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30 Nov 2025
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10 best places for weekend getaways from Caldwell, ID

Weekend Getaway Overview from Caldwell, ID

Discover a variety of landscapes within easy reach of Caldwell, from scenic urban greenways to remote alpine peaks. Begin with nearby Boise attractions such as the Boise River Greenbelt for relaxed riverside walks and the Idaho Botanical Garden for tranquil plant displays; delve into local history at the Old Idaho Penitentiary. Head into the Boise Foothills for quick outdoor escapes at Camel’s Back Park, or drive up to Bogus Basin Mountain Recreation Area for seasonal skiing, mountain biking and sweeping valley views. For wide-open desert and dune experiences, explore Bruneau Dunes State Park with its towering sand formations and evening stargazing. Lake Cascade State Park and Hells Canyon National Recreation Area offer contrasting water-based and dramatic canyon scenery—ideal for boating, fishing and viewpoint photography. For a memorable mountain wilderness experience, plan a trip to the Sawtooth National Recreation Area and Redfish Lake near Stanley, where alpine trails, crystal-clear lakes and abundant wildlife reward hikers and paddlers. Scattered scenic viewpoints near Mountain Home and the periphery of the region provide aircraft-spotting and stark high-desert panoramas. Together, these destinations create a flexible weekend trip palette: choose close-in urban nature and cultural stops for short outings, or combine longer drives into multi-day adventures across Idaho’s most iconic natural settings.


Recommended Activities

  • Trip Point Pin1

    Boise River Greenbelt

    A scenic 25-mile path along the Boise River offering easy walking, biking and wildlife viewing; it connects parks, cultural sites and downtown Boise for a relaxed outdoor escape close to Caldwell.
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  • Trip Point Pin2

    Old Idaho Penitentiary (Boise)

    A historic state prison (1870–1973) with preserved cellblocks, exhibits and stories of frontier-era justice; it provides a unique, educational look into Idaho’s past and is a compelling cultural attraction.
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  • Trip Point Pin3

    Idaho Botanical Garden (Boise)

    A peaceful, well-maintained garden showcasing regional and themed plant collections, seasonal displays and events; it’s ideal for leisurely strolls, photography and learning about local flora.
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  • Trip Point Pin4

    Bogus Basin Mountain Recreation Area

    Offers year-round outdoor recreation — skiing and snowboarding in winter, extensive mountain biking and hiking trails in summer — plus panoramic views of the Treasure Valley and opportunities for lessons and family-friendly activities.
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  • Trip Point Pin5

    Camel's Back Park

    A popular urban park with scenic overlooks, well-maintained trails, playgrounds and picnic areas; its ridgeline paths provide quick, accessible hikes and great views of Boise and the Boise Foothills.
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  • Trip Point Pin6

    Mountain Home Air Force Base (Scenic views area)

    While the base itself has restricted access, nearby viewpoints and surrounding areas offer aircraft-spotting opportunities and a glimpse into military aviation operations; the open landscapes and desert scenery make for interesting short excursions from Caldwell.
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  • Trip Point Pin7

    Hells Canyon National Recreation Area (Hells Canyon Overlook)

    Offers dramatic, rugged canyon scenery carved by the Snake River—the deepest river gorge in North America—with opportunities for scenic drives, viewpoints, hiking, river trips and wildlife viewing; it’s ideal for experiencing remote, awe-inspiring landscapes far from city lights.
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  • Trip Point Pin8

    Lake Cascade State Park

    A large reservoir with boating, fishing, swimming and camping; the park’s shoreline, trails and nearby towns provide a relaxed lakeside getaway with birdwatching, water sports and family-friendly recreation during warm months.
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  • Trip Point Pin9

    Bruneau Dunes State Park

    Home to Idaho’s tallest single-structure sand dune, the park features unique sand-sledding and hiking experiences, a telescope-equipped observatory for stargazing, fishing and camping—offering a striking desert-and-dune landscape unlike other regional parks.
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  • Trip Point Pin10

