The old adage of “location, location, location” is just one reason why Idaho as a whole has been recently making headlines as a blossoming national icon. The Gem State’s idyllic intersection of desert, mountains, and river oases creates an environment that offers something for everybody, while also quietly resting in close proximity to the urban centers of Seattle, Portland, and Salt Lake City.
But Idaho’s capital is making a name for itself for much more than its beauty and convenience.
With the goal of becoming the most livable city in the country, Boise is a bustling metropolis that has changed dramatically in the past decade or so, rising from a “bait and bullet” town, as it was called by the New York Times, to a thriving center for art, green initiatives, and community development. But it is in its uniquely isolated setting that Boise has truly found its niche as a hip, urban hub that is being praised by nearly every nationally published top ten list.
Idaho is a one-of-a-kind haven all on its own, but Boise as a blossoming metropolis offers everything you could ask for in a modern community – superb dining, quality education, entrepreneurial initiative, and so much more. But Boise does so without the high cost of living, over-development, or pollution that one finds in its more populated urban counterparts. Whether it’s the City of Trees’ unique festivals, incredible art scene, or vibrant nightlife, Boise is a fantastic place to visit or call home. So without further ado, here are 10 reasons (and accolades) that prove Boise is the best city in America:
A Getaway: Boise was ranked as one of the top five "Best Travel-Worthy State Capitals" by USA Today for 2016.
Along with Juneau, Carson City, and others, Boise was chosen as one of the country's best destination capital cities. With a combination of big city sophistication -- wine bars, bistros, and a modern cityscape -- as well a plethora of recreation and art offerings for the modern traveler, Boise ranked so highly because of its proximity and cultural offerings.
A Recreation Paradise: Boise was named one of the 10 "Best Big Cities for Active Families" by Outside Magazine.
What isn't there to do in Boise? With more than 4,300 acres of open space, a whitewater park, and a ski retreat just outside of town, every corner of Boise is just steps away from outdoor fun. The 25-mile-long Greenbelt, which follows the Boise River, connects vibrant riverside parks with numerous biking and walking paths. The river itself is an all-ages summertime haven for floaters. In the winter, Bogus Basin, just 16 miles away from downtown, offers alpine and cross-country skiing trails. Not to mention the dozens of hiking trails that crisscross the outskirts of town, including the family-favorite hike up to Table Rock to overlook downtown.
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A Cultural Hub: Boise recently nabbed the #2 spot as one of the "Most Artistic Mid-Sized Cities in America."
Winners were selected based on the numbers and influence of museums, art schools, and performing arts centers in the community. Boasting everything from the Boise Art Museum, Freak alley, and MING Gallery, to public art walks, to the Boise Philharmonic and Idaho Shakespeare Festival, it's safe to say that Boise has earned its distinction.
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An Economic Powerhouse: Boise was named on the top ten list of cities with job growth potential.
As one of Forbes' top "Fastest-Growing Cities in America," it makes sense that the population boom would also impact job creation as well, with tech and competitive industries like Micron and HP creating a solid foundation for economic stability. Boise has also been named as one of the country's "Top Cities for Entrepreneurs and Freelancers."
Compact, walkable, and eco-friendly, Boise's downtown scene is unique in all the right ways, with just the right blend of charm, small businesses, and modern conveniences.
A Growing Market: Boise has been repeatedly named as one of the "Hottest Housing Markets" for 2016.
Zillow placed Boise at #5, but Boise has also ranked in USA Today's Top 100 list for overall livability, and #6 on U.S. News and World Report's list of "Best Places to Live." A friendly, hospitable environment and excellent urban planning are just a few of the reasons.
A Caring Community: Not only was Boise recently chosen as the "Most Caring City in America," it also ranks 2nd in the nation for volunteerism and community outreach.
Along with Anchorage, Madison, Honolulu, and others, Boise was ranked according to its community initiatives, its caring for at-risk and homeless populations, and its concern for the local workforce.
A Green Oasis: An analysis of thirteen different eco-conscious metrics ranked Boise in the "Top 20 Greenest American Cities."
Based on the energy sources, transportation options, local lifestyle, and a variety of other factors, Boise ranked highly as a city that encourages an environmentally friendly lifestyle. Primarily, Boise as a bicycle-friendly community and the city's use of geothermal energy gave the capital a boost.
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An Educational Leader: Boise has been repeatedly ranked as a top ten college town, among other accolades.
Boise also ranks #2 as an "Up and Coming City for New Grads," and as one of TIME Magazine's "Best Towns for College Football."
But since words and accolades can only say so much, check out this drone footage of the City of Trees:
These are just a taste of the numerous national awards Boise has won, but coming from a state with such hardworking American roots, it makes sense that Boise has continued the trend in a new, modern way. It truly is a markedly livable city where one can wine, dine, and thrive centrally in the most beautiful state on earth.
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