Boise On A Map

Large detailed map of Boise from ontheworldmap.com

Introduction

Boise, the capital city of Idaho, is a hidden gem in the Pacific Northwest. Known for its vibrant arts and culture scene, outdoor adventures, and affordable living, Boise is the perfect destination for travelers looking for a unique and authentic experience. In this comprehensive travel guide, we will take you on a journey through the top attractions, hidden gems, food scene, budget-friendly tips, outdoor adventures, historical landmarks, family-friendly activities, off-the-beaten-path experiences, natural wonders and much more.

Top Attractions

Downtown Boise

Downtown Boise is a vibrant hub of art, culture, and entertainment. The city’s main street, Eighth Street, is lined with boutique shops, restaurants, and coffee shops. Be sure to check out the Basque Block, a neighborhood rich in Basque culture and history, and the Boise Art Museum, which showcases contemporary art from around the world.

Boise River Greenbelt

The Boise River Greenbelt is a 25-mile trail that runs along the Boise River. The trail is perfect for walking, jogging, biking, or rollerblading. Along the way, you will encounter parks, wildlife, and beautiful scenery. The Greenbelt is one of the city’s most popular attractions and a must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts.

Hidden Gems

Freak Alley Gallery

Freak Alley Gallery is a hidden gem in downtown Boise. The alley is covered in colorful murals and street art created by local artists. It’s a great place to take pictures and immerse yourself in the city’s vibrant arts scene.

Old Idaho Penitentiary

The Old Idaho Penitentiary is a historic prison that operated from 1872 to 1973. Today, it’s a museum that offers guided tours and exhibits that showcase the prison’s history and the lives of its inmates. It’s a fascinating and educational experience for history buffs.

Food Scene

Farmers Markets

Boise has several farmers markets that offer fresh, locally grown produce and handmade crafts. The Boise Farmers Market, in particular, is one of the city’s most popular markets and a great place to sample local cuisine.

Craft Beer Scene

Boise has a thriving craft beer scene with several breweries and taprooms in the city. Some of the most popular breweries include Boise Brewing, Payette Brewing, and Woodland Empire Ale Craft.

Budget-Friendly Tips

Free Admission Days

Many of Boise’s museums and attractions offer free admission days throughout the year. Check their websites for more information and plan your visit accordingly.

Picnic in the Park

Boise has over 90 parks, many of which are free to enter. Pack a picnic lunch and spend the day enjoying the city’s natural beauty.

Outdoor Adventures

Bogus Basin Mountain Recreation Area

Bogus Basin is a year-round outdoor recreation area that offers skiing, snowboarding, hiking, mountain biking, and more. It’s just a short drive from downtown Boise and a great place to escape the city and enjoy the great outdoors.

Kayaking on the Boise River

Kayaking on the Boise River is a popular summer activity. You can rent kayaks or bring your own and paddle down the river, taking in the beautiful scenery and wildlife along the way.

Family-Friendly Activities

Zoo Boise

Zoo Boise is a small but charming zoo that is home to over 300 animals. The zoo offers interactive exhibits, animal feedings, and a playground for children. It’s a great place to spend a day with the family.

Discovery Center of Idaho

The Discovery Center of Idaho is a hands-on science museum that offers interactive exhibits and educational programs for children and adults. It’s a great place to learn and have fun at the same time.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences

Boise River Park

The Boise River Park is a man-made whitewater park that offers kayaking, surfing, and other water sports. It’s a unique and exciting experience for adventure seekers.

Idaho Botanical Garden

The Idaho Botanical Garden is a beautiful garden that showcases a variety of plants, trees, and flowers. It’s a peaceful and relaxing place to escape the city and connect with nature.

Natural Wonders

Shoshone Falls

Shoshone Falls is a stunning waterfall located just outside of Boise. It’s often referred to as the “Niagara of the West” and is a must-visit for nature lovers.

Boise Foothills

The Boise Foothills are a series of hills that surround the city. They offer hiking, biking, and horseback riding trails, as well as stunning views of the city and the surrounding landscape.

Vibrant Nightlife

The Knitting Factory

The Knitting Factory is a popular music venue that hosts local and national bands. It’s a great place to catch a live show and experience the city’s music scene.

The Reef

The Reef is a tiki bar that offers exotic cocktails and a laid-back atmosphere. It’s a fun and unique place to grab a drink and hang out with friends.

Local Markets

Capital City Public Market

The Capital City Public Market is a weekly market that offers fresh produce, handmade crafts, and artisanal foods. It’s a great place to shop and support local businesses.

Boise Co-op

The Boise Co-op is a natural grocery store that offers organic and locally sourced foods. It’s a great place to stock up on healthy snacks and ingredients for your next meal.

Beaches and Mountains

Payette Lake

Payette Lake is a beautiful lake located in the mountains near McCall, Idaho. It’s a popular destination for swimming, boating, and fishing.

Bogus Basin Mountain Recreation Area

As mentioned earlier, Bogus Basin offers skiing, snowboarding, and other winter sports. In the summer, the area offers hiking, mountain biking, and other outdoor activities.

Cultural Immersion

The Basque Block

The Basque Block is a neighborhood in downtown Boise that celebrates Basque culture and history. It’s home to several Basque restaurants, shops, and museums.

The Egyptian Theatre

The Egyptian Theatre is a historic movie palace that showcases classic films, live performances, and other cultural events. It’s a beautiful and unique venue that is worth a visit.

Art and Music Scene

The Record Exchange

The Record Exchange is a local record store that offers a wide selection of vinyl records, CDs, and other music-related merchandise. It’s a great place to discover new music and connect with the local music scene.

The Boise Philharmonic

The Boise Philharmonic is a professional orchestra that performs classical and contemporary music. They offer a variety of concerts throughout the year and are a must-see for music lovers.

Walking Tours

Historic Downtown Walking Tour

The Historic Downtown Walking Tour is a self-guided tour that takes you through the city’s historic district. You will see historic buildings, landmarks, and other points of interest.

Boise Art Walk

The Boise Art Walk is a self-guided tour that takes you through the city’s art galleries and public art installations. It’s a great way to discover the city’s vibrant arts scene.

Architectural Marvels

The Idaho State Capitol Building

The Idaho State Capitol Building is a beautiful and historic building that is home to the state’s government. It’s open to the public for tours and is a must-see for architecture and history buffs.

The Boise Depot

The Boise Depot is a historic train station that was built in 1925. Today, it’s a popular event venue and a stunning example of Spanish colonial architecture.

Historical Sites

The Oregon Trail

The Oregon Trail is a historic trail that runs through Idaho and other western states. You can visit several sites along the trail that offer exhibits and information about the pioneers who traveled it.

The Idaho State Museum

The Idaho State Museum is a museum that showcases the history and culture of Idaho. It’s a great place to learn about the state’s past and its people.