EXPLORE BOISE’S “RIBBON OF JEWELS” PARKS

If anyone ever asks if you have seen the “ribbon of jewels” in Boise, do not assume they are asking if you have been to a jewelry store. The “ribbon” is the Boise Greenbelt that connects the “jewels”—10 parks named for some of Boise’s most important female civic leaders.

Ann Morrison Park

Located in the heart of Boise, Ann Morrison Park is well-known for its soaring fountain, Boise River take out, and large playground. The 153-acre offers numerous recreational opportunities such as disc golf, bocce and horseshoes. Ann Morrison Park is also the location of the Spirit of Boise Balloon Festival. If you are a dog owner, then you will want to visit the Together Treasure Valley Dog Island with your four-legged friend! 

Julia Davis Park

Julia Davis Park is the oldest park in Boise was gifted to the city by Thomas Davis in remembrance of his wife, Julia. A visit to Julia Davis Park should include a photo op with the giant Abraham Lincoln statue. You might want to stop by one of the many museums in the park, including the Boise Art Museum, or Zoo Boise. The park is also a great location to hop on the Boise River Greenbelt or wander across the Friendship Bridge to explore Boise State University. 

Kathryn Albertson Park

If you want a more contemplative experience, then Kathryn Albertson Park is the jewel to go to for a stroll. This peaceful park has water features, gazebos for gathering, and plenty of shady spots to enjoy the sights. You might even spot a deer or other wildlife!

Esther Simplot Park and Bernardine Quinn Riverside Park

During the hot Boise summers, you will find most Boiseans flocking to Esther Simplot Park and Bernardine Quinn Riverside Park. Quinn’s Pond is a 22-acre oasis where visitors can enjoy swimming, paddleboarding, kayaking, and fishing. Esther Simplot Park has two ponds, a playground, and Friendship Island. These two parks sit next to each other and their ideal location beside the Boise Greenbelt and Whitewater Park makes them a destination for summer fun.

Marianne Williams Park

Marianne Williams Park provides a peaceful place to enjoy nature. This 72-acre park sits on the Boise River in East Boise’s Barber Valley and is a great location for birding and fishing.

Kristin Armstrong Municipal Park

Named for Kristin Armstrong, Boise’s own professional road cyclist, and Olympic Gold Medal winner, this park is a great spot to host gatherings thanks to the numerous picnic spots, bocce courts, and playground. The park is also neighbor to the MK Nature Center and the Boise Greenbelt. 

Other parks that are a part of Boise’s “Ribbon of Jewels” are:

Alta Harris Park: an undeveloped park in Harris Ranch

Bethine Church River Trail: 1.6 mile pathway on the Boise Greenbelt

Dona Larson Park: a multi-use sports complex

If you want to learn more about the amazing women that are considered jewels of Boise, check out this guided tour created by students for the Empow(HER) Summit. You can also download the Boise GreenBelt app for a handy map in the palm of your hand. I hope you enjoy exploring these gorgeous parks.

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