ONE: I have to start with the Boise Foothills because to me, they are just magic. For our outdoorsy folks, the Boise Foothills offer mountain biking, hiking, trail running and even horseback riding. And we’re not talking a measly 5 to 10 miles of trails here. No way. We’re talking HUNDREDS of miles of trails. So instead of being worried about overcrowding, you might be worried about getting lost. (Please don’t get lost though.)
But stay with me indoor people because at the base of the foothills is one of the best spots in the world to grab a cup of coffee or glass of wine. Or a taco. Or a pizza. Or a beer. Or a smoothie. You get the point. The area is called the Hyde Park Historic District and to be completely honest, it’s absolutely darling. So, while your outdoor pals are getting sweaty and dusty on the trails, you can sit in an air conditioned cafe and sip espresso.
TWO: Alright indoor people, if you’ve never heard of The Village at Meridian, google it now. Find it? No? WiFI went out? Okay, I’ll just tell you. The Village at Meridian is a massive mall with nearly 100 shops, cafes, restaurants and entertainment venues. It’s built with European architecture in mind and even has a fountain that lights up. Is there anything better than a light-up fountain and shopping? Nope.
Now I know malls don’t appeal to everyone, especially you outdoor people. So, if you need some fresh air while your mom is shopping The Village for pillow cases and jeans, you can just stroll on over to Julius M. Kleiner Memorial Park that sits RIGHT NEXT DOOR! It’s a 58-acre park with so many things to do that I don’t have room to list them all. But here’s a quick taste: Basketball, bocce ball, garden-walking, fishing, sand volleyball AND pathways.
THREE: I like to call this next spot, Idaho’s Pedestrian Highway. You’re welcome to call it that too, although I’m pretty sure no one else does. It’s the Boise River Greenbelt and it definitely needs to be thrown on the outdoor person’s bucket list. This paved pathway offers stunning river views and rich green foliage. Plus it stretches about 30 miles along the Boise River making it perfect for a walk, jog, bicycle ride or even that commute to work.
THREE: Indoor people, listen up. One of the best things about the Boise River Greenbelt is that it runs right through Downtown Boise. How good is that? So, if you hop off the Greenbelt at Capitol Boulevard you can walk right into the Boise Public Library or the Boise Art Museum or the Idaho State Museum or The Flicks Theatre or Trader Joe’s because who doesn’t like Trader Joe’s?
So, as you can see Idaho’s Treasure Valley isn’t for one type of person. No, it’s really for everyone.
