Things To Do
Quinn's Pond
We went for a picnic here on our third date, the date we both consider "the one" that really kicked our relationship off. It is a 10-minute walk from The Riverside Hotel--and the main reason it became our hotel of choice!
Basque Block
The Basque Block is one of the most unique things about Boise, if not the most! Idaho is home to the most Basque people outside of the Basque Country (a small "country" that is part of Northern Spain and Southern France). The block holds a variety of great restaurants, the Basque Museum, and the Basque Market.
Ansots Basque Chorizos
If you're looking for the most authentic Basque food in Boise, this is it! It is only 1-2 blocks away from the Basque Block and in the center of downtown. Their name mentions chorizo but they have lots of amazing pinxtos as well (the Basque word for tapas, or appetizers).
Capital City Public Market
Capital City Public Market, and the nearby Farmer's Market, is a great way to spend a Saturday morning. The earlier the better to avoid the crowds (and the heat)!
Idaho Anne Frank Human Rights Memorial
This is the only Anne Frank Memorial in the United States, and it is well worth a visit. This public memorial is open 24/7 and free to visit. It was designed to bring to light various human rights issues and encourage an open dialogue about the triumphs and tragedies of the human race.
Freak Alley Gallery
While in the downtown area, we recommend visiting Freak Alley. This unique alleyway is the northwest’s largest outdoor gallery. It's free to visit, open all year round, and you'll never see the same thing twice!
The STIL
The STIL (aka Sweetest Things in Life) is a local ice cream shop that always has amazing and interesting flavors. They are themed locally by name and flavors. Don't forget to try their booze-infused concoctions!
Hyde Park
Hyde Park is the "cool" part of town. It's got a variety of cute coffee shops, restaurants, and shops. A few faves are Hyde Perk (coffee), Hyde and Seek (gift shop), and Goody's (old-fashioned candy shop and ice creamery). We recommend taking the short hike up Camel's Back Park, especially at sunrise or sunset, if you're looking for a little exercise.
Discovery Center of Idaho
We have been members here for a couple of years and have always been impressed by their offerings. We have spent many a date here!
The Egyptian Theatre
This restored historic landmark is a functioning theater, housing concerts, comedians, and plays. It even has a classic movie night but be sure to pick up tickets ahead of time!
The Flicks: Rick's Cafe Americain
The Flicks is an indie movie theater, mostly showing films that wouldn't make it to bigger movie theaters. It has amazing and inexpensive food that you can take into the show if you'd like. We recommend the popcorn with nutritional yeast. They even have a Blockbuster-esque DVD rental shop still in place!
Boise River Greenbelt
We chose The Riverside Hotel in part because it's right next to the Boise River and the Greenbelt (a 25-mile trail with water and nature galore). Feel free to walk it, bike it, or rent a scooter.
Kathryn Albertson Park
A beautiful way to spend a sunny day in Boise. If you're lucky, you may even see a turtle or two!
Boise Trolley Tours
Enjoy a ride on the vintage, open-air trolley as your experienced guide takes you on a trip through Boise’s past. This 75-minute tour even takes you past the Melissa/Kym Pratt historic landmark (house) :)