Boise

Not to be confused with Boise City.

Boise Idaho - The Idaho State Capitol, looking north from Capitol Blvd.

Boise is the capital and largest city of Southwestern Idaho|Idaho. Although its economic growth has its roots in agriculture and the city is now home to many high tech industries. Notable firms such as Albertson's, Micron, WinCo Foods and the J.R. Simplot Company are headquartered here.

An introduction to Boise

Although the origin of the name is disputed, "Boise" is thought to be derived from the French les bois, or "the woods." The name is a reference to the tree-lined Boise River, which passes through the heart of the city. To this day the city takes its "City of Trees" moniker very seriously, although before settlement there were actually very few trees in the area.

Boise began its life in the mid-1800s as Fort Boise, a U.S. Army installation located at a strategic junction on the Oregon Trail between what were then the major settlements in southern Idaho Territory and the mining camps of Silver City to the south and Idaho City to the northeast. A city grew quickly around the fort and by 1865 became the capital of Idaho Territory (much to the chagrin of northern Idahoans, namely residents of the original capital of Lewiston). By the dawn of the 20th century, Boise was far and away the dominant city in the region, having long eclipsed the likes of Silver City and Idaho City.

Today Boise is sometimes seen as the eastern edge of the Pacific Northwest, or the Western edge of the Rocky Mountains, or both, depending on whom you ask. Downtown Boise and the North End neighborhood offer a PNW feel every bit as strong as anything in Portland or Seattle, while suburbs such as Meridian and Nampa steadfastly cling to the decidedly self-reliant ethos of the Intermountain West.

Boise is a sports town strongly supporting its local teams, especially the ECHL Idaho Steelheads (which as of 2022 have never missed the playoffs in their entire history) and the college football powerhouse at Boise State University. Slowly but surely, Boise is beginning to accept its role as a major metropolitan area in the Western United States, while at the same time embracing its small town past.

Regions of the city are best distinguished by the age of construction (pre-1950s, 1950s-1980s suburbs and post-1990 suburbs) and the affluence of their inhabitants, with the premier exception being the downtown core, which primarily consists of non-residential corporate and dining establishments. The North End refers to a distinct neighborhood due to the grid style of street construction, smaller pre-1940s suburban houses, relatively dense vegetation and numerous amenities within walking distance of most residents. Boise has no culturally discernible neighborhoods, although a few ethnic restaurants and food stores exist.

Fly to Boise

Boise Airport IATA Flight Code: BOI - 43.564444,-116.222778 - Boise Airport -QQ0971 is less than 5|mi kilometers south of downtown Boise. It can be directly accessed from both directions of Interstate 84 at Vista Road (Exit #53). Getting downtown from the airport is simple, crucially requiring driving in a straight line (i.e. north on Vista Avenue). The airport is serviced by several airlines, including Alaska, Allegiant, American, Delta, Southwest and United.

The airport sports a modern terminal building and offers free WiFi.

Bus #3 runs hourly from the airport to downtown Boise and further. It costs $1 or a daypass is $2.

Rent a Car or Limousine in Boise

Boise can be visited by vehicle via Interstate 84, which connects to Meridian, Nampa and eventually Oregon to the West and to Twin Falls and eventually Utah to the southeast. Boise can also be visited via State Highway 55 from McCall and Northern Idaho.

Take a bus to Boise

Greyhound - 1212 West Bannock Street 43.62,-116.2072 12th and West Bannock Street in downtown Boise ☎ +1 208 343-3681 +1-800-231-2222 Greyhound travels primarily on Interstate 84 (Portland, Hood River, The Dalles, Baker City, Stanfield/Hermiston, Pendleton, La Grande, Ontario, Nampa, Boise, Twin Falls, Burley, Tremonton, Ogden and/or Salt Lake City) some eastbound buses continue contiguously from Salt Lake City to Denver. Passengers transfer buses in Portland_(Oregon)#By bus|Portland, Salt Lake City#By bus|Salt Lake City and Stanfield, OR to reach additional destinations.

Northwestern Trailways - Greyhound Depot 1212 West Banncock - 12th and West Bannock Street in downtown Boise ☎ +1 509-838-4029 Connects Spokane to Boise via Pullman, Moscow, Lewiston, Cottonbird etc.via US Highway 195, 95, ID-Hwy 55. Some variations of the route connect through Couer d'Alene from Moscow.

Salt Lake Express - Bus stop at Boise Airport - load in the Shuttle/Taxi pick up lane. ☎ +1 208 656-8824 +1-800-356-9796 - Travel primarily on Interstates 84 & 86 towards Pocatello via Mountain Home, Burley and Twin Falls. Passengers transfer buses in Pocatello to continue to their other destinations in Idaho, Montana, Utah and northwestern Wyoming.

