Southeast Boise Boise, ID

According to local legend, Boise was named by the U.S. Army's French guide who found himself overwhelmed by the sight of the valley's beautiful trees. Whether or not that story rings true, the city was born as an Army encampment in 1863. It grew into an important stop for miners seeking their fortunes and later became a major player in the paper and timber industry. The area of Southeast Boise closest to the university has stood for many years, but the remainder of the neighborhood developed more recently. Art and culture thrive in Boise, and the annual Idaho Shakespeare Festival attracts thousands of visitors. Bring blankets and experience the Bard's most famous works under a carapace of stars at the outdoor amphitheater. The woodland setting enhances the passion and the tragedy, helping bring familiar characters to life. Look no further for the ideal romantic date.

This neighborhood contains the ordinary casual dining chains found in every American suburb, but a quick trip downtown opens the door to a world of incredible cuisine. In the fierce competition between Boise's trendy restaurants, The Dish may come out on top. Start with the roasted cauliflower appetizer and never complain about eating your veggies again. The poblano pepper marmalade packs a punch and transforms the often maligned vegetable. You can't go wrong with the lamb bacon burger cooked medium to preserve its tenderness and flavor. Weekends draw a crowd, so make your reservations well in advance. More than just an upscale steakhouse, The Brickyard entertains while you enjoy elegant American fare. Friday and Saturday nights herald the arrival of the Dueling Piano Show. The trio of performers takes requests from the crowd all evening and puts a comedic spin on your favorite songs. Try the locally farmed Wagyu sirloin and don't be afraid to pair it with the peanut butter mashed potatoes. Experience five courses of communal dining bliss at State & Lemp. With only 20 seats available, this establishment creates an intimate and convivial ambiance. The prix fixe menu changes regularly with the seasons and the whims of the chef - perfect if you love surprises. A carefully chosen wine accompanies each course and helps you overcome your shyness and meet your fellow diners. Boise shines in the evening with live music, art exhibits and throngs of energetic locals out for a good time. Idahoans like coffee at night as much as they do during the day, and they especially like getting their coffee from Flying M. Quite possibly the most popular coffee shop in Boise, it welcomes visitors with friendliness and enthusiasm fueled by copious amounts of caffeine. The atmosphere makes newcomers to Boise feel right at home. Grab a latte and a five-food-group cookie and relax in a big comfy chair. Meet local artists and view their latest masterpieces. Visit in February and every piece of art purchased benefits a local charity. Anyone who loves live music must visit the Neurolux. The best in local and indie bands make their way to the stage which is low enough for the crowd to get up close and personal, just like in the old days. Wednesday nights change this dive into a dance club with DJs mixing electronic beats for your listening pleasure. Other events include alternative karaoke and spoken word poetry readings.

Living close to downtown Boise does not mean you can abandon your car. Locals drive to work and to run their errands. Free parking located throughout the city takes the stress out of driving. Interstate 84 provides the neighborhood with a quick route out of the city and to surrounding towns. Boise supports its cyclists with clearly marked bike lanes and miles of paved trails. Low traffic and conscientious drivers make it safe to ride around town, and a bike sharing program boosts the area's already strong bicycle culture. This area lacks extensive public transportation services, but taxis and Uber cars are available. The ValleyRide bus service travels between the suburbs and downtown Boise, but its routes are limited. Drive just minutes to Boise Airport, but be prepared to catch connecting flights from larger airports if you travel internationally.

Parks feature prominently in this neighborhood and remain popular destinations for family outings. Walk or jog with your dog along the Greenbelt, or bring the whole family to one of many well-maintained playgrounds. Adults and older children escape the summer heat on the waterslides at Ivywild Park, while little ones safely splash in the shallow water play area. The park district charges affordable rates for pool passes, and allows leashed dogs into the park, but they must stay outside the fenced pool area. Located within nearby Municipal Park, the Morrison Knudsen Nature Center provides an up close look at fish and other wildlife. Take the Stream Walk for a glimpse of Idaho as it looked before the arrival of settlers. Cross crystal clear streams and waterfalls, view beaver dams, and find a tranquil retreat inside the butterfly garden. At certain times of year, witness the hatching of rainbow trout. Entrance to the Nature Center is free, but leave your canine friends at home.

Southeast Boise is one of the city's more expensive areas with a cost of living four percent higher than the city average. Due to the neighborhood's convenient location, one-bedroom apartments typically rent for about $750 a month. A bus ride around the city costs less than $3, and at nearby pubs, expect to pay around $7 for a pint. Residents don't consider gas a huge expense as it is less than one percent higher than the national average.

Multiple Albertsons locations and a WinCo Foods make grocery shopping hassle-free for residents of this neighborhood. Trader Joe's and Whole Foods sell their wares slightly farther away, but still within a reasonable distance. Find fresh fruits and vegetables, wine and handicrafts from throughout Idaho at the Boise Farmers Market. Every Saturday, let the market's seasonal produce inspire your next meal. Bargain shoppers appreciate nearby big box stores and more affluent shoppers visit the Towne Square Mall, but discover the best shopping in the heart of downtown Boise. Look around and see evidence of a thriving entrepreneurial spirit. McU Sports helps you gear up for all your wilderness adventures. Prepare for ski season with new boots and gloves, or bring your bike in for a tune-up. Let the expert staff assist you in finding the right gear for your unique needs. If you're not ready to commit to the outdoor lifestyle, this store rents bicycles, ski and snowboarding equipment at economical rates. Create cozy scarves and sweaters with yarn from Twisted Ewe. This shop carries hundreds of varieties of yarn, from hardworking wool to luxurious cashmere and silk, as well as a large selection of handmade buttons and embellishments. Improve your knitting or crocheting at classes tailored for each skill level. One of the oldest boutiques in the city, every local recognizes Dragonfly by the colorful murals covering the building's entire exterior. Find clothing and accessories from around the world, unusual cards and gift items. Treat yourself to beaded jewelry or a hand-dyed silk scarf. Even if "hippie" style doesn't strike your fancy, this long-standing Boise phenomenon is a must see.