Google Maps Boise Idaho
Introduction
Boise, the capital city of Idaho, is a vibrant and charming destination that offers a wide range of attractions and experiences. Nestled in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, Boise boasts of an incredible outdoor scene, rich history, and a thriving cultural and arts community. Whether you are a nature lover, history buff, foodie, or adventure seeker, Boise has something for everyone.
Top Attractions
Boise River Greenbelt
The Boise River Greenbelt is a 25-mile long pathway that runs along the banks of the Boise River, offering stunning views of the city and the mountains. The greenbelt is a popular spot for walking, jogging, biking, and picnicking.
Idaho State Capitol Building
The Idaho State Capitol Building is a magnificent architectural masterpiece that houses the offices of the governor, lieutenant governor, and the Idaho Legislature. The building is open for public tours and offers a glimpse into the state’s rich history.
Boise Art Museum
The Boise Art Museum is a must-visit for art lovers. The museum showcases a diverse collection of contemporary and modern art from local and international artists. The museum also hosts regular exhibitions, workshops, and events.
Hidden Gems
Freak Alley Gallery
Freak Alley Gallery is a unique outdoor art gallery that features murals and graffiti art by local artists. The alley is a vibrant and colorful space that offers a unique perspective on the city’s art scene.
The Basque Block
The Basque Block is a historic neighborhood that celebrates the Basque culture and heritage. The neighborhood is home to several Basque restaurants, bars, and shops, and is a great place to explore the city’s multicultural roots.
Food Scene
Fork
Fork is a trendy restaurant that serves farm-to-table cuisine with a focus on local and seasonal ingredients. The restaurant offers an extensive wine list and craft cocktails.
Boise Farmers Market
The Boise Farmers Market is a great place to sample local and organic produce, artisanal cheeses, baked goods, and other farm-fresh products. The market is open on Saturdays from April to December.
Budget-Friendly Tips
Free Guided Tours
The Boise State University offers free guided tours of the campus, including the famous blue turf football field. The tours are available on weekdays and Saturdays.
Boise Public Library
The Boise Public Library is a great place to spend a lazy afternoon. The library offers a vast collection of books, magazines, and newspapers, as well as free Wi-Fi and computer access.
Outdoor Adventures
Bogus Basin Mountain Recreation Area
Bogus Basin Mountain Recreation Area is a popular spot for skiing, snowboarding, and other winter sports. The area also offers hiking, mountain biking, and disc golf during the summer months.
Lucky Peak Reservoir
Lucky Peak Reservoir is a beautiful lake that offers boating, fishing, and swimming opportunities. The lake is surrounded by scenic mountains and is a great place for a picnic or a hike.
Historical Landmarks
Old Idaho Penitentiary
The Old Idaho Penitentiary is a historic prison that operated from 1872 to 1973. The prison is now a museum that offers guided tours and interactive exhibits that showcase the lives of the inmates and the prison staff.
Idaho Anne Frank Human Rights Memorial
The Idaho Anne Frank Human Rights Memorial is a peaceful and contemplative space that honors the legacy of Anne Frank and promotes human rights. The memorial features a life-size bronze statue of Anne Frank and several thought-provoking quotes and sayings.
Family-Friendly Activities
Zoo Boise
Zoo Boise is a small but charming zoo that features a wide range of animals, including tigers, bears, and penguins. The zoo also offers several educational programs and events for children.
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. The museum features several themed galleries, including the Space Gallery, the Energy Gallery, and the Health Gallery.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
Idaho Botanical Garden
The Idaho Botanical Garden is a beautiful and serene space that features several themed gardens, including the English Garden, the Meditation Garden, and the Children’s Adventure Garden. The garden also hosts several events, including concerts and festivals.
Table Rock
Table Rock is a scenic overlook that offers breathtaking views of the city and the surrounding mountains. The hike to the top of Table Rock is relatively easy and takes about an hour.
Natural Wonders
Shoshone Falls
Shoshone Falls is a stunning waterfall that is often called the “Niagara of the West.” The falls are 212 feet tall and offer a spectacular display of water and mist. The falls are open to the public year-round and offer several hiking trails and picnic areas.
Bogus Basin Wildflowers
Bogus Basin is a popular spot for wildflower viewing during the summer months. The area boasts of a wide range of wildflowers, including lupines, Indian paintbrush, and fireweed.
Vibrant Nightlife
The Balcony Club
The Balcony Club is a popular jazz club that features live music, craft cocktails, and a cozy atmosphere. The club is open seven days a week and offers a great place to unwind after a long day.
The Reef
The Reef is a tiki bar that offers a wide range of tropical drinks, including mai tais, hurricanes, and pina coladas. The bar also features a dance floor and hosts regular events and theme nights.
Local Markets
Boise Farmers Market
The Boise Farmers Market is a great place to sample local and organic produce, artisanal cheeses, baked goods, and other farm-fresh products. The market is open on Saturdays from April to December.
Capi’s Italian Kitchen Market
Capi’s Italian Kitchen Market is a small but charming market that offers a wide range of Italian specialty foods, including fresh pasta, cured meats, and imported cheeses. The market also offers salads, sandwiches, and other lunch items.
Beaches and Mountains
Lucky Peak Reservoir
Lucky Peak Reservoir is a beautiful lake that offers boating, fishing, and swimming opportunities. The lake is surrounded by scenic mountains and is a great place for a picnic or a hike.
Bogus Basin Mountain Recreation Area
Bogus Basin Mountain Recreation Area is a popular spot for skiing, snowboarding, and other winter sports. The area also offers hiking, mountain biking, and disc golf during the summer months.
Cultural Immersion
The Basque Block
The Basque Block is a historic neighborhood that celebrates the Basque culture and heritage. The neighborhood is home to several Basque restaurants, bars, and shops, and is a great place to explore the city’s multicultural roots.
Boise Art Museum
The Boise Art Museum is a must-visit for art lovers. The museum showcases a diverse collection of contemporary and modern art from local and international artists. The museum also hosts regular exhibitions, workshops, and events.
Art and Music Scene
Treefort Music Fest
The Treefort Music Fest is a popular music festival that takes place in downtown Boise every spring. The festival features over 400 bands and artists from different genres and attracts music lovers from all over the country.
Boise Art Museum
The Boise Art Museum is a must-visit for art lovers. The museum showcases a diverse collection of contemporary and modern art from local and international artists. The museum also hosts regular exhibitions, workshops, and events.
Walking Tours
Downtown Boise Historic Walking Tour
The Downtown Boise Historic Walking Tour is a self-guided tour that takes visitors through the city’s rich history and architecture. The tour features several landmarks, including the Idaho State Capitol Building, the Old Boise Train Depot, and the Egyptian Theatre.
Basque Block Walking Tour
The Basque Block Walking Tour is a guided tour that takes visitors through the historic Basque neighborhood and highlights the culture and heritage of the Basque people. The tour includes stops at several Basque restaurants, shops, and landmarks.
Architectural Marvels
Idaho State Capitol Building
The Idaho State Capitol Building is a magnificent architectural masterpiece that houses the offices of