Julia Davis Park photo
ParkIdaho, US

Julia Davis Park

Julia Davis Park is Boise's cultural heart, home to diverse museums, a zoo, and scenic beauty.

About

Julia Davis Park is Boise's cultural heart, home to diverse museums, a zoo, and scenic beauty. This historic municipal park, the oldest in Boise, is a vibrant green oasis nestled along the Boise River, forming a key part of the city's "Ribbon of Jewels" park system. It offers a unique blend of cultural institutions, educational opportunities, and recreational activities, all within a beautifully maintained landscape.

Within its expansive grounds, visitors can explore Zoo Boise, where magnificent African lions, graceful giraffes, and playful Magellanic penguins reside, alongside endangered Amur tigers and unique Chinese red pandas. The park also hosts the Boise Art Museum, the Idaho State Historical Museum, the Idaho Black History Museum, and the Discovery Center of Idaho, featuring engaging exhibits like "Dinosaurs on the Move" and the Solar System Trail. The exquisite Genevieve Art and Rose Garden showcases nearly 2,400 rose varieties, offering a fragrant and colorful spectacle.

Julia Davis Park is more than just a park; it's a central gathering place where history, art, science, and nature converge. Whether you're seeking a leisurely stroll along the Boise River Greenbelt, an educational adventure at one of its many museums, a fun family outing at the zoo, or simply a tranquil spot to enjoy the outdoors, Julia Davis Park provides a memorable experience for all. Paddle boating on the scenic pond adds another layer of charm to this beloved Boise landmark. Enhance your adventure: download the Snappit app to identify the local species you encounter.

Julia Davis Park's origins trace back to a generous land donation in 1907 by Thomas Jefferson Davis, who gifted 43 acres to the City of Boise as a memorial to his beloved wife, Julia. This act established the city's oldest park, with the stipulation that the land would "always and forever" be known as Julia Davis Park and used for public purposes. Following the initial donation, landscape architect Arthur L. Peck developed a general plan for the park in 1912, leading to significant improvements and expansions. Key institutions began to emerge within its boundaries, including the founding of Zoo Boise in 1916 and the dedication of a formal rose garden in 1939, which was initiated by a men's garden club known as "The Cutworms." The park continued to grow through further land donations from the Davis estate, reaching its current 89.4 acres by 1941, evolving into the cultural and recreational hub it is today.

What to do here

Explore the various museums, marvel at the animals at Zoo Boise, stroll through the fragrant Rose Garden, rent a paddle boat, walk or bike along the Boise River Greenbelt, or simply relax in the shaded green spaces.

Seasonal info

Spring: Vibrant blooms in the Rose Garden, mild weather perfect for outdoor activities.

Summer: Popular for paddle boating and outdoor events, but can be more crowded.

Fall: Enjoy the colorful autumn foliage throughout the park.

Winter: Museums remain open, offering indoor activities, and the park provides a serene, often snowy, landscape.

Accessibility

Julia Davis Park features paved pathways throughout, making it suitable for wheelchairs and strollers. Wheelchair-accessible restrooms are available, and the overall terrain is flat. The Childhood Cancer Pavilion is also ADA accessible.

Don't miss

1

Zoo Boise

Home to over 300 animals, including giraffes, African lions, Amur tigers, Chinese red pandas, and Magellanic penguins.

2

Boise Art Museum

Features diverse art collections and exhibitions.

3

Idaho State Historical Museum

Explores Idaho's rich history.

4

Idaho Black History Museum

Housed in the historic St. Paul Baptist Church, showcasing African American history and culture in Idaho.

Wildlife you might spot

12

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Good to know before you go

Arrive early

Visit the park early in the morning, especially on weekdays, to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience.

Wear comfortable shoes and layers

With extensive walking paths and changeable Boise weather, comfortable footwear and layered clothing are recommended.

Bring a camera

The park offers numerous picturesque spots, from vibrant rose gardens to diverse wildlife, perfect for photography.

Explore the Boise River Greenbelt

The park provides direct access to the Greenbelt, making it easy to combine your visit with a longer walk or bike ride along the river.

Plan for extended parking

If you intend to spend more than two hours at an indoor attraction like the zoo or a museum, remember to obtain an extended parking pass when purchasing your admission ticket.

Pet-friendly considerations

If bringing a dog, be aware that while the park is dog-friendly, it's advised to bring your own waste bags.

Frequently asked questions

Julia Davis Park itself is open daily from sunrise to midnight, with no entrance fee. However, individual attractions like Zoo Boise, the Boise Art Museum, Idaho Black History Museum, and Discovery Center of Idaho have their own specific operating hours and may charge admission. It's recommended to check their individual websites before visiting.
No, there is no entrance fee to access Julia Davis Park. However, admission fees apply for entry into the various museums and Zoo Boise located within the park.
Parking at Julia Davis Park is reserved for patrons of the park. There is a two-hour parking limit from Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. If you plan to visit an attraction for longer than two hours, you can obtain an extended visitor parking pass when you purchase an admission ticket at the respective attraction. Violators of the parking limit may be ticketed or towed.

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