Downtown Boise is a great area to stay in when visiting the city. It offers a range of accommodations including hotels, Airbnb’s, and boutique stays within walking distance to popular attractions like the Boise River Greenbelt, Capitol Building, Basque Block, and many restaurants and shops. You will also be close to shuttle services that can take you to other destinations throughout the city.
Best Areas to Stay in Boise
Boise, Idaho, is a charming and vibrant city that offers a wide variety of neighbourhoods to explore. Whether you’re searching for the perfect balance between natural landscapes and urban activities, or simply looking for a comfortable place to rest your head, you’re sure to find what you’re looking for in Boise.
If proximity to downtown is a priority for you, then it’s best to look no further than the Central Business District area. This neighbourhood is home to the heart of Boise’s shops, restaurants, and entertainment options. Best of all, many hotels here feature stunning skyline views of downtown Boise.
The North End of Boise offers an excellent mix of urban amenities and natural settings. Tree-lined streets lead to beautiful parks such as Camel’s Back Park and Camas Prairie Centennial Marsh Wildlife Management Area. And with top-rated schools, historical homes, and low crime rates, this neighbourhood is perfect for families looking for a safe, welcoming environment.
On the other hand, if you’re searching for a quieter area that’s still conveniently located near downtown Boise, the East End may be your go-to. Its residential streets have some stunning examples of historic homes dating back over 100 years. Natural beauty abounds nearby with Hulls Gulch Reserve just around the corner; the Foothills Reserve system can also be seen rising up from the eastern boundary – which provides endless opportunities for hiking in nature.
Some visitors have found that staying in Boise Bench helps them keep costs down without sacrificing amenities. Unfortunately, these lodging options are at least a thirty-minute walk from downtown. There are many affordable places to stay here boasting classic motels and some chain hotel locations. However, the accommodation fees vary widely according to season. It is recommended that you book ahead since lodging availability can be tough during peak seasons.
Downtown Boise
Downtown Boise is a vibrant and eclectic neighbourhood known for its unique shops, restaurants, bars, and attractions. If exploring the city on foot is your idea of a perfect vacation, then this area should be at the top of your list.
No visit to downtown Boise is complete without taking a stroll along the Basque Block, which celebrates the history of Idaho’s Basque community. The block contains several authentic Basque restaurants and cultural centres where visitors can learn about this fascinating culture through food, dance performances, and other events throughout the year.
One of the most famous areas in downtown Boise is 8th Street. This charming pedestrian-only street is lined with deciduous trees and quaint sidewalk cafes guaranteed to make you feel like you’re in Europe – minus the price tag! You can find many outdoor patios from local cafes or opt to enjoy coffee on the go in between shopping excursions and sightseeing.
Acquire your fashion flair by visiting some quirky boutiques; such as Piece Unique &Shoez for unique clothing finds as well as fashionable footwear. Others may prefer antique shopping with various secondhand stores, including Antique World Mall & Crazy Daisy Antiques not far away.
Although there are many lodging options in downtown Boise as we know, the cost could be very expensive during peak times making it over budget, especially for some budget travellers who want to avoid $200-$300 nightly fees. For those looking for an authentic experience without breaking the bank, budget hotels such as Red Lion Inn are located nearby. Staying here could help one stay within their vacation budget and even perhaps make way for an additional adventure tour around town.
The newest Boise hotel and restaurant, The Avery, delivers visitors a hotel stay with a modern design while maintaining a classic quintessential Idaho style. Guests will be delighted by Avery, a fine dining experience, and Tiner’s Alley Tavern located in the hotel. The Avery experience is a must for any business or personal stay in the city.
Accommodation Types and Options
Looking for the perfect place to stay in Boise can be a daunting task, especially with so many accommodation types and options to choose from. Whether you’re looking for luxury or budget-friendly stays, Boise offers countless choices to cater to every need.
For visitors who want the ultimate convenience and easy access to attractions, Downtown Boise is the perfect location. You will find various hotels, motels, and resorts that offer comfortable and luxurious stays at an affordable price. Plus, many of them come with amenities such as swimming pools, fitness centres, and business facilities.
If you’re looking for something more upscale, the North End is an ideal location. Here you’ll find charming bed-and-breakfasts that offer warm and welcoming stays that showcase local hospitality. With personalized services and attention to detail, these accommodations can make your stay feel extra special.
For travellers on a tight budget or who prefer a homier experience, Airbnb properties are a great option. Boise has an abundance of Airbnb rentals ranging from apartments to entire homes within reasonable prices. These types of accommodations allow you to experience a slice of life in Boise as the locals do.