    Sawtooth National Recreation Area (Stanley/Redfish Lake area)

    Spectacular alpine scenery with jagged peaks, clear mountain lakes and abundant hiking, backpacking, fishing and kayaking opportunities; Redfish Lake and the town of Stanley serve as gateways to trailheads, boat rentals and guided services, making it ideal for both day trips and multi-day wilderness adventures.
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Restaurants

  • Restaurant Icon

    Bardenay Restaurant & Distillery (Boise)

    4.6
    $$$$

    Bardenay Restaurant & Distillery (Boise)

    Craft distillery and restaurant offering Pacific Northwest-influenced dishes and house-made spirits; popular for its inventive cocktails and waterfront setting near the Boise River Greenbelt.
    4.6
    $$$$
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    The Fork (Boise)

    4.5
    $$$$

    The Fork (Boise)

    Seasonal, farm-forward American fare emphasizing local Idaho ingredients; a reliable spot for elevated comfort dishes after exploring downtown Boise attractions.
    4.5
    $$$$
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    Barbacoa Grill (Boise)

    4.6
    $$$$

    Barbacoa Grill (Boise)

    Eclectic, vibrant restaurant featuring Latin-inspired cuisine and a lively atmosphere—well-suited for groups and evening meals following a day at the Idaho Botanical Garden or Greenbelt.
    4.6
    $$$$
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    Red Feather Lounge (Boise)

    4.5
    $$$$

    Red Feather Lounge (Boise)

    Intimate cocktail lounge with creative small plates and a curated drink list; a good choice for a relaxed nightcap or light meal near Boise’s cultural district.
    4.5
    $$$$
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    The Pond (Eagle)

    4.5

    The Pond (Eagle)

    Comfortable, neighborhood bistro known for American classics and a welcoming atmosphere—convenient for visitors exploring the Boise Foothills or making a stop en route to Bogus Basin.
    4.5
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Hotels

  • Hotel Icon

    The Grove Hotel (Boise)

    The Grove Hotel (Boise)

    Full-service downtown hotel with modern rooms, on-site dining and easy access to the Boise River Greenbelt and cultural attractions—good base for exploring Boise and nearby day trips.
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    Hotel 43 (Boise)

    4.4

    Hotel 43 (Boise)

    Boutique hotel offering comfortable accommodations and a central location near downtown dining and entertainment—convenient for short stays and evening outings.
    4.4
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    Courtyard by Marriott Boise Downtown/BSU

    4.4

    Courtyard by Marriott Boise Downtown/BSU

    Reliable chain hotel with practical amenities, close to Boise State University and the Greenbelt—suitable for families and travelers seeking consistent service.
    4.4
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    Eagle Inn & Suites (Eagle)

    4.5

    Eagle Inn & Suites (Eagle)

    Budget-friendly option near the Boise Foothills and local eateries—handy for visitors planning outdoor activities or access to Bogus Basin.
    4.5
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    Best Western Plus Tamarack Inn & Suites (McCall)

    4.3

    Best Western Plus Tamarack Inn & Suites (McCall)

    Comfortable lakeside-style hotel serving as a good base for visiting Lake Cascade and nearby recreation—offers straightforward amenities for overnight stays during regional excursions.
    4.3
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Local Events & Happenings

  • Event Icon

    Jesse Welles

    Jesse Welles

    The event will take place at Treefort Music Hall in Boise.
    Map IconTreefort Music Hall in Boise (16.63 mi)
    Calendar Icon18 Mar 2026
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  • Event Icon

    Pouya - Only a Few Left

    Pouya - Only a Few Left

    All ages, Standing room only, Full bar with ID. VIP Lounge is 21+ includes Access to viewing balcony, private bar, private restrooms, seating is first come first served, not included in VIP Package Offers. All support acts are subject to change witho...
    Map IconRevolution Concert House & Event Center in Garden City (19.05 mi)
    Calendar Icon4 Dec 2025
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  • Event Icon

