Damkier's Travels: Boise

Downtown Boise from State Capitol

It is somewhat fitting that a California boy visits Boise, Idaho. This state capitol of one the lesser visited states is now home to many transplants from California, Arizona, and other western states including one of my good college friends. I took advantage of this and flew nonstop to Boise to visit for a few days in July. Previously, I drove through eastern Idaho heading towards Yellowstone, but this was my first visit to the capitol.

Botanical Gardens next to Old Penitentiary

Boise is a rather small city compared to many metropolitan areas, but the recent spectacular growth is quickly converting the small farming community into a booming urban area. The region is mainly hilly grassland with typical dry western conditions. The beautiful Boise River flows through the city and the valley and is host to a popular tubing trip which me and my friend took great advantage of on a warm sunny Sunday. After a cold shock, we floated down the river enjoying the natural and human scenery for over two hours.

Idaho State Capitol

The state capitol of Idaho is in Boise and is a rather large and ornate building that dominates the city. The ratio of legislators to citizens is very low in Idaho compared to other states. Historically a democrat stronghold, most of the state is dominated by modern conservative republicans with a feisty western attitude. A lot of the state history is documented in the capitol and showcases a surprisingly progressive past. It was refreshing to enter and wander without the usual security concerns in other states.

Laura Potato Fries from Boise Fry Company

Potatoes are still king in Idaho. They are everywhere including many special varietals beyond baked and new. A local fast food chain - Boise Fry Company - has several varieties deep fried with many dipping sauces including the unique local fry sauce. Farming still dominates the area as land is converted from crops to new homes, sometimes surrounding the lone hold out farmer. Many people are moving here to escape the city while actually bringing most of it with them. In a few years, Boise will be similar to Sacramento or Albuquerque.

Biscuit and Gravy at Goldy's

It is hard to recommend visiting Boise, but the quaint charm of a small farming town is quickly turning into a new home for many people. The city is growing with the normal growing pains, but many people enjoy the atmosphere and brought their Thai food and gourmet coffee with them. Like many western cities, Boise has a lot of travelers and transplants looking for a better life along side the generations of potato farmers who made this sleepy valley famous. Please enjoy the rest of my photos below.