Foothills - Boise, ID Area Guide

In 1863, the U.S. Army came upon a thickly wooded valley and chose it as the site of Fort Boise. This simple encampment grew into a city where miners rested on their way to the mountains filled with silver and gold. When mining waned, the timber and paper industries took over, turning Boise into the center of industry it remains today. The Foothills neighborhood stands as one of the older neighborhoods in the city, with many homes dating back to the first half of the 20th century.

The arts flourish in Boise, and the Boise Art Museum's Art in the Park attracts visitors from throughout the Pacific Northwest. Held within the beautiful Julia Davis Park, this event brings artists, musicians and chefs together for a three-day festival. Meet hundreds of artists and view or purchase their masterpieces. Be sure to stop for lunch in the sculpture garden.

Fierce competition between restaurants creates a thriving culinary landscape that caters to every taste and budget. Downtown Boise – especially 8th Street and 10th Street – houses both international and American cuisine, from casual lunch spots to the finest of fine dining.

The menu at Tango's Empanadas lists only one dish, served in nearly limitless variations. Empanadas play the starring role, stuffed with an array of meats, cheeses and even dessert fillings. Try the Gaucho for an authentic taste of Argentina, and follow it with the sweet Manzana filled with cinnamon-dusted apples. These hot, crisp pockets of delight draw a huge horde at lunchtime, but this is one line worth standing in.

Wineries and breweries frequently maintain on-site eateries, but Bardenay distinguishes itself by being the country's first distillery restaurant. Enjoy specialty cocktails created with fresh herbs and juices mixed with Bardenay's own gin, vodka or rum. Sit on the patio that overlooks the river and order the lamb meatloaf sandwich with horseradish mayonnaise. Guests with dietary restrictions can choose from an extensive gluten-free menu that includes not only entrées, but also appetizers, soups and salads.

When planning a romantic date, make reservations at Red Feather Lounge. The dim blue lighting and modern loft seating produce a trendy yet intimate ambiance. Start with a twist on a Canadian favorite, the duck poutine, and follow it with a light meal of wild Alaskan halibut. Or simply stop by for a special dessert of butterscotch beignets and a selection from one of the largest wine cellars in Boise.

The city's nightlife indulges the whims of its generally young population. Some establishments, such as Tom Grainey's Sporting Pub, can become quite rowdy on a Friday or Saturday night. Don't let the name fool you, as this is no sports bar. Stay upstairs for live music or head down to the basement for the hottest dance floor in Boise. Local DJs mix electronic beats until the wee hours of the morning.

Spend a quiet evening at Bar Gernika and soak up Basque culture while enjoying conversation without needing to shout. Whether you sit indoors or outdoors, the relaxed atmosphere provides the perfect escape from a stressful week. Kick back with friends and try some traditional Basque snacks with a pint from Boise Brewing.

The Foothills provide convenient access to the main thoroughfares of the city as well as the major highways. Park for free everywhere except downtown parking garages. Most locals drive to shopping centers, schools and work, but bicycling closely follows in popularity. You'll notice bikes chained up outside of every downtown business, store and restaurant, as Boise's clearly marked bike lanes make it a safe way to travel. A city-wide bike-sharing initiative encourages residents to ride whenever possible.

When you can't drive or bike, request an Uber car or call a taxi, as public transportation options are inadequate. The ValleyRide bus service offers limited routes from the surrounding suburbs into downtown Boise.

Boise Airport is only 6 miles away, but it does not fly internationally. Travelers must take connecting flights out of larger airports.

Famed for its lush green trees, the city of Boise maintains hundreds of parks and nature preserves. Many residents of the Foothills are outdoor enthusiasts, and they bring their very fortunate canines to the Military Reserve Dog Park. A 10-acre field affords even the largest dogs enough space to run, play and explore. In conjunction with this open area, the park provides miles of wooded paths, and remains the only park in Boise that allows off-leash dogs on its trails.

The Military Reserve's 480 acres attract more than just dog lovers. Work on your aim at the outdoor archery range, or get a great workout on your mountain bike. Surround yourself with wildlife on well-marked hiking trails, and be sure to bring your camera in the event of an elk sighting. Trails are available for all fitness and skill levels, from families with small children to expert rock climbers. Entrance to the park is free, but all dogs must be licensed.

This neighborhood's historic homes and incredible views make it one of the most expensive areas in Boise, with a general cost of living 16 percent higher than the city's average. An average one-bedroom apartment rents for around $675 a month.

Gas prices are less than 1 percent higher than the national average, but that doesn't mean public transportation costs an arm and a leg. Ride anywhere on the city's bus route for $3 or less. When you stop by a local pub, expect to pay around $7 a pint.

Grocery shopping proves difficult within the Foothills neighborhood. Residents drive into downtown Boise where Whole Foods, Albertsons and WinCo Foods offer locations. Visit the downtown Boise Farmers Market every Saturday for fresh, local produce, wines and cheeses. The market moves indoors during the winter for year-round shopping.

Find high-end department stores at the Towne Square Mall, or head downtown to visit Boise's many boutiques and independently owned shops. Mixed Greens specializes in local, homespun and natural items. Larger than most boutiques, this shop stocks accessories, home decor, natural spa products, pottery and gifts for all ages. Be careful when buying gifts, as you'll be sorely tempted to keep them for yourself – especially the handcrafted jewelry.

Travel through the city like a local with a new bike from Eastside Cycles. Let the friendly staff help you choose the ideal bike for your needs. Whether you participate in mountain biking, road racing or just riding around town, this store's large selection has you covered. In addition, find a range of cycling gear and accessories. On-site repairs keep flat tires and squeaky brakes from ruining your ride.

Bargain hunters with opulent tastes discover hidden treasures at Piece Unique & Shoe. An upscale consignment boutique, this store offers fair prices for gently worn and new designer items. Find a stunning outfit for a special occasion without guilt, and give your closet a facelift without breaking the bank.