| Official name | City of Boise |
| Type | Capital city |
| Boise with the foothills in the background | |
| State | Idaho |
| Country | United States |
| Established | 1863 |
| Population | 240,000 |
| Area (km²) | 214 |
| Time zone | Mountain (MST/MDT) |
| ZIP code(s) | 83701–83799 |
| Area code(s) | 208, 986 |
Boise is the capital and most populous city of Idaho. Known for its high quality of life, active outdoor culture, and growing tech industry, Boise is one of the fastest-growing cities in the United States.
Overview
- Population: ~240,000 (over 800,000 in the metro area)
- Nickname: The City of Trees
- Founded: 1863 during the gold rush era
- Geography: Located in southwestern Idaho along the Boise River and near the foothills of the Rocky Mountains
Landmarks and Attractions
- Idaho State Capitol Building
- Boise River Greenbelt – 25 miles of scenic biking and walking trails
- Old Idaho Penitentiary
- Boise Art Museum and Basque Block
- Camel’s Back Park and Table Rock Trail
Economy
Boise has a diverse and growing economy centered around:
- Technology and semiconductors – home to Micron Technology
- Agriculture and food processing
- Education and government
- Healthcare and outdoor recreation
Culture and Lifestyle
- Known for a strong outdoors and wellness culture
- Home to one of the largest Basque communities in the U.S.
- Hosts the Treefort Music Fest, Art in the Park, and Boise River rafting culture
- A mix of suburban calm and urban amenities
Education and Research
- Boise State University – known for its blue football field
- Growth in engineering, environmental sciences, and public policy
- Community-focused libraries, museums, and cultural programs
Transportation
- Boise Airport (BOI)
- Valley Regional Transit – bus system
- Highly bikeable city with green infrastructure
- Close access to major highways and mountain passes
Fun Facts
- The name “Boise” comes from the French word for “wooded” or “tree-lined”
- Boise was once part of the Oregon Trail and a key fur trading route
- The city’s “Freak Alley” is one of the largest outdoor mural galleries in the Northwest