Rising 208 feet above the Boise skyline, the dome of the Idaho State Capital is the most instantly recognizable building in the city. From inside, visitors can look up and see 13 stars representing each of the 13 original colonies, as well as 43 smaller stars commemorating Idaho’s status as the 43rd state to enter the union. For some additional historical perspective, tours of the capital building and its grounds are free. The Boise Art Museum (BAM) has been Idaho’s premiere arts institution since 1931, offering a delightful array of visiting exhibits and permanent collections. The museum’s 15 galleries feature thousands of unique pieces ranging from older indigenous art to more modern items. BAM also offers guided tours and annual special events like Art in the Park and BAM After Hours.
Nestled along the banks of the beautiful Boise River, Boise State University (BSU) offers 201 degrees across 190 fields of study. In addition to its academic programs, the campus is also home to Bronco Stadium, where the Boise State Broncos football team plays on their famous blue turf. Additional sports and entertainment events are held on campus each year at on-campus venues Taco Bell Arena and the Morrison Center for the Performing Arts. Located in the heart of downtown, Zoo Boise is one of the most popular attractions in the region. Visitors to this open-air zoo will find a wonderful selection of more than 200 animals representing 83 species from the world. Zoo Boise is also known for its fun series of annual events, including October’s Boo at the Zoo as well as Claus n Paws in December. For year-round outdoor fun, the Boise National Forest offers two million acres of recreational space for all to enjoy. In warmer months, the national forest offers fishing, boating, water skiing and more than 1,300 miles of hiking, biking and horseback riding trails.
There is also plenty to do in the Boise National Forest in the wintertime, including snowmobiling, cross-country skiing and ice fishing. Downhill skiers should head to Bogus Basin and hit the slopes. With more than 2,500 skiable acres, seven chairlifts and 45 runs, skiers of all ability levels will have a great day out on the hill. And the fun does not end when the sun goes down, as Bogus Basin is a great destination for night skiing and tubing. This full-service facility also offers ski and snowboard lessons and rental equipment. Whether planning a family vacation or a romantic getaway, the Boise hotels below offer everything you need for an unforgettable time. So make sure to stay with Choice Hotels in Boise for a special trip to the “Treasure Valley.”