ZOO BOISE

355 Julia Davis Drive, Boise, 384-4260, www.zooboise.org

Whether you’re young or old, you’ll never get tired of the attractions and animals at Zoo Boise.

It is a living science facility with more than 201 animals from 83 species. It’s a place to learn about the natural world and the importance of protecting and preserving it for generations to come.

That’s why Zoo Boise attracts more than 365,000 visitors a year.

Attractions are always changing at the zoo, and it keeps things interesting. New this spring are two red pandas and a baby Patagonian cavy. Don’t forget favorite attractions such as the Wallaby Walkabout, which gives you a chance to see these small marsupials from Australia up close. You can also get nose to nose with a giraffe or walk with the butterflies. Butterflies in Bloom is one of the most popular exhibits; you can stroll through a flower-filled greenhouse with hundreds of colorful butterflies.

Hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. in summer and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. in winter. Admission: adults (12-61) $7; seniors (62 and over) $4.50; children (4-11) $4.25; 3 and under are free.

HONORABLE MENTIONS

• Roaring Springs, 400 W. Overland Road, Meridian, 884-8842, www.roaringsprings.com.

• Bogus Basin, 16 miles north of Boise on Bogus Basin Road, 332-5100, www.bogusbasin.org.

• Julia Davis Park, 700 S. Capitol Blvd., Boise

• Wahooz Family Fun Zone, 1385 Blue Marlin Lane, Meridian, 898-0900, www.wahoozfunzone.com.