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Local Transportation

Local Transportation

Rocky Mountains, USA

Public Transportation

Comprehensive Overview of Public Transit Systems (Metro, Buses, Trams): ValleyRide operates as Boise's public bus system, managed by the Treasure Valley Transit. It mainly serves Boise, Meridian, and Nampa, connecting areas within the Treasure Valley. Boise does not have a metro or tram system.

Route Maps and Important Hubs:

Bus Hubs

  • Downtown Boise: This area serves as the main hub for most ValleyRide routes. Bus stops are centrally located along Main and Idaho Streets, making for easy access to cultural attractions, dining, and government buildings.
  • Boise State University: The university campus is well-served by several bus routes, connecting students and visitors to downtown and other parts of the city.
  • Boise Airport: Route 3 presents direct bus service from the airport to downtown Boise, offering an economical transfer option.
  • Maps: Detailed route maps and schedules are available on the ValleyRide website. You may also find physical maps at the Downtown Boise Transit Center or at major bus stops.

Single Ride Fares

A single ride on a local route costs $1.50. Express routes cost $2.50. If paying cash on board, exact change is necessary. Bus drivers cannot provide change.

Day Pass & Multi-Ride

A day pass costs $5.50 and allows for unlimited rides on local routes for one day. This option offers good value for travelers planning multiple bus trips. ValleyRide offers 10-ride passes and 30-day passes for those planning longer stays or frequent use.

Payment Options

Pay cash on the bus (exact change) or purchase passes at the Downtown Boise Transit Center, located at 150 S. Capitol Blvd.

Operating Hours & Accessibility

Hours and Frequency
  • Operating hours vary by route. Most ValleyRide routes operate roughly from 6:00 AM to 7:00 PM on weekdays. Service is reduced on Saturdays. No Sunday service is available.
  • Frequencies typically range from 15 to 60 minutes, depending on the route and the time of day. Plan trips in advance, especially outside peak hours, due to limited frequency.
Accessibility Information
  • All ValleyRide buses are wheelchair accessible, making public transportation an option for travelers with mobility needs.

Navigation Tips

Digital Tools

Use Google Maps or the ValleyRide website for real-time bus tracking and route planning. These digital tools present arrival predictions and help you plan your journey.

Advance Planning

Given the limited frequency and weekend service, plan your trips in advance to avert long waits or missed connections.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Taxis and ride-sharing services present convenient, on-demand transportation throughout Boise, especially useful for direct routes or outside public bus operating hours.

Airport Transfers

Boise Airport has dedicated pick-up and drop-off areas for both taxis and ride-sharing services, making it easy to find your transport upon arrival or departure.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Licensed Taxi Identification and Hailing Procedures: Licensed taxi companies, like Boise City Taxi, operate in Boise. Taxis are usually available at the airport. You may call taxi companies directly for pick-up from your location. Street hailing a taxi is not common in Boise, so calling ahead or finding a designated taxi stand (e.g., at the airport or major hotels) is the recommended approach.

Taxi Fares & Payment

  • Typical Fares and Payment Methods: Taxi fares are metered. A typical ride from Boise Airport to downtown costs between $15 and $25. Credit cards are generally accepted by most taxi services. Confirm payment options with the driver upon entering the vehicle.
  • Confirm payment options with the driver upon entering the vehicle.
  • Always request a receipt.
  • Know your destination's address beforehand.

Ride-Sharing & Safety

  • Recommended Ride-Sharing Apps and Services: Uber and Lyft are widely available and popular in Boise. These ride-sharing apps offer a convenient way to request a ride directly from your smartphone. Users book and pay via their respective apps, which also present estimated fares and driver tracking.
  • Safety Considerations for Different Options: Taxis: Use reputable taxi companies. Be sure the taxi has a visible meter and proper company identification. Ride-Sharing: Always confirm the driver and vehicle information (make, model, license plate) match the details presented in the app before entering the car. Share your trip details with a trusted contact.
  • Airport/Station Taxi Arrangements: Boise Airport has dedicated pick-up and drop-off areas for both taxis and ride-sharing services, making it easy to find your transport upon arrival or departure.
  • Always prioritize your safety by verifying details.

