Table Rock and The Cross
by JetlagCity
You'll probably first notice Table Rock because it has a huge cross on it that overlooks the city and is lit up at night. Table Rock is a butte on the northeast side of town. People come here to practice rappelling, and also for the nice views across the town and Treasure Valley. It used to be much more isolated than it is now, but subdivisions have slowly been developed almost all the way up to here. You can also hike up here on a trail from below - it's a nice short hike if you don't have time for something bigger.
Platt Gardens
by atufft
Just below the Boise Train Depot is a marvelous landscaping of waterfalls, ponds, flower gardens, and lawn areas designed by Spanish landscape designer, Ricardo Espino. Dedicated to Howard Platt, the natural landscaping provided passing tourists an inviting place to climb around as they could also view over the city. When I visited recently, a photographer stood waiting with her camera and tripod for a wedding couple to arrive. She noted that the Platt Gardens were a popular setting for wedding and graduation photography. I found the pool of golden carp very impressive, but the upkeep of the stone stairs a bit worriesome. However, the gardens are free to the public and open anytime.
Boise Art Museum
by JetlagCity
I was always impressed with the exhibits the Boise Art Museum got, considering the small size of this town, and I still am, even after having moved to Seattle. I’ve seen famous artists’ work here several times (a Goya exhibit comes to mind), as well as that of some great contemporary artists, like Anne Siems, Robert Rauschenberg, and William Morris. Each fall the museum also sponsors Art in the Park, a great fair with all kinds of interesting artwork for sale, in Julia Davis Park, where the art museum is located.
Boise, Idaho.. more than potatos...
by museberry
"My hometown!!"
Feel very priviledged to have grown up in beautiful Boise in that cozy bowl of Rocky Mountains.
Mid-sized city with a blend of small and big city attitude, downtown is clean and funky. Head to the North end for the ecclectic and a nice walk up Camel's back park to check out the view and see why it's called the city of trees. Or follow along the Greenbelt path running adjacent to the Boise River on both sides, and while wandering stop into one of three nice big parks, Kathryn Albertson with it's wild bird refuge, Anne Morrison with it's room to run and duck ponds, or Julia Davis that holds the city Art and History museums, and zoo ( directly across the river from Boise State University)
If outdoor sports is your pleasure grab a mountain bike, hiking boots, etc.. and head for the foothills. Skiing or snow play is a quick drive away. Favorite snowshoeing was always in little Idaho City up past Lucky Peak (a great spot for boating and water play in the summer)
People are friendly yet not very diverse. Don't expect big city entertainment, but let yourself be drawn in by the charm of the area.
Top places for myself to visit when home: Flying 'M' coffee house on 6th street, The Train Depot with its tall white tower overlooking the best view of downtown (climb up on top of the cave for a nice sit or watch the coy swim in the ponds), and the aforementioned North End for pizza at Lucky 13 (best in summer when the patio is hopping), or burritos at La Parilla Grill and mini beer cup trays on Sunday evening.
Idaho is a four season state so dress accordingly. Feel free to drop me a line if visiting Boise as I'll be happy to give a local's view of my city! Happy travels!!
Follow this link for the Boise Visitor's and Convention Bureau: http://www.boise.org/
Children Demonstrate the Audio Narration
Idaho State Capitol Dome in Boise
Boise Train Depot
Rafting in Class III & IV rapids, Payette River,ID