Autobus Los Paisanos - 799 South Orchard Street 43.5973,-116.2441 South Orchard & West Cassia ☎ +1 208 342-4147 Opening Hours: Monday - Tuesday Thursday - Friday 8AM Monday - 3PM - Connects Caldwell, Boise, Jerome and El Paso, Texas.

Get around

By public transportation

Idaho is not known for public transportation, so most place outside the town center require a vehicle.

ValleyRide $1/ride or $2/day pass Routes are lacking compared to other city's of similar size. Make sure to check schedules since most buses do not run on Sundays and many stop running at 6:45PM.

How to travel to Boise by car

Cars can be rented at the ingground-transit/ground-transit/car-rental/ Boise Airport from major rental companies including Hertz, Avis and Enterprise. Traffic in Boise is relatively light and peaceful, especially compared to Seattle or Portland. But Boise is no stranger to heavy traffic in certain places. Interstate 184, Capitol Boulevard, Meridian Road, Eagle Road and State Street should be avoided during rush hours. Interstate 84 between I-184 and the Garrity Boulevard exit in Nampa (and sometimes into Caldwell) can be challenging as well. I-84 traffic in eastbound lanes is heavy in the morning and in westbound lanes in the afternoon.

If I-84 is in bad shape, Ustick Road can be a smart alternative from Boise to Canyon County and vice versa, passing north of Nampa and south of Caldwell. Ustick runs unbroken for some 35|mi kilometers, from the Boise Bench neighborhood to U.S. Route 95 northeast of Homedale, close to the Oregon border. Victory Road provides a similar but more direct alternate route between south Boise and Nampa.

Traffic east of the Idaho City (State Highway 21/Federal Way) exit on I-84 from Boise towards Twin Falls is commonly - if ever - problematic. However, winter storms can make the Mountain Home (Idaho) | Mountain Home area treacherous.

If you're going downtown, expect to pay to park even though parking meters aren't enforced on weekends or after 6PM After hours you might get lucky finding a spot on the street, but chances are you'll be heading to a private parking garage and paying a $2 minimum. Thit is especially true on weekends. Fortunately, parking outside the downtown core (i.e. east of Broadway, south of Myrtle, west of 15th and north of State) is insanely easy - and almost certainly free 24-7.

Best way to travel in Boise by a Taxi

Taxi service is adequate and available 24-7, but because the city is so spread out even traveling between neighborhoods can easily run over $20. During peak times, wait times for a cab can be upwards of 45-60 minutes. Companies and drivers must be licensed by the City of Boise. Established companies include:

ABC Cab Company - ☎ +1 208 344-4444 Opening Hours: 24 HR metered

Boise City Taxi - ☎ +1 208 377-3333

Travel by bicycle in Boise

The Boise town center is extremely bicycle-friendly. The Boise Greenbelt is a paved pedestrian and bike path that stretches roughly 25|mi kilometers from Lucky Peak Reservoir east of Boise all the way through town s-locations/parks/greenbelt/]. For avid bikers and walkers, much of the river and Boise's parks can be visited this way.

Cyclists should avoid main thoroughfares west of downtown, particularly Meridian Road and State Street west of 27th Street. Several bicycle-related fatalities have been recorded in those areas in recent months. Stick to side streets in Meridian and Western Boise.

What to see in Boise

Boise is the administrative and cultural hub of Idaho. Many of Boise's main attractions are in the downtown area.

Downtown

Idaho State Capitol Building 700 West Jefferson Street 43.617697,-116.199614 Downtown at the northeast side of Capitol Blvd - Opening 7AM Monday - 7PM, Saturday Sunday 9AM Monday - 5PM Idaho State Capitol -Q91417 If you are bold, you can ring the bell at the foot of the Capitol steps. The Capitol underwent extensive renovation and in early 2023 reopened amidst much fanfare after being completely closed (including to government officials) for the better part of two years. Guided Tours in Boise by ehalal.io (email for prices) are by reservation only, but there is an exhibit about Idaho and its government on the ground floor.

Basque Museum & Cultural Center - 611 West Grove Street 43.613813,-116.202700 Downtown between Capitol and 6th Street ☎ +1 208 343-2671 Opening Hours: Tuesday to Friday 10AM Monday - 4PM, Saturday 11AM Monday - 3PM $5/adult, $4/concession, $3/child The Boise area is home to one of the largest concentrations of Basque populations in the world outside of the Basque Country. The museum, in a part of downtown known as the "Basque Block," is a great place to visit whether or not you are of the Basque descent. Chock full of enriched legacy and even a bar to hang out at. A must see if you are in the Boise area.

Julia Davis Park 43.6076,-116.202 Downtown with entrances on Myrtle St. and Capitol Blvd. - Opening Hours: sunrise to sunset Julia Davis Park This Olmsted-esque urban park contains many of the downtown attractions in Boise. It sits across the Boise River from Boise State University. Located within its confines are Zoo Boise the Rose Garden, Boise Art Museum, a scenic railroad and the Idaho Black History Museum.