Walking & Cycling

  • Pedestrian-Friendly Areas and Walking Routes: Downtown Boise: This area is highly walkable. Shops, restaurants, museums, and attractions are concentrated within easy reach, making it ideal for on-foot exploration.
  • North End & Hyde Park: These areas feature charming, tree-lined streets with historic bungalows, local shops, and cafes. They are perfect for leisurely walks, making for a pleasant residential atmosphere.
  • Boise River Greenbelt: This paved pathway stretches for 25 miles along the Boise River. It offers scenic views, access to public art, and connects various parks. It is great for walking, running, or a relaxed stroll.
  • Walking Tour Options (Guided and Self-Guided): Guided: Several local companies offer guided walking tours. These tours often focus on historical insights, culinary experiences, or public art in downtown and specific neighborhoods like the Basque Block.
  • Self-Guided: Maps and information for self-guided tours are available from the Boise Convention & Visitors Bureau. Look for public art guides and historical markers placed throughout the city to create your own exploration.
  • Bicycle Infrastructure and Safety: The Boise River Greenbelt serves as the main dedicated cycling path, offering a safe and scenic route away from vehicle traffic. Many city streets also feature designated bike lanes, making urban cycling more accessible. Helmets are recommended for all cyclists, and necessary by law for those under 18.

Specialized Transportation

Tour Buses

Hop-on-hop-off bus services are not standard in Boise. However, various local companies offer guided bus tours for specific attractions, regional wine regions, or historical routes. These tours present curated experiences and transportation.

Water Transport

Commercial boat taxis or public water transportation services are not applicable in Boise. The Boise River is mainly used for recreational floating and paddling (kayaks, paddleboards), not for public transit.

Unique Local

Boise does not feature cable cars, funiculars, or other unique local transport systems of this type. The city's topography does not call for such systems for general travel.

Accessibility & Parking

No specific "no-go" areas exist for pedestrians or cyclists in typical tourist zones of Boise. However, general urban caution applies. Be aware of your surroundings, especially after dark, and use well-lit routes.

Accessibility Services

  • ValleyRide buses are fully accessible and comply with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) standards.
  • Many newer public buildings and attractions also adhere to ADA guidelines, presenting ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms.
  • Older or historic buildings may have limited accessibility.
  • It is advisable to contact specific venues or attractions in advance to confirm their accessibility features if you have particular mobility needs.

Driving & Parking

  • Roads in Idaho are generally safe. Pay attention to posted speed limits, which may reach up to 80 mph on interstates.
  • Metered street parking is available in downtown Boise, along with several parking garages. Parking is generally easier to find and cheaper outside the immediate downtown core. Use parking apps or meters for payment.
  • Be aware of wildlife, especially deer and elk, on rural roads during dawn and dusk. These animals may pose a hazard. Drive defensively and remain vigilant.
  • During winter, snow and ice may impact driving conditions; exercise caution and check road reports.

Rentals & Tips

Car Rental

To rent a car, a valid driver's license and a major credit card are necessary. Minimum age for car rental is typically 21.

All major companies at BOI.

Bicycle Rentals

Boise GreenBike is a seasonal bike-share program. Many independent shops offer hourly or daily rentals.

Great for Greenbelt exploration.

Driving Laws

Standard U.S. Driving laws apply. Seatbelt use is mandatory. Hands-free cell phone use while driving is often necessary by law.

Drive on the right side.

Walking & Cycling

Pedestrian Areas
  • Downtown Boise: Highly walkable, shops, restaurants, museums within easy reach.
  • North End & Hyde Park: Charming, tree-lined streets, local shops, cafes for leisurely walks.
  • Boise River Greenbelt: Paved pathway for 25 miles, scenic views, access to public art, great for walking, running, cycling.
Cycling Safety
  • Bicycle Infrastructure and Safety: Greenbelt is main dedicated cycling path, offering safe routes.
  • Helmets: Recommended for all cyclists, necessary by law for those under 18.
  • No-Go Areas: No specific "no-go" areas in typical tourist zones, but general urban caution applies.

Local Transport Overview

  • Tour Buses and Hop-on-Hop-off Services: Not standard, but local companies offer guided bus tours for specific attractions or regions.
  • Boat Taxis and Water Transportation: Not applicable for commercial use on the Boise River.
  • Cable Cars, Funiculars, or Unique Local Transport: Boise does not feature such systems; topography does not call for them.
  • Accessibility Services for Travelers with Mobility Needs: ValleyRide buses are fully accessible; many newer public buildings adhere to ADA guidelines.
  • It is advisable to contact specific venues or attractions in advance to confirm their accessibility features if you have particular mobility needs.
  • Recommended Apps for Navigation, Translation, and Local Services: Google Maps, Apple Maps, Uber, Lyft, local weather apps, Yelp, Google Translate.
  • Backup Solutions for Important Data: Use cloud storage services (e.g., Google Drive, Dropbox) or external hard drives/USB flash drives.
  • Personal Hygiene Essentials: Most common items readily available. Bring travel-sized versions of favorites if you have preferences or sensitivities.

Local Travel Wisdom

Boise welcomes exploration by foot or bicycle, especially along the scenic Greenbelt. Public transport (ValleyRide) covers main routes, and ride-sharing is readily available for direct trips.

Consider renting a car for trips outside the city center to explore Idaho's wider landscapes. Always check road conditions, specifically in winter.