Vista - Boise, ID

The city of Boise stood in its present location long before Idaho became a state, and it remains one of the oldest cities in the Pacific Northwest. Founded in 1830, Boise has changed in many ways since its inception, growing from a military outpost to a mining settlement to an industrial city. The city's continued growth created sprawling residential communities on what was once farmland, and the Vista neighborhood was a significant part of this development.

Music occupies an important place in the hearts of Boise residents. Every summer, the Boise Music Festival comes to town with musicians and entertainment from around the world. This all-ages event includes country artists, rock bands and local musicians of all genres, as well as a stage just for kids. Bring the whole family for three days of melodies, food and fun in the sun.

Boise's restaurant scene doesn't limit itself to one style or flavor. Whether you dine out on family night or date night, find cuisine that suits your taste and budget. Head downtown for the widest variety of eateries, but don't neglect the incredible food that waits right outside your door.

Smack dab in the center of Vista, Willowcreek Grill serves up traditional American fare with a Southwestern twist. Try the salmon BLT with chipotle mayonnaise, a spicy update on an old favorite. On a chilly winter evening, ask for a table near the fireplace and warm up with homemade chicken soup, just like Grandma used to make.

When a hectic schedule leaves you little time to eat, don't resort to fast food. Enjoy a quick French lunch at The Creperie Café. Sweet and savory surprises arrive at your table wrapped in light, golden crepes. Order the asparagus, Prosciutto and cheese for an imaginative combination of contrasting flavors and textures. If your sweet tooth needs satisfying, try the Elvis topped with fresh whipped cream.

Discover the sights, sounds and flavors of Cuba at Casa Blanca Cuban Grill. Enter the bright dining area where soft Spanish music greets you along with the tantalizing smell of herbs and roasted pork. Start with a plate of deep fried plantains and garlic sauce called tostones con mojo. The arroz con pollo makes an ideal light dinner and leaves you with room for authentic flan de coco and Cuban espresso for dessert.

Nightlife takes many different forms in Boise, from raucous clubs packed with Boise State University students to relaxed pubs that draw a more mature crowd. Safely walk the downtown streets and watch the city reveal its enthusiasm for Friday and Saturday nights.

Impress your date with a visit to Juniper, one of the area's most upscale cocktail bars. Choose balcony seats above the crowd for intimate conversation and people watching. You won't find cloying pink concoctions on the drink menu, but rather herbaceous and tangy flavors. Nibble on braised duck spring rolls while sipping unique cocktails such as the Boise Bucha Fizz, a mixture of gin, kombucha and ginger beer.

Relax with a friendly local crowd at Jumpin Janet's and enjoy all the camaraderie of an upscale dive bar. Join in a game of pool, play darts or stop by on Wednesday night for trivia. Although it lacks the glamour of Boise's popular gastropubs, the simple homemade fare, especially the chili, remains popular.

Vista residents use cars to get to work and to school, as well as for shopping and daily errands. Easy access to Interstate 84 simplifies travel to surrounding cities and towns, while centrally located Vista Avenue takes you directly downtown. Except at downtown parking garages, expect to park throughout the city for free.

Boise prides itself on being bicycle-friendly, but Vista lacks the bike lanes found elsewhere in the city. Biking is generally safe, but cyclists need to take care crossing the busier intersections. Once downtown, ride comfortably and enjoy the city's enthusiasm for bicycles.

When driving proves impossible, call for a taxi or request an Uber pickup, as public transportation remains inadequate. The ValleyRide bus service offers limited routes between downtown Boise and a few surrounding cities.

Frequent travelers appreciate that this neighborhood is less than 2 miles from Boise Airport, but international travelers must take connecting flights to larger airports.

True to its name, Boise maintains hundreds of parks and playgrounds in addition to its sport and recreation facilities. Expanses of green, alive with trees, flowers and shrubs, keep the beauty of nature close to home. The whole family, including its canine members, can spend the day at Morris Hill Park. Take the half-mile Tree Walk for a lesson in native vegetation that ends at the entrance to a small arboretum. Inside, find tropical flowers blooming throughout the year. Children enjoy a large playground, while adults play horseshoes or visit the immense contemporary art installation. Dogs socialize and play in a fully fenced off-leash area that includes dog drinking fountains and an obstacle course. A picnic area inside the dog park allows everyone to eat together. Entrance to the park is free, but all dogs must be licensed.

Vista has the distinction of being the most economical neighborhood in Boise. The general cost of living is more than 7 percent lower than the city's average. Rent treats your budget kindly at just over $400 a month for a one-bedroom apartment. Bus fares are also easy on the wallet at $3 or less for all routes.

Spend the money you save on rent at the gas pump and the pubs. Gas prices run 1 percent higher than the national average, while a pint of beer costs around $7.

The Vista neighborhood surrounds you with everything you need. Shop for groceries at several Albertsons and Fred Meyer locations, as well as a number of ethnic markets. Every Saturday, stop by the Boise Farmers Market for fresh fruits and vegetables, flowers, and locally farmed meat and dairy. When the weather turns chilly, visit the market at its indoor winter location.

In addition to the upscale department stores of the Towne Square Mall, take advantage of great deals on designer clothing at the Boise Factory Outlets. Drive downtown to an assortment of independently owned shops to avoid the cookie-cutter items found at national chains.

Shop your way around the earth at Eyes of the World Imports. Find clothing, accessories, decor and gifts with an international flair. The intoxicating scent of incense drifts by as you peruse aisles of Indonesian sarongs. Surprise someone special with a handmade batik scarf or treat yourself to stunning silver jewelry from India. Many items sold benefit impoverished villages, so your shopping benefits the global community.

Decorate your home with vintage decor and furniture from The Recycled Room. Unlike many vintage stores where you dig for buried treasure, items here are carefully organized for easy browsing. Find a special finishing touch for your guest room, or a show-stopping conversation piece. Beautiful design and quality craftsmanship don't need to break the bank.