500+ deals

Boise Guide

To the pioneers who charted the Oregon Trail in the 1830s, Boise was little more than a small cluster of trees beside a trading outpost. Boise would maintain this low profile until 1862, when prospectors first discovered gold in the area. Several other gold strikes led to a population surge and, soon enough, the newly minted city was thrust into the national spotlight. Boise has since blossomed into Idaho’s largest city and a vibrant cultural hub, the latter thanks to its growing population of young people. Combine all this culture with unmatched access to the great outdoors, and you end up with an endless variety of things to do. At the heart of Boise lies The Grove, a sprawling plaza that hosts summer concerts, sunbathers, and kids who cool off by prancing in the fountain. Another draw in the warmer months, the Capital City Public Market brings together local farmers and artisans to sell their produce and crafts. The 208-foot dome of the Capitol Building casts a shadow over these proceedings. The building, which was constructed in 1905, remains the nation’s only capitol heated by geothermal water. A similarly imposing government building, the Old Idaho Penitentiary locked away its share of Old Western outlaws from 1872 to 1973. Though no longer used for its original purpose, the prison continues to host tours of its cellblocks, solitary confinement rooms, and dreaded Gallows. Not all of Boise’s appeal lies at its center. The city’s nature-friendly roots are on full display in the lush acreage of its Greenbelt. 30 miles of trails wind alongside the Boise River, which becomes a hot spot for floating, tubing, canoeing, and rafting during the summer. Most rafting trips start in Barber Park, which lies six miles outside the city. For a small fee, a shuttle bus can pick you up after the five-mile float to Ann Morrison Park. A 10-minute drive outside the city takes you to Lucky Peak State Park. The park’s expansive confines encompass Sandy Point Beach, where cool waters pool at the base of Lucky Peak Dam. Although a bit further away, Bogus Basin Mountain Recreation Area’s snow-covered peaks make for an ideal wintertime playground. 

What others are saying

Guest
7, Jun
One Couples 75-Min Deluxe Thai Deep-Tissue Bodywork with Hot Stones & Aromatherapy
The lady that gave me a massage is Colombian and was excellent! We did couples massage and were taken right in. Would do it again!
Up to 37% Off on Couples Massage at Na masaje
Amy
28, Jun
Six Laser Hair-Removal Treatments on One Large Area
Staff was amazing, procedure was quick and easy too. I would highly recommend this place!
Safe, Effective Laser Hair Removal Packages
Gary
7, Jul
Synthetic Blend Oil Change
Friendly fast and accurate service. What more could you ask for. This is the only place I will take my Subaru for an oil change.
Valvoline Instant Oil Change (Up to 25% Off)
P
3, Jul
One Custom Mani-Pedi with Gel Upgrade
Emma did a great job! I was very happy with my haircut and pedicure!!
Up to 49% Off on Nail Salon - Mani-Pedi at EmLa Designs
Deanna
28, Jun
One-hour private glass-blowing class for up to 2 people
So much fun
Discover your artistic side with interactive glassblowing classes
Leigh
7, Jul
One 60-Minute Couples Massage
This experience was amazing. The masseuse was experienced and very friendly. My stress level melted away from her very first touch. I will absolutely be back!
Up to 42% Off on Couples Massage at Healer's Method

Categories

Popular Searches