Map Of Boise Metro Area
Map Of Boise Metro Area
Introduction
Boise, Idaho, is a vibrant city located in the heart of the Treasure Valley. It is the largest city in Idaho and offers something for everyone, from outdoor adventures to cultural immersion. This travel guide is designed to help you explore the best of Boise and its surrounding areas.
Top Attractions
One of the top attractions in Boise is the Boise River Greenbelt, a 25-mile trail that runs along the Boise River and offers stunning views of the city and the surrounding mountains. Another must-see attraction is the Idaho State Capitol Building, which has a beautiful dome and offers guided tours.
Hidden Gems
If you want to experience the local culture, head to the Capital City Public Market, which is held on Saturdays and features local produce, crafts, and live music. For a unique dining experience, check out Bittercreek Alehouse, which offers a farm-to-table menu and an extensive beer selection.
Food Scene
Boise has a thriving food scene, with plenty of options for every taste and budget. For a delicious breakfast or brunch, head to Goldy’s Breakfast Bistro, which offers creative dishes made with locally sourced ingredients. For a romantic dinner, check out Chandlers Steakhouse, which has a live jazz band and a great wine selection.
Budget-Friendly Tips
If you’re traveling on a budget, there are still plenty of things to do in Boise. The Boise Art Museum offers free admission on the first Thursday of every month, and the Idaho State Historical Museum has a suggested donation of $5. You can also explore the city on foot using the Boise Walking Tour app, which offers self-guided tours of the city’s historic sites.
Outdoor Adventures
Boise is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with plenty of opportunities for hiking, biking, and water sports. The Boise Foothills offer miles of trails with stunning views of the city and the surrounding mountains. For a unique water adventure, check out Boise River Raft and Tube, which offers guided rafting and tubing trips on the Boise River.
Historical Landmarks
Boise has a rich history, and there are plenty of landmarks that reflect its past. The Old Idaho Penitentiary is a must-see attraction, with guided tours that take you through the prison’s cells, gallows, and solitary confinement rooms. The Basque Block is another historical landmark, with restaurants and cultural events that celebrate Boise’s Basque heritage.
Family-Friendly Activities
If you’re traveling with kids, there are plenty of family-friendly activities in Boise. The Idaho Botanical Garden offers a Children’s Adventure Garden with interactive exhibits and a butterfly house. The Discovery Center of Idaho has hands-on exhibits that teach kids about science and technology. And Zoo Boise has over 200 animals, including tigers, penguins, and giraffes.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
If you want to get off the beaten path, head to the World Center for Birds of Prey, which has over 200 birds of prey and offers guided tours and falconry demonstrations. For a unique shopping experience, check out the Boise Farmers Market, which offers locally grown produce, handmade crafts, and live music.
Natural Wonders
Boise is surrounded by natural wonders, from mountains to hot springs. One of the most popular destinations is Bogus Basin, a ski resort in the Boise National Forest that offers skiing, snowboarding, and mountain biking. For a relaxing soak, head to the hot springs in Idaho City, which are surrounded by beautiful scenery.
Vibrant Nightlife
Boise has a vibrant nightlife scene, with plenty of bars and clubs to choose from. For a craft beer experience, check out Boise Brewing, which offers a variety of local beers and a great atmosphere. For live music, head to Neurolux, which has a variety of acts from indie rock to electronic music.
Local Markets
Boise has several local markets that offer fresh produce, crafts, and live music. The Capital City Public Market is held on Saturdays and features over 100 vendors. The Boise Farmers Market is held on Saturdays and Wednesdays and offers locally grown produce and handmade crafts. And the Hyde Park Street Fair is held in September and features food, music, and crafts.
Beaches and Mountains
Boise is a great destination for both beach and mountain lovers. Lucky Peak State Park is a popular destination for swimming, boating, and fishing. And the nearby mountains offer plenty of hiking and skiing opportunities.
Cultural Immersion
Boise has a rich cultural scene, with plenty of opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture. The Basque Museum and Cultural Center offers exhibits and events that celebrate Boise’s Basque heritage. And the Idaho Black History Museum offers exhibits and events that explore the history of African Americans in Idaho.
Art and Music Scene
Boise has a thriving art and music scene, with plenty of galleries and venues to choose from. The Boise Art Museum offers a variety of exhibits and events, and the Visual Arts Collective features local and national artists. For live music, check out The Knitting Factory, which has a variety of acts from indie rock to hip hop.
Walking Tours
Boise is a great city to explore on foot, with plenty of historic sites and landmarks to see. The Boise Walking Tour app offers self-guided tours of the city’s historic sites, including the Idaho State Capitol Building, the Old Idaho Penitentiary, and the Basque Block.
Architectural Marvels
Boise has several architectural marvels that are worth seeing. The Idaho State Capitol Building has a beautiful dome and offers guided tours. The Egyptian Theatre is a historic theater with a unique art deco design. And the St. John’s Cathedral is a beautiful Gothic-style church.
Historical Sites
Boise has a rich history, and there are plenty of historical sites to explore. The Old Idaho Penitentiary is a must-see attraction, with guided tours that take you through the prison’s cells, gallows, and solitary confinement rooms. And the Idaho State Historical Museum offers exhibits and events that explore Idaho’s past.
Biking Routes
Boise is a great city for biking, with plenty of bike-friendly routes and trails. The Boise River Greenbelt is a 25-mile trail that runs along the Boise River and offers stunning views of the city and the surrounding mountains. And the Boise Foothills offer miles of trails with stunning views of the city and the surrounding mountains.
Wellness Retreats
If you’re looking for a wellness retreat, Boise has plenty of options. The Boise Hot Yoga and Massage Studio offers a variety of yoga classes and massage services. And the Bodhi Tree Yoga and Wellness Studio offers a variety of yoga classes, meditation classes, and wellness workshops.
Adventure Sports
Boise is a great destination for adventure sports, with plenty of opportunities for rock climbing, white water rafting, and mountain biking. The Boise River Raft and Tube offers guided rafting and tubing trips on the Boise River. And Bogus Basin is a popular destination for skiing, snowboarding, and mountain biking.
With this comprehensive travel guide, you’ll be able to explore the best of Boise and its surrounding areas. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures or cultural immersion, Boise has something for everyone.