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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Top Gyms in Boise and the Treasure Valley

Photo: Bruce Mars   Ready to kickstart your 2023 health goals but not sure which gym would be the best fit for your needs? We’ve compiled a list of the Top Gyms in Boise and the Treasure Valley that offer something for everyone. From convenience downtown to athletic training, there are many options to help you crush your goals this year. Best for Families: Treasure Valley YMCA (AKA The Y) Photo: Doug Petersen Photography   The Y is a Nonprofit organization that provides invaluable opportunities for many people. Their fitness facilities include pools, classes, and traditional gym spaces. What makes the Y a great option for families is the access for all age groups to the facilities and the programs they offer. These programs serve all in the community, including the underprivileged, by helping them lead stronger, healthier, and more enriched lives. These programs include after-school care, tutoring, and outdoor camps for youth enhancement. The best part? You can get a workout in while the kids have a swim lesson or participate in any of their after school programs or child care. Locations: There are multiple locations throughout the Treasure Valley. Check their website for addresses. Website: https://www.ymcatvidaho.org Best Commercial Gym: Axiom Fitness Photo: axiomfitness.com   With multiple gyms across the Treasure Valley, Axiom Fitness (formerly Gold’s Gym) is one of the area’s leading fitness facilities providing a full scope of amenities. Their gyms are large in size, offering plenty of space for all types of physical activity and a wide array of classes (access included with membership). Most of their locations have pools as well. Locations: There are multiple locations throughout the Treasure Valley. Check their website for addresses. Website: https://www.axiomfitness.com/ Best for Downtown Professionals: The Gym at Eighth & Main Photo: The Gym Eighth & Main   Are you part of the downtown Boise 9am-5pm crew that struggles to find time for the gym on top of a busy work schedule? The Gym is located on the corner of 8th and Main Street in the Zion’s Bank Building right in the heart of downtown. This convenient location makes it easy to squeeze in a workout, even on your lunch break! Their facility includes state-of-the-art locker rooms with eucalyptus steam rooms and showers for a quick refresh before heading to work. Location: 800 W Main St, Boise, ID 83702 on the Second Floor. They have a second location in Star. Website: https://www.eighthandmaingym.com/ Best for Martial Arts & Self Defense Training: SBG Idaho Photo: Daniil Zanevskiy   Jiu Jitsu, Martial Arts, boxing, and more! SBG Idaho is located on the corner of Americana and River Street in Boise and is the perfect gym for those that want to tap into self-defense, combat athletics and overall fitness! They offer children's programs from age 3+. Location: 1522 W River St, Boise, ID 83702 Website: https://sbgidaho.com/ Best for Athletic Training: Jack City Fitness Photo: jackcityfitness.com   Jack City Fitness is all about “building a better, stronger version of yourself.” No matter what your daily schedule consists of, Jack City Fitness focuses on fitness for anyone AND everyone to help individuals reach their body’s healthiest form. Check out the link below to view their fitness classes and personal training options. They are also open 24 hours. Location: 21 N Allumbaugh St, Boise, ID 83704 Website: https://jackcityfitness.com/ Best for CrossFit Training: Verdant CrossFit Photo: Alonso Reyes   If your goal for 2023 is to try high intensity interval training, this may be the place for you! Verdant specializes in CrossFit training, offering a large variety of simple body weight and free weight movements and advanced Olympic-style barbell lifting. Verdant is located in two different locations, one in downtown Boise, and the other in Star.  Location: 528 S Americana Blvd, Boise, ID 83702. Second location in Star. Website: https://verdantfit.com/ Best for Affordability & 24/7 Access: Idaho Fitness Factory Photo: idahofitnessfactory.com   Locally owned and operated, Idaho Fitness Factory provides plans as little as $20/month for unlimited access to their 24/7 gyms. There are 8 facilities throughout the Treasure Valley, making this one of the most affordable and accessible gym options. Location: There are 8 locations in the Treasure Valley. See website for addresses. Website: https://www.idahofitnessfactory.com/ Best for Staying Fit at Any Age: Fit Over 50 Fitness Photo: Sincerely Media   Locally owned and operated in downtown Eagle, Fit Over 50 Fitness is passionate about being fit and functional.. no matter what age you are! Fit Over 50 Fitness welcomes those of any age, and specifically specializes in a variety of group training and personal training sessions for individuals over the age of 50.  Location: 395 W State St Suite B, Eagle, ID 83616 Website: https://www.fitover50fitness.com/   Best for Outdoor Exercise: Ridge-to-Rivers Trails & The Boise River Greenbelt Photo: Doug Petersen Photography If you ask us, these two are the best gym options in town. Boise is one of the healthiest places to live because of our foothills and Greenbelt, giving locals and tourists plenty of opportunity to get fresh air and exercise year round. Hikers and bikers will love the miles and miles of groomed trails wandering through the hills. The ups and downs will get your heart rate up, and the views are simply spectacular. For a leisurely stroll or bike ride, 25-miles of paved path along the Boise River is available all year. It's the best place to enjoy the changing foliage throughout the seasons and a friendly wave to passersby.

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5 Restaurants in the Boise Area Open for Thanksgiving

  Barbacoa  Fine dine with the family this Thanksgiving at the infamous Barbacoa Grill. Check out details on their website here.   Kona Grill Wine and dine this Thanksgiving at the Village at Meridian's Kona Grill. Book your reservation here today!   Cracker Barrel  Feeling a little more casual? Cracker Barrel is offering a traditional Thanksgiving dinner starting at 11 a.m. To-Go orders are also optional for those that want to enjoy Thanksgiving dinner in the comfort of their own home. View details on their website here.   Owyhee Tavern  This lively restaurant in the heart of downtown Boise is offering a delicious 3-course meal this Thanksgiving. Be sure to check out details on their Facebook page here.   The Ram The Ram is offering a 3-course meal this Thanksgiving for the whole family to enjoy! Check out details on their website here.        

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