Things To Do
in Boise
Boise is the capital of Idaho, nestled along the Boise River and framed by the foothills of the Snake River Plain. The city blends a lively downtown with easy access to outdoor recreation, from riverfront trails to rugged hikes in the surrounding hills. A rich Basque heritage adds a distinct flavor to dining and culture, especially in the Basque Block.
Year-round you’ll find craft breweries, farmers markets, and a climate that swings between hot summers and cold, snowy winters.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a leisurely stroll through Boise's historic downtown district. Admire the charming early 20th-century architecture as you visit local boutiques and specialty coffee shops. Make sure to stop by the Basque Block to experience a unique cultural corner of the city.
Head to the Boise Art Museum to explore contemporary and regional artworks, followed by lunch at one of the nearby farm-to-table restaurants. Wander along the Boise River Greenbelt, enjoying scenic views and spotting local wildlife. Visit the Idaho State Capitol building for a self-guided tour and learn about the state's history and government.
Dine at a riverside restaurant and savor locally sourced cuisine while watching the sunset over the water. Afterwards, catch a live performance at the historic Egyptian Theatre or enjoy craft cocktails at a cozy downtown bar. End your evening with a peaceful walk along the illuminated Greenbelt paths.
Kick off your day with a drive up to Bogus Basin Mountain Recreation Area and enjoy the crisp mountain air. Rent mountain bikes or hiking gear to explore the extensive trail system surrounded by pine forests and panoramic views. Stop at a scenic overlook to capture photos of the Boise Valley below.
Take a break at the mountain lodge for a hearty lunch while soaking in the natural beauty of the area. Try your hand at disc golf or relax by one of the picnic areas near the ski slopes. If visiting in winter, enjoy skiing or snowboarding on well-groomed runs with stunning vistas.
Return to Boise and unwind with a casual dinner at a local pizzeria or burger joint. Visit a neighborhood brewery to sample craft beers brewed with Idaho ingredients. If weather permits, end the night with stargazing in a quiet park or open space near the city.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🥗Meal for 2 at mid-range restaurant | $40-70 |
| 🏠1-bedroom apartment in city center (monthly) | $1,200-1,800 |
| 🚗Gasoline (per gallon) | $3.50-4.50 |
| ☕Cappuccino (coffee shop) | $3-5 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Strong outdoor access and easy foothill hikes
- Vibrant Basque cultural influence and dining
- Growing craft beer and food scene
- Family-friendly with safe downtown core
- Summer heat can be intense and dry
- Winter travel can involve snow and ice
- Growing housing costs and limited public transit options compared with bigger cities
Places to Visit in Boise
Visit one of these nice places.
Oppulent neoclassical building with a golden dome and expansive views from the grounds.
Peaceful waterway scenes along a network of paths with bridges and river frontage ideal for sunset shots.
Panoramic city views from the foothill overlook after a moderate hike.
Historic brick storefronts and Basque cultural murals create vibrant street photography angles.
Food in Boise
Boise Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Small bites and skewered snacks commonly found in the Basque Block, perfect for grazing with drinks.
Must-Try!
A hearty grilled ribeye served with potatoes and peppers at Basque eateries.
Potatoes prepared in classic Idaho styles—baked, loaded, or mashed—featuring locally grown spuds.
Sweet treats featuring Idaho’s native huckleberries found in dessert menus and pastries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market with fresh produce, prepared foods, and local crafts on Saturdays downtown.
Deli and market offering Basque-inspired prepared foods and pintxos near the Basque Block.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Boise locals are friendly; a simple hello or good morning goes a long way.
Keep noise to reasonable levels in quiet neighborhoods and residential areas.
Stand in line, respect personal space, and tip for service as usual in the U.S.
Safety
Tipping in Boise
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, tip 15-20% of the pre-tax bill; rounding up at cafes or bars is common for small totals.
Credit/debit cards are widely accepted; cash is always useful for tips and small purchases.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Dogwoods and wildflowers bloom; temperatures are mild but can be rainy—pack layers.
Hot, dry days ideal for outdoor events, river activities, and hikes; carry water and sunscreen; wildfire smoke can occur.
Crisp air and fall colors; perfect for hiking and city strolls, with cooler evenings.
Cold with potential snow; nearby Bogus Basin offers skiing; layering and waterproof gear recommended.
Boise at Night
Hiking in Boise
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Iconic foothill hike with sweeping city views from the summit.
Network of trails ranging from easy to challenging with scenic overlooks.
Ridge trails and reservoirs with water activities nearby.
Airports
How to reach Boise by plane.
Major regional hub just miles from downtown with frequent domestic flights and car rental access.
A regional option in Twin Falls for shorter connections to some western destinations.
East Idaho airport offering several domestic routes.
Sun Valley area airport serving winter and summer travelers to nearby ski resorts.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of families, service workers, and tech/education professionals.
Boise State University and nearby colleges contribute a sizable student population.
A notable minority with Basque roots that influence the local culture and events.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Local college football culture with home games drawing crowds downtown.
BSU basketball and local baseball leagues are popular in season.
Extensive urban trails and foothill routes attract enthusiasts year-round.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Boise.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most Boise restaurants mark vegetarian options; ask for vegetable-forward dishes or adaptations, especially at Basque-block spots that rely on meat.