The Boise Turnkey Beat
April 2025
Real Estate Radar
You’re reading this article for (probably) two reasons;
One; you are incredibly bored but love real estate and investing.
Two: You know that Boise is a great place to live, work, play and invest.
Boise is unequivocally the best city on earth, that’s been scientifically proven, but there are so many fun things to do here in the spring as the flowers pop out of the ground and the Boise river begins to flow at an unbelievable volume, getting ready for lazy summer float days.
Here are some of my favorite spring family activities in Boise! Some of these are pretty obvious, but I’ll throw in a few that are local secrets….
1. Explore the Boise River Greenbelt
Everyone knows about the Boise Greenbelt, but it cannot be overstated. A spring bike ride or stroll along the river cannot be missed. The Boise River Greenbelt offers over 25 miles of scenic trails along the Boise River, perfect for walking, biking, or jogging. As spring arrives, the path is lined with blossoming trees and provides access to parks and wildlife viewing areas. Not to mention endless breweries, wineries, restaurants and a super fun food truck park.
2. Visit the MK Nature Center
Just blocks from downtown and BSU campus, the MK nature center is a free site, filled with local flora and fauna. It changes with the seasons, but you are always sure to catch a glimpse of something fascinating. On rare occasions, you might even see a sturgeon here.
3. Attend the Treefort Music Fest
Held annually in late March, the Treefort Music Fest is a five-day event featuring indie music performances across multiple venues in downtown Boise. The festival also includes art, film, and food events, offering a comprehensive cultural experience. It’s impossible to not pick up on the positive vibes and get a true sense of what we mean by our unofficial motto of “Boise Kind.” Pro tip- tickets can be expensive, but you can wander during the day from venue to venue, grabbing a beer or coffee and take in plenty of free music and fun at no cost at all.
4. Hike to Jump Creek Falls
The snow is melted and this local secret spot is a perfect hike for you and your family. Just a short drive from Boise, you’ll see all kinds of creatures along the way through the narrow canyon until you reach these gorgeous falls. Great spot for a swim on a hot summer day too!
5. Explore Julia Davis Park
Located in downtown Boise, Julia Davis Park is home to several attractions, including the Boise Art Museum, Zoo Boise, and the Idaho State Historical Museum. The park's rose garden and paddle boat rentals on the pond make it a delightful spring destination. You can spend an entire day here on foot and check out any number of the local restaurants within a couple blocks for a quick lunch. There’s some sort of festival happening here nearly every day.
6. Visit the World Center for Birds of Prey
Just outside Boise, the World Center for Birds of Prey offers educational exhibits and live demonstrations featuring raptors such as falcons, eagles, and owls. Spring is a great time to learn about these birds and conservation efforts.
7. Tour the Chinden Wine Trail
Wine country right in the middle of town? You better believe it! Wine enthusiasts can explore the Chinden Wine Trail, a collection of wineries along Chinden Boulevard. Notable stops include Cinder Winery, Split Rail Winery, and Telaya Wine Co., all offering tastings of locally produced wines.
8. Take a Day Trip to Silver City
Silver City is such a fun and educational spot, you can’t help but have a great time. Opening in late May, it’s probably a good idea to have four wheel drive for the journey, but you’ll be rewarded with being transported back in time to when this little town was a bustling gold rush mecca. You can explore some of the older structures here, grab a bite at the old saloon and stay a night at the local hotel, preserved just as it was 150 years ago. Well worth the drive!
Hopefully there are a couple new ideas in there for you. When you live in a great place like Boise, you have to make sure you take the time to enjoy all of the great stuff happening all around.
Happy Investing!
-Corby
Time to Get Out
Top 5 Camping Spots Within Two Hours of Boise
As the weather warms up and Idaho’s natural beauty begins to bloom, there’s no better time to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and head into the great outdoors. Luckily for those of us in the Treasure Valley, some of the best camping spots in the state are just a short drive away. Whether you’re looking for lakeside relaxation, forest solitude, or mountain adventure, here are five top camping destinations within two hours of Boise.
1. Lucky Peak State Park – Waterside Comfort Close to Home
Just 15–20 minutes east of downtown Boise, Lucky Peak State Park is a go-to spot for a spontaneous weekend getaway. The park offers clean, well-maintained campsites and plenty of family-friendly amenities. Campers can enjoy boating, paddle boarding, swimming, and fishing along the expansive reservoir. With its proximity to the city and beautiful lakeside views, this park is perfect for families, beginners, or anyone looking to relax in nature without straying too far from home.
