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Idaho is an amazing place, full of natural wonders and a unique history as well. If you visit, you will want to make a stop in Boise, the state’s capital. There is much to see and do in Boise, especially if you have the kids in tow.
Some of our favorite things to do while in Boise were in a very localized area, so you won’t have far to go from place to place. Driving around is easy too, with not much traffic at all and very few places charging parking fees. (Those were both welcome changes of pace for this NYC area girl, who is used to more congestion then cold and flu season while driving.)
If you have kids, you know that one of the first “must” stops when you visit a new area is the zoo. Zoo Boise is not only one of the most popular spots to visit in Southern Idaho, but one of the top ranked zoos in Idaho as well. This pretty location is home to many species of animals- nearly 100, in fact. But that’s not all you can see at the zoo- you can take a walk back in time and visit the Dinosaurs- this exhibit features animatronic dinosaurs that not only move, but roar as well. Kids will get a huge kick out of this prehistoric zoo visit; a little something out of the ordinary. You can have your very own up close and personal animal encounter with either a sloth bear or a giraffe- or both if you feel adventurous. Find out the day’s feeding times (available online or in the zoo’s programs when you arrive) and make sure you arrive early- there is only space for 25 participants per feeding. For just $3, you can feed the animal it’s favorite snack!
There are also several play areas for the kids, food stands, and of course souvenir shops. You and you kids can also ride the carousel for just $1, and there are plenty of snack stands abound as well. Make sure you stop at the petting zoo, or Zoo Farm. There you can feed the animals (such as goats) for just a quarter. All proceeds from the Zoo Farm go to the Zoo Boise Conservation Fund, so there is another reason to drop a few coins in.
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