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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What to Expect When Moving to Idaho

Idaho has been a popular option for relocation for years, and the pandemic ignited even more interest in this hidden gem state. With an abundance of open space, outdoor recreation, and a family-oriented lifestyle– Idaho is a top choice for seeking a better quality of life. But before you jump in the car, here are a few things to expect when looking to call Idaho home.   1. Population and Demographics (Photo: Daniel Olson) Idaho led the nation in population growth for the 5th year in a row in 2021. The population stands around 1.939 million as of January 2023, up 5.4% from April 2020 to July 2022. 16.6% of the population is over 65 years old, 24.7% is under 18 years old, 6% is under 5 years old, and the remainder between 18 and 65 years old. Population per square mile is 22 people, one of the most sparsely populated states. Idaho as a whole is considered conservative in voting, with the Boise metro area voting 57% republican, 39.4% democratic, and 3.6% independent in the last presidential election. Demographics White: 92.8% Hispanic/Latino: 13.3% Asian: 1.6% American Indian or Alaska Native: 1.7% Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander: 0.2% Black or African American: 0.9% Mixed Race/Other: 2.7% 91.2% hold a high school diploma 29.1% hold a college degree or higher   2. Geography (Photo: Jenn Jackson) Idaho is the 11th largest state by land area in the United States, measuring 82,643 square miles. It is completely landlocked surrounded by 6 states (Washington, Oregon, Nevada, Utah, Wyoming, Montana) and Canada. It is part of the Pacific Northwest. The topography of Idaho is majority mountainous, with expansive desert in the southwest portion of the state. There are over 4.7 million acres of wilderness, marking Idaho as the 3rd largest wilderness in the country (behind Alaska and California). Idaho has one of the most diverse landscape profiles, with large regions of dense forest, vast desert, deep canyons, rocky craters, and towering mountain ranges.   3. Weather (Photo by Click Suice, Unsplash) The climate in Idaho is generally mild, with average temperatures between 24 and 93 degrees fahrenheit. The state's western region is milder than the eastern region, where winters are more arduous and longer. There are 4 distinct seasons, where residents enjoy crisp spring temps, warm and sunny summers, cool and color-filled autumn, and snowy winters. Idaho is one of the drier states in the nation. Average rainfall varies throughout the state, with Boise seeing around 12” per year and the higher-elevation mountain town of McCall seeing 25”. Average snowfall in Boise is 18”, below the national average. However, the town of Stanley (located just 3 hours away) is one of the most heavily snowed and coldest locations in the nation, with an average of 75.9” of snow per year and 270 days of below-freezing temperatures. Idaho is one of the sunniest states with 206 days of sun, but be warned, southwestern Idaho (particularly the Boise area) experiences an annual inversion season in January with consistent cloud cover. The remedy is to head 35 minutes north to Bogus Basin Ski Resort, where sunshine and surreal views above the clouds await.    4. Economy (Photo: BluFish Photography) Idaho’s beginnings in fur-trading and mining have given way to surprising industries. Its $3 Billion tourism industry plays a large role in the $78.9 Billion economy, and other major industries include advanced manufacturing, aerospace, computer technology and innovation, energy, food production and recreation technology. 62.8% of Idaho's population is employed, and has one of the lowest unemployment rates at 2.9% as of 2023. Idaho is great for business, with higher-than-average statewide growth, low taxes, and low cost of living/operation. Idaho ranks #3 for the economy in the nation by U.S. News. The largest employers of the state include Micron Technology, Albertsons, St. Luke’s Health System, J.R. Simplot, WinCo Foods, Lamb Weston, Melaleuca, and Boise Cascade.   