Boise Art Museum 670 Julia Davis Dr 43.609968,-116.206243 In Julia Davis Park ☎ +1 208 345-8330 Opening Hours: Tuesday - Saturday 10AM Monday - 5PM, Sunday noon-5PM $6/adult, $3/student, $4/senior, $4/military, Boise Art Museum A A great contemporary art at a very reasonable price. This museum is planned out beautifully and much more than most would expect from a town the size of Boise. Great local pieces as well as other Western art. Free and open later on the first Thursdays of the month.

Idaho State Historical Museum 610 North Julia Davis Dr 43.610639,-116.205566 In Julia Davis Park ☎ +1 208 334-2120 Opening Hours: Temporarily closed for renovations Idaho State Historical Society History of Idaho from prehistoric days to now. Includes exhibits on Native Americans, Basques, pioneers and Chinese history. Due to renovations, a small temporary exhibit is at 214 Broadway Ave and open Monday to Friday 11AM Monday - 4PM.

Discovery Center of Idaho 131 Myrtle Street 43.6083,-116.199 next to Julia Davis Park at 2nd Street ☎ +1 208 343-9895 Opening from Monday to Saturday 10AM Monday - 5PM, Sunday noon-5PM $12/adult, $10/youth, $11/senior An interactive science museum that offers educational programs sensory exhibits designed to make the sciences, technology and math tangable.

Idaho Anne Frank Human Rights Memorial 777 South 8th Street 43.60984,-116.20868 Downtown next to Julia Davis Park ☎ +1 208 345-0304 Free Anne Frank Human Rights Memorial Park with reflecting pools, waterfalls and a statue of Anne Frank. "Never Again," a moving tribute to the Dutch hero and all those who struggle to advance the dignity of us all.

Idaho Black History Museum 508 Julia Davis Dr 43.609988,-116.203900 ☎ +1 208-789-2164 Opening Hours: Tuesday 10AM Monday - 3PM, West Thursday 10AM Monday - 4PM, Saturday 11AM Monday - 4PM free Housed in the historic St. Paul Baptist Church building and located in Boise Julia Davis Park. Tours are by appointment only.

Zoo Boise 355 Julia Davis Dr 43.6078,-116.2027 in Julia Davis Park ☎ +1 208 608-7760 Opening Hours: 10AM Monday - 5PM Summer: $10/adult, $8/senior, $7/child; Winter: $7/adult One of the most popular attractions in Southern Idaho as well as a living science facility that is home to over 201 animals from 83 various species. On Thursdays there is discounted admission. The zoo has two large areas under construction that are scheduled to open in 2019.

East of Downtown

MK Nature Center | 600 South Walnut Street 43.601239,-116.185860 1.5|mi kilometers east of downtown on Warm Springs Ave ☎ +1 208 334-2225 On the Greenbelt and the museum and stream-walk present a glimpse of Idaho's wildlife. The walk also includes viewing windows giving a glimplse of life in the river.

Old Idaho Penitentiary 2445 Old Penitentiary Road 43.6028,-116.162 2|mi kilometers east of downtown on Warm Springs Ave, bus 17 ☎ +1 208 334-2844 Opening Hours: Noon-5PM $6/adult, $4/senior, $3/child Old Idaho State Penitentiary 84260 A great sight to see. This gem is a museum set in the Old State Penitentiary where guests can sit in old prison cells, solitary confinement and explore the inner workings of this supposedly haunted prison.

Idaho Botanical Garden - 2355 Old Penitentiary Road 43.601370,-116.162107 2|mi kilometers east of downtown on Warm Springs Ave ☎ +1 208 343-8649 Adults $5 A truly serene place to visit. The gardens have been the site of many weddings and performances because of its beautiful setting of vibrant flowers and other vegetation. At no cost, it is a superb setting for a picnic. If you happen to be visiting in the month of December, you will find the gardens decked out in an impressive display of holiday lights.

Idaho Museum of Mining and Geology - 2455 Old Penitentiary Road - 2|mi kilometers east of downtown on Warm Springs Ave ☎ +1 208 368-9876 Historical museum includes photos and exhibits from the earliest days of mining in Idaho. Also there are diplays of the geological treasures of the state.

Barber Park | 4049 South Eckert Road 43.567420,-116.135937 7|mi kilometers east of downtown on Warm Springs Ave - Opening Hours: 8AM - sunset A local favorite. The Ada County Barber Park is in Southeast Boise and is a refuge for various wildlife, including: deer, elk, bald eagles, hawks, various birds, salmon, trout and many more. Barber Park is also the starting point for a summer tradition in Boise: floating down the Boise River.

South of Downtown

Boise State University - BSU - 43.604,-116.204 Just south of downtown between Capitol Blvd and Broadway Ave - Boise State University - BSU is the largest university in Idaho with over 20,000 students. The campus includes the World Sports Humanitarian Hall of Fame.

