The Most Beautiful Cities In Idaho
Most look to larger states for relocation or tourism, generally further south with metropolitan areas, but, one must ensure they do not overlook the loads of summertime fun the northwest can offer! Famous for its potatoes but home to much more than that, Idaho is by far one of the states with the brightest future. Idaho is home to cities that go from modern, and cultural with a history rich in music and theatre to cities that act as the perfect summertime lakeside retreat! Keep reading to learn why Idaho should be on your bucket list!
Boise
Inhabited by the Bannock and Shoshone indigenous nations who protected sacred sites like Eagle Rock, settled in the valley in the winters, and utilized hot springs, Boise has an exciting history and is one of the most beautiful cities in Idaho. The indigenous peoples of the area gathered with other tribes to trade and rendezvous annually and catch salmon in the Boise river, which would aid in sustaining the tribes throughout the seasons. The Boise Valley area primarily belonged to the Yahandeka indigenous band. There was very little settler contact within the region, up until the discovery of gold in the region fueled the desire of settler Americans to found what is now the city of Boise, but this came with great suffering for the indigenous peoples of the region, introducing an "Idaho's Trail of Tears."
Today, Boise is a gorgeous small city with hot and dry summers accompanied by moderate winters. A handful of highrises gives Boise a recognizable yet quaint cityscape; modern and comforting. Key booming sectors are the high-tech industry, manufacturing, and agriculture (famously, potatoes). In terms of culture Boise is a hub for jazz, theatre, and indie. Boise hosts a jazz festival given the moniker of The Gene Harris Jazz festival each spring; a festival worth attending. Boise is also an epicenter for Basque culture with festivals such as Jaialdi, and vibrant sections of downtown like Basque Block. Other attractions include the Boise River Greenbelt trails, Zoo Boise, and Idaho Aquarium.
Nampa
Nampa, a gorgeous city, dubbed The Heart of the Treasure Valley is Idaho's third biggest city. Nampa's history after indigenous peoples began with the building of a rail line from Granger, Wyoming to Huntington, Oregon which passed through present-day Nampa. Eventually, Nampa became an important railway town with more lines springing from the city.
Today, Nampa is quaint yet entertaining with a 10,000-seat amphitheater, and the Hispanic Cultural Centre of Idaho for Nampa's sizeable Hispanic population to celebrate Hispanic heritage, celebrations, and holidays. Other attractions include the Nampa Train Depot Museum, Brandt Center, Civic Center, the annual Festival of the Arts, Warhawk Air Museum, and a wonderful farmers market.
Meridian
The stunning second-largest city in Idaho is the wonderful city of Meridian, accommodating 117,635 souls. This small city has a bright future and loads of experiences to offer new visitors! Meridian's history after the indigenous reign was as a farming community, which persistently grew from there. Meridian has hot and dry summers and kind winters with minimal snowfall.
The city manages 17 beautiful public parks which are host to free outdoor movies in the summer months. In the surrounding area, there is a handmade lake with a beach, Snake River Birds of Prey National Conservation Area, "The Village" which is an outdoor mall and tourist hub, Linder Farms for its petting zoo, corn maze, and inflatable slides, and more! With its close proximity to Boise, it is a must-stop visit when in the area.
Idaho Falls
Home to 66,898 people, Idaho Falls is a scenic city hugging the Snake River and the greenbelt which is a system of adventurous trails with stunning parks and majestic waterfalls. The Art Museum of Idaho nestled on the riverside makes for a wonderful daytime excursion. If travelers love animals, the Idaho Falls Zoo features lions, sloths, penguins, and a petting zoo. The small yet amusing zoo is a great addition to a tourist's itinerary. Idaho Falls is also home to the Wes Deist Aquatic Centre, Civic Auditorium, Sand Creek Golf Course, Pinecrest Golf Course, and Sage Lake Golf Course. The city of Idaho Falls offers a calm weekend full of nature, animals, culture, and history.
Caldwell
Indigenous tribes traveled to the banks of the Boise River for centuries for trading fairs and rendezvous. Later on, the trail left by the thousands of footsteps which lingered after the many trips taken to the area by indigenous peoples like the Shoshone, Bannock, Northern Paiute, Nez Perce, and more led European, Brazilian, American, and Australian explorers to their new settlements in the Oregon Territory. The discovery of gold in the region was like a beacon to those looking to exploit the area's resources. Early settlers established ranches, thanks to the terrain, ferries, and freighting businesses.
Today, Caldwell holds a wonderful annual Indian Creek Festival every September since 2003 and a spectacular Winter Wonderland light show in November. The lovely town also has a city pool, two skateparks, Purple Sage, and Fairview Golf Courses as well as 12 city parks.
Pocatello
Named after the great Chief Pocatello, leader of the Shoshone peoples of the 19th century and partially sitting on Fort Hall Indian Reservation, the exquisite town of Pocatello is an interesting stop for a road trip through Idaho. Before the 1805 Lewis and Clark Expeditions through Ohio, the Shoshone and Bannock tribes inhabited the region of Pocatello for hundreds of years. The area harbored countless riches and resources, drawing in fur traders to the region. The biggest employer of the region is Idaho State University which is home to Holt Arena; a multipurpose indoor stadium. The largest city in Bannock County, with beautiful scenery that travelers will adore, a rich indigenous history, and amazing culture for sports, Pocatello is one of the most beautiful cities in Idaho!
Coeur D'Alene
A satellite city of Spokane and situated on one of the most beautiful lakes in the US by the same name; Coeur D'Alene is a popular destination for a variety of exciting water sports. This wonderful city is a must-stop locale that is home to a plethora of activities, excursions, and cultural experiences. For nature lovers, Coeur Dalenes Canfield Mountain Natural Area and Coeur d’Alene National Forest are sure to impress with beautiful lush forests, majestic towering mountains, and active wildlife. Another green area in the beautiful city is McEuen Park, which offers lovely recreation trails, a large playground for the kids to explore, a nearby off-leash dog area, and a splash pad perfect for those hot and dry Idaho summer days.
Conclusion
Idaho is an underrated state in the Northwest United States, home to exquisitely beautiful natural scenery like lakes, rivers, mountains, valleys, trails, and forests. Perfect for those looking for an experience in nature in cities like Coeur d'Alene or enriching cultural experiences in larger cities like Boise; packed with music, theatre, culture, heritage, indigenous history, and economic opportunity. Although smaller than most states and home to a lower density, Idaho has so much room to grow and allows for nature to flourish; only making the future progress of the state far more fruitful. For those looking for a fun daytime summer experience, Coeur d'Alene is a great spot full of nature combined with modern activities like watersports. Make sure you do not overlook Idaho on your next summer excursion or road trip!
