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Map Of Boise Idaho And Surrounding Areas: Your Ultimate Travel Guide

If you’re planning to visit Boise, Idaho, and its surrounding areas, you’re in for a treat. This region is known for its stunning natural beauty, vibrant culture, and rich history. From outdoor adventures to cultural immersion, there’s something for everyone in this part of the country. In this comprehensive travel guide, we’ll cover the top attractions, hidden gems, food scene, budget-friendly tips, and much more.

Top Attractions in Boise and Surrounding Areas

When it comes to top attractions in Boise and its surrounding areas, there’s no shortage of options. Here are a few must-see places:

Boise River Greenbelt

The Boise River Greenbelt is a 25-mile pathway that follows the Boise River through the heart of the city. It’s a great place for walking, biking, and picnicking, and it offers stunning views of the river and the surrounding mountains.

Bogus Basin Mountain Recreation Area

If you’re looking for outdoor adventures, Bogus Basin Mountain Recreation Area is the place to go. This ski resort offers skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing in the winter, and hiking, mountain biking, and disc golf in the summer.

Old Idaho Penitentiary

The Old Idaho Penitentiary is a historic prison that operated from 1872 to 1973. Today, it’s a museum that offers tours of the cell blocks, gallows, and solitary confinement cells. It’s a fascinating look into Idaho’s history.

Hidden Gems in Boise and Surrounding Areas

While the top attractions are certainly worth a visit, there are also plenty of hidden gems in Boise and its surrounding areas. Here are a few to check out:

Bown Crossing

Bown Crossing is a charming neighborhood in Boise that’s home to boutiques, restaurants, and coffee shops. It’s a great place to spend an afternoon browsing the shops and enjoying a cup of coffee.

Lucky Peak State Park

Lucky Peak State Park is a hidden gem just a few miles from Boise. It offers boating, fishing, and swimming, as well as hiking trails and picnic areas. It’s a great place to escape the city for a few hours.

The Basque Block

The Basque Block is a cultural district in downtown Boise that celebrates the city’s Basque heritage. It’s home to restaurants, shops, and cultural events, and it’s a great place to experience a different side of Boise.

Food Scene in Boise and Surrounding Areas

When it comes to food, Boise and its surrounding areas have plenty to offer. Here are a few must-try spots:

Fork

Fork is a farm-to-table restaurant in downtown Boise that offers a seasonal menu of locally-sourced ingredients. It’s a great place to experience the flavors of Idaho.

The Basque Market

The Basque Market is a grocery store and deli in downtown Boise that specializes in Basque cuisine. It’s a great place to try traditional dishes like chorizo and paella.

Bar Gernika

Bar Gernika is a Basque pub in downtown Boise that’s known for its delicious croquetas and lamb burgers. It’s a great place to grab a pint and a bite to eat.

Budget-Friendly Tips for Boise and Surrounding Areas

While Boise and its surrounding areas can be expensive, there are also plenty of budget-friendly options. Here are a few tips:

Visit the Boise Farmers Market

The Boise Farmers Market is a great place to find local produce, baked goods, and crafts. It’s open on Saturdays from April through December, and it’s a great way to support local vendors.

Take a Hike

There are plenty of great hiking trails in and around Boise that are free to explore. Check out the trails at Camel’s Back Park or the Table Rock Trail for stunning views of the city and the surrounding mountains.

Visit the Idaho State Capitol

The Idaho State Capitol offers free tours of the building and its grounds. It’s a great way to learn about Idaho’s history and see some beautiful architecture.

Outdoor Adventures in Boise and Surrounding Areas

If you’re looking for outdoor adventures, Boise and its surrounding areas have plenty to offer. Here are a few ideas:

Whitewater Rafting

The Boise River offers plenty of opportunities for whitewater rafting, with rapids ranging from Class I to Class IV. Check out local outfitters like Idaho River Sports for a guided trip.

Hot Springs

There are several hot springs within a few hours of Boise, including the Kirkham Hot Springs and the Gold Fork Hot Springs. They’re a great way to relax after a long day of hiking or skiing.

Camping

There are plenty of great camping spots in and around Boise, including the Lucky Peak State Park and the Boise National Forest. It’s a great way to experience the beauty of Idaho’s wilderness.

Family-Friendly Activities in Boise and Surrounding Areas

If you’re traveling with kids, there are plenty of family-friendly activities in Boise and its surrounding areas. Here are a few ideas:

Zoo Boise

Zoo Boise is a small zoo in the heart of the city that’s home to a variety of animals, including giraffes, lions, and penguins. It’s a great place to spend an afternoon with kids.

The Discovery Center of Idaho

The Discovery Center of Idaho is a hands-on science museum that offers exhibits on everything from physics to biology. It’s a great place for kids to learn and explore.

MK Nature Center

The MK Nature Center is a nature preserve in Boise that offers exhibits on Idaho’s wildlife and habitats. It’s a great place to learn about the natural world.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences in Boise and Surrounding Areas

If you’re looking for something a little different, there are plenty of off-the-beaten-path experiences in Boise and its surrounding areas. Here are a few ideas:

Shoshone Falls

Shoshone Falls is a stunning waterfall just a few miles from Twin Falls. It’s known as the “Niagara of the West” and offers stunning views of the Snake River.

Hagerman Fossil Beds National Monument

The Hagerman Fossil Beds National Monument is a fossil site in southern Idaho that offers a glimpse into the region’s prehistoric past. It’s a great place for kids and adults alike.

The Snake River Wine Region

The Snake River Wine Region is a growing wine region in southern Idaho that’s home to several wineries and vineyards. It’s a great place to sample local wines and learn about the region’s viticulture.

Natural Wonders in Boise and Surrounding Areas

Boise and its surrounding areas are home to some of the most stunning natural wonders in the country. Here are a few to check out:

The Sawtooth Mountains

The Sawtooth Mountains are a stunning range in central Idaho that offer hiking, fishing, and skiing. They’re a great place to experience the beauty of Idaho’s wilderness.

Hells Canyon

Hells Canyon is a deep canyon on the Snake River that offers hiking, rafting, and fishing. It’s a great place to experience the rugged beauty of Idaho.

The City of Rocks National Reserve

The City of Rocks National Reserve is a unique rock formation in southern Idaho that offers hiking, rock climbing, and camping. It’s a great place to explore Idaho’s natural wonders.

Vibrant Nightlife in Boise and Surrounding Areas

If you’re looking for a night out on the town, Boise and its surrounding areas have plenty of options. Here are a few ideas:

The Knitting Factory

The Knitting Factory is a concert venue in downtown Boise that hosts a variety of acts, from local bands to national acts. It’s a great place to see live music.

The Neurolux

The Neurolux is a dive bar in downtown Boise that’s known for its live music and cheap drinks. It’s a great place to hang out with friends.

Bittercreek Alehouse

Bittercreek Alehouse is a gastropub in downtown Boise that offers a wide selection of craft beers and delicious food. It’s a great place to grab a bite and a pint.

Local Markets in Boise and Surrounding Areas

Boise and its surrounding areas are home to several local markets that offer fresh produce, handmade crafts, and delicious food. Here are a few to check out: