THE CITY OF NAMPA

Things to do in Nampa, Idaho

Outdoor Activities

Nampa, Idaho is a great place to explore and experience all that the area has to offer. Whether you are looking for outdoor activities, cultural attractions, or just a fun day out, there is something for everyone in Nampa.

For outdoor enthusiasts, there are plenty of hiking and biking trails, as well as fishing opportunities in the area with the city being located between the Boise river and the Owyhee mountains. There are also several parks and recreation areas, here are a few to check out:

1.  Celebration Park.  Situated along the Snake River, Celebration Park was established as Idaho’s only archaeological park in 1989. A walk through the huge basalt melon gravels deposited by the Bonneville flood reveals petroglyphs 100 to 10,000 years old. Visitors learn about the Paleolithic and Archaic lifeways and enjoy throwing a dart with an atlatl. Experience a walking tour of historic Guffey Railroad Bridge and be captivated by southwest Idaho’s early mining and railroad history.
2. Snake River Birds of Prey.  Some 800 pairs of hawks, owls, eagles and falcons come each spring to mate and raise their young. The NCA is “nature in the rough,” with few public facilities. However, the birds and their unique environment offer rich rewards to those willing to experience the NCA on its own terms and who have patience to fit into the natural rhythms of life in this special place.
3. Nampa Farmers Market.  The mission of the Nampa Farmers’ Market is to provide a venue where local farmers, producers, crafters and artisans come together to provide a variety of fresh produce and locally crafted products directly to the consumer. The market encourages direct communication between consumers and producers and promotes nutritious food choices.  Our goal is to provide support for vendors and enhance the quality of life in the local area by providing a quality community activity which fosters education, entrepreneurship, social gathering, community building and interaction in a friendly, vibrant open air market.

For a more cultural experience, Nampa, Idaho has several museums and art galleries to explore.

1. Warhawk Air Museum.  For 33 years the Warhawk Air Museum has focused on its mission to “educate visitors about the cost of freedom and honor those who paid its price”  .The museum has welcomed over half a million visitors since it opened in 1989. It is a sacred place to preserve, honor, and educate our community about our veterans’ histories, but more importantly, it is a place of sharing and healing.
2. Nampa Art Museums.  With several state of the art exhibit and performance facilities, Nampa is becoming known for its arts scene. The Brandt Center at Northwest Nazarene University is a performing arts center that attracts musical and dramatic performances attended by both students and the community at large. Its Samuel Swayne theatre can accommodate up to 1,500 people, and two guest suites accommodate up to 15 guests each for private viewings and receptions. The Brandt Center’s Friesen Art Galleries provide gallery space for Northwest Nazarene University’s art students to exhibit their work.
3. Nampa Public Library.  We are a cornerstone of the community, providing diverse gathering spaces, opportunities to learn, access to vital resources, and programs for the enrichment of all.