Personally, I’ve had great experiences staying at Airbnb rentals in Boise’s residential areas. The hosts were extremely hospitable and offered plenty of recommendations for things to see and do in the city.
If you’re travelling with a larger group of people or have children, extended-stay hotels or vacation rentals may provide all the comforts of home while still being cost-effective. These types of accommodations usually come fully furnished with kitchens, multiple bedrooms, and living spaces – giving travellers more space to unwind after a long day exploring.
Local Cuisine and Shopping Experiences
Boise has become a destination not only known for its scenic beauty but also for its food scene, which offers a blend of local and international cuisine. The city’s diverse culinary experiences are reflected in the restaurants serving farm-to-table cuisine, traditional American fare, ethnic food and everything in between.
The downtown area of Boise should be on the top of any foodie’s radar. Here you can explore various restaurants, bars, and cafes that serve vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free options, among other things. The Grove Plaza is a popular location where you can enjoy outdoor concerts, markets and festivals while sampling from some of the most renowned food trucks in town.
One of my main highlights, when I visited Boise, was the unique ice cream experience at The STIL – an acronym for “The Sweetest Things In Life.” They offered creative flavours such as gin & juice sorbet and lavender earl grey tea ice cream.
Boise’s historic 8th Street Marketplace features a bustling array of shops and restaurants to explore. Nestled amongst boutiques selling handmade items, gourmet chocolates & sweets, cheeses & charcuterie, spices & teas – you’ll find cosy cafes offering speciality drinks to satisfy your caffeine cravings.
For those who prefer something more exotic, head over to Vista Village located at the southern end of town. This shopping centre is a melting pot of cuisine styles with options ranging from Sushi Ya’s all-you-can-eat sushi to Filipino-style BBQ served at Chenchos food truck.
Of course, everyone has their own palate preferences and budget limitations when it comes to dining out. Thus making it difficult to choose from so many options. However, one thing is certain you will never run out of choices to grab a bite in Boise.
Now that we’ve delved into the different types of accommodations available and explored some of Boise’s best eateries let’s take a look at some must-visit attractions and activities to do in Boise.
Must-Visit Attractions and Activities
Boise has no shortage of amazing attractions and activities that must be on your itinerary when visiting. Whether you’re travelling solo, as a couple, or with the family, there’s always something for everyone to enjoy in this beautiful city.
One of the places you can’t miss is the Idaho Botanical Garden. This hidden gem is located just a few miles from downtown Boise and offers visitors an excellent opportunity to explore a stunning collection of plants and flowers. A walk through the beautiful gardens provides a relaxing atmosphere where you can connect with nature, breathe some fresh air, and take in the beauty around you. This garden also features seasonal events such as concerts, movie nights, and outdoor art exhibits.
Another must-visit attraction is the Boise River Greenbelt. This 25-mile-long greenbelt runs along the Boise River, providing a picturesque backdrop for hiking, biking, or jogging enthusiasts. The pathway will guide you through several parks that offer various recreational opportunities such as fishing and picnicking. It’s an excellent venue for enjoying Idaho’s natural scenery while staying active.
If you’re interested in history and culture, head over to the Old Boise Historic District. Here you can see some of Boise’s oldest buildings with unique architectural styles such as the Alaska Building and Greek Revival-style Capitol facade. You’ll also find several quaint cafes, boutique shops, galleries featuring Western art pieces, and local bars serving up delicious cocktails made with Idaho-made spirits.
For adventure-seekers who are not afraid of heights, check out the Bogus Basin Mountain Recreation Area which sits just thirty minutes away from Downtown Boise. The area features chairlift rides during summer months giving riders scenic views of Boise City lined by expansive mountain ranges all around. The resort also offers biking trails during summer months while ski slopes open during the winter. Whether you wish to ski downhill, cross country or hit the snow park with tubing equipment, Bogus Basin has something for everyone.
If you’re looking for a dinner spot that’s both exceptional and unique, consider the Basque Block. This area is home to one of the largest communities of Basques in the United States known for their rich culinary traditions. The block features several establishments serving authentic Basque cuisine ranging from traditional dishes such as paella to more exotic plates like lamb stews and chorizo sausage pastries. It’s an excellent opportunity to experience something new while giving your taste buds an adventure.
Overall, Boise offers visitors a wide variety of activities that are sure to appeal to any inclination. A balance between outdoor recreation, cultural venues, and mouth-watering cuisine is sure to give anyone who visits this dynamic city a sense of why Boiseans take so much pride in their hometown. So start planning your itinerary and pack your bags – Boise awaits!