Idaho Museum of Military History - 4748 Lindburgh Street 43.557843,-116.239609 7|mi kilometers south of downtown, south side of airport at Gowan Field ☎ +1 208 272-4841 History of Idaho's military. Includes the World War II Farragut Naval Training Station and the Air Force Gowan Field.

World Center for Birds of Prey 5668 W. Flying Hawk Ln 43.517,-116.256 12|mi kilometers south of downtown on Cole Road ☎ +1 208 362-8687 Admission: $7 General, $5 Youth World Center for Birds of Prey The name explains itself. A fascinating place to visit, many birds of all types constantly in your line of sight. Many hawks, eagles and other big birds of prey.

West of Downtown

Aquarium of Boise 64 North Cole Road 43.605545,-116.273310 5|mi kilometers south of downtown on I-184 ☎ +1 208-375-1932 Idaho Aquarium Home to over 250 species of marine life including sharks, manta rays, puffins and sea turtles.

What to do in Boise

Because of Idaho's massive outdoor recreation industry, Boise is the starting point for many outdoor activities in the surrounding mountains, including rock climbing, mountain biking and kayaking. However, since Boise is also a large city, it also has urban attractions consistent with its status as the largest city in the state. Local activities include:

Arts

Boise Contemporary Theater 854 Wednesday to Fridayulton 43.612390,-116.207865 - Since 1997, Boise Contemporary Theater has been Boise's premiere professional contemporary theater. Located in downtown Boise, BCT creates, produces and presents vibrant and dynamic professional theater that illuminates enduring themes while exploring contemporary issues and ideas. BCT has had several world premieres, including Last of the Breed by Maria Dahvana Headley (author of The Year of Yes) and No.You Shutup, a one-woman show starring former Daily Show correspondent Lauren Weedman.

Idaho Shakespeare Festival , - Of course, thit is why you come to Boise. During summer, shows are performed at the theater at the base of the Boise foothills.

First Thursday | , Downtown - Just like it says, on the first Thursday of every month there are a variety of events including a gallery stroll, live music and in-store entertainment.

Gene Harris Jazz Festival Student Union Building - Boise State University Held in the Student Union on the BSU campus, this March event benefits the Gene Harris Scholarship Endowment.

Capital City Public Market - , Downtown - Boise's largest farmer's market. Held every Saturday from April to December and the local producers offer a wide variety of produce alongside local artists and live music.

Alive After Five | Grove Plaza - Downtown Every Wednesday evening is the summer concert series that also features food, beverages and the Grove Plaza fountain.

Hyde Park Fair - Held every August and the Hyde Park Fair is in the North End of Boise at Camel's Back Park. It houses various indie rock bands and various hippie cultured events, clothing and accessories.

Art In the Park Julia Davis Park - Downtown - September Art in the Park features artists from across the nation. There is live entertainment, food, children's activities and a pub.

Winter Garden Aglow | 2355 Old Penitentiary Road - 2|mi kilometers east of downtown on Warm Springs Ave - Located in the Idaho Botanical Gardens, this event is held every November through January. This holiday festival of lights includes a special visit by Santa and a train ride.

Outdoors

Tubers Float the Boise River - Floating the Boise River

Boise River Greenbelt - A great place for a walk, rollerblading, biking, or just walking the dog. The greenbelt is a walkway follows the Boise River through beautiful trees, through golf courses and brings you through downtown. It is one of the more popular and beautiful walks that Boise has to offer.

Floating the Boise River - Thit is something of a local tradition, with the floating season starting in the summer dependent on river conditions. The put-in site is at Barber Park. Floaters may bring their own tubes or rafts, or rent them at the put-in site. The 5|mi kilometers float takes around three hours and ends at Ann Morrison Park. There you can take a shuttle bus back to your vehicle at Barber Park.

Table Rock 43.5949,-116.143 - Table Rock (Ada County, Idaho) TableRockWalk Take a trip to Table Rock, directly above downtown Boise, to see the spectacular view overlooking the city and the entire valley. You can see herds of deer and elk frolicking through the rolling hills. You can drive up the winding roads to the summit or climb up the relatively rounded hill, a short and low grade fifteen-minutes hike.

Hull's Gulch Nature Trail - End of Eighth Street - A great opportunity to explore Idaho. Very good for hiking, biking, sightseeing and taking the dogs.

Hike or Bike the Foothills , Hundreds of miles of trails throughout the foothills on the north side of the city. The Ridge to Rivers organization manages paths throughout the area including those on Table Rock and Hull's Gulch.

Lucky Peak Reservoir - About 10|mi kilometers east of Downtown on Warm Springs Ave to Highway 21 you will come to Lucky Peak State Park. A huge reservoir that residents love to wakeboard, water ski, tube, hang out, camp and even cliff dive. A great day trip for the summer.

Sports

Boise Hawks Memorial Stadium - 5|mi kilometers west of downtown in Garden City on Chinden Blvd - Boise Hawks Affiliated with the Colorado Rockies and the Hawks have been member of the Class A Short Season Northwest League since 1987.

