Live Local: Top 10 Things to Do in Boise

Boise, the capital of Idaho, is a hidden gem located in the heart of the Treasure Valley. With its beautiful natural surroundings, thriving culture, and friendly locals, there is no shortage of things to do in Boise. Whether you are a foodie, outdoor enthusiast or wine connoisseur Boise has something for everyone. Here are the top 10 things to do in Boise from the locals' perspective: 1. Take a Hike (or Bike Ride) in the Foothills Credit: Doug Petersen Photography Surrounded by miles of groomed trails with incredible views, Boise's best feature is its access to the Ridge-to-Rivers trail system. Locals love being able to take a sunrise hike, or a quick lunch break ride, or an after-work run, and be back in time for work or dinner. View trail maps here. 2. Go for a Stroll on the Greenbelt Credit: Doug Petersen Photography This 25-mile paved path hugs both the north and south sides of the Boise River, offering a continuous experience through Boise. Open year-round, the Greenbelt is a local's first stop to take in the changing seasons and a piece of nature. 3. Attend an Outdoor Concert at Outlaw Field at the Idaho Botanical Garden Credit: Jenn Jackson Outdoor concerts at Outlaw Field at the Idaho Botanical Garden are a must-do on any local Boisean's list. Set to a backdrop of foothills and open skies, Outlaw Field concerts offer a unique experience combining music and nature in a stunning setting. Get more info on events here. 4. Watch Hot Air Balloons Dance Over Boise Credit: Jenn Jackson Every year, Boise's skyline is dotted with a colorful display of hot air balloons during the Spirit of Boise Balloon Classic. This event, held in September, invites hot air balloon pilots from the nation to take flight above the city. Early mornings are rewarded with sunrises and this view! Launches and special events are held at Ann Morrison Park.  5. Go Skiing, Snowshoeing, or Tubing at Bogus Basin Credit: Jenn Jackson Boise's hometown resort, Bogus Basin, brings winter recreation in Boise's backyard in 45 minutes or less. The resort has plenty of groomed and backcountry runs to keep the avid skier busy, while a tubing hill and flat Nordic trails provide activities easier on the knees. Tickets are recommended before heading up. Grab yours here.  6. Take a Sipping Tour at a Local Winery or Brewery Credit: BluFish Photography of Koenig Winery Idaho's fertile soil is prime for winemaking, and Boise is just minutes from its own version of Napa Valley. The Idaho Sunnyslope Wine trail in Canyon County features 17 different wineries along the scenic Snake River AVA to sample and enjoy a day out in the countryside. Closer to home, Boise and adjacent Garden City are dotted with charming tasting rooms including Telaya Wine Co. right on the Boise River. If beer is more your taste, Boise is home to some great breweries and brewpubs like our neighbors Payette Brewing! The Boise Ale Trail, part of the larger Idaho Brewer's map, has dozens of places to check out. 7. Go to a Boise State Football Game on the Smurf Turf Credit: Tony Moody Images Boise State University's famous smurf turf is a vibrant blue field in Albertson's Stadium. This open-air stadium hosts the Boise State Broncos, who made a mark on the national stage when they beat the University of Oklahoma Sooners (43-42) in the 2007 Fiesta Bowl with the iconic Statue of Liberty play in overtime. The best seats are actually in the 'nose bleeds' with panoramic views of the city skyline and mountains. A free shuttle runs from downtown to the campus every game day. 8. Enjoy a Free Concert at Alive After Five Credit: Jenn Jackson Every Wednesday evening in the summer months, The Grove Plaza hosts a free outdoor concert for all to enjoy. At the heart of the plaza, the fountains are soaring as children dance in between the watery bursts. Local vendors surround the plaza offering food and drinks to enjoy with the music.  9. Shop and Sample at the Capital City Public Market Credit: Daniel Olson Every Saturday from April to December, the Grove Plaza between Front and Main Streets is filled with the sights, smells, and sounds of the Capital City Public Market. Dozens of local and regional vendors open shop for customers to sample and purchase goods. From handmade artistries to gourmet foods, you're sure to find something to take home and enjoy. 10. Experience an Open-Air Play at the Idaho Shakespeare Festival Credit: Tony Moody Images Despite its name, the Idaho Shakespeare Festival is a season full of entertainment, and not limited to a day or two. Professional actors take the stage to delight viewers with a curated selection of plays, including a signature Shakespeare play. This state-of-the-art amphitheater was acoustically designed to highlight the human voice, and has tiered grassy areas where blankets and low-back lawn chairs are used for seating. Guests are welcome to bring their own picnic of snacks and beverages, but you can indulge at Cafe Shakespeare where local foods and wine pairings are offered. See the list of plays here.   There you have it, a local's way of doing Boise. So, next time you’re in Idaho or if you've been here a while, be sure to check out these top 10 Things to Do in Boise. Did we miss something? Drop us a line and let us know how you live local in Boise!

