Resources & References: Boise

Digital Planning Tools

Essential Apps

ValleyRide:
Public bus schedules, real-time tracking.
Uber/Lyft:
Ride-sharing services throughout the city.
Google Maps/Apple Maps:
Navigation, directions, and points of interest.
Yelp/Google Reviews:
Restaurant and service locator.
AllTrails:
Detailed trail information.

Useful Websites

Visit Boise:
Official tourism site (www.boise.org).
City of Boise:
Official city government site (www.cityofboise.org).
Idaho Travel & Tourism:
Statewide info (www.visitidaho.org).
Ridge to Rivers:
Foothills trail maps (www.ridgetorivers.org).
Bogus Basin:
Recreation area activities (www.bogusbasin.org).

Print Information

Guidebooks

Moon Idaho Travel Guide offers detailed state coverage.

Consider regional guides for the Pacific Northwest.

Detailed hiking maps for Ridge to Rivers trails.

Find Guidebooks

Local Narratives

"Basque Hotel" by Robert Laxalt for Basque life insights.

Books on Idaho history or local authors.

Available at independent bookstores like Rediscovered Books.

Publications

Boise Weekly: Alternative news and events publication.

Idaho Statesman: Daily newspaper for local listings.

Find free copies at local businesses.

Basic Emergency Contacts

Emergency Numbers

All Emergencies (Police, Fire, Ambulance): Dial 911.
Universal emergency number in the U.S.
Idaho Poison Control Center: +1-800-222-1222.
For suspected poisonings or drug overdoses.

Medical Facilities

St. Luke's Boise Medical Center: 190 E Bannock St.
Saint Alphonsus Regional Medical Center: 1055 N Curtis Rd.
Numerous urgent care clinics for non-emergencies.
Check local listings for nearest urgent care.

Further Exploration

Media Resources

Documentaries on Idaho history or culture.
"Idaho: The Movie" for tourism insights.
Films set in the region.
Podcasts about the Pacific Northwest.

Local Arts & Music

Explore local Boise bands and musicians.
Listen to music from Treefort Music Fest artists.
Discover local artists by visiting Freak Alley Gallery.
Visit the Boise Art Museum.

Online Connections

TripAdvisor forums for Boise.
Reddit (r/Boise) communities.
Local Facebook groups for specific interests.
Basque Cultural Center resources for Euskera.

Emergency & Safety

Critical Safety Information

Lost Passports & Documents

Contact your country's embassy or consulate immediately.
File a police report with the Boise Police Department.
Reach out to credit card companies for theft.
Contact your DMV for lost driver's licenses.

Medical Support

St. Luke's Boise Medical Center.
Saint Alphonsus Regional Medical Center.
Urgent Care clinics for non-emergencies.
Nearest pharmacy locations.

Natural Disaster Protocols

Wildfires: Monitor AirNow.gov for air quality.
Stay indoors if air quality is poor.
Earthquakes: "Drop, Cover, and Hold On."
Winter Storms: Avoid travel during severe weather.

Health Preparedness

Pre-Travel Health Steps

Consult your healthcare provider for routine vaccinations.
Carry sufficient prescription medications.
Assemble a Basic first-aid kit.

During-Travel Health Tips

Stay hydrated, especially in summer.
Use sunscreen and wear a hat outdoors.
Practice good hygiene.

Travel Documents

Passport & Visa Status

Passport valid for six months beyond travel.
U.S. Visa or ESTA application initiated.
Review entry requirements for your nationality.

Financial Safeguards

Notify bank/credit card companies of travel.
Consider diverse payment methods.
Familiarize with local currency usage.

Pre-Travel Essentials

Packing and Connectivity

Pack with Packing cubes for clothing organization.
Download offline maps and essential apps.
Charge electronics and portable chargers.
Consider an International SIM card or eSIM.

Home Security

Arrange mail and newspaper delivery cessation.
Secure pet care arrangements.
Inform a trusted contact of your itinerary.
Secure your home (check all windows and doors, set alarms).

Travel Best Practices

Arrival Strategy

Familiarize yourself with arrival procedures and transportation options.

Departure Logistics

Plan for timely airport arrival and souvenir shipping.

Seasonal Readiness

Check weather forecasts and prepare for Boise's distinct seasons.

Important Reminder

Emergency services are available by dialing 911. Be prepared with local hospital and clinic locations.

Destination Insights

Cultural Exploration

Basque Culture Experience

Language:
Learn a few phrases of Basque (Euskera).
Cultural Center:
Visit the Basque Museum and Cultural Center.
Cuisine:
Dine at local Basque restaurants.

Local Art & History

Art Exploration:
Explore Freak Alley Gallery.
Historic Sites:
Tour the Idaho State Capitol.
Performance Venues:
Discover local performance venues.

Outdoor Engagement

Greenbelt Adventures

Miles of scenic paths for cycling and walking along the Boise River.

Foothills Trails

Numerous trails for hiking with panoramic city views.

River Floating

A popular summer activity for a refreshing experience.

Planning Considerations

Accommodation Choices

Vacation rentals offer kitchens for meal savings.
Book high-demand accommodations months ahead.
Look for seasonal deals.

Dining & Entertainment

Explore happy hour specials (typically 4 PM - 6 PM).
Look for lunch specials and early bird dinners.
Reserve popular restaurants for weekend evenings.
Check local listings for live music.

Navigating Boise

Getting Around

Use ValleyRide for economical local travel.
Walk or bike pedestrian-friendly areas.
Car needed for wider exploration and day trips.
Utilize ride-sharing for convenience.

Discovering Attractions

Visit Old Idaho Penitentiary in mornings.
Greenbelt less busy on early mornings/weekdays.
Downtown attractions fewer people on weekdays.
Plan visits during off-peak hours.

Local Tip

Grouping attractions by proximity minimizes travel time. Dedicate a block of time to downtown, another to the North End.

Resources & References