, to the terrifying behavior of “Doctor Fear”, these escape rooms will allow your imagination to run wild.

This Post Has One Comment

  1. Jackson

    I second escape rooms! One of the best ways to spend an hour.

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