Overview
As Idaho’s capital and largest city, Boise abounds in cultural opportunities, outdoor adventure, and scenic beauty. Boise is home to a population of 200,000 while the Greater metropolitan area is home to nearly 600,000.
Outdoors
Boise is a great basecamp for all kinds of adventures! Starting in downtown, the 25-mile paved Greenbelt along both sides of the Boise river offers car-free biking, walking, and running. Minutes from downtown, there are almost 200 miles of single-track trails in the foothills that are perfect for a casual hike, exciting mountain bike ride, or a grueling trail run.
Winter sports
There are 18 ski resorts accessible from Idaho. They range from mom and pop local resorts to world famous places like Sun Valley (3 hours from Boise). Our local hill is Bogus Basin (1 hour away) that offers affordable skiing for the whole family. If self-propelled turns are your thing, Boise has a multitude of backcountry options.
Sun Valley
The world’s first chair lifts were installed at this ski resort in 1936. Today, Sun Valley (about 3 hours from Boise) features something for everyone all year long, with miles of trails to explore during the day and restaurants, shops, festivals, and concerts to enjoy at night.
Water Sports
The waters of Idaho offer a full range of activities. During the summer, floating the Boise River is a relaxing and popular way to beat the heat. For adrenaline junkies, white water is easy to find on Idaho’s serpentine rivers including the Payette and Salmon.
Boise City Life
Boise features a small-town vibe with the perks of a big city. We have a vibrant downtown that has high quality restaurants, shops, and museums. Here are some of the fun attractions of Boise!
Basque district
Boise is home to a proud Basque population. They share their culture in the Basque District. There is a museum dedicated to Basque culture and several restaurants that serve delicious Basque cuisine. Be sure to try the paella during one of the regular Basque Block festivals!
Arts and Education
Museums
Boise has a satisfying range of museums. There are several historical museums including the Idaho State Museum, the Idaho Black History Museum, and the Old Penitentiary. Families can enjoy the Zoo Boise and Discovery Center of Idaho.
Concerts & Music
Many big musical acts swing through Boise on national tours, at one of several excellent venues. Boise also hosts many of the big Broadway shows. Local artists also shine in all genres, ranging from folk and rock to classical and opera.
Sports
Boise is home to baseball, hockey, and football! Watch the Steelheads hit the ice right downtown, travel out to the fairgrounds to watch the Hawks take the field all summer, or enjoy some indoor football with the Idaho Horsemen! We are also home to the Boise State University, where you can watch all of their varying sports teams. Of particular mention are the BSU Broncos and their famous blue turf, where you can watch them perennially compete as one of the nation’s top 25 college football programs! Don’t forget about the original sporting event of the west, the rodeo!