Ann Morrison Park

History

Nestled along the Boise River, Ann Morrison Park spreads across 153 acres of urban greenspace in Boise, Idaho. The park has a touching backstory - it was established in 1959 when Harry Morrison created it as a memorial to his late wife, Ann, before gifting this expansive space to the City of Boise.

Boise River flows gently past forested shores

Photo: Kenneth Freeman (CC BY-SA 2.0)

Features and Amenities

Wander through Ann Morrison and you'll find yourself among sprawling grassy fields dotted with trees that provide welcome shade on sunny Idaho days. The park features a spray fountain and splash pad - popular with kids (and honestly, adults too) looking to cool off when temperatures climb.

The park's riverside location provides good access to water activities. It is a popular take-out point if you're floating the Boise River during summer - a quintessential local experience. If fishing is more your style, you can find several nice spots along the riverbank to cast a line.

Planning a get-together? The park offers multiple picnic areas with tables scattered throughout, including some sheltered gazebos that you can reserve for special occasions. Fire up one of the BBQ grills for an impromptu cookout - nothing beats a riverside meal with friends and family.

Equatorial sundial tracks time with precision near the park pond

Photo: cifraser1 (CC BY 2.0)

Sports and Recreation

The park is equipped with tennis courts, soccer fields, baseball fields, basketball courts, and sand volleyball courts - offering plenty of options for sports enthusiasts.

Frisbee fans can test their skills on the popular 18-hole disc golf course that winds through the park, but it does get busy on weekends. For something different, try your hand at the bocce ball courts or get your heart pumping at the outdoor fitness area with various exercise equipment.

Families will appreciate the extensive playground with separate zones for different age groups. The modern equipment sits on a rubberized surface for safer play, and the entire area is fenced, giving parents some peace of mind while their little ones explore.

Colorful hot air balloons prepare for morning launch

Photo: cifraser1 (CC BY 2.0)

Dog-Friendly Features

Dog owners will appreciate that The park features Together Treasure Valley Dog Island, a dedicated off-leash area where your four-legged friends can run free and splash in a pond designed just for them. During winter months (November through February), the dog-friendly policy expands, allowing pets off-leash in other parts of the park as well.

Open grassy field hosts park events and activities

Photo: cifraser1 (CC BY 2.0)

Events and Activities

The park hosts several special events throughout the year. It hosts Boise's annual Fourth of July fireworks display - an excellent spot to spread out a blanket and enjoy the show. Another visual treat is the Spirit of Boise Balloon Classic, when the skies above the park transform into a canvas of colorful hot air balloons.

Towering fountain creates a dramatic water display

Photo: cifraser1 (CC BY 2.0)

Accessibility and Location

The park is conveniently located near downtown Boise with direct access to the Boise River Greenbelt. Multiple parking areas make it easy to visit, but spaces can disappear quickly during big events.

You'll find clean restrooms across the park, with extra portable facilities added when crowds swell for special occasions.

Whether you're interested in sports, picnicking, or just relaxing on the grass with a book, Ann Morrison Park has diverse offerings in one of Boise's large outdoor spaces.