Planning a getaway? Check out Boise, ID, a lively town with spectacular scenery and lots of activities for adventuring types.

SEAtoday editor Gabe here — until a few years ago, my only association with Idaho was probably potato-driven. But my wife and I have been out there numerous times visiting a friend, and there’s always something that surprises us every time we go. The taters live up to the hype, too.

Why go?

A river runs through it — the Boise River that is. There are great hiking and biking paths along the Greenbelt, tubing in the summer, and even surfing.
The Treefort Music Fest (Wednesday, March 22-Sunday, March 26, 2023) is one of the city’s biggest annual events — a five-day indie extravaganza featuring 185 artists, including Ani DiFranco, Lady Wray, Built to Spill, and more.
Peruse some of the trails, parks, and resorts in the region, track the robust local arts scene, plan great meals, and check some of downtown’s stellar shops off your list.
Think Seattle’s weird? A new brewery in Boise’s robust beer scene has a logo of a parachuting beaver. It’s a nod to an actual thing that happened 70 years ago, when Idaho Fish and Wildlife dropped beavers from WWII planes into the wilderness to get them away from the high population centers.

Nearby natural hot springs are a popular attraction year round. | Photo by Lauren Benner

Act like a local:

Food: If you’re a little pigheaded, try the PBR platter at popular barbecue joint Saint Lawrence Gridiron with ribs, pulled pork, and brisket all in one.
Drink: Don’t sleep on the wine scenein Boise known for excellent syrahs, rieslings, and chardonnays. The Sunnyslope Wine Trail is a must-visit — Indian Creek particularly — but don’t be afraid get spicy with the jalapeño wine lemonade at Potter Wines.
Outdoors: Those looking to take their vacation to new heights may want to head to Table Rock for some bouldering and amazing views.
Learn: DYK Boise has a rich basque history? Find out all about it at the Basque Museum and Cultural Center.
Family: Scope out the aquarium or splash around at a nearby water park during warmer weather months.
Explore: If you’re up for a drive, there are many natural hot springs in the area that should melt your stress away.

Where to stay:

Vrbo: North End couple’s getaway walking distance to downtown (~$82/night)*
Airbnb: Two-bedroom home with shaded yard near the Greenbelt (~$100/night)
Splurge hotel: Hotel 43 (~$300/night)
Save hotel: Quality Inn (~$92/night)