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Boise’s Top 5 Brunch Spots for Galentine's Day Celebrations

Love is in the air, so why not celebrate the love you have for your gal pals? A Galentine's Day celebration 💕 is a great excuse to gather your gal pals and go out to brunch at one of these favorite Boise eateries.    1. Fork (Photo by: Doug Peterson Photography) Nothing says Idaho cuisine better than Fork’s menu, full of locally and regionally sourced ingredients. Their fare includes American staples like a hearty burger, tantalizing grilled cheese, and Idaho favorites like Rainbow Trout and the Northwest Filet. Located at the corner of 8th and Idaho in a historic bank building, the robust stone exterior gives way to a classic interior with giant arched windows along the perimeter. The bar itself is quite the centerpiece and photo-op backdrop. Their heated outdoor patio has a front-row seat to the happenings in the heart of downtown Boise. Their brunch menu really is why we love this place, full of delicious, wholesome, and quality foods that will be sure to keep you satiated. Our brunch picks: Chef’s Benny and the Build Your Own Mimosa Bar. Open: 11:30am-2pm Mon-Fri and 10:30am-2pm Sat & Sun for brunch View Website   2. Topelo Honey (Photo by: Jenn Jackson) This nationwide chain may not be local, but has made a beautiful impression here in Boise. Located atop the 8th and Main corridor, the gorgeously designed space has an ambience that’s uniquely southern boho with a soft color palette, hanging greenery, and elegant textiles. Ample windows flood the space with natural light, providing the perfect lighting for Instagram-worthy photos. The food complements the airy atmosphere with decadent flavors and stick-to-your-ribs goodness. Our brunch picks: Fried Chicken and Buttermilk Waffles, Tupelo Shrimp and Grits, and Tumeric Ginger Tonic. Open: 10am-4pm Sat & Sun for brunch View Website   3. Bacon (Photo by: Ophelia M/Yelp) The name says it all, this place knows how to make bacon. From chocolate-dipped bacon by the slice to stacked BLTs, everyone is sure to find something that satisfies their bacon cravings. Nestled in a quaint urban space with a fabulous courtyard patio in Downtown Boise, BACON is home to an expansive breakfast menu that is served all day. Come early or after the morning rush to secure your spot, it gets busy. The signature item that is featured in dozens of reviews is the Bacon Bloody, and yes, it is a must.  Our brunch picks: Bacon Bloody and Bacon LT. Open: 8am-2pm 7 days a week View Website   4. Goldy's Breakfast Bistro (Photo by: Ophelia M/Yelp) Jump onto Yelp and you’ll find that Goldy’s reigns Boise’s breakfast scene. If you plan to go on a weekend morning, be prepared for an hour-long wait. However, you can skip the morning rush just in time for brunch. This charming downtown bistro doesn’t have a fancy entrance, in fact, it’s like a hole in the wall that can easily be passed by. But that’s what makes it such a secret gem of Boise. Another reason? The blow of an hour-long wait can be softened by a mimosa and pastry next door at Goldy’s Corner, the cafe version of Goldy’s that has a relaxed atmosphere and board games to keep you occupied. The fun part is you can bring your drink with you to the restaurant. The interior itself is a simple and classic atmosphere, where the focus is on the quality of the food and service.  Our brunch picks: Spicy Chicken and Bacon Benny and a Sunrise Mimosa Open 7am-2pm Mon-Fri and 7:30am-2pm Sat & Sun View Website   5. Waffle Me Up (Photo by: Ophelia M/Yelp) If you’re looking for something on the faster and laidback side, look no further than Waffle Me Up. Serving up scrumptious Liege-style waffles topped with sweet or savory ingredients, this darling family-owned business is sure to please. What’s a Liege-style waffle? These waffles are made from a dough with whole sugar crystals, not batter, that gives them a dense & chewy texture with a hint of delightful sweetness. Located just a stone’s throw from the Capitol Building, the restaurant has a casual open atmosphere with colorful plates and family-style seating.  Our brunch picks: BOBacado Deluxe and Waffle Me Banana Open: 9am-2pm Thurs-Sun View Website

