Culinary and Cultural Tour of Boise

Your culinary and cultural adventure begins in the heart of downtown Boise at the beautiful Cecil D. Andrus Park. As guests gather beneath the shade of century-old trees, your friendly local guide will share an overview of the day ahead—highlighting Boise’s unique history, vibrant food scene, and hidden gems. It’s the perfect spot to meet your fellow explorers, snap your first photos, and get excited for the delicious journey to come.

Just steps away, your first cultural stop is the Idaho State Capitol Building—the only state capitol in the U.S. heated by geothermal energy! Here, you’ll take in the majestic architecture, hear fascinating stories about Idaho’s past and present, and get a deeper sense of how this city blends heritage with innovation. This iconic landmark sets the stage for a tour that’s as enriching as it is flavorful.

Get ready to kick off your culinary journey with a crispy, golden introduction to Idaho’s most iconic crop—at Boise Fry Company, fries are the main dish and burgers are the side. You'll sample a variety of freshly cut, locally sourced potatoes (think Russet, Purple, and Yukon Gold) fried to perfection and paired with an array of house-made sauces. It’s a delicious deep dive into Idaho’s potato pride—elevated and unforgettable.

Step back in time with a visit to Boise’s crown jewel of historic architecture—The Egyptian Theatre. Built in 1927 and inspired by the discovery of King Tut’s tomb, this iconic venue dazzles with its ornate Egyptian Revival design, intricate hieroglyphics, and rich color palette. As your guide shares stories of its Hollywood premieres and decades of performances, you’ll discover how this landmark has remained a vibrant centerpiece of Boise’s cultural scene for nearly a century.

Discover one of Boise’s most unique cultural treasures with a visit to the vibrant Basque Block. Home to one of the largest Basque communities in the U.S., this historic district offers a fascinating glimpse into the traditions, stories, and resilience of the Basque people. You'll explore the Basque Museum & Cultural Center, housed in the original Cyrus Jacobs-Uberuaga boarding house, where your guide will highlight the rich heritage, language, and culinary customs that have helped shape Boise’s identity.

Savor the bold flavors of Basque country at Ansots Basque Chorizos, a family-owned gem serving up generations-old recipes with heart and heritage. You’ll enjoy handcrafted Basque chorizos made with traditional spices and locally sourced ingredients—perfectly grilled and bursting with flavor. This stop is a delicious homage to Boise’s Basque roots and a must-taste experience on your cultural culinary journey.

Wander through the charming streets of Old Boise along North 6th Street, where the city's frontier roots come to life through its beautifully preserved architecture. As you stroll past iconic brick buildings and former saloons, your guide will share stories of Boise’s early days—from railroad booms to pioneer entrepreneurs. It’s a walk through time that reveals how this historic district helped shape the city’s modern spirit.

Experience Boise’s creative pulse at Freak Alley Gallery, the largest outdoor mural gallery in the Northwest. Tucked between city blocks, this ever-evolving alleyway bursts with vibrant street art, graffiti, and large-scale murals from local and regional artists. As your guide shares the story behind its grassroots beginnings, you’ll see how Freak Alley has become a powerful symbol of Boise’s artistic expression and community pride.

Indulge in elevated Italian-inspired flavors at Acero, one of downtown Boise’s newest culinary hotspots. Known for its bold, creative dishes and stylish ambiance, Acero offers a fresh take on traditional Northern Italian cuisine. During this stop, you’ll sample a chef-selected bite that showcases their passion for vibrant ingredients, global influences, and artful presentation—an unforgettable taste of Boise’s evolving food scene.

End your tour on a sweet note at The Chocolat Bar, a locally loved artisan chocolate shop in the heart of Boise. Here, you’ll indulge in handcrafted confections made with high-quality ingredients and creative flavor pairings—from rich truffles to smooth caramels. It’s the perfect final stop to satisfy your sweet tooth and celebrate Boise’s flair for small-batch, big-flavor delights.