    Chase Matthew - Holdin' it Down Tour 2025

    Chase Matthew - Holdin' it Down Tour 2025

    All ages, Standing room only, Full bar with ID. VIP Lounge is 21+ includes Access to viewing balcony, private bar, private restrooms, seating is first come first served, not included in VIP Package Offers. All support acts are subject to change witho...
    Map IconRevolution Concert House & Event Center in Garden City (19.05 mi)
    Calendar Icon7 Dec 2025
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    Tape B: The Soundtrack To Everything You Forgot

    Tape B: The Soundtrack To Everything You Forgot

    All ages, Standing room only, Full bar with ID. VIP Lounge is 21+ includes Access to viewing balcony, private bar, private restrooms, seating is first come first served, not included in VIP Package Offers. All support acts are subject to change witho...
    Map IconRevolution Concert House & Event Center in Garden City (19.05 mi)
    Calendar Icon8 Dec 2025
    Picture for Tape B: The Soundtrack To Everything You Forgot
  • Event Icon

    OsamaSon - Psykotic Tour

    OsamaSon - Psykotic Tour

    All ages, Standing room only, Full bar with ID. VIP Lounge is 21+ includes Access to viewing balcony, private bar, private restrooms, seating is first come first served, not included in VIP Package Offers. All support acts are subject to change witho...
    Map IconRevolution Concert House & Event Center in Garden City (19.05 mi)
    Calendar Icon18 Dec 2025
    Picture for OsamaSon - Psykotic Tour
  • Event Icon

    Hairball

    Hairball

    All ages, Standing room only, Full bar with ID. VIP Lounge is 21+ includes Access to viewing balcony, private bar, private restrooms, seating is first come first served, not included in VIP Package Offers. All support acts are subject to change witho...
    Map IconRevolution Concert House & Event Center in Garden City (19.05 mi)
    Calendar Icon4 Apr 2026
    Picture for Hairball
  • Event Icon

    Josiah Queen - The Mt. Zion Tour

    Josiah Queen - The Mt. Zion Tour

    All ages, Standing room only, Full bar with ID. VIP Lounge is 21+ includes Access to viewing balcony, private bar, private restrooms, seating is first come first served, not included in VIP Package Offers. All support acts are subject to change witho...
    Map IconRevolution Concert House & Event Center in Garden City (19.05 mi)
    Calendar Icon26 Apr 2026
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Travel Gems from Reddit

  • Reddit Icon

    Hey! I am heading to Idaho at the end of August for a wedding in McCall and decided to extend my stay for three additional nights to explore Boise

    Trip Recommendations/Must-Do Boise Things?

    Hey! I am heading to Idaho at the end of August for a wedding in McCall and decided to extend my stay for three additional nights to explore Boise

    /r/Boise
  • Reddit Icon

    12 votes, 41 comments. My husband and I plan to spend about a week in ID in August exploring the state and trying to get a good feel for it (or as

    Week long road trip through Idaho. Recommendations?!

    12 votes, 41 comments. My husband and I plan to spend about a week in ID in August exploring the state and trying to get a good feel for it (or as

    /r/Idaho
  • Reddit Icon

    Fishhook creek trail is cool, and you can keep walking into the wilderness at the end to hike up to the tops of the Sawtooths. McCall will have more hotels. Probably more avai...

    Last minute 3 day trip, need ideas!

    Fishhook creek trail is cool, and you can keep walking into the wilderness at the end to hike up to the tops of the Sawtooths. McCall will have more hotels. Probably more avai...

    /r/Idaho
  • Reddit Icon

    If your going as far as redfish and the sawtooths I highly recommend taking the ferry across the lake and hiking to alpine lake

    Best hikes

    If your going as far as redfish and the sawtooths I highly recommend taking the ferry across the lake and hiking to alpine lake

    /r/Boise
  • Reddit Icon

    Bogus Basin: Alpine roller coaster, ropes course, mountain biking (lift served and cross-country), hiking. Live music on the weekends.

