Stay Another Day in Boise, Idaho

Extra time in Idaho’s friendly, walkable capital can be spent biking, strolling, hiking and dining.

Photograph by Rob for Adobe Stock
Photograph by Rob for Adobe Stock

Compact enough to walk everywhere, but full of distinct neighborhoods and plenty of eclectic dining options, Idaho's capital city is a relaxing, friendly place to spend a few days once the meeting is over.

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Delicious Addition

The long-awaited Avery Hotel, a 39-room boutique property, opened in July featuring two new restaurants from Michelin-starred chef Cal Elliott (he and his wife are the brains behind the enterprise). Early reports on the food at the signature eatery, the Brasserie, are enthusiastic. Recently, the seasonal French-inspired menu served up handmade ricotta ravioli, mixed grilled ceviche and scallop crudo (above). Just the descriptions will get you salivating.

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Photo Credit: Courtesy of NorthEnd.org

Neighborly

A stroll around Boise’s North End reveals a feast of turn-of-the-last-century homes. Eclectic shops and eateries dot Hyde Park, on the National Historic Register. Grab lunch at Certified Kitchen + Bakery, pick out a quick gift at Hyde and Seek, and soak up the walkable city’s friendly atmosphere. Photo: Visit Boise

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Photo Credit: Idaho State Historical Society

Get out of jail and hike

After wandering the cells at the decommissioned Old Idaho Penitentiary — once home to a female serial killer — head up the Table Rock Trail for a challenging 3.7-mile trek.

Down by the Riverside

Follow the Path 

The Boise River Greenbelt runs along the banks of the waterway, which flows west through the city. Jog, walk, grab a bicycle from your hotel or rent a motorized scooter to take in parts of the 25-mile route. A slew of parks, wineries and picnic spots beckon.

Photo Credit: Visit Boise

Contemplate and Remember 

Stop on the Greenbelt at the Idaho Anne Frank Human Rights Memorial, an educational park designed to engage visitors to think, interact with each other, and respond to the human rights issues we face. A fountain, a garden and a wall of quotes from human rights luminaries create the meditative ambience.