A Weekend Itinerary for First-Time Visitors
Nestled in the heart of downtown Boise, the Inn at 500 Capitol is your gateway to an unforgettable weekend of exploration, culture and fun. With its ideal location, you’ll find yourself steps away from the city’s best attractions, restaurants and activities. Here’s a curated weekend itinerary to help you make the most of your stay.
Friday Evening: Arrive and Unwind
After checking into your luxurious room or suite at the Inn at 500 Capitol, take a moment to relax and soak in the comfort of your home away from home. Start your weekend with fine-dining from Hemlock delivered contactlessly to your butler pantry for a restorative night in or head out for adventure with a short stroll to The Basque Block, just a 10-minute walk from the hotel. Immerse yourself in Boise’s unique Basque heritage with pintxos and tapas at Bar Gernika or The Basque Market.
For an inspiring stroll, head to Freak Alley Gallery, an iconic outdoor art gallery just a few blocks away. Marvel at the vibrant street art before ending your evening at one of the nearby craft cocktail bars like The Mode Lounge or Press & Pony.
Saturday: Adventure and Exploration
Start your morning with a hearty room service breakfast or head to Goldy’s Breakfast Bistro, a Boise institution less than a five-minute walk from the hotel. Savor their signature dishes like the Andalusia Eggs or Classic Hash Browns.
Next, embark on a cultural journey at the Boise Art Museum, located in the picturesque Julia Davis Park, a short 10-minute walk from the Inn. Explore contemporary exhibits and the museum’s engaging sculpture garden. Afterwards, borrow one of our complimentary bikes or take a leisurely walk along the Greenbelt, a scenic 25-mile trail that hugs the Boise River and offers stunning views.
For lunch, make your way to Fork, a farm-to-table favorite that’s only a five-minute stroll from the hotel. Indulge in locally sourced dishes like the asparagus fries or shrimp and grits.
Spend your afternoon shopping at Boise’s Downtown District, where boutiques, specialty shops and the iconic Idaho Made store await. Don’t forget to get some small batch ice cream from The STIL – enjoy a signature flight or have some fun with beer or wine pairings. Return to the hotel to refresh before preparing for dinner. Whether you choose to indulge in Hemlock’s unapologetically elevated fare or head to Barbacoa for an art gallery meets restaurant experience for an unforgettable meal. End your night with live music at Neurolux, a legendary Boise venue, head to Liquid for libations, games and laughter, or consider a nightcap with a touch of mystery at Thick As Thieves speakeasy.
Sunday: Relax and Recharge
Ease into your Sunday with our Lazy Sunday option to enjoy a leisurely morning in the comfort of your suite or room. Savor a slow start with hot and delicious coffee and a decadent breakfast in bed before heading out for the day. From there, meander to the Idaho State Capitol, mere steps from the hotel, to marvel at the stunning architecture of this historic building.
For lunch, feed just about any kind of craving within close proximity right here in downtown. Then, explore the Old Idaho Penitentiary, a 10-minute drive away. Dive into Boise’s fascinating past as you tour the preserved cells and hear stories of the infamous inmates.
Your Perfect Weekend Awaits
From world-class dining to rich history and outdoor adventures, downtown Boise offers a little something for everyone. And with the Inn at 500 Capitol as your base, you’re never far from the action. Book your stay today and discover why Boise is a city you’ll want to visit again and again!