Things To Do
in Boise

Boise, the capital city of Idaho, is a vibrant and rapidly growing urban destination known for its rich cultural heritage and beautiful natural landscapes. Nestled along the Boise River, it boasts a unique blend of outdoor adventures and urban amenities. The city's downtown area features a lively arts scene, diverse dining options, and plenty of recreational opportunities.

With its proximity to mountains, rivers, and parks, Boise is an outdoor enthusiast's paradise.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Downtown Boise
morning
:

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Goldy’s Breakfast Bistro, known for its local ingredients and delicious pancakes. After breakfast, take a stroll through the Boise River Greenbelt, a scenic pathway that runs along the river.

afternoon
:

Visit the Idaho State Capitol for a guided tour to learn about Idaho's history and government. Afterward, explore the Boise Art Museum, showcasing contemporary art and local exhibitions.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at Fork, a restaurant that focuses on farm-to-table cuisine. Wrap up your day with a visit to the Basque Block, where you can experience local culture and perhaps catch a live performance.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Adventure
morning
:

Start with breakfast at Big City Coffee, famous for its pastries and coffee. Afterward, head to the Boise Foothills for a morning hike on the Hulls Gulch Reserve trails.

afternoon
:

Pack a picnic lunch and continue your outdoor adventure at Camel's Back Park. Spend the afternoon relaxing, playing frisbee, or hiking.

evening
:

Dine at The Modern, a trendy spot offering innovative dishes. Finish your day with a craft beer at one of the city's local breweries such as Payette Brewing Company.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at a restaurant$15-$30
Coffee$4-$6
🍕Pizza$10-$20
🚕Taxi ride (within city)$10-$20
🏨Hotel per night (mid-range)$100-$200

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful natural surroundings and outdoor activities.
  • Friendly and welcoming community.
  • Rich cultural scene with arts and festivals.
  • Limited public transportation options.
  • Cold winters may deter some visitors.
  • Growing population can lead to increased traffic.

Places to Visit in Boise

Visit one of these nice places.

Boise River Greenbelt

A picturesque pathway lined with trees and river views, perfect for nature photography.

Idaho State Capitol

An impressive architectural landmark with a stunning dome, ideal for capturing the city's history.

Old Idaho Penitentiary

A historic site with a haunting atmosphere, offering unique photo opportunities.

Culinary Guide

Food in Boise

Boise's culinary scene is a delightful mix of local ingredients and international influences, making it a food lover's paradise.

Boise Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Basque Chorizo

A spicy sausage that reflects Boise's Basque heritage, often served in tapas or as part of a hearty meal.

Must-Try!

Idaho Potatoes

Renowned for their quality, these potatoes can be found in various forms, from baked to mashed.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Boise Farmers Market

A vibrant market held on Saturdays, featuring local produce, meats, and artisan goods.

Street Food Vendors

Various food trucks around downtown offer diverse options, from tacos to gourmet sandwiches.

Climate Guide

Weather

Boise experiences a semi-arid climate with four distinct seasons. Summers are hot and dry, with temperatures often exceeding 90°F (32°C). Winters are cold, with average lows around 30°F (-1°C) and occasional snowfall. Spring and fall are mild and pleasant, making them ideal for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Politeness

Residents value politeness; a simple 'thank you' goes a long way.

Respect for Nature

Outdoor enthusiasts are encouraged to follow Leave No Trace principles.

Casual Dress

Boise has a laid-back vibe, and casual dress is commonly accepted even in dining establishments.

Safety Guide

Safety

Boise is generally a safe city, with a lower crime rate compared to national averages. However, it is always advisable to stay aware of your surroundings, especially in less crowded areas at night. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 911, and it is recommended to have local emergency contacts on hand.

Tipping in Boise

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

It is customary to tip service staff 15-20% in restaurants and bars.

Payment Methods

Most establishments accept credit/debit cards, but it's advisable to carry some cash for smaller vendors.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming flowers make it a beautiful time to explore parks and outdoor activities.

Summer

Warm weather is perfect for hiking and river activities, but expect occasional thunderstorms.

Fall

Cooler temperatures and stunning fall foliage make it an ideal season for photography and outdoor exploration.

Winter

Cold temperatures and snow can hinder outdoor activities, but winter sports are popular in nearby areas.

Nightlife Guide

Boise at Night

Boise's nightlife is vibrant and diverse, with options ranging from intimate bars and craft breweries to lively dance clubs. The downtown area is the hub for nightlife activity, featuring live music venues and cocktail lounges. Events like First Thursday showcase local art and culture, drawing crowds for gallery openings and street festivities.

Hiking in Boise

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Hulls Gulch Reserve

A popular trail system with various paths, offering stunning views of the city and foothills.

Table Rock

A challenging hike that rewards with panoramic views of Boise and the surrounding area.

Airports

How to reach Boise by plane.

Boise Airport (BOI)

Located about 5 miles from downtown Boise, this airport offers both domestic and limited international flights, making it the primary gateway for travelers.

Getting Around

Walkability

Boise is quite walkable, especially in the downtown area where many attractions, restaurants, and shops are within walking distance. The Boise River Greenbelt also offers a scenic route for pedestrians and cyclists. Sidewalks are generally well-maintained, making it easy for visitors to explore the city on foot.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Young Professionals

Boise has seen an influx of young professionals attracted by job opportunities and the city's lifestyle.

Outdoor Enthusiasts

With ample access to nature, many residents and visitors are active individuals who enjoy outdoor activities.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

College Football

The Boise State Broncos play at Albertsons Stadium, and college football is a major event for locals.

Mountain Biking

With numerous trails, mountain biking is a popular sport for both residents and visitors, especially in the foothills.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Boise can be moderate, especially during rush hours, but is generally manageable compared to larger cities. Public transportation includes ValleyRide buses, which serve the greater Boise area. Many locals prefer biking or walking to navigate the city, given its compact size.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Boise.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Many restaurants offer vegetarian options, especially in the downtown area.

Gluten-Free

Several eateries cater to gluten-free diets, ensuring options for those with dietary restrictions.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Boise is robust, with several hospitals, clinics, and urgent care facilities available. Major hospitals include St. Luke's Boise Medical Center and Saint Alphonsus Regional Medical Center, both offering comprehensive medical services. It's advisable for travelers to have health insurance coverage that includes emergency services.

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Read more in our United States 2025 Travel Guide.

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