Browsing Tag

Boise

Whether you are visiting Boise for a weekend or are a current resident looking for some new activities, there is no shortage of fun and unique things to do in the Boise area. With a lively downtown area, nature surrounding, and running through the middle of town, as well as unique historical and cultural attractions, there is a little something for everyone in Idaho’s Capitol.

Explore the Boise River and Greenbelt

One of the best features of Boise is the Boise River flowing right through the downtown area. In the summer months, you can float the river for free (or rent a raft if you need one). Starting at Barber Park and ending at Anne Morrison Park, the float takes about 2-4 hours depending on the time of year. If staying dry is more your style, you can also bike along the Boise Greenbelt, a 25-mile long bike path that runs parallel to the river that has numerous parks along the way. Right next to the Greenbelt is the Boise Zoo which is great for children and adults alike.

Go on a hike

You’re never far from a good hike when you’re in Boise. The most popular of all the hikes is the famed Table Rock Trail. The trailhead starts at The Old Idaho Penitentiary Site (more on that later), and is a 3.7 mile out and back hike. The trail is fairly steep, so if you’re going in the summer months, try to go early to beat the heat or later in the day to enjoy a wonderful sunset overlooking the city. If you are wanting to take in the views without the strain of a steep hike, there is a road that leads up to the top of table rock, you can find directions here.

If you are wanting to hike with a little less foot traffic, Camel’s Back Park is another great option, although this one can still be fairly busy in the summertime. Military Reserve is a good easy option that features a dog park, bike park, and stream nearby. The 14 Tram Trail Trailhead is another gorgeous hike with numerous options branching off of it, this is heavily trafficked by mountain bikers so just be aware.

Explore some history

One of the underrated parts of Boise is its historical attractions. As mentioned earlier, The Old Idaho State Penitentiary Site is a wonderful historical tour experience. The penitentiary opened its doors in 1872 but is now used to educate people about the history of our prison system, notorious inmates, as well as an in-depth tour of the inner-workings of the old penitentiary.

The Basque Museum & Culture Center isn’t something you would expect to run into in downtown Boise. The Basque Center offers people to explore the history of the Basque people and their heritage. They offer guided tours, classes, and events on a regular basis. If you are wanting to just explore yourself you are more than welcome to, you can even get a literal taste at Ansots Basque Chorizo’s.

The Anne Frank Memorial is another must see for history buffs. The memorial includes a life-sized bronze statue of Anne Frank looking out a window, but there is much more to it. The memorial encourages people to think about issues our society has faced in the past and are still dealing with today, mostly about human rights. It puts on display some of man’s triumphs, as well as some of our darker times. Visiting the memorial will surely make you take a deeper look at life and come away with a different perspective.

Take a day trip

If you are in Boise for more than a day or two, it is well worth it to explore the surrounding areas. From sand dunes, to hot springs, to snowy mountains, there are plenty of exciting day trips within a couple hours drive of Boise.

The Bruneau Dunes State Park is about an hour drive southeast from Boise that offers unique views that you don’t typically find in the inland northwest. The main feature is the tallest single-structure sand dune in North America. At over 470-feet above the desert floor it is quite a sight, visitors are welcome to hike or ride a horse to the top, if you are feeling extra adventurous you can rent a sandboard and ride down the dune! If you are wanting to stay past sundown, the state park also offers an excellent observatory that lets you get a wonderful view of space.

There are numerous hot springs in the surrounding areas, ranging from large, easily accessible pools, to tiny pools that are off the beaten path. If you’re wanting a resort-style hot spring experience with man-made pools we recommend The Springs in Idaho City, Goldfork Hot Springs outside of Donnely, or Miracle Hot Springs down in Buhl. If you are wanting a little more nature with your hot springs check out Kirkham, Trail Creek, or Snively hot springs. If you want to explore more hot springs options follow this link.

