I know what you are all thinking. It’s the same thing that every single person who I told I was going to Boise either asked or later sent me a text inquiring about. “Idaho? As in the state that makes the potatoes?” While in fact you are all right (and to be frank that was also the extent of my knowledge pre-trip) there is also, surprisingly, a ton more to it.
Last week I spent a lovely 2 days in Boise exploring, questioning and generally slaving for my craft, to bring you my very favourite things. Now this does not compare in any way to Oprah’s similar list (sorry can’t afford to give everyone a new car) but if you find yourself in the city of trees for just a day, here is exactly what I think you should do.
Like me you may be surprised to know that there are hipsters in Boise. And there cannot be hipsters without a hipster hangout. Start off your morning right (or wrong, because being right is like totally too mainstream) at Big City Coffee Shop. Located in the linen district, this brightly decorated breakfast spot not only serves deserts the size of your face, but has some of the most unique and delicious coffee flavours I have ever seen.
Caffeinated and ready to hit the town, two blocks away is Idaho Mountain Touring. Biking around is always my favourite mode of transportation to get to know a new city and Boise is actually perfect for this. It is small enough that you can explore the general downtown area but there is also the beautiful greenbelt that is convenient and scenic. Accessible via many major streets, just grab a map and head down the user friendly paths. It’s 25 miles long and has dozens of parks to peruse along the way.
Now that you have slotted in your cardio for the week (or in my case the next 6 months) you will need to re-fuel. The Bleu Bird Cafe is the perfect lunchtime spot. They have a chalkboard menu of some of the most seemingly plain items like peanut butter jelly sandwiches with added toppings to make them out of this world. To top it off they serve you coke in a bottle. That is class.
Getting into the afternoon, I would take a ride on over to the Old State Penitentiary built in 1870. About a 5 minute drive outside the core, I was equal parts intrigued and terrified. I’ve always had a secret fear of jails (I blame my recurring dream of being framed) so the walk around tour was enough to severely creep me out for the rest of the day. Best part: finding the location of the barber shop. Worst part: Finding the location of the gallows.
If there was ever a good time for wine, it would be now. Head over to Bodo and try the super cool Bodovino. Now I have had the opportunity to travel a lot and I can honestly say this is the first time I have seen this type of establishment. It is a self-serve wine bar. You collect a card upon entering and once you’ve loaded it with money, you peruse the wine and serve yourself like a vending machine. If you’ve passed out with excitement, I don’t blame you. It is a great place to enjoy some nice local wine.
Last stop in the city, some dinner. Head over to the restaurant with one of the most literal names possible; Fork. It boosts a family owned feel and the food is as heartwarming as the service. Yes, I realize how cheesy that last sentence was but I was brought into a food induced stupor just thinking about my dinner there. I had potatoes with braised short ribs followed by some more potatoes on top. I will confirm that they do indeed do potatoes better than anywhere else.
At this point you may think it time to call it a night. Perhaps you will. If you are like me and want to cram as much fun into one day as possible then why not go snowboarding? You know what’s great? It’s actually possible. Bogus Mountain is only 16 miles outside the city and is open for night skiing until 10pm.
Sound like a lot? Well it is, but it is totally doable. Most likely, no matter what your reason, your stay will be short in Boise. Do one thing, do them all, just do something. It’s a fun mini city with some of the friendliest people and endless outdoor activities.
If your curious and want to know more check out these articles from some people who aren’t me:
Cheers from 30,000 feet
@elzzster
Disclosure: Idaho Tourism provided for my travel and accommodation in exchange for writing about my experience. Regardless, everything I have said in this post reflects my honest observations and opinions.