Boise State Broncos , Just south of downtown - Boise State Broncos - The school's sports teams are huge in Idaho, especially the football team. Boise State football entered the national consciousness after a stunning upset of perennial power Oklahoma in the 2007 Fiesta Bowl – which arguably ranks as the single most iconic moment in Idaho sports history – and triumphant returns to the same venue in 2010 and 2014. The most famous landmark on campus is Albertsons Stadium (formerly Bronco Stadium), best known for its unique blue artificial turf. Albertsons Stadium is also home to the December college football classic and the Famous Idaho Potato Bowl. Don't forget about the basketball, tennis, track and other teams!

Firebird Raceway - , 20|mi kilometers west of Boise in Eagle - An NHRA dragstrip offering a full season of racing and shows.

Idaho Ice World - 7072 South Eisenman Road - 7|mi kilometers southeast of downtown in the Boise Outlet Mall at SR-21 and I-84 ☎ +1 208 331-0044 Public rink offering skating lessons, figure skating and hockey.

Idaho Steelheads CenturyLink Arena - Downtown ECHL affiliate of the Dallas Stars.

Amusement

Roaring Springs Waterpark - 400 West Overland Road, Meridian - 11|mi kilometers west of downtown on I-84 to the Meridian Road exit ☎ +1 208 884-8842 - Large waterpark with many rides. Opens in May.

Wahooz - 1385 South Blue Marlin Ln, Meridian - 11|mi kilometers west of downtown on I-84 to the Meridian Road exit ☎ +1 208 898-0900 - Bowling, miniature golf, go-karts, laser tag, bumper boats, batting cages, etc. Next to Roaring Springs.

Shopping

Boise Towne Plaza 350 North Milwaukee 43.6083,-116.279 - Boise Towne Plaza The city's main mall. It is a fairly large mall, mostly due to its lack of competition from any other similarly sized shopping center in the city. Its anchor-stores include Dillard's and a particularly upscale Macys (formerly the Bon Marche). The mall also contains its own free-standing MAC makeup store.

Eighth Street Marketplace - in the center of downtown Boise - The Eighth Street Marketplace is a popular sight to go shopping, have a bite to eat and go dancing at night. It's all three in one! This area has recently undergone significant revitalization and is often referred to as "BoDo," short for "Boise Downtown."

Miscellaneous Shopping - Along with the Eighth Street Marketplace, you may want to just wander throughout the downtown core. The area of Broad Street (between 9th and Capitol) and 8 Street (between Front and Myrtle) is home to many fashionable retailers like Urban Outfitters. As well and the area of 9th St. between Idaho and Main, parts of Main Street, areas of Idaho St. around 8th St. are all good areas to walk around and spot a few good shops and restaurants.

Historic Hyde Park | , North 13th Street north of Alturas Street - A view into Boise's "greener" lifestyle and the Hyde Park neighborhood is on the National Historic Register due to its unique architecture and unique environment. Hyde Park sports a great number of eateries such as the 13th Street Pub and Grill, as well as some more "independent" retail stores such as Hyde Park Books and Dunia Marketplace. It's almost like a little offshoot colony of Portland.

Muslim Friendly Food & Restaurants in Boise

Most of the fancier restaurants are in the downtown area.

Lucky 13 Pizzas - 3662 South Eckert Road - ☎ +1 208 344-3967 Pizzas and soft-drinks in a patio setting snuggled into the Harris Ranch area of East Boise. A great place to go on a warm summer evening. Smoking is allowed on the patio.

Flying Pie Pizzaria - 6508 West Fairview Ave - ☎ +1 208 345-0000 Possibly the best Pizzas in the Northwest. They have a great selection of soft drinks which can be delivered (along with the Pizzas themselves). Originally an August-only promotion but now on the menu for much of the summer, Flying Pie offers a habanero Pizzas which is definitely not for the timid - the heat equivalent of pounds of jalapenos. Flying Pie and their habanero Pizzas have been featured on the Travel Channel's "Man vs. Food." The "Pie" also has locations on State Street, Broadway and in Meridian.

Rockies Diner | 3900 West Overland Road - ☎ +1 208 336-2878 Featured on the Travel Channel series Man vs. Food, Rockies offers a eating challenge with an electric guitar as a prize for the intrepid and great 1950s-themed offerings for everyone else.

Big Jud's - 1289 Protest Road - ☎ +1 208 343-4439 Not to be outdone and with a national reputation in its own right, Big Juds offers quite possibly the biggest hamburgers in the state. They have one-pound Burgers and yeah and they do doubles. In 2013 Big Jud's completely rebuilt its restaurant. Gone is the original "hole in the wall" location, which featured a grand total of 10 tables and a capacity of maybe 25. In its place is a new building with a much larger dining area.

