Explore June 26, 2018

Tour de Boise

All the ways to enjoy the capital city

Foodies, beer connoisseurs, history buffs, and adventure seekers alike will delight on any trip to Idaho’s capital city. The bustling metro is peppered with thrilling activities, must-try culinary destinations, and rich history. The only question is, “What to do?” Cue Boise’s hodgepodge of guided tours. Nix planning an itinerary or searching for the can’t-miss spots. Boise’s top-tiered tour providers whisk attendees on a jam-packed day of exploring and indulging in some of the best things Boise
has to offer.

A Foodie’s Delight

There is no question that Boise is a foodie mecca. Farm-to-table options, inventive tasting menus, and mouth-watering hole in the-wall eateries abound on every corner. Idaho native Angela Taylor founded Indulge Boise in 2016—the first walking food and culture tour in the city—charged with a desire to help food lovers experience the best of Boise’s unique neighborhoods and downtown corridors, while celebrating all that the Greater Boise area has to offer.

“Culinary tourism is one of the fastest growing industries around the world. People are picking destinations based on food, and this is a really exciting time in the Treasure Valley,” said Taylor. “We have an emerging culinary

scene and an amazing story to tell with our public art, culture, history, and architecture. We have curated experiences that have allowed us to share that with our guests whether they are locals or visitors.”

Although food is the focal point, tours also highlight history with cultural nuggets, as participants stroll from spot to spot. A favorite, Historic Downtown Boise Food & Cultural Tour features more than ten tastings, snacks, and bites at iconic downtown eateries, unlocking some of Boise’s most eclectic spots.

A Bird’s Eye View

Soar up above Treasure Valley via hot air balloon with the experienced pros at Boise Hot Air Company. At the crack of dawn, weather permitting, ballooners climb aboard the basket of a vibrant balloon that will ascend up to a few thousand feet above ground. Gaze below at the scenic vistas and stunning views, while your pilot—licensed by the Federal Aviation Administration—guides the way.

On Two Wheels

Boise’s prime location seamlessly combines outdoor recreation with big city amenities; Boise Bicycle Tours helps visitors and residents experience both. To see the cream of the Boise crop, pedal through the Best of Boise tour that meanders through riverside paths to the heart of downtown, all while being led by a knowledgeable guide. The tour is great for all biking levels and is approximately 7 miles long on mostly flat terrain. Expect to stop and listen to history tidbits and soak up the sights. For this tour, slow and steady is the name of the game.

Hop on the Brewmobile

Whether you’re a hops fan or a lover of lagers, craft brews are never in short supply throughout Boise. The Boise Brew Bus invites patrons to hop on board the brew bus and experience the best of the best, while cruising town on the festive green bus. Each tour consists of three stops at a rotation of local hotspots like Payette Brewing Co, Edge Brewing Co, and Highlands Hollow Brewhouse, with a flight sampling at each. Grab a growler to take home, and sit back and enjoy the ride. Not a big beer fan? The Brew Bus also offers a winery option that heads to renowned wineries like Cinder Wines, Coiled Wines, and more.

Take a Trolley

Ever wondered about the history of the Old Penitentiary? Curious about the goings on at the Capitol? Boise Township Tours offer trolley excursions rich in nostalgia and local lore. Hop on board the throwback red and green trolley for a deep dive into the tales and history of the city. The trolley departs daily for historic tours and offers specialty holiday tours, like the ghostly Halloween outing or the magical Christmas lights sightsee.

This article appears in the Summer 2018 Issue of Territory Magazine.