Nampa is a big metropolis in Idaho, set in Canyon County and regarded as its geographically largest city. It offers a unique landscape loaded with natural beauties, a rich heritage, landmarks, and tourist attractions.
Nampa combines small-town charm with the attractions and services of a big metropolitan metropolis. It is a famous hideaway place for travelers looking to unwind and escape city life’s monotony. Beautiful natural ecosystems such as lakes, mountains, and forests may be found in this city.
This article provides a detailed guide to the finest things to do in Nampa, Idaho. From a relaxing picnic at Lake Lowell Park to viewing the exhibits at the Warhawk Air Museum, you’ll love it on this side of Canyon County.
Here are the 17 Best Things to do in Nampa, Idaho
Nampa, Idaho, is widely known for its commercialism, agribusiness, food processing, and manufacturing. But aside from this, you could also do several beautiful and exciting things in this city. So, let’s head right into them.
1. See Unique Aircraft at the Warhawk Air Museum
The Warhawk Air Museum in Nampa is delightful, with aircraft artifacts and even full-sized planes. Sue and John Paul, the museum’s founders, began collecting air history relics while John was refurbishing planes in their hangar.
After amassing a substantial collection, they created the Warwick Air Museum and purchased things from veterans, such as medals, uniforms, and pictures, to complete their museum.
A wonderfully exhibited fleet of aircraft awaits you, including a Fokker DR-1, a MiG-17, a MiG-21, a P-40E Kittyhawk, a P-51C Mustang, an F-84G Thunderjet, and an F-104 Starfighter. The Curtiss P-40N Warhawk was restored to flying condition in the 1980s and featured in the film ‘Pearl Harbor (2001).’
Address: 201 Municipal Dr, Nampa, ID 83687, United States.
2. Visit the Canyon County Historical Society Museum
Canyon County Historical Society Museum was previously a railroad depot founded in 1903. This museum has opened its doors to the public, allowing people to view and comprehend the city’s early lifestyle and transportation methods.
The society is run entirely by volunteers, and the museum is primarily accessible on weekends. It is a brick and sandstone edifice that contains local transportation relics and antique objects. Old trains and models of city structures and vehicles may be found here—a great location to take your family for a day of learning and entertainment.
It is a treasure mine of railroad antiques and fascinating details about many areas of Nampa’s history, from local companies to Native American culture. Among the many oddities are Nampa’s first TV set, 19th-century mustache cups, and vintage typewriters, while youngsters will enjoy playing with the small train system.
Address: 1200 Front St, Nampa, ID 83651, United States.
3. Explore the Snake River Canyon Scenic Byway
You will enjoy touring the Snake River Canyon Scenic Byway if you love nature. Throughout the drive, you’ll get gorgeous views of the area and travel through industrial plains and beautiful vineyards. Many people enjoy traveling on this road for road excursions.
You can go sightseeing, admire nature’s splendor, or witness animals in their natural home. Not only that, but most of the city’s natural attractions, such as Deer Flat National Wildlife Refuge, the Snake River Islands, and Lake Lowell, are accessible along this route.
Address: Nampa, Idaho.
4. Shop for Fresh Fruits at Nampa Farmers Market
Nampa Farmers Market is a fantastic location to visit whether you want to learn more about the lifestyle and culture of Nampa or go shopping for fresh food. Several kiosks sell anything from artisan crafts to fresh flowers, nutritious and organic vegetables, souvenir items, and much more.
Every Saturday, residents, and tourists visit this location. Also, you may make friends with other customers and merchants while buying and exchanging culinary and travel information. In addition, live music is played while you shop.
The Nampa Farmers’ Market attracts 60-70 merchants and hundreds of shoppers weekly. It is a hub for Nampa’s growers, manufacturers, and customers. Enjoy looking for and sorting through farm food to stock up on veggies and fruits for the week.
Address: 1-13th Avenue South Lloyd Square – 13th &, Front St, Nampa, ID 83651, United States.
5. Have a Relaxing time at Ridgecrest Golf Club
Ridgecrest is one of Idaho’s top 18-hole courses, designed by famous architect John Harbottle III. This golf course was founded in 1996 and has become a popular destination for professional and aspiring players. This fantastic site provides a magnificent view of the natural surroundings and a spectacular sunset in Nampa.
Ridgecrest Golf Club includes a terrific snack bar for your meals and beverages and function spaces for special events. Here, you can enjoy a good meal while watching golf or chatting with friends. There is also a clubhouse for club meetings, an outstanding on-site restaurant, and more.
This location has something for everyone, golfer or non-golfer. So, whether or not you like golf, you’d find something enjoyable here. Add a stop here to your list of things to do in Nampa, Idaho.
Address: 3730 Ridgecrest Dr, Nampa, ID 83687, United States.
6. Spend time at Deer Flat National Wildlife Refuge
Reconnect with nature while admiring the picturesque vistas of Deer Flat National Wildlife Refuge. Birds, mammals, various amazing creatures, and even some endangered species may be found here. This gorgeous oasis serves as a municipal breeding facility.