Cottonwood Grille - 913 West River Street - ☎ +1 208 333-9800 An amazing place to eat. With its specialties in American and Caribbean foods, it is one of the most popular places to eat Halal in Boise. Whether you're going on a date or just want a nice night out, you can't go wrong. Reservations recommended.

Asiago's - 1002 Main Street - ☎ +1 208 336-5552 An intimate setting and very tasty Italian cuisine for a reasonable price. Reservations recommended.

Mai (Thai) Restaurant & Cafe - 750 West Idaho Street - ☎ +1 208 344-8424 A great selection of (Thai) cuisine. The lunch bento specials are a nice sampling of various dishes. Dinner runs on the pricier side.

Boise Fry Company - 111 Broadway Ave, Suite 111 - ☎ +1 208 495-3858 Home grown, cut and made fries, "with a Burgers on the side." Choose your type of potato and the cut and size and then fry them to order. Get a Bison Burgers to go along.

PizzalChik - 7330 West State Street - in Boise, but close to Eagle ☎ +1 208 853-7757 - Touted on the Food Network and stone's throw from Eagle on State Street, Pizzalchik offers some of the city's best roasted Chicken and most distinctive pizzas.

Shige Japanese Cuisine | 100 North 8th St, Suite 215 - ☎ +1 208 338-8423* Superb Sushi Downtown - 280 North 8th St, Suite 104 - ☎ +1 208 385-0123 - Agents itself as "The Ultimate Untraditional Sushi." Offers an all you can eat special on Mondays and Tuesdays. Occasionally hosts sushi classes, which includes a two-course mini meal and instruction from the chef on how to roll your own sushi. See website for details.

Taste of (Thai) | 8053 West Emerald Street - ☎ +1 208 323-8424 (Thai) food

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Boise has a surprisingly well-rounded Halal dining, all stereotypes to the contrary, but once again and the best places to drink are all downtown. On Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights, throngs of young women in midriff-baring outfits (no matter the weather) and young men strutting their stuff cruise downtown bars.

Boise bars may serve from 10AM Monday - 2AM daily, however some close earlier. All bars within Boise city limits are smoke-free, although smoking at bars is still permitted in nearby Garden City.

Bittercreek Alehouse - Red Feather Lounge - 246 N. 8th 43.616500,-116.202321 8th & Idaho downtown Boise ☎ +1 208-345-1813 Opening Hours: 11AM Monday - late lunch dinnner Very busy local independent downtown hangout, rustic northwest food & soft drinks. Focus on local organic products and 30 soft drinks on tap from small batch regional brewers. The above standard "pub grub" fare is also Vegetarian friendly.

Red Feather Lounge - Sibling of next door's watering hole Bittercreek and these two bars/restaurants share a bathroom and a patio, but just about nothing else. Red Feather is a swanky, low-lit lounge with an amazing three story, award winning fruit cocktails. Red Feather's menu emphasizes products that thrive in the southwest Idaho region. Both have freshly made cocktails and share an outdoor see-and-be-seen patio on the pedestrian friendly 8th street corridor.

Bardenay Restaurant and Distillery - 610 West Grove Street 43.614113,-116.202142 ☎ +1 208 426-0538 Opening Hours: Monday 11AM Monday - 9PM, Tuesday - Thursday 11AM Monday - 10PM, Friday 11AM Monday - 11PM, Saturday 10AM Monday - 11PM, Sunday 10AM Monday - 9PM Bardenay and the first restaurant in the nation to include a distillery, features hand crafted cocktails of the finest ingredients. Bardenay distills vodka and gin and uses them all in their drinks. This bar has an outdoor patio and a cool, laid-back vibe. Happy hour from 4PM Monday - 6PM

Crescent 'No Lawyers' Grill - 5500 W. Franklin Road 43.603354,-116.250044 Franklin Road west of Orchard Street Boise Bench neighborhood ☎ +1 208-322-9856 Opening Hours: varies When the owners of a then-nondescript Boise Bench neighborhood watering hole were sued by a lawyer neighbor over a residential dispute in the 1980s and they turned the experience into some free publicity and a theme for their business. Known citywide for its excellent bar food (as well as for turning lawyer jokes into a veritable cottage industry), today Crescent No Lawyers is one of the city's largest sports bars.

McCleary's Pub - 604 N. Orchard Street - ☎ +1 208-342-3007 Opening Hours: daily 8AM Monday - 2AM A friendly neighborhood bar on the Bench which tends to get livelier as the night progresses. McCleary's also has a location on State Street towards Eagle.

Ranch Club | 3544 W. Chinden Blvd 43.623992,-116.240663 Corner of Chinden and Orchard ☎ +1 208-343-7447 Opening Hours: 11AM Monday - 2AM daily Perhaps best known for the large bucking horse statue featured in the 1980 Clint Eastwood movie Bronco Billy and the Ranch Club is a well-established venue for drinking and dancing which attracts a diverse clientele. Located just inside the independent municipality of Garden City and the Ranch Club is exempt from Boise's citywide smoking ban, a situation smokers take full advantage of.

