Home to the world-famous “Smurf Turf” blue football field at Boise State, Boise, ID is a lively and outdoorsy college town nestled against the foothills in southwestern Idaho. This city, which has a population of some 240,000 residents, has all the amenities of a charming mountain town — without the steep price. Boise continues to be relatively affordable and offers a little something for everyone, whether that’s fly-fishing, attending a Division 1 college football game, skiing or eating at a James Beard-nominated restaurant — or, more likely, all of the above!
Favorite Place to Feast: Chandlers Steakhouse, a special occasion restaurant known for its steaks, seafood and chocolate souffle.
Beloved Beverage: The huckleberry milkshake at Fanci Freez, which also offers an adventurous huckleberry burger.
Rooftop Bar: Reef, which has a fun atmosphere and lots of live music, or Zee’s Rooftop, which has some of the best views in town.
Why Your Pet Will Love It, Too: The team at dog-friendly hangout Meriwether Cider Co. loves dogs so much they created their own @dogsofmeriwether Instagram account to feature all the precious pooches who relax with their humans in the cidery’s taproom.