Ann Morrison Park in Boise: What to Know Before You Visit

One of my favorite things about Boise is how much green space we have right in the middle of the city, and Ann Morrison Park is one of the best places to experience it. If you’re looking for a place to picnic, walk the Boise Greenbelt, float the Boise River, let your dog off leash, or enjoy a sunny afternoon, this 153-acre park has something for everyone.

I’ve spent time here for everything from meeting friends and walking the Greenbelt to watching hot air balloons during Spirit of Boise and ending a Boise River float. If you’re visiting Boise, or you’re a local looking for a new way to enjoy one of our biggest parks, here’s everything you should know before you go.

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What to Expect at Ann Morrison Park

Ann Morrison Park is one of Boise’s largest parks and sits just across the Boise River from downtown Boise. It has wide open lawns, mature shade trees, paved walking paths, and direct Greenbelt access make it one of the city’s most popular places to spend a summer afternoon. It’s also got tons of things for kids to enjoy!

You’ll find:

• Access to the Boise River Greenbelt
• The take-out point for the Boise River Float
• Playgrounds
• A large fountain and open grassy areas
• Sand volleyball courts
• Disc golf course
• Tennis courts
• Ponds
• Soccer and softball fields
• Outdoor gym
• Plenty of picnic tables and shelters
• Together Treasure Valley Dog Island – a large off-leash area for dogs

Because it’s so large, the park rarely feels crowded unless there’s a major event happening.

Best Time to Visit

Ann Morrison Park is beautiful throughout the year, but late spring through early fall is when I love it the most.

Summer is especially popular thanks to the Boise River Float, festivals, concerts nearby, and warm evenings. If you’re visiting in July or August, mornings and evenings are much more comfortable than the hottest part of the afternoon.

Fall is another great time to visit! There’s always colorful trees lining the Boise Greenbelt and cooler temperatures that are perfect for walking or biking.

The Boise River Float Ends Here

If you’re floating the Boise River from Barber Park, your adventure ends at Ann Morrison Park.

After about a 2-3 hour float, you’ll exit the river here before catching the shuttle back. During float season, the park has a fun summer atmosphere with people relaxing on the grass, drying off after their float, and enjoying the sunshine.

👉 Read my complete Boise River Float Guide here.

Spirit of Boise Balloon Classic

Every year around Labor Day weekend, Ann Morrison Park holds the Spirit of Boise Balloon Classic. It’s one of my favorite times in Boise!

Nothing beats watching dozens of colorful hot air balloons launch just after sunrise. It’s one of those classic Boise experiences I recommend to everyone. Even if you don’t attend the full festival, seeing the balloons floating over downtown is something you’ll remember.

👉 Read my Spirit of Boise Balloon Classic Guide here.

Things to Do at Ann Morrison Park

Depending on the season, you can:

• Walk or bike the Boise River Greenbelt
• Have a picnic under the trees
• Play disc golf
• Watch people floating the Boise River
• Let kids enjoy the playground and splash pad
• Bring your dog to explore the “dog island”
• Watch the sunrise during Spirit of Boise

Tips Before You Go

• Location: 1000 S Americana Blvd, Boise, Idaho
• Parking: Free parking is available throughout the park, you can usually find a spot although lots fill quickly during festivals and busy summer weekends.
• Greenbelt Access: Ann Morrison is one of the easiest places to hop onto the Boise River Greenbelt.
• Summer Tip: Bring water, sunscreen, and a picnic blanket if you plan to spend a few hours here.
• Float Season: Expect heavier traffic around the river exit during peak float weekends.
• Interactive fountain: Check out the Ann Morrison Interactive Fountain when you visit. It has a 70-foot-long water tunnel with jets that shoot up to seven feet high and LED lights that put on a little water show. It’s perfect for cooling off on a hot day or letting the kids splash around. The fountain is open from sunrise to sunset, Memorial Day through Labor Day.

Local Tip

If you’re visiting during the summer, I recommend combining a stop at Ann Morrison Park with a few of my nearby Boise favorites. You can go to Payette Brewing, Green Acres Foodtruck Park, or Bluebird Social and then walk over to the Ann Morrison Park playground or the Ann Morrison Fountain. A fun little afternoon in the summertime!

Read More: Things to do in Boise in the Summer: A Local’s Guide

Nearby Things to Do

Ann Morrison Park is close to several of Boise’s most popular attractions, making it easy to build into a full day of exploring.

Nearby you’ll find:

• Downtown Boise (Freak Alley Gallery, The Basque Block)
• Boise River Greenbelt
• Julia Davis Park (Zoo Boise)
• Push & Pour
• Roast @ Dawson Taylor
• Bluebird Social
• Green Acres Foodtruck Park
• Payette Brewing
• Lost Grove Brewing
• The Shed
• Madre Tacos
• Kathryn Albertsons Park
• Idaho Anne Frank Human Rights Memorial

Frequently Asked Questions About Ann Morrison Park

Is Ann Morrison Park Worth Visiting?

Yes! If you’re looking for one park that captures what makes Boise special, Ann Morrison Park is hard to beat. It connects the river, the Greenbelt, downtown, and some of the city’s biggest events all in one place, making it one of the best places to experience Boise like a local.

Is Ann Morrison Park free?

Yes! Ann Morrison Park is free to visit and offers free parking throughout most of the park.

Can you swim at Ann Morrison Park?

While people enter and exit the Boise River here during float season, the park itself isn’t considered a designated swimming beach. Most visitors use it as the take-out point for floating the Boise River.

Is Ann Morrison Park good for kids?

Yes! The park has playgrounds, wide open grassy areas, paved walking paths, playgrounds, splash pad, and plenty of room for kids to run and play.

What events take place at Ann Morrison Park?

The two biggest annual events are the Spirit of Boise Balloon Classic and the park’s role as the take-out point for the Boise River Float. Throughout the year, you’ll also find community festivals, sports tournaments, and local gatherings.

Read Next:

• Things to Do in Boise in Summer: A Local’s Guide
• The Boise River Greenbelt: Boise’s Favorite Outdoor Path
• The 7 Best Hikes Near Boise, Idaho
• Boise Travel Guide
• 15 Best Restaurants in Boise (Updated 2026)
• Best Things to Do in Boise in Spring (Local Guide)
• Hiking Table Rock in Boise, Idaho: Trail Guide, Parking & Local Tips
• Bogus Basin in Boise, Idaho: Skiing & Visitor Guide