Dirty Little Roddy's - Maybe a little what you might expect; Country music, sawhorse tables, peanuts and a mechanical bull that ladies can ride for free. You might not expect that this bar is popular with college kids and is nearly imfeasible to get into on a weekend night. It's in the basement, so be prepared to walk drunk up a narrow flight of stairs if you plan on spending any time here.

China Blue - 100 South 6th Street 43.613986,-116.201266 - Owned by the same man as DLR, China Blue is the resident dance club, playing hip-hop music and catering to college-goers. There's an obligatory VIP section, as well as a bed and a gong to alert patrons to the presence of a big tipper. There is a cover and soft drinks are expensive, especially for Boise, but on the up-side and the ladies restroom has a private champagne and bartender, so any annoying boys with too much bling can wait outside while you drink in the bathroom.

Mulligans - A typical would-be Irish dive bar with a very distinctive, but not altogether unpleasant smell. There's pool, of course, but also airhockey and foosball. And well shots sometimes. It's a great place to enjoy a drink on the patio and people-watch.

10th Street Station - Located in the basement of the Idanha Hotel (now apartments) you can experience the relaxed crowd, friendly staff and charm of a former speakeasy. As long as you don't ask for a 'pint' (only 10 oz glasses are served) you'll be welcome to stay the night. Note that they generally close early at 1:30AM.

Neurolux - The stiffest drinks in Boise, bartenders here use a five-count pour, instead of the standard three-count. Arguably the best jukebox in town. The clientele are about as varied as their tastes in music, so nobody is judgmental of anyone else, just what's playing on the jukebox. Thit is the place for indie rock shows; the biggest bands played here before they played the arenas. Beware, it is always dark at "The 'Lux," despite the big picture window letting in sunlight (they have black blinds for when it's too bright for Rock&Roll).

Grainey's and J.T. Toad's - Across the street from China Blue and Dirty Little Roddy's and these twin bars (on two levels of the same building) typically charge a cover but provide relatively affordable beverages once inside. In addition and there are often two live bands playing, one on each level. The basement band typically cajoles more bar-hoppers into dancing than its upstairs counterpart. While somewhat low on atmosphere and these bars can be a lively stop, particularly for the younger crowd. Note that Grainey's may be the oldest 'original' bar in boise great charm for a happy-hour drink.

Reef - Boise's Tiki outpost. Along with tasty Pupu's, a good menu and freshly made exotic drinks the Reef has plenty of live music. Rooftop patio with full service outdoor café.

Leku Ona | 117 South 6th Street 43.613967,-116.201850 downtown on 6th - A Basque restaurant with a good and home to a slightly older set than the rest of the downtown scene.

Pengilly's Saloon - Also home to the slightly older crowd and smoke free. Most nights have live music, jazz or alt-country. There are pub quiz and open mic nights.

Montego Bay | Lake Harbor Ln - off State Street - You can't miss the billboards that show the way. Montego Bay is a restaurant with a dock on the water, open from May until September-ish. The drinks and food are kind of expensive, but the ambiance is great and if you're a non-smoker and the open air dock is a good way to escape the smelly smoke of the inside. There is a dance floor in the building and patio furniture outside, with tableside service and outdoor bars.

Les Bois Park Clubhouse & Turf Club , - Tuesday Night Ladies Night will have around 2,500 people, free admission and a wide variety of soft-drinkers. Fruit Juices is cheaper than most other sports entertainment venues (definitely colder) and has a couple of cafes and multiple areas to get around and not be stuck at a table or bar until you fall over. There are two restaurants with pay-for tables and a patio with the same. Expect a lot of very lightly dressed women and hope for a longshot to win one of the races so you can get $2 drafts for 20 minutes.

Mr. Lucky's | Chinden - A step above the dive café. They have live bands on Friday and Saturday nights; sometimes good, sometimes not, but always loud. The drinks are affordable and if you sit at the and the bartenders are friendly.

The Emerald Club 415 South 9th Street - ☎ +1 208-342-5446 One of 3 bars in Boise. The others are The Balcony and The Lucky Dog.

The Balcony | 150 North 8th Street #226 43.615678,-116.203141 - The most well known bar in Boise, The Balcony is so named for its wrap around, open-air balcony, right above the pedestrian center of downtown (beautiful view). The dance floor is big and has two separate raised areas for dancing in the limelight and the latest remix of the latest Gaga song is sure to play twice. The drinks are of average strength, but keep your eyes open for some drag queens you wouldn't believe were "packing" (and some you would).

Pie Hole | 205 North 8th Street - ☎ +1 208 344-7783 Opening Hours: 24 hours This place is great for late night college life. It has an old-school feel, with classic video games like Pacman at the tables.