Deer Flat National Wildlife Refuge is a renowned tourist site near Lake Lowell. It enables the refuge to offer a secure haven for both inhabitants and migratory species. The Lake Lowell Unit and the Snake River Islands Unit are covered and protected by Deer Flat National Wildlife Refuge. On-site boating and fishing are also available to visitors.
The wildlife refuge is also a great site to go bird watching; the American Bird Conservancy designated Deer Flat National Wildlife Refuge as a Globally Important Bird Area because of its importance to wildlife.
Address: 13751 Upper Embankment Rd, Nampa, ID 83686, United States.
7. Sate Your Thirst at Sawtooth Winery
Sawtooth Winery was founded in 1987 when the Pintler family recognized the wine-growing possibilities of their steep, south-facing meadows. One of the Snake River Valley’s top vineyards is located on 70 acres of picturesque land 10 miles west of Nampa, just before Lake Lowell.
The winery is located at 2,700 feet elevation and has a proper temperature for wine grooming, which has enabled the Pintler family to create exquisite and tasty wines. The winery has received several prizes.
The winery is noted for offering unusual wine varietals and a beautiful view for leisure. So, treat your friends or loved ones to a wine-tasting excursion at Sawtooth Winery in Nampa. Their Merlot wine is a must-try; you should include wine tasting as one of your things to do in Nampa, Idaho.
If you enjoy wine tasting with a stunning view of the Idaho countryside, visit one of the state’s most beloved vineyards and marvel at the almost 500-acre fields and estate while sipping excellent wine. Wines such as Pinot Gris, Tempranillo, Riesling, and others are available at Sawtooth Winery.
Address: 19348 Lowell Rd Building C, Caldwell, ID 83607, United States.
8. Have a Picnic at Lake Lowell Park
Lake Lowell is one of the Northwest’s largest off-stream reservoirs, but it is also an important breeding location for various animals and birds. Therefore it is surrounded by the Deer Flat National Wildlife Refuge. A vast water reservoir, constructed in 1908 to supply irrigation to farmers in Canyon County, forms Nampa’s western boundary.
Lake Lowell is a must-see on your Nampa Escapade. This stunning lake is near most of the city’s natural parks and the Deer Flat National Wildlife Refuge. The coastline is accessible from several spots, the most convenient to Nampa being the 20-acre Lake Lowell Park.
It has a stunning waterscape that is a pleasure to behold and a superb swimming and fishing location. Families like coming here for picnics and barbecues with their loved ones. There is also a large grassy field where people may enjoy disc golfing. If you wish to go even deeper into nature, Lake Lowell Park has several hiking trails.
Furthermore, the sight of migratory birds and their melodious chirping adds to the enchantment of the location. Many tourists love visiting here and place it on their travel book as one of the lovely things to do in Nampa, Idaho.
Address: 12996 Iowa Ave, Nampa, ID 83686, United States.
9. Enjoy Sporty Fun at the Bogus Basin
One of the beautiful things to do in Nampa, Idaho, is have fun at Bogus Basin. In the winter, Bogus Basin, a little over 30 miles to the northeast, has a ski resort within an hour of Nampa.
You’ll reach through a winding mountain route directly into the Boise Range from the state capital. Bogus Basin is unique for various reasons, one of which is that it is maintained by a non-profit, with all earnings going back into the facilities and the community.
Despite its proximity to the Treasure Valley, a big skiable area comprises 2,600 acres with 91 designated lines served by 11 lifts. So, it is the second-largest state. The season typically lasts from Thanksgiving until mid-April, and when summer arrives, activities like hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, and river tubing are available.
Address: Boise National Forest; Boise County, Idaho, U.S.
10. Spend a day of hilarity at Roaring Springs Water Park
Roaring Springs has more than 20 attractions, offering something for everyone, including parents, thrill-seeking adolescents, and the family’s youngest members. In adjacent Meridian, the largest waterpark in the Northwest is about ten miles (15 minutes) east of downtown Nampa.
Families looking for a little additional luxury may book a cabana, which includes comfy pool chairs, hand-delivered food and beverages, and complimentary Wi-Fi.
The two-person bowl ride, Viper’s Vortex, the vertiginous Cliffhanger, and Corkscrew Cavern, the Northwest’s only 360° circling waterslides. They are all available for high-speed enjoyment; there are several softer choices for younger children, such as the tube slide Kiddie Kowabunga.
The other smaller drops and play elements in Bearfoot Bay and the shallow, calm waters of Leisure Lagoon.
Address: 400 W Overland Rd, Meridian, ID 83642, United States
11. Enjoy Delectable Dishes at Brick 29 Bistro
Suppose you need a location to commemorate a particular occasion during your stay in Nampa; you should make a reservation at Brick 29 Bistro. This charming restaurant promotes itself as one of the most sumptuous eateries in town. Spending an evening here is one of the most lovely things to do in Nampa, Idaho.
It features a magnificent industrial interior design with elegant furnishings, plenty of natural light, and a relaxed and airy ambiance. Here, you can enjoy American dishes and other intercontinental meals because they are out to give you the best culinary experience.
