Boise City on a Budget: Hikes, Art, and Eats

Discover the charm and affordability of Boise City on a shoestring budget.

21 June 2023

Boise City is a great destination for those on a tight budget looking for outdoor adventure. Take a hike in the nearby Boise National Forest, visit the Idaho State Capitol building for a free tour, and explore the city's vibrant art scene with the First Thursday Gallery Walk. With affordable accommodations and plenty of budget-friendly eateries, Boise City is a fun and affordable destination for your next trip.

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Day trip plan

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Day

Big Views and Cheap Eats in Boise City

  • Head up to Table Rock for panoramic views of the city and the surrounding landscape. The hike is about 45 minutes, but it’s worth it for the views.
  • Wander through the colorful and quirky Freak Alley Gallery, which features street art and murals by local artists.
  • Visit the Boise Art Museum, which is free on the first Thursday of each month. Check their website for current exhibitions.
  • Have lunch at Boise Fry Company, where you can customize your own fries and burger. They offer vegetarian and gluten-free options, too!
  • Explore the historic Basque Block, which celebrates the city’s Basque heritage. You can visit the Basque Museum and Cultural Center, and grab a bite to eat at Bar Gernika for authentic Basque cuisine.
  • End the day with a beer at Payette Brewing Company, which has a fun and laid-back atmosphere. They often have food trucks parked outside, too. Cheers to a great day in Boise!

Length of stay

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How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Boise City by plane is to fly into Boise Airport, which has connections from major US cities such as Los Angeles, Denver, and Chicago.

Car

The most direct route to Boise City by car is via Interstate 84 from cities such as Portland, Oregon and Salt Lake City, Utah.

Train

There is no train station in Boise City, so the best way to get there by train is to take Amtrak to nearby cities such as Spokane or Salt Lake City, then drive or take a bus the rest of the way.

Boat

There are no navigable waterways directly to Boise City, as it is located inland, far from any large bodies of water.

Bus

Greyhound and other companies offer bus service to Boise City from cities such as Portland and Salt Lake City, with stops at the Boise Bus Depot downtown.

Destination

Boise City

Welcome to a city where the potatoes are more famous than the people! Don't worry though, there's plenty of other things to do in Boise City besides digging for spuds.

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Number of days

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Boise City on a Budget: Adventure Awaits!

Boise City is a great destination for budget-conscious travelers seeking to explore the outdoors. With its numerous parks, hiking trails, and scenic waterways, the city offers plenty of opportunities for free or cheap outdoor activities. Additionally, visitors can enjoy the city's vibrant arts and culture scene, with many museums and galleries featuring affordable admission prices.