The ultimate guide to visit Boise, Idaho

Photos by Ingrid Barrentine

As the airline with the most flights to & from BOI, we know all the gems you have to see in Boise.

The city is a perfect blend of outdoor adventure, relaxation and nonstop fun. No matter where you go in Idaho, you’re bound to spot stunning mountain peaks, pristine lakes and enjoy fishing, white water rafting, horseback riding, backpacking or unwind with a nice glass of red wine riverside.

And, while some things have changed, the friendly, helpful and welcoming community of Boise has not. Join us on the journey to get there and know it’s safe with our Next-Level Care.

Here’s what you have to do in Boise:

Savor the flavors  

Idaho’s state fruit—Huckleberries—can be found in pastries, milkshakes, syrups and other delightful creations.   

Fry sauce, a combination of ketchup and mayonnaise, is also a must-try. Meat-eaters won’t want to miss out on Idaho’s deep-fried finger steak, which happens to pair perfectly with fry sauce (it’s not just for fries!).  

Taste all the flavors at Stella’s Ice Cream.

Seal the trip with a tour of the Capitol  

Did you know Idaho is the only state with a state seal designed by a woman? Painter and designer Emma Edwards Green’s submission, featuring Lady Justice, a miner and Idaho’s natural resources, was selected for the prestigious placement in 1891. Tour the state capitol building in Boise to learn more about the state seal and the state’s rich history.  

Hit the trails  

Idaho’s attractive landscapes stretch nearly miles from the Nevada-Idaho state line to the Idaho Panhandle at the Canadian border. In between, you will find a wonderland of forests, crystal-clear mountain lakes, cascading rivers, rugged canyons and desert.   

Freddy’s Stack Rock Trail  

The 5,895-foot, pyramid-shaped Stack Rock is about 30 minutes north of Boise. The views are outstanding, especially looking over the furrowed topography stretching miles and miles to the west. In late March through early May, the canyon is at its best when temperatures are mild and wildflowers add color to the green hillsides.   

Ready, set, raft  

Boise is less than an hour from several rafting opportunities. The Main Payette River, just north of Boise, is an easy half-day trip (about three hours on the water) and perfect for first-timers and seasoned paddlers. All levels will enjoy the approachable Class I and II rapids along this fun, leisurely run between May and September.  Learn more about guided tours, rivers and rafting seasons at raftidaho.org.  

Photo by Angga Indratama on Unsplash

Bike rail-to-trail   

Whether you want to rent a bicycle to tred downtown or venture out, Boise has all the stops. The Boise Greenbelt follows 25 miles of the Boise River, connecting Lucky Peak State Park, downtown Boise and many neighborhoods. The paved trail extends on both sides of the river, winding through numerous city parks and passing by restaurants, wineries, public art and points of interest.

Sip back, relax  

If you’re—of age—and want to savor Idaho’s wine country, start in Boise at Telaya Wine Co., which overlooks the Boise River, or check out the chic Coiled Wine Bar in downtown Boise for some fine reds & roses. Throughout the state, there are a plethora of wineries and tasting rooms to choose from. Pro tip: Wine flies free on Alaska; learn more

Croquetas & Chardonnay make a great pair, via the Basque Market, another great spot!

Comments

  1. Do you need vaccinations to fly?

    1. Hi John! No you do not. However, if you’re able to get vaccinated for COVID-19, we highly encourage you to do so. Safe travels! -Alexis

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