It is not only aesthetically attractive but also a grand haven for excellent American meals that are artfully arranged. Try some of Brick 29 Bistro’s best-selling dishes, including Flat Iron Steak, Hagerman Trout, Butternut Squash Raviolis, and more. You can also take your meal with a glass of wine and a tasty dessert.
Address: 320 11th Ave S Suite#300, Nampa, ID 83651, United States.
12. Bring your Dog to the Amity Dog Park
Amity Dog Park opened in 2009 as a free place for dog owners to exercise their canines off-leash. There are various excellent amenities for you and your dog at the park. The park has dog-themed walking routes, a swimming pond, covered shelters, trees, water fountains, and seats.
The dog park is a fun and pleasant area for you and your dog to explore.
Amity Dog Park has a picnic area where you can enjoy food with your loved ones while taking turns walking your dog. Give your dog a treat; if you’re a dog lover, you mustn’t leave this out of your fun things to do in Nampa, Idaho. This lovely park boasts breathtaking vistas and a beautiful pond that adds to its beauty.
You may also meet other animal lovers while playing with your kennel and make new friends. It is completely gated, allowing your dog to run wild and free without worries of getting lost.
Address: 2900 2nd St S, Nampa, ID 83686, United States.
13. Hike through the Nampa Greenbelt
Nampa Greenbelt is a 3.4-mile course with a 52.5-foot elevation gain. The route features several paved pathways, making it ideal for an evening short or long stroll with family or friends.
The Nampa Greenbelt is not only great for a walk, but it is also one of the best sites in Nampa to go birding, especially from April to June. During this time of year, there are a lot of birds in the region, and the flowers are in full bloom.
Walking in Nampa Greenbelt with your loved one or whomever you hang out with is always so memorable. There are also street crossings, so you can remain on track and stay aware of the environment. Moreover, these creeks aren’t for walking alone; you can also go biking to have a good time here.
Address: Nampa, Idaho.
14. Attend a Rodeo Show at the Ford Idaho Center
Nampa’s greatest attraction is the Ford Idaho Center. The center was founded in the 1990s and is one of Nampa’s oldest long-standing amenities. It also features several sports centers and other facilities that set it apart in Canyon County.
Furthermore, the center is a popular site for various sports and entertainment events. While in Nampa, make sure to attend activities at the Ford Idaho Center; the Snake River Stampede rodeo, held every third week in July, is one of the most important events held at the Ford Idaho Centre.
Address: 16114 N Idaho Center Blvd, Nampa, ID 83687, United States.
15. Find Unique Items at Rusty Retro Antiques & Oddities
When you visit Nampa, look for unique, weird, and fascinating things at Rusty Retro Antiques & Oddities and present them to your family or friends. The antique shop is brimming with old stuff, such as toys, jewelry, artwork, and furniture.
There are three rooms at Rusty Retro Antiques & Oddities with various oddities and artifacts that will blow your head.
At Rusty Retro Antiques & Oddities, you get pretty good items at affordable prices and discounts. You don’t need to bother about spending so much on getting gifts for your loved ones. So, stop by the antique shop and prepare to unearth a trove of gems and old stuff.
Address: 604 Caldwell Blvd, Nampa, ID 83651, United States.
16. Take a Tour of the Nampa Fish Hatchery
Nampa Fish Hatchery is the state’s second-largest resident hatchery system. The hatchery uses eggs to produce several fish species, and because it is a resident trout-raising facility, there are many rainbow trout at the hatchery.
The incubator is responsible for growing and stocking fish in various state areas. The incubator also hosts special events, such as the yearly Fishing Clinic, which teaches new fishermen how to fish.
The hatchery is a fantastic site to tour with your family, coworkers, students, and other peer groups. Especially if you’ve never witnessed how fish are processed, managed, and bred. So, visiting here is more like going on an expository trip!
Address: 3806 S Powerline Rd, Nampa, ID 83686, United States.
17. Go Fishing at Wilson Springs Ponds
An excellent piece of nature covers 55 acres south of Nampa and comprises a network of ponds on what used to be marshy pastures for animals. The site was purchased by the Idaho Department of Fish and Game in 1989 and gradually returned to nature, today serving as a tranquil location to walk and a popular urban fishing spot.
Four ponds totaling 25 acres are supplied by springs and serve as a crucial resting area for migrating ducks and geese. Largemouth bass, bluegill, and trout seek refuge in more profound, shady spaces and migrate to the shallows to feed. If you have a valid permit or license, you can fish at the South Pond, which has a small dock.
Address: 3209-3507 S Powerline Rd, Nampa, ID 83686, United States.
Plan a Trip to Nampa, Idaho
Nampa is a beautiful city in Idaho that provides fantastic activities for travelers looking for a quick vacation from the monotony of city life. Therefore, the city has served as a popular tourist area for several decades due to some of the fun and exciting attractions spread throughout the city, a few of which have been listed in this article.
If you plan a trip to this attractive city, consider this list as a reference to create an itinerary. See our articles on Rexburg and Meridian if you want to check out other regions in Idaho with fantastic sites.
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