Time to fuel up for a day of fun! Bakers fill Pastry Perfection’s shiny glass cases with trays upon trays of frosted donuts, iced cinnamon rolls, fresh-baked breads, and fruit-filled danishes every morning. Plus, you’ll find plenty of hot coffee on tap for mom and dad. For some of the most craveable coffee cakes, muffins, and scones you’ll ever eat, check out the stylish Coffee House at Wildflour Bakery, where they churn out the sweets that line specialty grocery stores throughout the Valley.

Now that the kiddos are on a sugar high, let them climb the walls! Asana Climbing Gym offers indoor climbing and bouldering in a supportive environment, with routes for newbies and more experienced climbers alike. Good news for parents: kids ages 9-17 climb at a discounted rate. Have the kids test their creative skills at the Reuseum, where they can learn how to build their own hovercrafts, explore magnetism, craft simple circuit boards, or even create a robot! Classes are held weekly, check them out here.

Garden City boasts a series of beautiful parks, many of them linked by the riverside Greenbelt path that winds through the city. Depending on the time of year, the kids might enjoy swimming at Esther Simplot Park, playing at River Pointe Park, climbing the playground equipment at Riverfront Park, fishing at Riverside Park, tackling the jungle gym at Mystic Cove Park, or watching the surfers (or giving river sports a try themselves) at Boise Whitewater Park.

When you enter the Garden City Public Library, you immediately notice that it’s not your typical hushed-voice hall of books — its slogan is “Not a Quiet Library.” The library’s children’s programming is second to none: Expect crafts, themed story times (yoga, trucks, hummingbirds, and plenty of other kid-friendly topics) music circles, movie-watching parties, movement classes … the list goes on and on. These events have been virtual during the pandemic, but will be in-person as soon as its safe. Check the Garden City Public Library’s website before your visit for an up-to-date schedule and full list of things to do.

Photo provided by the City of Garden City.

Since 1959, Westy’s has been the go-to spot for families who don’t mind a little friendly competition. Kids will love trying to knock down a few pins, and parents will like the price ($18-$20 per hour, plus shoe rentals) … and perhaps the very grown-up drink specials, too.

Garden City enjoys a good pie. Round out your big day with a trip to local favorites Idaho Pizza Company and Guido’s, both of which offer plenty of family-friendly seating and casual service.

Of course, there’s no need to pack all that fun into one day! Make it an adventure weekend by booking a room at the Riverside Hotel, a sprawling resort-like property that backs up to the Boise River. You’ll gain access to a whole host of family fun — a kids’ splash pad at the outdoor pool, music at the Sandbar patio (the Sandbar also offers poolside delivery if Mom and Dad feel like lounging), and bike rental so you can cycle just a few feet and hop on the Greenbelt. No need to leave the fam’s best friend behind, either: the Riverside offers select pet-friendly rooms.