The best way to see Boise is on the popular Tour Train, a replica of an 1890s steam-powered locomotive that originates in Julia Davis Park and takes an hour-long trip through the citys historic neighborhoods and the central business district. Other attractions in the park include Zoo Boise, the Memorial Rose Garden, and an outdoor bandshell where summer concerts are performed.

The Boise Hawks, members of the Northwest League and affiliated with the Chicago Cubs, play baseball from mid-June through early September at Memorial Stadium. The Hawks won their sixth Northwest League Championship in 2004. The Idaho Sneakers, the states only major league franchise, offer World TeamTennis action at Bank of America Centre, also the site for hockey action from the Idaho Steelheads of the East Coast Hockey League. In the community of Nampa, about 20 miles from Boise, basketball fans flock to watch the Idaho Stampede of the Continental Basketball Association.

A complete program of collegiate sports is offered at Boise State University, featuring a championship football team and a nationally recognized basketball team. Thoroughbred and harness racing, along with parimutuel wagering, are featured at Les Bois Race Track. Championship drag racing is held at Firebird Raceway. Fans of rodeo enjoy the famous Snake River Stampede in Nampa and the Caldwell Night Rodeo in Caldwell. Meridian Speedway offers drag racing and stock car racing. In womens sports action, there is the annual St.