City of Boise

Boise, deriving its name after the French word "Boisé", meaning "wooded", is the capital and the largest city in the state of Idaho. It is situated in a wide river valley at the foot of the famous Rocky Mountains, and with a population of 185,787 and a city area of 64 mi2, as per the Census Bureau estimates of 2000, it is regarded as the most populous city in the state.


When French-Canadian trappers finished crossing the territory's flat arrid plain, the forest by the river was a truly welcome sight. Therefore, they named it Boise, which means "wooded." The city itself was not founded until 1863 after the gold rush reached the area. Boise, Idaho's capital, is known as the city of Trees. The first government in Idaho was in Lewiston, but was moved to Boise in 1864 after being in Lewiston only one year.


The avenues for entertainment are plenty in the city, and include everything from Parks to Festivals, Shopping to Dining, and Museums to Art galleries. The must visit areas in the city include Julia Davis Park, the Idaho State Capitol, The O'Farrell Cabin, Boise Art Museum, Idaho Historical Museum, the Ahaveth Beth Israel Temple, and also the Boise Tower Square, if you want to shop for the best in the city.


The city also hosts major events throughout the year, such as Apple Blossom Festival, Gene Harris Jazz Festival, Idaho International Film Festival, Western Idaho Fair, The Boise River Festival, Oktoberfest, etc.