Lastly, if you are wanting to get out of the city for a smaller town feel, McCall might be the place for you. A little over a two hour drive north, McCall puts you in a gorgeous mountain town that’s a popular destination for visitors and residents of Boise. In the winter you can find great skiing at nearby Tamarack and Brundage ski resorts. In the summertime the lake and milder temperatures offer a welcome retreat from the scorching summers that Boise usually experiences.

Explore!

No matter what you choose to do while you’re in Boise, just make sure you get out to find what interests you. Boise offers so many things to do and such a wide variety of activities you can spend day after day exploring new parts of the city you never would’ve guessed were there.

If you are looking for more things to do in Boise or in nearby cities, check out other articles at cleverneighbor.com.

The best style for fall outfits in the Pacific Northwest changes from city to city. Coming up with your own style is the way to go.

Although a popular naked bike ride brings 9,000 nude riders to Portland in the Pacific Northwest every year, you’ll need clothes for the rest of your time.

When buying fall outfits would you choose cowboy boots and bold prints or denim and chunky knits? The overall vibe for fall outfits in this area is comfy, casual yet cool.

So, where are the best places to shop when in the Pacific Northwest? There are hundreds of boutiques and thrift stores throughout the area.

In this article, we’ll look at a few places you can begin shopping to get your fall outfits down.

1. Vintage Shopping & Thrift Stores

One of the best ways to ensure you get a few pieces of clothing which are very unique is to head to thrift stores.

If you’re new to thrift store shopping, don’t be afraid. The process can take some time but you can come up with absolute treasure or just a few useful layers.

Root around, have fun and don’t forget that after you wash a few of the items you found, they’ll be as good as new.

Red Light Clothing Exchange

We’re starting off with a popular store thanks to its range of clothing and reasonable prices.

If you’re looking for warm jumpers of jackets for fall, Red Light Clothing Exchange is a great place to start. Your fall look could include just one decade’s trends or mix it up.

This store has everything from denim to leather, mohair to old band t-shirts. Better yet, by shopping vintage, you’re also doing your small bit to help save the planet.

Find this shop at 3590 SE Hawthorne Blvd, Portland, OR 97214, USA

Gold Dogs

Although small inside, Gold Dogs in Seattle packs a punch and has many great options already for your new fall look.

For your Pacific Northwest look, you’ll need some cowboy boots and this is the perfect place to pick up a vintage pair to your liking.

If your preferred look is rodeo, rock and roll biker – this is your place. As with most vintage shops, you should have some dedication while searching.

But, if you know what you’re looking for and are feeling determined, you might strike gold!

Find this shop at 5221 Ballard Ave NW, Seattle, WA 98107, USA

Savvy Plus

This shop is great for women who are sizes 12 and up and sick of high street stores which seemingly don’t offer anything above a size 6.

Unfortunately, it appears this shop is receiving bad reviews due to a change in ownership but may be worth checking out anyway.

It was known for having a beautiful collection of both old and new clothes. However, it is a little pricier than the other options.

Find this shop at 3204 SE Hawthorne Blvd, Portland, OR 97214, USA

2. Boutiques

If you’re struggling to find something which suits your style in a thrift or vintage store, head next to the boutiques.

As you’re paying a little more, you’ll be able to ask for help and won’t have to root through the hundreds of options.

Boutique Bleu

Based in Spokane, this little boutique sells classy and contemporary clothing, wallets and purses. You’ll also find cute shoes and hats.

If you’re hoping to find fall outfits which are chic and understated – this is the shop for you.

Once you’re all frocked up and feeling classy, check out the Northwest Museum of Arts and Culture. You’ll fit right in.

Find this shop at MH69+PM Spokane, Washington, USA

Twill Boutique

This store is known for having useful staff on hand who can help you out when you’re struggling.

They know how to dress every body type and can offer solutions for work, nights out or a first date.

Twill Boutique offers other benefits such as the fact that the clothes are “sustainably made” and the owner is kind and friendly.

