Why We're Grateful to Live in Boise

Nestled in the heart of Idaho, Boise stands out as an exceptional city where nature and urban living are seamlessly intertwined. As residents of Boise, we find ourselves with a multitude of reasons why we are grateful to call this place home. With its breathtaking outdoors, tight-knit community, and active social scene, Boise is truly a one-of-a-kind city.

Four Real Seasons:

Boiseans are lucky enough to experience all four seasons. Summer in Boise is characterized by hot days floating the Boise River, open-air concerts at The Outlaw Field, and early morning hikes to escape the heat. As summer turns into fall, Boise comes alive with orange and red leaves and trips to pumpkin patches and corn mazes. Winter in Boise looks like cuddling up inside on snow days, skiing and snowboarding at Bogus Basin, and a downtown aglow with festive lights and decorations. As winter transforms into spring, snow on the foothills turn to wildflowers and bright green grasses. People begin to venture back onto the hiking trails and the sights and sounds of the city turn to blooming trees and birds!

Access to Outdoors:

Boise's enviable topography allows outdoor enthusiasts to embrace their passion for nature. Skiers and snowboarders flock to Bogus Basin, a local nonprofit ski hill less than 30 minutes from downtown. Fishers flank the Boise River, hoping to score a rainbow or cutthroat trout. Hunters can scope out premier hunting spots for duck, deer, and elk within an hour of their front door. Bikers take advantage of a network of trails in the foothills. If you travel a little further, you'll find yourself at iconic national parks and wilderness areas including Sawtooth National Recreation Area and Craters of the Moon National Monument. There is something for every outdoors lover in Boise!

Exceptional Restaurants:

Boise’s culinary scene has evolved to contain a wide variety of outstanding and unique restaurants to cater to its residents. Top restaurants include Alavita, an Italian restaurant with a seasonally changing menu featuring locally sourced food, and the Basque Market, offering traditionally made basque food with a family-style food-sharing experience that celebrates Boise’s large Basque community. Boise also offers countless local cafes and other eateries, with something for every occasion.

Boise River and Greenbelt:

The Boise River and Greenbelt are essential features that contribute to Boise's natural beauty and recreational opportunities. The Greenbelt, with its 25-mile tree-lined pathway along the Boise River, serves as a central spot for endless outdoor recreation. Having such a natural corridor running through the heart of the city enhances the quality of life for residents and contributes to the city's overall appeal. It's common for cities to cherish and utilize their natural features, but Boiseans have successfully integrated the Boise River and Greenbelt into the urban landscape.

Hiking Trails:

The Boise Foothills are a hiker's paradise. A trail system weaves its way through the rolling hills, offering beautiful views and an abundance of wildlife. Boise also has trails up Bogus Basin that showcase views of the entire valley. Must-try trails include the Hulls Gulch Interpretive Trail, Table Rock Trail, and Stack Rock Trail.

Friendly People:

Boiseans have a sense of warmth and appreciation for each other that makes this community unique. You are likely to get a smile and a hello from those you pass walking down the street or out on the trails. In Boise, neighbors know each other and offer a helping hand when someone needs it. Being a part of this community comes with a sense of belonging and friendliness among strangers.

Active Music Scene:

Boise has no shortage of music lovers and has adapted to fill these needs. As the state capital and most populated city in Idaho, musicians make sure to stop in Boise when on tour. There is an array of unique concert venues, including the Outlaw Field, an entirely outdoor experience on a large lawn, the Knitting Factory, a smaller venue in the heart of downtown, and the Ford Idaho Center, a stadium featuring both indoor and outdoor concerts for bigger artists. A highlight of the Boise music scene is the annual Treefort Music Festival, a multi-day music festival that turns downtown into an urban stage with indie rock, electronic, hip hop, and other performers.