    Family activities to do in Boise?

    Bogus Basin: Alpine roller coaster, ropes course, mountain biking (lift served and cross-country), hiking. Live music on the weekends.

    /r/Idaho
  • Reddit Icon

    Hi everyone! Me and my partner are going to visit Boise in March and we really need suggestions about places to go. We are doing this trip because we

    Visiting Boise for the first time

    Hi everyone! Me and my partner are going to visit Boise in March and we really need suggestions about places to go. We are doing this trip because we

    /r/Idaho
  • Reddit Icon

    Have you thought about Deadwood? Might be a better idea. Sawtooths are packed during the summer months, go midweek it's better

    Redfish lake or Stanley Lake?

    Have you thought about Deadwood? Might be a better idea. Sawtooths are packed during the summer months, go midweek it's better

    /r/Idaho
  • Reddit Icon

    Get outdoors, camp in the Sawtooth National Recreation Area. Raft the Payette South fork or the Salmon. Rent a bike and go to the basin gravity park at Bogus same for Sun Vall...

    How to make the most of a summer in Boise?

    Get outdoors, camp in the Sawtooth National Recreation Area. Raft the Payette South fork or the Salmon. Rent a bike and go to the basin gravity park at Bogus same for Sun Vall...

    /r/Boise
  • Reddit Icon

    I'm looking for activities or places to visit in the Boise area that don't involve a lot of walking, things you can directly drive to, or worse-case scenario are wheelchair-fr...

    Activities in Boise that don't involve hiking or walking very far

    I'm looking for activities or places to visit in the Boise area that don't involve a lot of walking, things you can directly drive to, or worse-case scenario are wheelchair-fr...

    /r/Boise
  • Reddit Icon

    In the spring when the wild flowers are blooming is when to go there. Sawtooth lake is a life changing hike, if you have time I highly recommend it. It's a weekend trip t...

    Week trip to Boise. Looking for recommendations....

    In the spring when the wild flowers are blooming is when to go there. Sawtooth lake is a life changing hike, if you have time I highly recommend it. It's a weekend trip t...

    /r/Boise
  • Reddit Icon

    60 votes, 106 comments. my friend from nyc is coming to visit in boise and hes never been to a state like idaho, hes literally never seen a

    Where to take a tourist in Boise

    60 votes, 106 comments. my friend from nyc is coming to visit in boise and hes never been to a state like idaho, hes literally never seen a

    /r/Boise
  • Reddit Icon

    Or all 3 days in Stanley and just drive to Ketchum area during the day to see more of the scenic sawtooth byway Things we want to see/do: Scenic views of mountains/lakes, hiki...

    Where to Stay - Late June/Early July Trip to Sawtooths

    Or all 3 days in Stanley and just drive to Ketchum area during the day to see more of the scenic sawtooth byway Things we want to see/do: Scenic views of mountains/lakes, hiki...

    /r/Idaho
  • Reddit Icon

    Also, there are pedestrian only paths on the greenbelt right off the NW side of the Glenwood Bridge and the other starts at Barber Park and goes toward Bown. Both great, I lik...

    Easy-ish hike near-ish Boise?

    Also, there are pedestrian only paths on the greenbelt right off the NW side of the Glenwood Bridge and the other starts at Barber Park and goes toward Bown. Both great, I lik...

    /r/Boise
  • Reddit Icon

    Sawtooths - 3 nights (right now staying 2 in Stanley) Boise - 2 nights - explore the city. Making stops along southern Idaho like City of Rocks/ twin falls/craters of the moon...

    Advice for Sawtooth Mountains, Idaho in June?

    Sawtooths - 3 nights (right now staying 2 in Stanley) Boise - 2 nights - explore the city. Making stops along southern Idaho like City of Rocks/ twin falls/craters of the moon...

