Welcome to Boise
The best of both worlds: city and nature
An increasing number of people are moving to Boise, Idaho, one of the most rapidly growing cities in America. Dubbed the "City of Trees," Boise is well-known for its gorgeous wilderness and breathtaking natural settings. It is located in the Boise River area, a high-desert oasis densely forested with cottonwood trees.
Between 2010 and 2018, it boasted an impressive population increase of 18.2%. Now, it is home to over 229,000 people. Offering the ideal combination of a peaceful outdoor setting and a bustling city vibe, Boise is not only hip but also walkable and bikeable. The city's architecture is eye-catching and timeless, as evidenced by the Idaho State Capitol and the Cathedral of Saint John the Evangelist. Boise homes are also built in a variety of styles, including Neo-Classical, Spanish, Craftsman, Italianate, Romanesque, and Folk Victorian.
What to Love
- Floating down the Boise River
- Local art and food at the Capital City Public Market
- More than 300 animals at Zoo Boise
- Convenient curbside valet parking at Boise Airport
- Boise Centre, Idaho’s largest convention center
Local Lifestyle
Boise offers many big-city amenities while maintaining a small-town atmosphere. When the city's thriving shopping and dining scene becomes slightly overwhelming, you can walk the Bethine Church River Trail or the Idaho Birding Trail at the Boise River Greenbelt for some peace and quiet.
Downtown Boise has something for everyone. The eclectic mix of clubs, bars, and lounges will ensure you get the full Boise nightlife experience. Meanwhile, Boise’s outdoor setting is an important part of the city's culture as well. There are 89 parks in the city, along with easy access to climbing, hiking, biking, and even skiing.
Dining, Entertainment & Shopping
The restaurants in Boise are not only delicious but also sundry. The city offers a constantly changing culinary adventure, with restaurants that use farm-fresh, local ingredients and food trucks serving international cuisine. Locals frequent the Spanish-American restaurant
Barbacoa Grill, which serves mini tacos, over 10 different types of pizzas, and other dishes. There is also a separate vegetarian menu available at the restaurant.
For entertainment and shopping,
Boise Towne Square is the place to go. With over 100 stores, the mall is Idaho's largest shopping complex.
Things to Do
You cannot claim to have experienced Boise unless you have attended at least one of the city's events. The Spirit of Boise Balloon Classic brings together locals and tourists for five wondrous days at Ann Morrison Park, providing breathtaking views of fun-shaped, colorful hot air balloons complemented by a gorgeous Boise sunrise.
Treefort Music Fest is another of the city's fastest-growing events, demonstrating how close the community is. Indeed, it has even been designated as the city's cultural ambassador.
Boise, surrounded by several ski resorts, is the epicenter of fun winter events. The city's ski resorts, particularly
Bogus Basin, are among the best in Idaho. It is also famous for its reservoirs and lakes, including Arrowrock Reservoir and Lucky Peak Lake.
Schools
