Nestled in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, Boise is the picturesque capital of Idaho, renowned for its various outdoor pursuits. The tree-lined Boise River passes through the heart of the city, with the grand sandstone Idaho State Capitol dominating its skyline.
Things to do in Boise
Spend an afternoon exploring Julia Davis Park, an urban oasis home to the Zoo Boise and the Boise Art Museum. The Idaho Black History Museum is located nearby and has exhibits showcasing the cultural legacy of African-Americans.
Walk or cycle along the famous Greenbelt of Boise, stopping at the Anne Frank Human Rights Memorial. It features a bronze statue of Anne Frank with her famous diary in hand and a sapling of the Anne Frank Tree, as well as a poignant Quotation Wall depicting the words of poets and activists who lived through the Holocaust.
A short drive south-west of Boise takes you to Barber Park, which provides a refuge for local wildlife, such as deer, beavers and bald eagles. It’s also a popular spot for tubing, with locals flocking here in the summer months to float down the Boise River to Ann Morrison Park.
Want to see a historic prison? Visit the Old Idaho State Penitentiary, which is ringed by a locally-quarried sandstone wall. Step inside the 19th-century prison cells and see the Rose Garden where executions once took place, then witness the Luristan Bronze collection, which has artefacts dating from 1000 to 650 BC.
Getting around Boise
Boise Airport is around 10 minutes’ drive south of the city and long-distance buses connect Boise with destinations across Idaho. The Boise Greenbelt is a pedestrian and bicycle path that stretches all the way through the city, providing convenient access to its sights.