    /r/travel
  • Reddit Icon

    The Sawtooths are generally safe. It's hard to know what will be safe until the week of I'd say so you'll have to be flexible. Blue heart springs would feel goo...

    Making a Week in ID (Stanley + ???)

    The Sawtooths are generally safe. It's hard to know what will be safe until the week of I'd say so you'll have to be flexible. Blue heart springs would feel goo...

    /r/Idaho
  • Reddit Icon

    If you're based in Boise, start by going hiking around bogus. Trails like dry creek or Stack rock would be good places to start. Alltrails is a solid app to find trails n...

    I keep seeing all these beautiful pictures of lakes and mountains I would love to visit

    If you're based in Boise, start by going hiking around bogus. Trails like dry creek or Stack rock would be good places to start. Alltrails is a solid app to find trails n...

    /r/Idaho
  • Reddit Icon

    If you're trying to stay somewhat close to Boise, Dry Creek Trail and Stack Rock aren't terrible, but with Dry Creek especially you have to go kinda far before you g...

    Your favorite hiking spot?

    If you're trying to stay somewhat close to Boise, Dry Creek Trail and Stack Rock aren't terrible, but with Dry Creek especially you have to go kinda far before you g...

    /r/Boise
  • Reddit Icon

    Sawtooth Lake is always a given. Alice Lake is a great late summer early fall hike because of water crossings. There's another Alpine Lake that you get to by shuttling to...

    Redfish Lake

    Sawtooth Lake is always a given. Alice Lake is a great late summer early fall hike because of water crossings. There's another Alpine Lake that you get to by shuttling to...

    /r/Idaho

Music for Your Journey

  • Music Icon

    Rusted Root - Send Me on My Way

    Rusted Root - Send Me on My Way

    Upbeat, whimsical indie-pop that lifts spirits and pairs well with winding country roads and scenic arrivals.
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    Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros - Home

    Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros - Home

    Warm, reflective folk-rock about roots and belonging—perfect for returning to familiar landscapes or appreciating nearby towns.
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  • Music Icon

    Eagles - Take It Easy - 2013 Remaster

    Eagles - Take It Easy - 2013 Remaster

    Classic, easygoing road-song with jangly guitars and a relaxed tempo—great for cruises between towns and mountain viewpoints.
    Listen on Spotify
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  • Music Icon

    Bon Iver - Holocene

    Bon Iver - Holocene

    Ambient, introspective indie that matches awe-inspiring natural vistas and quiet hiking breaks.
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  • Music Icon

    Tracy Chapman - Fast Car

    Tracy Chapman - Fast Car

    Soulful storytelling and steady rhythm—suits long drives, contemplative moments, and the feeling of escape.
    Listen on Spotify
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    Red Hot Chili Peppers - Road Trippin'

    Red Hot Chili Peppers - Road Trippin'

    Acoustic, mellow track evoking close-knit travel with friends and peaceful coastal or lakeside stretches.
    Listen on Spotify
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    Tom Petty - Wildflowers

    Tom Petty - Wildflowers

    Gentle, optimistic folk that complements meadow strolls, botanical gardens, and relaxed afternoons outdoors.
    Listen on Spotify
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  • Music Icon

    Of Monsters and Men - Mountain Sound

    Of Monsters and Men - Mountain Sound

    Energetic indie-folk ideal for hiking, mountain trails, and upbeat exploration of rugged terrain.
    Listen on Spotify
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  • Music Icon

    Van Morrison - Into the Mystic - 2013 Remaster

    Van Morrison - Into the Mystic - 2013 Remaster

    Soulful, timeless tune with maritime and travel imagery—fits serene boat rides, lakeside sunsets, and reflective stops.
    Listen on Spotify
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  • Music Icon

    Imagine Dragons - On Top Of The World

    Imagine Dragons - On Top Of The World

    Bright, celebratory indie-pop that suits reaching summits, overlooks, and triumphant moments on the trail.
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