Good to know: Visit and neighborhood recommendations in Boise
Boise blends city life with an active outdoor lifestyle, offering everything from trendy restaurants to scenic hiking trails. Visitors can explore the city’s vibrant arts scene, enjoy farm-to-table dining, or float down the Boise River. The city’s neighborhoods range from bustling downtown areas to quiet, nature-filled retreats. Whether you’re looking for nightlife, culture, or outdoor adventures, Boise has the perfect neighborhood for your stay.
Where to look for an Airbnb in Boise
Downtown Boise
Downtown Boise is the heart of the city, offering a mix of historic charm and modern amenities. Airbnb rentals here include stylish lofts, high-rise apartments, and boutique condos. Visitors can explore the Boise Art Museum, dine at farm-to-table restaurants, and enjoy the city’s buzzing nightlife. This area is perfect for travelers who want to be close to Boise’s top attractions and entertainment.
North End
The North End is one of Boise’s most desirable neighborhoods, known for its historic homes, tree-lined streets, and proximity to outdoor activities. Vacation rentals include charming bungalows, cozy cottages, and renovated historic homes. Visitors can explore Hyde Park’s shops and cafes, hike in Camel’s Back Park, and bike along the Greenbelt. This area is ideal for those looking for a quiet yet convenient stay near downtown.
Boise Bench
Boise Bench is a centrally located neighborhood offering great views of the city and easy access to both downtown and the airport. Airbnb options include mid-century modern homes, stylish apartments, and spacious family-friendly rentals. Visitors can explore Kathryn Albertson Park, visit the Idaho Botanical Garden, and enjoy local breweries. This area is great for travelers seeking a mix of city and nature experiences.
East End & Warm Springs
The East End and Warm Springs neighborhoods are known for their historic mansions, hot springs, and proximity to hiking trails. Vacation rentals here include elegant estates, modern homes, and cozy retreats near the foothills. Visitors can soak in geothermal hot springs, explore the Old Idaho Penitentiary, and hike through the Boise Foothills. This area is perfect for those looking for a scenic and historic stay.
Harris Ranch & Barber Valley
For a more nature-focused getaway, Harris Ranch and Barber Valley offer a peaceful setting with easy access to outdoor recreation. Airbnb options include modern townhomes, riverfront cabins, and spacious homes with mountain views. Visitors can enjoy hiking and biking in the Boise Foothills, go paddleboarding on the Boise River, and relax in quiet surroundings. This area is great for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
What to do if you spend a vacation in Boise
Boise River Greenbelt
The Boise River Greenbelt is a scenic 25-mile pathway that runs along the Boise River, offering beautiful views and outdoor recreation. Visitors can bike, walk, or jog along the trail, stopping at parks and scenic overlooks. The Greenbelt also provides easy access to downtown Boise and many of the city’s top attractions. It’s a must-visit spot for outdoor enthusiasts.
Bogus Basin Mountain Recreation Area
Bogus Basin is Boise’s premier outdoor adventure destination, offering year-round activities such as skiing, snowboarding, hiking, and mountain biking. In the winter, visitors can hit the slopes, while summer brings scenic chairlift rides and thrilling mountain biking trails. The area also features tubing hills and alpine coaster rides. It’s an excellent spot for adventure lovers and families.
Old Idaho Penitentiary
The Old Idaho Penitentiary is a historic site offering guided tours of the state’s former prison, dating back to 1872. Visitors can explore eerie cell blocks, learn about famous inmates, and see historical artifacts. The site also hosts special events like paranormal investigations and history lectures. It’s a fascinating experience for history buffs and those interested in the Wild West era.
Idaho State Capitol & Basque Block
The Idaho State Capitol is a stunning historic building offering free self-guided and guided tours. Visitors can explore the beautiful architecture, learn about Idaho’s history, and visit nearby attractions. Just a short walk away, the Basque Block showcases Boise’s rich Basque heritage with cultural centers, traditional restaurants, and lively festivals. It’s a must-see for those interested in history and unique local culture.
World Center for Birds of Prey
The World Center for Birds of Prey is a conservation facility dedicated to the preservation of raptors like falcons, hawks, and eagles. Visitors can see live bird demonstrations, learn about breeding programs, and explore interactive exhibits. The center offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and is a fantastic educational experience for families. It’s an ideal destination for wildlife enthusiasts.
Where to find a vacation rental near Boise
McCall, Idaho
McCall, located about two hours north of Boise, is a charming mountain town known for its stunning Payette Lake and year-round outdoor activities. Vacation rentals include lakefront cabins, cozy lodges, and modern mountain homes. Choosing a vacation rental in McCall allows visitors to enjoy boating, skiing at Brundage Mountain, and exploring scenic hiking trails, making it perfect for those looking for a relaxing retreat in nature.
Sun Valley, Idaho
Sun Valley, about two and a half hours from Boise, is a world-famous ski destination offering luxury accommodations and breathtaking scenery. Airbnb options range from ski-in/ski-out condos to high-end mountain chalets. Staying in a house in Sun Valley gives visitors access to winter skiing and snowboarding or summer activities like hiking, horseback riding, and fly fishing, making it ideal for those looking for a premier outdoor experience.
Twin Falls, Idaho
Twin Falls, located about two hours south of Boise, is famous for the stunning Shoshone Falls, often called the "Niagara of the West." Vacation rentals here include riverside homes, cozy cottages, and modern apartments. Booking a vacation rental in Twin Falls provides visitors with access to hiking along the Snake River Canyon, visiting Perrine Bridge, and enjoying scenic waterfalls, making it great for those wanting to explore Idaho’s natural wonders.
Stanley, Idaho
Stanley, about three hours from Boise, is a remote mountain town surrounded by the breathtaking Sawtooth Mountains. Airbnb options include rustic cabins, scenic lodges, and adventure-focused retreats. Opting for a house in Stanley allows visitors to hike in the Sawtooth Wilderness, fish in pristine alpine lakes, and soak in natural hot springs, making it perfect for those looking for an off-the-grid mountain escape.
Cascade, Idaho
Cascade, located about two hours north of Boise, offers a peaceful lakeside retreat with access to outdoor adventures. Vacation rentals include lakefront cabins, family-friendly homes, and cozy retreats. Staying in a vacation rental in Cascade gives visitors the opportunity to enjoy water activities on Lake Cascade, hike in the surrounding forests, and relax in local hot springs, making it an excellent destination for travelers seeking a mix of relaxation and outdoor fun.
Explore urban and cultural gems across the United States
In the heart of Idaho, Boise stands out with its vibrant cultural scenes and historic sites waiting to be discovered. Delve into cultural heritage by staying at a Moscow, ID airbnb, where you can explore the University of Idaho’s art galleries and the historic McConnell Mansion. While in Texas, the delightful town of Seguin offers unique vacation experiences with vacation rentals in Seguin, allowing you to visit the Texas Agricultural Education and Heritage Center. For those interested in a mix of history and modernity, District of Columbia airbnb introduces you to a remarkable tableau of museums and landmarks. Alternatively, consider exploring New England charm with vacation rentals in New Hampshire and discover its colonial history and nature trails.
Urban adventures abound for those seeking more dynamic experiences. Head to vibrant Bristol, where you can book an airbnb in Bristol TN amidst music venues and cultural hubs. For a taste of the Midwest, airbnb Rockford serves as a gateway to Illinois’ Anderson Japanese Gardens and the Coronado Performing Arts Center. Lastly, the city of steel, Pittsburgh, invites you to explore its modern architecture and rich industrial history with convenient Pittsburgh lodging.