One great thing about living in the Northwest US is the surplus of microbreweries. So many great local beers to taste with great flavor and fun atmospheres. Boise breweries definitely hold their own when it comes to keeping up with the big players in Portland, Bend and Seattle. One brewery here in Boise definitely stands out and isn’t afraid to craft some adventurous flavors, Mad Swede Brewing Company.
The owners are two engineers from Hewlett Packard who decided to take their home brewing engineering to the public. With Owner/Brewmaster Jerry Larson aka The Mad Swede behind the brewing magic it’s a brewery one doesn’t easily forget. With Viking scenes painted around, games on every table, local food trucks nightly and Torby, the Brewery’s furry mascot running around it makes for a memorable evening out.
For us personally, the beer stood up to some of the great brews we had in Belgium and France, but the atmosphere was really laid back, fun and you feel like a local there. Dogs and kids are welcome too. For those moving to Boise or thinking of it don’t worry you won’t miss your back-home brewery with Mad Swede in town.
David and Jennifer Louis are Real Estate and Relocation Specialists for The Treasure Valley. They love introducing newly relocated families to the great local spots in town and showing them great neighborhoods and communities throughout The Valley. Would you like to learn more about Boise and it’s growing local businesses? Feel free to contact us and we’ll be happy to show you around.
One of the major things that we loved about Boise when we moved here was all the outdoor activities and races. We signed up for FitOne and a couple of other 10K races when we moved here, but because of a past ankle issue, I needed special shoes that could support my ankle during a race. I asked around where to find a good running store and was only given the name, Bandanna Running.
Bandanna Running is unlike any running store we’ve ever been in. With hands on service by the owners and their team I knew immediately I was in good hands. Come to find out one of the Owners, Rich Harris is one of the fastest Milers in US History and has a “wall of history” that just blew our mind. Everything you need for a run (or walk) and more you can find in this store. You would think I was a professional athlete when I left by how much attention and service I received during my visit. Every staff member is truly interested in helping their customer find the right shoe or gear for their needs.
Located in Downtown Boise on 5th and Main St. for over 20 years, it brings not only an amazing history, but a true sense of what to expect of local businesses in Boise. They’re open Mon-Sun and you will usually find Owner, Rich Harris there most days. If he’s not, don’t worry you’ll be in good hands with Owner, Shannon Harris or a member of their expert team and their mascot, Rocket
The Linen District – Boise’s Hippest Neighborhoods
Did you just move to Boise and are invited to a fabulous costume party? Well, that happened to us when we moved here. Not knowing where to find a wig and silk gloves last minute we headed downtown and discovered the hip, Boise Linen District and happened to land on a fabulous boutique called Crazy Neighbor. This boutique offers a unique blend of eclectic accessories, haberdashery, wigs, makeup, and costumes.
If the unique items, ambiance, and great service aren’t enough the history is pretty incredible. Created and owned by Star Moxley, a renowned costume designer for Boise’s Shakespeare Festival. Moxley owned a successful costume shop in Boise for years and years. After selling it she created Crazy Neighbor to bring a unique twist to the theatre to Boise, not to mention the very much needed men’s accessories. Hats, socks, ties just to name a few are some of the fabulous men’s items you can find here. Women can also find hats, wigs, scarves, sunglasses, jewelry, and more in this fun boutique.
If you haven’t had a chance to check out Boise’s Linen District come by and don’t miss it. There’s not only great shopping but great restaurants and cafes as well. For example one of my favorites, Big City Coffee for a hearty, homecooked breakfast or pastry with delicious coffee. Don’t forget The Modern, hotel and bar, a fantastic spot for a night out with friends. Another great spot in the Linen District, is Rhodes Skate Park, a one-of-a-kind, skate park for kids, teens and adults.
Discover more about the Treasure Valley’s neighborhoods, activities, and of course real estate trends on the Boise and Beyond Blog. Email, [email protected] to subscribe.
Jennifer Louis, Boise Area Real Estate Expert is a relocation specialist for Boise and the Treasure Valley. Helping hundreds succeed in finding their perfect home while simultaneously assisting homeowners to prepare and sell their homes.