Boise

---

Boise, the capital of Idaho, boasts a population of about 230K, is the largest city in Idaho and the 98th biggest city in the US.  It is built upon what was once the site of a US Army post on the Oregon Trail. 

Once gold was discovered in 1862, the town became more than an area for folks to pass through.  In 1864, Boise became the territorial capital. 

Boise boasts a great secondary airport with many connections to cities throughout the US. Airlines include Alaska, Delta, Southwest, United and other carriers. It has several restaurants - Parilla's Grill located pre-security; Bardenay's, Smash Burger, and Einstein Bros. Bagels are past security.  There is a nice gift shop which includes a great selection of locally made products. A short term and long term parking garage is directly across the street from the airport.  Rental car desks are located on the lower level near baggage claim.  Hotel shuttles, shared rides, and taxis are available just outside the main terminal doors. 

Many people think Boise got its name from the French word "bois" which is correct but it actually means "woods/wooded" not trees. One story is when the French Canadian fur trappers looked into the Boise River Valley, they exclaimed "Les Bois!"  When flying in or out of Boise during the day, you see nothing but trees for blocks and blocks within the city.  

One of the things I love about Boise is all the wildlife - along the city streets, in the parks, and on the Greenbelt.  There are so many Canadian Geese, HOAs have programs on how to mitigate the problem.

Opening its doors in 1872, the Old Idaho State Penitentiary is open daily with photos galore, a gift shop and access to all the old cells and gallows.  My family (ages 27 to 95) thoroughly enjoyed it.  I think the haunted tours during Halloween are a hoot! 

What kind of shopping in Boise -  the picture above is the Village (it's actually in Meridian) which is a beautiful outdoor shopping center with dancing fountains and a seasonal ice skating rink.   Shop at Carthatt and Soft Surroundings, dine at  Casa del Matador or Kona Grill.  Enjoy summer concerts and other events. 

Boise Town Square offers a large selection of stores, eateries, and other businesses.  Department stores include Dillard's, JC Penney's, and Macy's.  Specialty stores include Lululemon, Merle Norman Cosmetics, and Pendleton.  Restaurants include Dave & Busters, The Cheesecake Factory,  plus a food court. 

The Treasure Valley also includes many other stores - familiar ones you recognize and local ones which may be new to you.   Apple, Kohl's, Hobby Lobby, Michael's,  Target, and Walmart are here.  Explore local shops such as the Chocolat Bar, the Nest,  and Spencer's.   Sporting goods stores include Cabela's, Dick's Sporting Goods, and REI. Two local sporting goods stores are Idaho Guns & Outdoors and Three Rivers Ranch Outfitters. Home stores include Ethan Allen, Home Depot, Lowe's,  and R.C. Willey plus locally owned Boise Furniture,  Furniture Row, and Model Home Furnishings.  Of course, you'll find many window and door companies, shops featuring window coverings, nurseries, and stores selling patio furniture and accessories, plus companies selling indoor/outdoor fireplaces and the like.