2. Mountain Home State Park – A Quiet Escape Near Town
Located about 45 minutes from Boise, Mountain Home State Park offers a peaceful retreat in the rolling hills just outside the city. Campgrounds range from basic to more developed, giving you options whether you’re pitching a tent or bringing an RV. The area is popular for hiking, fishing, and wildlife spotting—offering a great mix of outdoor recreation without the crowds. It’s an ideal destination for campers who want serenity and easy access.
3. Green Canyon Campground – Forest Serenity in the Boise National Forest
Tucked into the Boise National Forest, the Green Canyon Campground is a scenic hideaway roughly 40 minutes from Boise. Surrounded by dense pine forest and the gentle sound of a nearby creek, it’s the perfect spot for anyone looking to disconnect and immerse themselves in nature. The campground offers a rustic experience with fewer frills but plenty of peaceful beauty. Trails nearby make it a great base for day hikes or wildlife viewing.
4. Table Rock Campground – Views and Adventure Above the City
For those who love to hike and enjoy panoramic views, Table Rock Campground delivers. Situated near the iconic Table Rock Trail, it provides a unique camping experience close to one of Boise’s most beloved landmarks. The area is ideal for adventurous campers who don’t mind a more primitive setup and want to explore trails with sweeping overlooks of the valley below. It’s especially beautiful at sunrise or sunset when the foothills glow with golden light.
5. McCleod Creek Campground – A Hidden Gem for Seclusion Seekers
If you’re searching for solitude, McCleod Creek Campground may be your perfect spot. Located in the Boise National Forest, under two hours from Boise, this hidden gem offers a peaceful, remote setting with basic amenities. It’s ideal for seasoned campers who enjoy "off-the-grid" experiences. Surrounded by forest, creeks, and quiet trails, this campground offers a true escape into Idaho’s wild side.
Tips Before You Go:
- Check for road conditions, fire restrictions, and campground openings ahead of time—spring conditions can vary!
- Make reservations if needed, especially on holiday weekends.
- Pack for cooler nights, even in spring. Mountain temps can drop quickly.
- Practice Leave No Trace principles to keep these special places beautiful for everyone.
Final Thoughts
Camping near Boise doesn’t require hours of driving or elaborate planning. These five spots showcase the best of southern Idaho’s outdoor offerings—whether you’re seeking lakeside fun, peaceful forest hideouts, or foothill adventures. Load up your gear, grab your s’mores supplies, and get ready to make some unforgettable memories under the stars.
-Lisa
Chat with Us
Farm Visits Near Boise: 5 Local Farms Worth Exploring This Season
Spring and summer in the Treasure Valley bring blooming flowers, warm sunshine, and a fresh opportunity to connect with Idaho’s agricultural roots. Whether you’re looking for fresh-picked berries, family-friendly activities, or a hands-on farm experience, there are some truly charming farms just a short drive from Boise. Here are five local farms that welcome visitors and offer a taste of rural life — right in our backyard.
1. The Berry Ranch – Nampa, ID
If you love picking your own produce, The Berry Ranch is a must-visit. Located just 30 minutes from Boise, this family-owned farm offers U-pick strawberries, raspberries, and blackberries in late spring and summer. In the fall, they offer pumpkins and sweet corn, along with hayrides and a petting area. The farm also raises chickens, pigs, and cattle — and their market sells fresh eggs and meat.
Best Time to Visit: Late May through October
Perfect For: Families, fresh produce lovers, and DIY foodies
Website: theberryranch.com
2. Linder Farms – Meridian, ID (Status: Reopening Soon)
For years, Linder Farms was a local favorite for fall fun, with a sprawling pumpkin patch, corn maze, petting zoo, and carnival rides. Though it closed temporarily, there’s buzz about its possible reopening under new management. Keep this one on your radar for October outings.
Best Time to Visit: Fall (pending reopening)
Perfect For: Seasonal events, family photos, and pumpkin picking
3. Blue Barn Produce – Meridian, ID
A hidden gem in Meridian, Blue Barn Produce combines a working farm with a cozy farm stand and small-scale events. In the fall, you’ll find a pumpkin patch and kid-friendly activities, but the farm also sells fresh produce and baked goods during the growing season. It’s a sweet, local stop for seasonal shopping.
Best Time to Visit: Summer and fall
Perfect For: Young families and those wanting a low-key farm experience
4. Wilson’s U-Pick – Emmett, ID
Just under 45 minutes from Boise, Wilson’s U-Pick in Emmett is a fruit lover’s dream. You can pick everything from cherries and peaches to plums, apples, and nectarines — depending on the season. The setting is peaceful and rural, making for a great day trip or outing with kids.
