Kristin Armstrong Municipal Park

500 S Walnut St, Boise, ID 83712
28 acres | 11 hectares

About Kristin Armstrong Municipal Park

Park Overview

Nestled along the Boise River, Kristin Armstrong Municipal Park spans 28 acres of urban greenspace in the heart of Boise, Idaho. This green space, managed by the Boise Parks and Recreation Department, provides a break from city life with its canopy of mature trees. The park is clean and well-maintained - a nice spot to unwind or get active outdoors.

Rich History

Back in 1918, this spot began its journey as the Boise Tourist Campground, welcoming weary travelers with tent sites, communal kitchens, and even places to wash their dusty automobiles.

The City of Boise took ownership in 1927, giving it the straightforward name Boise Municipal Park. After a brief closure in 1938, it reopened as the day-use urban park we know today.

Olympic Namesake

In 2016, the park received a meaningful new identity when it was renamed to honor Kristin Armstrong, Boise's hometown cycling hero and three-time Olympic gold medalist. The rededication reflects local pride in Armstrong's remarkable achievements and adds a special significance to this popular green space.

Natural Setting

The park's prime location along the Boise River Greenbelt treats you to lovely river views and glimpses of local wildlife. Sitting at about 2,700 feet above sea level, it offers that perfect blend of natural beauty and recreational amenities.

The old-growth trees create pools of cool shade that make even the hottest Idaho summer days more comfortable. There's something genuinely calming about sitting by the river, listening to the water flow past while surrounded by all this greenery.

Recreation Facilities

Kids love the well-designed playground with its array of slides, swings, monkey bars, and a good old-fashioned sandbox that entertains children of all ages. Parents and caregivers can relax on the numerous benches surrounding the play area while keeping an eye on the little ones.

When hunger strikes, you'll come across plenty of picnic areas with both covered and uncovered tables across the park. The vintage-style BBQ spots have been updated with larger grills instead of being removed completely - preserving some nostalgic charm while making them more practical.

Planning a bigger gathering? The large covered pavilion with ample seating and a nearby grill can be reserved for family reunions, birthday celebrations, or company picnics.

Adjacent Attractions

One of the coolest features is the park's connection to the MK Nature Center, an educational wildlife habitat run by the Idaho Department of Fish and Game. Take a few minutes to check out the outdoor aquariums and pond where you can observe sturgeon, salmon, and other fish species. If you're lucky, you might spot beavers or deer fawns while exploring the nature trails.

The park also provides direct access to the Boise River Greenbelt, a paved pathway excellent for walking, jogging, or cycling that connects many of Boise's parks and attractions. The smooth surface makes it accessible for everyone, regardless of mobility level.

All Features & Facilities

Active Recreation

Bocce Court

Nature & Wildlife

BirdwatchingOpen Grassy AreaShadeWalking TrailWildlife Viewing

Water Features & Activities

RiverLake

Visitor Services

Parking LotPlaygroundRestrooms

Food & Gathering

Grilling AreaPicnic AreaShelter
Share your photos of this park

ParkMagnet Score

Great Park

Park Size

28 acres | 11 hectares

Opening Hours

Monday:7AM-9PM
Tuesday:7AM-9PM
Wednesday:7AM-9PM
Thursday:7AM-9PM
Friday:7AM-9PM
Saturday:7AM-9PM
Sunday:7AM-9PM

Weather

Top Restaurants Near Kristin Armstrong Municipal Park

Barbacoa Grill

0.3 miles

276 Bobwhite Ct, Boise, ID 83706

Upscale steakhouse featuring inventive Spanish-American cuisine and open-fire grilled steaks in a vibrant, stylish setting.

Nahm Thai & Burmese Cuisine

0.4 miles

577 E Park Blvd #110, Boise, ID 83712

Authentic Thai and Burmese restaurant serving flavorful dishes with customizable spice levels and generous portions.

The Grove by Lemon Tree Co.

0.4 miles

404 E Parkcenter Blvd Suite 250, Boise, ID 83706

American restaurant serving fresh sandwiches, burgers, and salads with extensive vegan and vegetarian options.

Top Hotels Near Kristin Armstrong Municipal Park

Holiday Inn Express Boise-University Area by IHG

0.3 miles

475 W Parkcenter Blvd, Boise, ID 83706

Contemporary hotel featuring comfortable rooms, outdoor pool, fitness center, and complimentary hot breakfast.

Website

Courtyard Boise Downtown

0.4 miles

222 S Broadway Ave, Boise, ID 83702

Modern downtown hotel featuring comfortable rooms, fitness center, complimentary parking, and excellent guest service.

Website

External Links

Interactive Park Map

Preparing map...
Playground
Field
Parking