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Six Unique Date Night Ideas to Do in Boise

(Photo by: Franciele Cunha) As Valentine’s Day approaches, many couples are looking for fun date night ideas that are outside the typical dinner and a movie. After the past few years, folks are eager to get out and try something new. Luckily, Boise offers many options for any couple and family to enjoy time to connect with one another.   1. For the Kids at Heart: Roller Skating Nothing calls your inner child like putting on a pair of roller skates. This throwback activity is sure to bring your heart rate up and let your playful side out. With buzzing tunes from their live DJs, this activity will bring great energy to your date night and plenty of nostalgia. We envision romantic hand-holding as you glide across the rink… or maybe smiles galore as you fall for (or over) each other again. Where: Treasure Valley Skate in Boise or The Rollerdrome in Nampa Why: family-friendly, active, nostalgic   2. For the Outdoorsy: Honey Hike (Photo by: Cody Black) Hear us out on this one, date days can be just as fun as date nights. That’s why we recommend heading towards the hills for those that seek open air and beautiful views as an alternative to the traditional date night. With miles of trails ranging in difficulty, there are plenty of options for a leisurely nature walk or a heart-pumping climb. The fresh air and scenery will help you connect with your loved one, and give you the privacy to have great conversation while getting your heart fluttering. Take a moment to savor the view, the romance, and share a snack! Try the Camel’s Back Loop and enjoy a tasty local treat at Certified or replenish at the 13th Street Pub and Grill in Hyde Park afterwards. Where: Ridge-to-Rivers Trail System Why: family-friendly, active, beautiful scenery   3. For the Adventurous: Axe Throwing (Photo by: Base Camp Pong & Axe, Boise) Whether this is your first date or your 40th, this date night will definitely be an exciting one! Strengthen your bond with just a hint of friendly competition as you try to hit the bullseye. For a full-service experience, Base Camp Pong & Axe is a gastropub offering food and crafted drinks. This novel date night idea will test your aim and help you zero in on one another.  Where: Section 37 Axe Room in South Boise, Caldwell, and Garden City or Base Camp Pong & Axe in Downtown Boise Why: active, exciting, adult-friendly, novel   4. For the Homebodies: Sweetheart Staycation Sometimes the most romantic getaways aren’t exactly that far from home. Explore the city from a new perspective as ‘tourists’ and book a room in any one of Boise’s top-rated hotels or even a whole Airbnb for an immersed experience. A new environment alongside the excitement of playing tourist will help you unwind and turn to one another with fresh eyes. After a night out, snuggle into an oversized bed that you won't have to make in the morning. Where: Modern Hotel & Bar, Hotel 43, Franklin House Why: low-key, romantic, stress-free   5. For the Artsy: Cooking or Art Classes (Photo by: Wine & Design Boise) Add a little spice to your relationship in a literal way by taking a cooking class together, or channel your inner Picasso’s by making art. With the creative juices flowing, you’ll rediscover one another on a different level and learn a new skill too. There are a variety of classes to take, from painting to glass blowing, to shake things up from the typical date night.  Where: Season + Taste, Wine & Design, Boise Art Glass, Ceramica    Why: creative, family-friendly, novel   6. For the Gamers: All About Games For those couples who share a love for nerdy things, this is your one-stop shop for board games, card games, role-playing, supplies, and more. Depending on the day you visit, you could participate in a group tournament or a leisurely board game (they have a calendar on the front page of their website). No matter your interest level, there's sure to be something here for everyone to enjoy at the store, or to take home later. Where: All About Games Why: adult-friendly, fun, nostalgic

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