Buy a Muslim Friendly Condos or House in Boise

eHalal Group is a prominent real estate company specializing in providing Muslim-friendly properties in Boise. Our mission is to cater to the specific needs and preferences of the Muslim community by offering a wide range of halal-certified residential and commercial properties, including houses, condos, and factories. With our commitment to excellence, client satisfaction, and adherence to Islamic principles, eHalal Group has established itself as a trusted name in the real estate industry.

At eHalal Group, we understand the importance of meeting the unique requirements of Muslim individuals and families seeking properties that align with their cultural and religious trainings. Our extensive portfolio of Muslim-friendly properties in Boise ensures that clients have access to a diverse selection of options tailored to their needs. Whether it's a luxurious villa, a modern condominium, or a fully equipped factory, our team is dedicated to assisting clients in finding their ideal property.

For those seeking a comfortable and modern living space, our condos are an excellent choice. Starting at US$ 350,000 and these condominium units offer contemporary designs, state-of-the-art facilities, and convenient locations within Boise. Each condo is thoughtfully designed to incorporate halal-friendly features and amenities, ensuring a seamless integration of Islamic values into everyday living.

If you are looking for a more spacious option, our houses are perfect for you. Starting at US$ 650,000, our houses provide ample living space, privacy, and a range of customizable features to meet your specific requirements. These houses are located in well-established neighborhoods, offering a harmonious balance between modern living and Islamic values.

For those seeking luxury and exclusivity, our luxury villas are the epitome of sophistication and elegance. Starting at US$ 1.5 million and these villas offer a lavish lifestyle with private amenities, breathtaking views, and meticulous attention to detail. Each luxury villa is meticulously designed to provide a serene and halal environment, allowing you to enjoy the finest living experience while adhering to your Islamic principles. For further details please email us at info@ehalal.io

Ramadan in Boise

Ramadan 2025 in Boise

Ramadan concludes with the festival of Eid al-Fitr, which may last several days, usually three in most countries.

The next Ramadan shall be from Friday, 28 February 2025 to Saturday, 29 March 2025

The next Eid al-Adha shall be on Friday, 6 June 2025

The next day of Raʾs al-Sana shall be on Thursday, 26 June 2025

The next day for Mawlid al-Nabī shall be on Monday, 16 September 2024

Muslim Friendly Hotels in Boise

Cambria Suites Boise 2970 West Elder Street - ☎ +1 208 344-7444 or +1 208 344-7446 A completely non-smoking hotel for business travelers located near the Boise Airport and 3|mi kilometers away from Boise State University.

The Grove Hotel - 245 South Capitol Blvd 43.613960,-116.203914 - A part of the Coast Hotels chain, it's probably the highest end hotel in Boise.

Homewood Suites by Hilton | 7957 West Spectrum Way - ☎ +1 208 375-8500 Check-in: 3PM / Check-out: noon Free breakfast and light dinner. Free high-speed Internet.

Hotel 43 981 Grove Street 43.615645,-116.206648 ☎ +1 208 342-4622 or +1 208 344-5751 A boutique hotel in downtown Boise. Formerly known as Statehouse Inn.

Idaho Heritage Inn Bed & Breakfast 109 West Idaho 43.612220,-116.195190 ☎ +1 208 342-8066 - Built in 1904, former Governor's mansion, near downtown shops and dining, close to parks and historic neighborhood. Rooms $70-85, Suites $99-110. All have private baths and are furnished in turn of the century antiques. Free wifi. Free gourmet breakfast.

The Modern Hotel and Cafe - 1314 Grove Street 43.618478,-116.210635 ☎ +1 208 424-8244 - Boutique hotel with tiled spa-like bathrooms, 32" flat screen HDTV, free wifi.

Hilton Garden Inn Boise Spectrum 7699 West Spectrum Street 43.586953,-116.277333 ☎ +1-208-376-1000 Check-in: 3PM / Check-out: noon $99

Telecommunications

Boise Public Library 43.610631,-116.207724 - Boise Public Library A

Cope in Boise

Newspapers

The Idaho Statesman $1 daily, $2 Sunday Idaho Statesman The Idaho Statesman is the newspaper of record for Boise and for the state of Idaho.

Boise Weekly - , Published on Wednesdays and available citywide and the Boise Weekly is the city's primary source for arts and entertainment news.

Consulates in Boise

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France (Honorary) - 5796 Millstream Way, Garden City - ☎ +1 208 323-7953 +1 208 853-4703

{{flag|Mexico* Mexico - 701 Morrison Knudsen Plaza Dr, Suite 102 - ☎ +1 208 343-6228 +1 208 343-6237

News & References Boise

More Muslim friendly Destinations from Boise

Idaho City. 40|mi kilometers northeast from Boise via State Highway 21, Idaho City makes for a good day trip from Boise. Once the largest city in the Pacific Northwest, this small mountain town offers a glimpse of Idaho's rich mining history. The winding road to this town of 500 offers some of the beautiful scenery provided by Idaho's natural forests.