Best Time to Visit: June through September
Perfect For: Fruit picking, family adventures, and homemade pie prep
5. Vogel Farms Country Market – Kuna, ID
Located about 40 minutes from Boise in Kuna, Vogel Farms is a fifth-generation family farm offering year-round visits. Tour the farm, shop the market, or sign up for a CSA box filled with pasture-raised meats, eggs, and local produce. Their country store is a great stop for gifts, jams, and Idaho-made products.
Best Time to Visit: Year-round, with seasonal events in spring and fall
Perfect For: Farm-to-table shopping, educational visits, and country charm
Tips for a Great Farm Visit:
- Call ahead or check each farm’s website or Facebook page for updated hours and seasonal availability.
- Bring cash, sunscreen, and a cooler if you plan to take home fresh produce or meat.
- Wear closed-toe shoes — these are working farms and can get muddy or dusty depending on the day.
- Respect the land and animals — follow posted rules and help keep Idaho farms welcoming for everyone.
Whether you’re on the hunt for the juiciest berries, teaching kids where their food comes from, or simply looking for a fun outdoor weekend activity, these Boise-area farms offer something special for every season.
-Lisa
Property Management Corner
Great Crops for Container Gardening in Idaho
If you’re like me, you’re itching for longer days and sunnier skies. Those conditions signal my ability to spend more time outside tending to a garden. I love to grow my own food, harvest herbs and vegetables, and play pioneer. We get the kids in on the project, too. But with three feisty and competitive boys, we quickly decided each kid needed to manage their own dirt. Last year, we started them on container gardening! This strategy is a fantastic way to grow fresh produce in Idaho. If you have a small backyard or no backyard, a sunny patio, or even just a balcony- container gardens can make it possible for you to play pioneer too! Idaho’s varied climate can still support many crops that thrive in containers—especially if you choose varieties suited for our shorter growing season and temperature swings.
Here are some top-performing ideas that I’ve found for crops in our Idaho container gardens:
1. Tomatoes Tomatoes love the sun and warmth, making them ideal for containers in Idaho's summer months. Choose compact or determinate varieties like ‘Patio Princess’ or ‘Bush Early Girl’ for best results. Make sure your containers are at least 5 gallons and place them in a sunny but sheltered spot. My personal favorite is “Sungold.” I challenge you to find a sweeter variety than these golden gems!
2. Lettuce & Greens Cool-season crops like lettuce, spinach, and Swiss chard do very well in containers, especially in shoulder seasons of spring and fall. They don't require deep pots and can be harvested multiple times. Varieties like ‘Buttercrunch’ or ‘Bloomsdale’ spinach are hardy and productive. My oldest son’s favorite is ‘Lacinato Kale,” although you need to watch it closely for early bolting.
3. Peppers Bell peppers and hot peppers grow well in containers with enough sun and warmth. Try varieties like ‘California Wonder’ or ‘Jalapeño M’. A 3-5 gallon pot and consistent watering will help them flourish. While we’ve had success with “fire carrots” (cleverly named by my youngest son), habaneros tend to need more days to fully mature. But, it is well worth a shot, especially if you like the heat like we do!
4. Herbs Thyme, oregano, and parsley are excellent container herbs. They’re low-maintenance, love the sun, and are perfect for clipping fresh while cooking. Our household favorites are chives- if you have patience to establish them over a few years, you’ll love the subtle spice- and gorgeous edible blossoms!
5. Root Vegetables Carrots, radishes, and beets can thrive in containers! Use deeper pots for carrots. Nantes’ carrots and ‘Cherry Belle’ radishes are quick to mature and do well in cooler shoulder season weather. If you over-sew your beets, plan to thin them early and use the greens in a salad for a fun earthy twist!
A few more tips that we’ve learned from experience!
● Ensure good drainage, and water consistently—containers dry out faster than garden beds, but you don’t want crops sitting in pots that don’t drain well. You’ll find a balance- many days in August we must water twice a day due to heat!
● Fertilize lightly every couple of weeks with a balanced liquid fertilizer. It’s helpful to feed the soil and restore nutrients.
● Move pots as needed to chase the sun or shelter from late frosts. Alternatively, if the heat becomes too much, it would be helpful to pull crops out from the late summer relentless sun. Whether you're a seasoned gardener or just starting out, container gardening can bring fresh, homegrown flavors to your table—all from a small space. Happy growing!
-Heather
Meet the Team
Midterm Master - Hunter
As a California native originally from the Dominican Republic, I’ve called 15 homes mine, from Los Angeles, Cape Cod, Phoenix, and now Boise. I’ve often reminded myself that “when you hit rock bottom, there’s only way to go—up,” a simple motto that’s helped me overcome many obstacles in life. After a brief turn in the military and a stint as a sous chef at Walt Disney Studios, I found my true calling in real estate. For the past four years I’ve grown in property management, and today I’m the Midterm Portfolio and Projects Manager at Boise Turnkey Property Management—where I get to collaborate across leasing, maintenance, and project teams to keep our properties thriving.
