Finding Things to Do Using Local Parks and Rec Depts

Mar 16
3 min read

Parks and recreation departments and districts offer valuable activities and spaces for Idahoans including youth and teens, so it is worth knowing how to find and access these services. Keep reading for our top tips!

Tip #1: Find Your Local Parks and Rec Activity Guide

In addition to their general websites that usually list out park/facility locations, hours, and features, parks and rec depts release schedules and plans for the activities they plan to offer seasonally. Public programs like these are often low or no-cost and their are sometimes scholarships or fee reductions for youth/teens. There is a full list of Summer Activity Guides after our list of tips.

Tip #2: Follow Your Local Department on Social Media or Sign Up for Email Updates

Many parks and rec agencies maintain a presence on Facebook, Instagram and other forms of social media where they will post updates on programming as well as info like whether or not a facility, trail, or park is undergoing maintenance or closed for weather. You can also find things like job postings, volunteer opportunities, and community event announcements. We've included links to local parks and rec agencies with the activity guide links below.

Tip #3: Bring Some Friends and Explore a New Space or Place

Whether you are a longtime user of parks and rec facilities/ programming or you are just being introduced to them, exploring places that are new to you or that you haven't been in a while can be a little awkward. Bringing along a friend (or 2 or 3) can help you feel more at ease, so text your friends and make a plan!

Useful links for finding activities in Summer Activity Guides:

City of Boise

This Activity Guide is a website.
Direct Links:
- Teen Classes/Activities
- Check out the "Youth Activities" and links, but pay attention to age restrictions.
  - Recreational Swim Team (up to age 18)
  - Youth Tennis (up to age 18)
Kristin Armstrong Youth Scholarship is available for qualifying youth participants.

Boise Parks and Rec Facebook

Boise Parks and Rec Instagram

City of Meridian

The Activity Guide is a PDF and has program descriptions, but activity registration is separate link.
- Youth and teen-specific classes are pages 12-29 of the PDF Summer Activity Guide.
- Also has ideas for community events, parks, and pathways!
Financial assistance is available for children up to 18 years old, who are interested in participating in Meridian Parks and Recreation activities. In 2026, families residing within the City of Meridian can receive assistance for up to 80% of an activity or membership fee, for a maximum of $250.00 per year, per child.

Meridian Parks and Rec Facebook

Meridian Parks and Rec Instagram

City of Nampa

This activity guide is an e-zine.
- Nampa Summer Activity Guide
  - Youth programs start on page 9 of the guide but there are other programs youth can do throughout the guide.
  - Also has ideas for community events to attend like festivals and free movies on the park as well of list of parks and pathways in Nampa!