I’ve been making a list of west coast locations to visit since I moved to western Washington – and Boise had been high on my list! I briefly experienced a winter night Boise a few years ago – I remembered it as a clean, modern and close to many outdoor adventures (hello hot springs!). Luckily – I was able to make a quick weekend trip to experience Boise summer and it did not disappoint!

What Makes Boise a Must-Visit Destination?

Boise is a vibrant mid-sized city that seamlessly blends urban culture with outdoor adventure. Whether you’re an arts enthusiast or an outdoor adventurer, there’s something for everyone. Highlights include:

• Boise River Greenbelt – A scenic pathway perfect for biking and walking.
• Boise Whitewater Park – A hotspot for kayakers and water sports lovers.
• Proximity to Nature – Just a few hours from the stunning Sawtooth Mountains and various hot springs.

Getting to Boise

Flying from Seattle to Boise via Alaska Airlines took just 90 minutes, giving me more time to explore. If you’re traveling from other parts of the country, Boise Airport (BOI) is well-connected and conveniently located just minutes from downtown.

Best Time to Visit Boise

Spring & Fall:

• Mild temperatures (60s–70s)
• Perfect for outdoor activities and hiking

Fall:

• Warm (80s–90s) but manageable
• Ideal for river floating and visiting the mountains

Winter:

• Chilly but not extreme (30s–40s)
• Great for snow sports at Bogus Basin

Getting Around Boise

• Walking: Downtown is very walkable.
• Rideshare: A quick Uber/Lyft ride from the airport costs about $10.
• Public Transit: Valley Regional Transit is an option, though limited.
• E-Scooters: A fun and efficient way to explore.
• Car Rental: Recommended if you plan to venture beyond the city.

Where to Eat in Boise

Boise’s food scene was a pleasant surprise! I was impressed with the quality and variety of options, many of which cater to dietary restrictions. Here are my top picks:

Breakfast & Coffee:

• Goldy’s Breakfast Bistro – Try their famous omelets and house seasoning.
• Form & Function – A cozy coffee shop with house-made cashew milk.

Lunch & Dinner:

• El Matador – Delicious Mexican cuisine; don’t skip the fajitas!
• 10 Barrel Brewing – Great for groups and known for their IPAs.
• STIL Ice Cream – Natural ingredients with plenty of vegan and gluten-free options.

Other Notable Restaurants:

• Fork – Farm-to-table American cuisine.
• The Warehouse Food Hall – A variety of local eateries under one roof.
• Tupelo Honey – Southern comfort food.
• Barbacoa Grill – A stylish steak and seafood spot.
• Boise Fry Company – Famous for its customizable fries.
• Basque Market – A taste of Boise’s Basque heritage.

Top Things to Do in Boise

1. Explore Downtown Boise

• Freak Alley – A must-see open-air street art gallery.
• Boise Farmers Market – Open from mid-April to October, featuring local vendors and produce.

2. Outdoor Adventures

• Boise River Greenbelt – Rent an e-bike from Greenbelt E-Bike Rentals and explore the 25-mile scenic path.
• Boise Whitewater Park – Watch or participate in urban river surfing and kayaking.
• Table Rock Hike – Offers panoramic views of the city.
• Bogus Basin – Mountain biking in the summer and skiing in the winter.

3. Day Trips & Excursions

• Sawtooth Mountains (2.5–3 hours away) – Stunning hikes, lakes, and scenic views.
• Middle Fork of the Salmon River – A world-class whitewater rafting experience.
• Idaho Hot Springs:
  • The Springs (Idaho City) – A resort-like experience.
  • Kirkham Hot Springs – A natural riverside hot spring.

4. Unique Experiences

• Valiance Training – Firearms training with experienced instructors.
• Telaya Wine Co. & Sandbar Patio Bar & Grill – Perfect stops along the Greenbelt.
• Boise’s Basque Block – Explore the culture and enjoy authentic Basque cuisine.

Final Thoughts

Summer in Boise exceeded my expectations in every way. With its mix of outdoor recreation, cultural attractions, and fantastic dining, it’s a destination worth considering for your next getaway. Whether you’re looking for a weekend retreat or an extended adventure, Boise has something special to offer.

Have you been to Boise? Share your favorite spots in the comments!