Travel
Travel
A buzzing business district, amazing city life and a great natural reserve of flora, Boise, the capital of Idaho is truly a visitor’s delight. With great landmarks and attractions spread throughout the city, there’s a lot that one can see and do in Boise.
Probably Boise’s best and biggest attraction is its natural splendor of plants and forests - The Boise National Forest includes about 2,612,000 acres of forestland located north and east of the city. Another major natural attraction here is Boise River Greenbelt. Open from dawn to dusk, this 20 mile long pathway offers the best glimpses of Boise’s lush green surroundings, brown mountains, lots of wildlife and also a great view of the meandering Boise river.
The Camel Back Park with its natural camel like hump is also very popular with visitors. Enjoy a walk, soak in the sights and sounds or relax on the green grass, it’s a great place to spend a quiet evening.
Since the Boise river is the city’s lifetime, tourists also have the option to go river rafting or simply savor the scenic view the river and it is surroundings offer. This is also a great mode of transport for those willing to see some important landmarks of the city not on road but while sailing!
Some very important landmarks which are a must-see for those visiting here are Ceramica, the old Boise art gallery where visitors get a chance to make their own pottery or order it. The Discovery Centre at Boise is another major attraction here. It’s a science museum and educational centre for kids. From understanding the mechanics of machines, soap bubbles and other scientific principles, this place also houses some very rare items on display.
Another important attraction is what Idaho Penitentiary is or what is known locally as the ‘Old Pen’. A 90 minute tour will give you a glimpse of prison life - solitary confinement cells, gallows as well as several items on display all related to prisoners. Another attraction here, which lies adjacent to this site is the Botanical Garden, which has eleven theme parks, native plants, natural trails as well as seasonal gardens like autumn or winter.
The Basque Museum and Cultural Centre, is a historic and cultural reservoir of Basque traditions, the second largest community living in the city of Boise. Built in 1864, this building houses different Basque artifacts pertaining to Basque life and living.
Apart from these major attractions you could also visit the following;
The Boise Zoo – Opened in 1916, this zoo has over 250 animals including native Idaho species.
Lucky Peak State Park – Lying 10 miles east of Boise, this is a great place for those looking to be in the lap of nature.
Idaho State Historical Museum – The best place to get a glimpse of Idaho history told through artefacts and other items on display.
Idaho Shakespeare Festival - Come summer (only from June to Sepetmeber) this unique festival offers the best chance to understand Shakespearean theater, his life and times
Ridge to Rivers Trail System – Streching from Boise river to Boise Ridge, this is a great place for hikers and mountain bikers.
The Boise Mormon Temple – Opened in 1984, the temple is known for its unique architecture.
Idaho Military History Museum - the training site for World WarII airmen this museum has very rare world war memorabilia on display.
Western Idaho Fair – a nine day affair complete with games, rides as well as lots of idaho cuisine and trade shows.
Read more...