Searching for a city with a unique blend of natural beauty and urban comfort? Well stop your searching because you will find everything you are looking for in Boise. Boise is the capital and most populous city of the US state of Idaho and is highly regarded as one of the country's best places to live.

Boise enjoys a rather picturesque setting, with a beautiful river running through the city centre, and majestic mountains looming in the north. The city offers the culture and entertainment of a large urban area, but still feels like a small country town. It is full of exciting places to go and is so welcoming that you will feel at home instantly.

1. Zoo Boise

Zoo Boise can be found in the beautiful Julia Davis Park, right in the heart of Downtown Boise. This zoo is one of the most popular attractions in Southern Idaho and is definitely a must-see. The zoo is home to over 200 animals and is an ideal place to learn about the natural world and the importance of protecting and preserving it for generations to come.

2. Boise Art Museum

The Boise Art Museum champions excellence in the visual arts through exhibitions, collections and educational experiences. This place is perfect for lovers of art because it is home to a collection of 2300 works of art that focus on 20th century American art. As you walk through the museum's halls you will also notice a strong focus on artists of the Pacific Northwest, American Realism and ceramics. The diversity in art here will delight you and offer you a cultural experience that you can keep forever.

3. Old Idaho Penitentiary Historic Site

Built when Idaho was less than 10 years old in 1870, this prison grew over time and is now one of the most famous historic sites to be visited in Boise. You can begin your exploration of the penitentiary with a video presentation that recalls prison history, notorious inmates and daily prison life. Then, take a guided tour through the cell houses and discover the prison's fascinating past.

4. Idaho Botanical Garden

After your visit to the Old Idaho Penitentiary Site, wander outside and you will come across a lovely botanic garden. This is a must-see attraction because it depicts Boise's love of nature and the outdoors.

Stretching over 50 acres, these gardens feature 11 themed gardens that include native plants, water displays, as well as a fantastic nature trail. These gardens offer a pleasant place to spend an afternoon and are ideal for picnicking, hiking, cycling or simply relaxing with a good book.

5. Boise River Greenbelt

To further your experience of Boise' great outdoors, take a trek along the Boise River Greenbelt. This trail spans more than 20 miles, beginning at Eagle Island State Park and heading eastward to Discovery State Park, at the base of Lucky Peak Dam.

The trail takes you through downtown Boise, to the Veterans Memorial Park, as well as the lovely Julia Davis Park. The pathway provides picturesque views of the rolling brown mountains and wildlife, so be sure to bring your camera.

Christine Barton