The Boise Watershed offers a variety of educational programs and experiences for all ages, including homeschool days, story times, special group events, and free guided tours. These programs provide hands-on learning opportunities focused on water, wildlife, and conservation. See the link above to access current Watershed programs, schedules, and registration details.
The Foothills Learning Center is a City of Boise Parks & Recreation facility offering hands-on environmental education for kids and families. The area features beautiful, family-friendly trails, including a free, self-guided Story Trail that can be enjoyed anytime. They also host free Family Days, starting up again in the spring. Check out their site above for full program details, seasonal offerings, and events.
Our local public libraries offer a wide range of free educational programs for all ages, from storytimes and early literacy activities to STEM clubs, workshops, and teen events—hosted at library branches across the Treasure Valley. Programs vary by location and season, so check the page above to find the offerings and library sites that work best for your family.
JUMP (link above) offers free, open-access learning opportunities for families year-round. You can walk the outdoor lawn and pathways anytime to explore historic tractors, equipment, and interactive displays, making it a great stop for curious kids. The open spaces encourage self-guided discovery, movement, and conversation, even outside of scheduled programs or events.
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The Compassion Crew program, offered by the Wassmuth Center for Human Rights, empowers young people to become active, empathetic leaders in their communities. Through engaging activities, discussions, and service opportunities, participants explore the values of kindness, respect, and understanding. The program helps students develop crucial skills like conflict resolution, empathy, and leadership, all while encouraging them to take action in fostering a compassionate, inclusive environment. Compassion Crew participants work together to create positive change, not only in their own lives but also within their schools and neighborhoods, making a meaningful impact on the broader community.
Old Boise Model Railway Club Hours & Visit Info
The Old Boise Model Railroad Club in downtown Boise welcomes visitors to enjoy its detailed N-scale model railroad layout on scheduled days. The club is typically open to the public Tuesday evenings from about 6:00–9:00 PM and Saturday afternoons from about 10:00 AM–2:00 PM. In addition to regular hours, the club often hosts special open house events (especially during the holidays) with extended Saturday hours and displays. DowntownBoise.org Location: Basement of the Pioneer Building, 106 N. 6th St, Boise, ID.
The Idaho State Capitol is open daily from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM, and the public can walk in and explore exhibits for free during those hours. Idaho State Historical Society
Inside you’ll find permanent and rotating exhibits such as Governing Idaho: How People and Policy Shape Our State, historic statues like Winged Victory and the George Washington Equestrian Statue, portraits of Idaho governors and legislators, and more displays tied to Idaho history and government.
Temporary exhibits may also be on display (e.g., special historical exhibits in Statuary Hall), so there’s often something new to see.