There are so many great places to visit in Boise, where do you even start? I’ve compiled a list of a few of my favorite spots to help you start to discover my favorite city.
Before you start exploring, there are some great Instagram accounts you can follow to find out what’s happening in the city: This is Boise and Boise Bucketlist are two that I recommend! While you are following, don’t miss our page King + Co Real Estate with Keller Williams Realty Boise
Morning in Downtown Boise
It’s hard to choose just one breakfast joint in Boise. The king of all breakfast locally is undoubtedly Goldy’s. It’s worth the wait if you have the time and patience. The Goldy’s Sunrise Mimosa with orange juice, mango, guava, and cranberry, is a delicious treat!
If you’re a big bacon fan then Bacon is the place for you. The restaurant has five different types of bacon – and you can easily try each thanks to the bacon shots sampler. If you have a hankering for tasty baked goods and a warm cup of coffee, head over to Big City Coffee. This restaurant has a fun vibe and offers everything from biscuits and gravy to quiche.
Looking for more of a brunch setting? You can pair Bardenay’s amazing Basque-influenced cuisine with any of the restaurant’s handcrafted cocktails. Fork’s Build-a-Bloody Mary bar is a dream come true for lovers of the spicy cocktail. For a swankier atmosphere, Red Feather Lounge’s brunch has your standard brunch drinks (mimosas and Bloody Marys), but also “restorative cocktails” with ingredients ranging from cold brew coffee to earl grey.
Now’s the perfect time to hop on a Boise Green Bike from one of the many racks you’ll find scattered around. Two wheels is a great way to explore all downtown has to offer, from the Capital City Public Market with handmade art and local produce to a leisurely ride down the Greenbelt. You could even explore Boise State’s campus or enjoy the views from the Boise Depot.
Afternoon in Downtown Boise
Now that you’ve worked up an appetite – it’s time to decide what’s for lunch!
For a healthier option, Wild Root offers healthy mouth-watering soups, salads, and sandwiches with vegan options. Craving tacos? The Funky Taco was once a food truck with a loyal following that now has it’s own funky, cool restaurant space. If you’re in the mood for something lighter, Paddles Up Poke serves up amazing poke bowls and even poke nachos! If you missed Bardenay at brunch, then head over for lunch—this is one of my favorite restaurants and you can’t go wrong with whatever you order.
If you’re in the mood for a sweet treat, the STIL (stands for The Sweetest Things in Life) is a local ice cream shop with amazing offerings. You can even choose dairy-free ice cream or one with alcohol infusions.
Now is a great time to do some shopping! For eclectic, handcrafted and gorgeous gifts, head to Mixed Greens. This one-of-a-kind shop features jewelry, pottery, artwork, and so much more. Stop by Banana Ink for edgy and unique Idaho-inspired clothing and goods. Music lovers will find an oasis at The Record Exchange, Idaho’s largest independent music store.
Evening in Downtown Boise
You’ll have a hard time deciding on dinner in downtown Boise.
The Wylder is a must for those nights when you’re craving a mouthwatering pizza – I suggest the mushroom party pizza!! If you’re on the hunt for a fantastic steak, Chandler’s is the place to go. The fine-dining restaurant is a Boise institution. Don’t miss their 10 minute martini.
For a farm to table experience, Fork sources its key ingredients from local Boise and Northwest farmers. For a memorable dining experience, book a table at Barbacoa. This unusual steakhouse is Vegas meets Boise with its decor and menu. Order their tableside guacamole and hot rock steak!
If you’re in search of live music, check out Neurolux, The Olympic, or the Reef, these venues always have great bands stopping by. For a truly unique experience, Pengilly’s is a local favorite bar and saloon where you can dance to live music or shoot pool.
End your day in Boise with a nightcap. For handcrafted cocktails, Juniper is a speakeasy-themed spot that specializes in gin, while The Modern is a reinvented Travelodge that offers up flavorful concoctions in a trendy setting.
If you prefer beer, Bend, Oregon-based 10 Barrel Brewery has a location downtown. Sample Idaho wines at Coiled, a local winery with a downtown tasting room. Best part? Coiled has a frosé machine (frozen rosé) that’s perfect for those hot Summer nights.
These are just a few ways to enjoy a day in downtown Boise. If you’re looking for specific recommendations on how to explore the City of Trees, let me know! Drop any of your favorite Boise spots in the comments below.
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