Situated on the banks of the Boise River, Idaho’s capital city of Boise is a city with so much to offer. Some often describe Boise as being a big town city with a small-town feel, where locals are friendly, warm, and welcoming. With a growing arts scene, plenty of business opportunities, and recreational activities of all kinds to enjoy, Boise would make a great place to call home.
A Bit of Boise History
Boise was initially settled by early 19th century French Canadians. It is also settlers who gave the city its name, which comes from the French for Boise, meaning “wooded” because of the tree-lined river near which it sits. Boise was officially established following the 1862 gold rush to the area, and the community initially developed for the purpose of providing services for the nearby mines. It was also located at the crossroads of the Oregon Trail, which helped to ensure additional growth and development as well. Since that time Boise has grown to be an important agricultural center, as well as a city that is home to many other industries including lumbering electronics trade, and trucking. In addition, it has plenty of things to see and do, and recreational opportunities in the beautiful outdoor scenery that Boise provides abound, in addition to shops restaurants and other cultural amenities. Truly, in Boise, you can have it all.
A Few Fun Facts About Boise
Read more fun facts about Boise here.
Boise’s LGBTQ Community
Boise is a city fortunate to have a growing and thriving LGBTQ community – one which is supported by a variety of community groups and resources, including:
The Community Center was founded in December 1983 with the mission of uniting and supporting Idaho’s LGBTQ community through educational and developmental programs, and by providing resources to the community. The center hosts regular monthly group meetings and activities as well, and actively seeks to bring the community together in celebration and support of the LGBTQ community and all that it adds to the city.
Since 1985, The Idaho Pride Foundation has been working tirelessly to advance LGBTQ causes and push for LGBTQ equality across the state of Idaho. In furtherance of this mission, Idaho Pride proudly partners with many local organizations and leaders across the state of Idaho who share its vision of a world in which all LGBTQ people can live openly, safely, and genuinely.
What’s the Weather Like in Boise?
Residents of Boise will experience four distinct seasons, and an even mixture of rain, snowfall, and sunshine throughout the year. Boise receives 13 inches of rain on average per year, which is significantly less in the United States average of 38 inches per year. It also receives an average 18 inches of snow each year, but plenty of sunshine as well-about 206 sunny days in fact. Winters in Boise can be cold, with lows in January averaging around 24°, while summers can be quite hot, with highs in July reaching around 92°. Spring and fall are generally pleasant and mild and are wonderful times to be outside and enjoy all of the natural beauty that Boise has to offer.
The Best Events in Boise
Boise Pridefest is the city’s largest annual pride celebration, and for more than 30 years, it has been a can’t-miss event. The festival strives to promote unity and celebrate the diversity and unity of all people of all orientations in Boise. The festival, with its parades, parties, and other events, draws huge crowds each year – often around 80,000 attendees.
Treefort Music Fest is one event music and festival lovers alike won’t want to miss. This five-day event featuring hundreds of bands on multiple stages, as well as plenty of great craft beers, good food, and lots of fun. It’s truly one of the best events in Boise!
Where to Live in Boise
There are a wide variety of wonderful neighborhoods in Boise, depending upon your needs and preferences, but the neighborhood that is generally most popular with the LGBTQ community is North End. North End is a neighborhood known for its older homes, which are beautiful and full of character. The area is also very walkable, with plenty of restaurants and shops nearby, as well as a few of the more popular gay bars in the city. There are also a number of bike paths and green spaces nearby for residents and visitors alike to enjoy. The center of the North End community is a large park called Hyde Park, known for its many trendy restaurants, galleries, and shops. The median home value in North End is currently around $502,000.
Arts and Entertainment
The Boise Art Museum is located in Julia Davis Park in downtown Boise. It contains an impressive and growing collection of contemporary art and ceramics, as well as an extensive collection of local art, and rotating traveling exhibitions throughout the year as well. It is a wonderful place to spend an afternoon learning and feeling engaged and inspired.
The Boise Contemporary Theatre is a professional theater company located in the BODO district of downtown Boise. It is the only company in Boise committed to performing exclusively contemporary work, with the mission of inspiring and growing the community and the world by creating thought-provoking stories of the human experience. A wide variety of shows are performed each year, and there is truly something for everyone to enjoy.
Parks and Recreation
The Boise River Greenbelt is one of Boise’s most beautiful parks. 25 miles of pathway follows the Boise River through the heart of the city, providing beautiful views throughout. It’s a great place to bike, walk, and enjoy all that makes Boise beautiful.
Bogus Basin Mountain Recreation Area is a ski area located in the Boise National Forest and operated by the Bogus Basin Recreation Association. Visitors can enjoy skiing, tubing, snowshoeing, mountain biking, and more. Bogus Basin offers lessons, special events, group activities, and more.
Boise Nightlife
The Balcony Club is one of Boise’s liveliest dance spots. With strong drinks, big crowds, and friendly patrons, it’s a great place to dance the night away with friends.
Neurolux is a trendy late-night spot offering a full bar, as well as nightly live indie bands in a laid-back atmosphere. For those who love great drinks and lively music, this is a perfect place to stop.
Contact a Boise Realtor Today
If you’re thinking of making a move to Boise, chances are, you’ll find plenty about this city to enjoy. The first step is finding a house that’s a perfect fit for you in a neighborhood you’ll love. To do that, you’ll need the help of a realtor who knows the city and who can help you to best achieve your real estate goals. Contact a Boise gay realtor today for a free, no-obligation consultation!
