Boise, the vibrant capital of Idaho, is a hidden gem that's swiftly gaining recognition for its unique blend of urban chic and outdoorsy allure. With an eclectic mix of cultural activities, foodie hotspots, and breathtaking sceneries, Boise is a city that surprises and delights visitors with its diverse range of attractions. Whether you're a history buff, an art enthusiast, an adrenaline junkie, or a food lover, there's no shortage of things to do in Boise. This city, known for its friendly locals and laid-back lifestyle, offers a plethora of activities that cater to different tastes and interests. From exploring the city's culinary scene to immersing yourself in its rich history, the list of things to do in Boise is endless.
Food & Drink in Boise
Boise's food scene is a delightful mix of local and international flavors. Enjoy a farm-to-table dining experience at Juniper, located on 8th Street, where the menu changes with the seasons, honoring Idaho's bountiful produce. For those looking for authentic Basque cuisine, a trip to the Basque Block is one of the top things to do in Boise. Here, you can savor traditional dishes at Bar Gernika or the Basque Market. After a satisfying meal, head to 10 Barrel Brewing Co. for a taste of Boise's thriving craft beer scene. "Don't leave Boise without trying the trout and huckleberries, they're Idaho's signature delicacies," says local foodie, Emily.
Best Museums in Boise
Immerse yourself in Boise's rich history and culture by visiting its museums. The Boise Art Museum, located in Julia Davis Park, is a must-visit for art lovers. Meanwhile, history buffs should not miss the Idaho State Museum, which offers a comprehensive look at Idaho's history. The Discovery Center of Idaho, with its hands-on science exhibits, is a fun and educational destination for families. One of the unique things to do in Boise is visiting the Old Idaho Penitentiary, a historic prison turned museum that offers a glimpse into the lives of Idaho's past inmates. "The Old Pen tour is a fascinating step back in time," remarks local historian, John.
Outdoor Adventures in Boise
Boise's natural beauty makes it a playground for outdoor enthusiasts. Enjoy a leisurely bike ride or a scenic walk along the Boise River Greenbelt, a 25-mile park in the heart of the city. For a more adventurous activity, white-water rafting on the Boise River is one of the thrilling things to do in Boise. Don't miss a trip to the Bogus Basin Mountain Recreation Area, where you can hike in the summer and ski in the winter. "The view from the top of Bogus Basin is absolutely breathtaking," shares local hiker, Sarah.
Must-See Tours & Attractions
Boise offers a variety of tours that allow you to explore the city in unique ways. Experience the city's urban wineries with the Boise Wine Tours, or explore the city's haunted history with the Boise Ghost Tours. A trip to the Idaho Botanical Garden, with its beautiful themed gardens, is one of the relaxing things to do in Boise. For a unique experience, visit the World Center for Birds of Prey and learn about their conservation efforts. "The raptor demonstrations at the World Center are simply amazing," says frequent visitor, Mark.
Festivals & Events You Can’t Miss
Boise's calendar is packed with exciting festivals and events. The Treefort Music Fest, a five-day indie music festival, is a must for music lovers. For film enthusiasts, the Sun Valley Film Festival showcases the best of independent cinema. The Spirit of Boise Balloon Classic, with its colorful hot air balloons, is a sight to behold. These events are some of the top things to do in Boise. "The energy and creativity at Treefort is absolutely infectious," notes local musician, Amy.
Music & Nightlife Hotspots
Boise's vibrant music and nightlife scene offers plenty of entertainment options. Enjoy live music at the Knitting Factory or catch a concert at the Idaho Botanical Garden's Outlaw Field. For a night of dancing, head to China Blue nightclub. If you're a jazz lover, Chandlers Steakhouse offers live jazz music every night. These are just a few of the exciting things to do in Boise after dark. "The jazz nights at Chandlers are a real treat," says local music enthusiast, David.
Where to Shop in Boise
Shopping in Boise offers a mix of trendy boutiques, vintage stores, and local markets. Explore the unique shops in Hyde Park or browse the local produce at the Capital City Public Market. For a unique shopping experience, visit the Record Exchange, Idaho's largest independent music store. Shopping in these local gems is one of the fun things to do in Boise. "The Record Exchange is a paradise for music lovers," says local shopper, Lisa.
Local Sports & Stadium Experiences
Boise's sports scene is dominated by the Boise State Broncos. Catch a football game at the Albertsons Stadium, known for its iconic blue turf. For a dose of local baseball, head to Memorial Stadium, home of the Boise Hawks. Attending a game is one of the exciting things to do in Boise. "Nothing beats the excitement of a Broncos game," says local sports fan, Mike.
Theatre & Performing Arts in Boise
Boise's performing arts scene is thriving. Enjoy a performance at the Idaho Shakespeare Festival or catch a show at the Morrison Center for the Performing Arts. The Boise Contemporary Theater offers thought-provoking plays, while Ballet Idaho showcases the beauty of dance. Attending a performance is one of the cultural things to do in Boise. "The productions at the Shakespeare Festival are always top-notch," says local theater-goer, Susan.
Boise, with its diverse attractions and activities, is a city that caters to a wide range of interests. Whether you're exploring its food scene, immersing yourself in its history, or enjoying its natural beauty, you'll find that there's no shortage of things to do in Boise. This vibrant city, with its mix of urban charm and outdoor allure, is a destination that's sure to surprise and delight.
