Thursday, August 14, 2008

Idaho Botanical Garden




Small streams. Large boulders. Butterflies. Bridges. Flowers. Bugs. Winding trails. Fountains. Quail. Waterfalls. Dirt paths. Rocks. Wooden swing. Old bell. Skippers, frogs, and lilly pads. What kid doesn't love all those things? Those are all the things we saw today at the Idaho Botanical Garden. I've never been there before. I guess the word "botanical" has always scared me off. Reminds me of my botany class in college. But I am so glad we went there today. We had so much fun.

I was surprised by how few people there were. (You know I love that.) We were the only family. The other people were adults trying to enjoy the peace and quiet. My explorers and tired baby probably messed that up.














The relaxed atmosphere and the large area to explore made this a place a winner for my kids. They enjoyed climbing to the top of the Promontory and dipping their toes in every pond, stream, waterfall, and fountain. I loved the stark contrast between the lush, green gardens and the native, desert plants in one space. And the flowers and foliage were beautiful.

What a wonderful place for the kids to be kids (while still minding their manners of course.)

Advice--bring a stroller for when the kids get tired and can't make it back to the car. Admission is very reasonable--$ 4 for an adult and $2 for kids age 6-12.

****4 out of 4 stars. Can't wait to come back again.

Have you been here before? Tell me about it. Make a comment. I dare you.

7 comments:

Anonymous said...

The Botanical Garden- what a great idea!!! It is so beautiful there and that is so great you took your kids there. I love your blog and thank you for the great ideas you are passing along. I can't wait to be a mom again. Love you and your family!!

NATALIE DIANE CAZIER MARTI

Anonymous said...

Amanda
Wow! This is an awesome blog. The pictures are fun and inviting. I hope everyone checks this out because of all the hard work you put into it, to give great ideas to those of us less creative than you. Keep up the great work!
Ryan

Amanda said...

Ryan and Natalie, Thank you for your kind words. You guys are so awesome. Amanda

gina said...

wow, I wish I could have gone with you. I'm loving your blog, I have lived here for less than 4 years, and have hardly seen a thing, and sometimes I'm too lazy to figure out what and where they are, so thanks for doing the work. This looks like a winner, maybe i'll take the kids on sat. thanks, gina

Amanda said...

Gina, I think your kids would like the Botanical Gardens. For Vanessa there's lots of pretty things to look at and for Kyle plenty of room to run around and explore. Have fun.

Angela said...

I can't believe I've never been to the Botanical Garden! I want take our family there. Thanks for sharing! Loving this blog, Amanda! I have a place to share with you that we've been to twice now... (I'll email ya.)

Amanda said...

Angela, I love your blog too. I keep meaning to send you some favorite things. I have lots. Also, when you get a chance I'd love to hear about the place you've gone to. Have a fun weekend.