Thinking of Relocating to Boise? Places to stay while you vist (part I)

by Aaron Catt on September 26, 2008

So, you’ve decided to check out Boise, and why wouldn’t you?  It’s a progressive town that’s growing in size but has  strong roots in community.  Whether you’re into the outdoors, family & community or entertainment and the arts, there will be something for you to sink your teeth into.  I recommend that people who are relocating to Boise come and visit and get a better idea of how the town is laid out and learn a bit about the different areas; the North End, Southeast Boise, the Bench etc.  The best place to stay during that type of visit, or any for that matter is Downtown Boise.

Like many cities, the interstate near Boise, I-84 is lined with inexpensive hotels where you can grab a cheap night of rest, but if you really want to enjoy your stay and take part in what Boise has to offer, you should probably stay close to downtown.  The atmosphere is friendly and safe unless you are wearing an Oklahoma State Football jersey, or a University of Idaho sweatshirt.  There are great places to shop and some really nice places to eat, and fortunately getting back to the airport from downtown usually only takes less than 10-15 minutes, which of course, the hotel would be happy to provide you with transit.

Even as a local, there are a few places I’ve stayed in downtown Boise and have had a great experience at each.  Of course, I am usually not so interested in hanging out in hotel rooms since I like to be outside, but having a comfortable bed, a hot shower and good service is also a nice treat.

Hotels in or near Downtown Boise

Once you’ve made your arrangements and have flopped your suitcase on the bed, you may want to dress accordingly.  Boise is a 4 season city with distinct weather in summer, spring, winter and fall.  If your traveling up from the hot sun in Arizona, be prepared for cool to cold nights in the fall with cool mornings and warm days.  In the summer be ready for the 90′s and in the winter, don’t forget your coat, gloves and boots.  While it may snow down in the valley, it rarely sticks for long periods of time, so, after a good snowfall expect it to be a bit slushy.

Renting a Car

If you are here doing research for your relocation, I have had clients who rent their own car and others who don’t.  It’s up to you.  If you’re staying downtown, you won’t need wheels to get you to your lunch, but you may want to do a little exploring on your own.

I have had clients up from San Diego who stayed downtown and I toured them through the Treasure Valley (Boise and surrounding cities) on day one showing them the hot spots.  On the next day, I picked them up and we toured all of the MLS listings we pulled and then on the last day went back through our short list and then dropped them off at the airport.  If you do decide you’d rather rent a car, you can make arrangements at the airport with all of the typical rental companies.

If you need further information about places to stay or making relocation arrangements just let me know, I can help!

Next up: Where to Eat

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{ 1 comment… read it below or add one }

James Canon April 18, 2011 at 5:29 pm

There is quite a bit to do in this town… there’s the Old State Penitentiary with the Idaho Botanical Gardens just outside its walls, the World Center for Birds of Prey, Zoo Boise, the Morrison Knudsen Nature Center, and the Discovery Center. Boise nightlife is also lively, with a number of bars and clubs in the downtown area. In the Meridian area, there is also Wahooz Family Fun Zone (miniature golf, go-karts, laser tag, arcade, bumper boats).
That’s just the tip of the iceberg!

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