5. Outdoor Lifestyle (Photo: Daniel Olson) The great outdoors is the top reason that draws people to Idaho. Over 4.7 million acres of wilderness blanket the state, offering a vast playground for outdoor recreation. Idaho has 30 state-owned parks, hundreds of established free and fee campgrounds, and 7 national forests to explore. Nearly every outdoor activity can be done in Idaho; from hunting, hiking, boating, fishing, skiing, camping, paragliding, and even surfing. Residents can enjoy all of these activities within an hour or less of Boise. The close access to outdoor recreation is the main attraction to Idaho’s capital city, Boise, where picturesque rolling foothills are the backdrop to the downtown skyline. The Ridge to Rivers trail system is a network of over 190 trails and roads connecting residential areas to public land. Residents take advantage of access to hiking and biking trails directly from their neighborhoods, or within a short 20-minute or less drive from a majority of the city to a number of trailheads. The Boise River runs through the city, and is a beacon of activity for humans and wildlife alike. The 25-mile paved Boise River Greenbelt runs along the north and south sides of the river, where cyclists and pedestrians can enjoy exercise with serene riverfront views. Anglers are commonly seen wading through shallow portions of the river, which at its deepest is 15’. Bass and trout are common species of fish caught in this river. Sturgeon and salmon fishing, along with river boating, are highlights of the Snake River in the Hells Canyon area, where a record 117” white sturgeon was caught in 2016. Skiing is one of Idaho’s favorite pastimes, as the state boasts the first-ever ski destination resort with a chairlift in Sun Valley. The resort has come a long way since opening in 1936, and is now a world-class getaway for locals and tourists alike. Located 2.5 hours from Boise, Sun Valley is home to the state’s wealthiest residents and celebrities, but retains its small mountain town charm and rustic heritage.   6. Cost of Living (Photo: Abby Blossom Idaho is a relatively affordable place to live with lower costs of groceries, utilities, and taxes compared to massive metropolitan areas. During the pandemic, Idaho became a popular choice for relocation, due to its affordability and access to the outdoors. Housing costs in Idaho have jumped higher than the national average, as demand surpassed anyone’s expectations. The current median price for a home in the state is $487,495. Still, Idaho is affordable compared to other metropolitan areas like Seattle, Denver, and Salt Lake City. Transportation costs are lower than average, with an average commute time of 20.6 minutes, the national average is 26.4 minutes. Power bills are typically lower in the state, as multiple sources of energy are tapped, including hydroelectric power. The sales tax is 6% as of 2023. State income taxes are based on a graduate system, and range from 1-6.5%. Idaho does not tax Social Security and has relatively low property taxes, making it a great option for retirees.   7. Real Estate (Photo by BluFish Photography) It’s no question that Idaho’s real estate market has been explosive over the past few years. Historical trends show Idaho is a good place to invest in real estate. During the pandemic, Idaho’s real estate market took off far beyond expectations and national averages. The median home value soared 70.19% from 2019 to 2023 for single-family homes in Ada County alone (from $286,450 to $487,495). The fastest-growing cities in the state are primarily in the Treasure Valley (Boise, Eagle, Nampa, Meridian, Caldwell) and a couple of honorable mentions (Post Falls and Rexburg). Resort towns like Coeur d’Alene, Sun Valley, and McCall experienced a rush of new residents in the wake of the pandemic, when remote work opportunities and lifestyle priorities shifted. Investors were particularly interested in these towns as short-term rentals became a hot commodity. Concerns about affordability have emerged as growth has surged beyond local means. Lower-income and first-time homebuyers may find the Boise core to be a difficult market to buy into, and may look to satellite cities like Nampa and Caldwell for more affordable housing. Meridian, Caldwell, and Nampa were the fastest-growing cities in Idaho in 2022. The median sales price for an existing home in Canyon County, where these cities are located, was $395,445 at the beginning of 2023. City leaders throughout the state are considering innovative methods to provide affordable housing, but the high demand and extremely low levels of inventory continue to put pressure on Idaho’s steaming hot market. Demand for Idaho does not appear to be going anywhere for at least a little while. In 2020, about 70% of moves in Idaho were inbound and 30% outbound. California, Washington, and Oregon were the largest contributors to new residents.   Hiring a knowledgeable Realtor is key to finding success in Idaho’s in-demand market. Reach out to us for your buying and selling needs by phone (208) 870-8292 or on the web www.lysibishop.com   Sources:  https://www.census.gov/quickfacts/fact/table/ID/PST045222#PST045222 https://www.usnews.com/news/best-states/rankings/economy https://www.bestplaces.net/cost_of_living/state/idaho https://www.idahostatesman.com/news/nation-world/national/article26

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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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