This section is dedicated to take away all your "I wish someone had told me that before I went!" experiences. This way, you can spend less time settling in, and more time making new friends in your chosen hostel. We share our insider knowledge of tips, tricks and important things to look out for in Boise.
Boise, the capital of Idaho, boasts as its main attractions the hot springs and ski resort. The districts of most interest to travelers are Downtown, Warm Springs, and West Boise. Downtown is the major nightlife area with many sidewalk cafes and bars found on Eighth Street. The nearby Basque Block is one of the largest in the United States and is a great place to try Basque cuisine. Warm Springs, which is named after Boise’s hot springs, is characterized by extravagant Victorian architecture. West Boise is where the largest mall in Idaho, the Boise Town Square Mall, is located. Boise hostels have reasonably priced dorms and private rooms.
Hostels in Boise can be found Downtown or in West Boise. Most of the area’s attractions are closer to Downtown Boise, but West Boise is a beautiful rural area. Warm Springs and the Boise National Forest are found east of the Downtown area. For a great overhead view of the city, head northeast from Downtown Boise and walk to the top of Camel’s Back Park. If you are visiting in March, the Treefort Music Fest, an indie music festival, is held Downtown.
Further out from Downtown Boise is the Bogus Basin Ski Resort to the northeast and the Arrowrock Dam and Reservoir to the east. At the Bogus Basin Ski Resort, travelers can ski, snowboard, and go snow tubing. The resort closes during Boise’s hot, arid summer and reopens in the fall. An awe-inspiring view of the Arrowrock Dam is accessible from the Arrowrock Reservoir near the edge of the Boise National Forest. The reservoir also allows canoeing, fishing, and windsurfing. The closest public hot springs to Boise are located in the Boise Forest. The nearest pools are known as the Skinnydipper Hot Springs. Further into the forest are ten additional hot spring sites.
