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History

Boise is the capital city of the state of Idaho, located in the western United States. The area that is now Boise has a long history, dating back over 8,000 years to when Native American tribes first inhabited the region.

In the early 19th century, the region was explored by fur traders, and in the 1860s, gold was discovered in the Boise Basin, which led to a rush of settlers to the area. In 1863, Boise City was founded as a supply and transportation center for the mining towns in the surrounding area.

Boise grew rapidly during the late 19th century as a result of its location as a transportation hub and the growth of the mining industry. The city was officially incorporated in 1864 and became the capital of Idaho in 1865.

In the early 20th century, Boise experienced a period of growth and modernization, with the construction of new buildings, roads, and other infrastructure. The city also became a center for agriculture, with a focus on potato farming.

During World War II, Boise played an important role in the war effort, serving as a training center for military personnel. After the war, the city continued to grow and develop, with new industries such as technology and manufacturing contributing to the local economy.

Today, Boise is a vibrant and growing city with a population of over 200,000 people. It is known for its high quality of life, outdoor recreational opportunities, and thriving downtown area.

Top Tourist Attractions

Boise, Idaho, is a city that offers a variety of attractions for tourists. Here are some of the top tourist attractions in Boise:

• Boise River Greenbelt: This scenic trail stretches for 25 miles along the Boise River and offers beautiful views of the city and the river. It's a popular spot for hiking, biking, and walking.
• Idaho State Capitol: Completed in 1920, this neoclassical-style building houses the government of Idaho. Visitors can take guided tours of the building and learn about Idaho's history.
• Boise Art Museum: This museum features a collection of contemporary art, as well as rotating exhibits throughout the year.
• Old Idaho Penitentiary: This historic prison, which operated from 1872 to 1973, offers tours that allow visitors to learn about life inside the prison and its history.
• Basque Block: Boise has a large Basque community, and the Basque Block offers a variety of restaurants, shops, and events celebrating Basque culture.
• World Center for Birds of Prey: This facility offers educational programs and exhibits about birds of prey, including eagles, hawks, and falcons.
• Zoo Boise: This small zoo features a variety of animals, including lions, zebras, and giraffes.
• Idaho Botanical Garden: This garden features a variety of plants and flowers, as well as events throughout the year such as concerts and classes.
• Discovery Center of Idaho: This interactive science museum offers exhibits and programs for all ages, including hands-on activities and demonstrations.
• Bogus Basin Mountain Recreation Area: This ski resort offers skiing, snowboarding, and other winter sports during the winter months, as well as hiking, mountain biking, and other activities during the summer months.

Climate

Boise has a semi-arid continental climate with four distinct seasons. Summers are hot and dry, with average high temperatures in July reaching the mid-90s°F (about 35°C). Winters are cold and snowy, with average low temperatures in January dropping to the mid-20s°F (about -4°C).

Spring and fall are mild, with comfortable temperatures and occasional rain showers. The average annual precipitation in Boise is around 12 inches (about 305mm), with the majority of precipitation occurring during the winter and early spring months.

Due to its location in a high desert region, Boise experiences large temperature swings between day and night, with temperatures often dropping by 30°F (about 17°C) or more overnight.

Boise also experiences occasional extreme weather events, such as thunderstorms, hail, and high winds, particularly during the summer months. Additionally, the city is located in an area at risk for wildfires, particularly during dry, hot periods.

Geography

The city is situated in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains and is bordered by the Boise River to the north and the Boise National Forest to the northeast.

The Boise River runs through the city and is a popular destination for outdoor recreation such as fishing, rafting, and kayaking. The Boise Greenbelt, a 25-mile (about 40-kilometer) trail system that runs along the river, is a popular spot for walking, jogging, and biking.

Boise is also located near several important geographic features, including the Snake River Plain to the south, which is a large flat valley that stretches across southern Idaho, and the Owyhee Mountains to the southwest, which are a rugged range of mountains that mark the boundary between Idaho, Oregon, and Nevada.

Overall, Boise's geography offers a wide range of outdoor activities and opportunities for exploration and adventure.