However, keep in mind the prices will be higher here.

Find this shop at 3352 SE Belmont St, Portland, OR 97214, USA

Frock Boutique

Opposite the Tin Shed Garden Cafe, this shop is the perfect place to check out while waiting for a table.

Frock Boutique is a locally owned store boasting a large array of women’s clothing for every body shape and size.

They offer unique looks and an array of interesting choices from local Portland designers.

This shop may be a little small but it offers looks which are ideal for your Portland fall collection. Expect bright colors, unusual prints, and cheeky frocks

Find this shop at 1439 NE Alberta St, Portland, OR 97211, USA

3. Get the Accessories Down

After you’re happy with your ripped denim, chunky knit pulls and one-of-a-kind dresses, you’ll need to get a few new accessories to complete the look.

Queen Bee Creations

Who doesn’t love a handmade bag and better yet, one which doesn’t exploit animals for beauty?

At Queen Bee Creations, you’ll find high-quality vegan products which can handle being used every single day.

Needless to say, the designs are extremely functional but also very fun with quirky patterns and designs.

At this boutique, you’ll be able to find: satchels, diaper bags, clutches, small purses, summer bags, wallets and other fun smaller gifts.

Find this shop at 3961 N Williams Ave #101, Portland, OR 97227, USA

Satori

At this sleek boutique, you’ll find gorgeous items of clothing. But, my personal favorite aspect of this store is browsing the accessories.

You’ll find a huge range of items to dress up your outfit, but also your home. Hats, bags, and boots are all available for you to peruse and enjoy!

Find this shop at 1734 Pacific Ave, Tacoma, WA 98402, USA

Tanner Goods Flagship Store

This type of shop is one of my favorites in town. You’ll find a random collection of goods which will keep you perusing for a long while.

Here, you can find accessories such as wallets, belts, bags, glasses cases, hats and even a wide range of shoes.

However, you’ll also be able to find something for your pet, mugs, plant pots, records, and guitar straps.

Both this space and its location are very cool and worth checking out. It certainly knows its aesthetic and just what customers love.

Find this shop at 4719 N Albina Ave, Portland, OR 97217, USA

4. Not Going Barefoot? Sort Out Your Footwear

Portland is a place which is known for its Earth-friendly, vegan eating, friendly hippies who love getting outdoors.

But, if you’re not quite at the stage of being able to go barefoot, here are a couple of places where you can find shoes which still fit in with the Portland sensibilities.

Pie Footwear

What’s more Portland than vegan footwear? The range at this shop will blow you away too. Choose from high length boots, boat shoes, trainer or sandals.

Although most of the shoes have a somewhat Portland vibe, you can pair them up with any outfit and be fall ready.

Find this shop at 2916 NE Alberta St, Portland, OR 97211, USA

re-souL

Along with the original name of this boutique, you’ll also find unique shoes. Everything from a modern style to a funky vibe is available.

Expect European designers to be showcased. Sandals, loafers, boots, and platforms are all available. Don’t expect to walk away empty-handed.

Find this shop at 5319 Ballard Ave NW, Seattle, WA 98107, USA

Imelda’s and Louie’s

If you’re looking for a shop with great customer service, a huge range of options and also a few accessories to peruse, Imelda’s and Louie’s is your best bet.

Sandals, brogues, high boots, shorter boots, a huge range of colors and shapes make this a great place to find a shoe for your fall look.

Find this shop at 3426 SE Hawthorne Blvd, Portland, OR 97214, USA

Fall Outfits Made Easy while Shopping in the Pacific Northwest

After you’ve been to all of the shops on this list, you may find that your bank account is suffering a little but your new fall collection will be ready to wear.

With a dress from Frock Boutique, a pair of shoes from Pie Footwear and a bag from Queen Bee Creations, you’ll be ready to hit the town with your new fall outfits.

Then, you’ll need to find some of the best restaurants and bars in Portland to visit. Check out our favorites.

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