Eight Facts I Bet You Don’t Know about Boise

Pronunciation Puzzles: Sound Like a Local

Navigating Boise’s streets is one thing; pronouncing them correctly is another adventure. Impress your friends by mastering these local tongue-twisters:

• Chinden Boulevard: A blend of “Chinese” and “garden,” reflecting the area’s history of Chinese gardens. Pronounced “CHIN-din.”

• Ustick Road: Named after Dr. Harlan P. Ustick, a German immigrant. It’s “YOU-stick,” not “U-stik.”

• Owyhee Street: An older English spelling for Hawaii, named in honor of Hawaiian trappers. Say “oh-WHY-hee.”

• Nez Perce Street: Names after the Nez Perce Indian Tribe, who once considered Idaho part of their territory. The name comes from a French trapper’s misidentification of other native people with nose piercings as part of the Nez Perce tribe.  Pronounced:  “NEZ-purse”

Quirky Intersections: Where Streets Get Cheeky

Boise’s street names can lead to some amusing intersections that might make you do a double-take:

• Emerald & Palace: A nod to the Wizard of Oz’s Emerald City.

• Maple & Syrup: A sweet spot that sounds like breakfast.

• Greenleaf & High: An intersection that might make you chuckle.

These playful pairings add a touch of humor to your daily commute.

Freak Alley Gallery: Art in Unexpected Places

Tucked away in downtown Boise, Freak Alley Gallery is Northwest’s largest outdoor mural gallery. This ever-evolving space showcases impressive street art from local artists, making it a must-visit spot for art enthusiasts and curious wanderers alike.

Basque Block: A Taste of the Old Country

Did you know that Boise boasts the second-largest Basque population outside of Spain? The Basque Block is a vibrant cultural district where you can immerse yourself in Basque heritage, enjoy traditional cuisine, and experience unique festivals.

Geothermal Heating: A Warm Welcome

Boise is home to one of the largest geothermal heating systems in the world. Over 20 miles of underground pipelines distribute geothermal heat to warm around 6 million square feet of buildings throughout the city, including the State Capitol.

Unique Housing Facts: From Prisons to Penthouses

Boise’s real estate has its quirks too. The Old Idaho Penitentiary, operational from 1872 to 1973, now serves as a historical site where visitors can explore the cells and learn about its infamous inmates. On a lighter note, the city has seen a surge in converting old industrial buildings into chic lofts, blending historical architecture with modern living.

Boise’s Booming Wine Scene: A Sip of the Unexpected

When you think of Boise, wine might not be the first thing that comes to mind, but the city and its surrounding areas are home to a thriving wine industry. The Snake River Valley, Idaho’s first American Viticultural Area (AVA) established in 2007, encompasses over 8,000 square miles in southwestern Idaho and parts of eastern Oregon. This region boasts a unique terroir, with vineyards planted at elevations up to 3,000 feet, contributing to the production of high-quality wines.

Just a short drive from downtown Boise, the Sunnyslope Wine Trail in Caldwell features 17 wineries and vineyards, offering a delightful day trip through Idaho’s wine country. For those who prefer to stay within the city, Boise’s urban wine scene is flourishing, with several tasting rooms and wineries offering exceptional experiences. Here are a few local favorites:

• Cinder Wines: Located in Garden City, Cinder Wines is known for its meticulously crafted wines, including bold reds and crisp whites. Their modern tasting room provides a stylish setting to enjoy their diverse selection.

• Telaya Wine Co.: Situated along the Boise River, Telaya offers a serene environment to savor their handcrafted wines. Their riverfront patio is perfect for relaxing with a glass of their signature Syrah or Viognier.

• 3 Horse Ranch Vineyards: Located in the gorgeous setting of the Eagle Foothills, experience an unforgettable tasting at their wine tasting room or outdoor restaurant.  They use 100% Idaho grown grapes and are highly recommended by the locals.

Exploring these wineries not only offers a taste of Idaho’s burgeoning wine industry but also provides a unique way to experience the local culture and community.

Fun Fact: The Blue Turf

Boise State University is renowned for its iconic blue football field, known as the “Smurf Turf.” It was the first non-green turf in the country, with Boise State even trademarking the term.

Boise’s charm lies in its blend of rich history, cultural diversity, and a touch of the unexpected. Whether you’re a newcomer or a lifelong resident, there’s always something new to discover in this dynamic city.  Would you like to know more facts about Boise?  Download our free relocation guide or set up a no-obligatino relocation consultation below.