Off the clock, I design simple, anime-inspired embroidery patches and build mech models, all under the watchful (and slightly judgmental) eye of my fluffy caiico cat, Cali. I enjoy strength training, working on my car, and casual gaming nights with friends scattered across the country. I even keep a five-minute breath-hold trick from my Malibu lifeguard days as a party trick. My favorite way to unwind? A walk along the Boise Green Belt with my partner, topped off by a nice meal at Caffe Luciano’s .Proof that even in a valley where the weather can flip in 20 minutes, the little rituals keep you grounded.
The Boise TurnTea
Spring Has Sprung: Boise's Best Outdoor Dining Spots to Savor the Season
As the Treasure Valley shakes off winter's chill, Boise's vibrant outdoor dining scene is blossoming, offering locals and visitors a delightful array of al fresco experiences. From riverside retreats to bustling downtown patios, here's your guide to the top spots to dine under Idaho's spring skies.
Downtown Delights
- Bardenay: Nestled in the historic Basque Block, Bardenay boasts a spacious patio perfect for savoring their renowned cocktails and diverse menu. As the nation's first restaurant-distillery, it's a must-visit for both history buffs and foodies.
- Fork: Located at the corner of 8th Street and Idaho, Fork offers a charming patio ambiance complemented by a menu emphasizing locally sourced ingredients. It's an ideal spot for brunch or a leisurely dinner.
- Juniper: Situated on 8th Street, Juniper provides a prime location for people-watching while enjoying their innovative dishes and craft cocktails.
Riverside Retreats
- Cottonwood Grille: Overlooking the Boise River, Cottonwood Grille offers a serene dining experience with a menu highlighting local and seasonal fare. Its expansive patio is perfect for romantic dinners or peaceful solo meals.
- Barbacoa: This upscale restaurant features a patio with breathtaking views of the Boise River and surrounding mountains. Known for its vibrant atmosphere and eclectic menu, Barbacoa is a favorite for special occasions.
Neighborhood Gems
- Flatbread Neapolitan Pizzeria: Located in Bown Crossing, Flatbread's patio, complete with an outdoor fireplace, offers a cozy setting to enjoy their artisanal pizzas and craft drinks.
- Crave Kitchen & Bar: Situated in Eagle, Crave's rooftop patio provides a serene setting for brunch, lunch, or dinner, emphasizing fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
New & Noteworthy
- Hemlock: Set to open this spring at the Inn at 500 Capitol, Hemlock promises an upscale steakhouse experience with a vibrant atmosphere, including live music and innovative dishes curated by Chef Richard Langston.
- Rosa: Opening in Garden City, Rosa offers a casual setting with street-style tacos, freshly prepared tortillas, and a selection of beers and frozen margaritas, all enjoyed on heir inviting patio.
Boise's outdoor dining scene is as diverse as it is delightful. Whether you're seeking a romantic riverside dinner, a lively downtown brunch, or a cozy neighborhood meal, the city's patios are ready to welcome you this spring. So grab your sunglasses, gather your friends, and savor the season one bite at a time.
- Molly
Out on the Town
5/3 - Kentucky Derby Viewing party - Old Penitentiary
5/3 - Meridian Main Street market
5/3 - Blossom Together - Julia Davis
5/5 - Cinco De Mayo Celebration - Indian Creek Plaza
5/6 - From Farm to Fable
5/7 - Adult Steam Camp Experience
5/8 - Community appreciation - Children's Museum
5/10 - Nampa Farmers Market
5/10 - Capital city Public market
5/10 - City of Meridian, unplug and be outside
5/11 - Mother's Day brunch - Zoo Boise
5/17 - Trunk sale - Nampa Civic Center
5/17 - Taste of Caldwell wine festival
5/19 - Cider Tasting - Botanical Gardens
5/24 - Dennis the Cat Day - Old Penitentiary
5/29 - Nook & Cranny Spring Barn Sale
5/30 - Greek Food Festival
5/31 - Northwest Stories: Eternities - The Story Concert
In Other News
-1 tablespoon of vegetable oil
-1 bag of fideo or vermicelli noodles
-1 8 oz can of tomato sauce
-8 cups of water
- chicken bullion (2 tablespoons or 2 cubes)
-2 teaspoons of garlic powder
-½ teaspoon of black pepper
-1 teaspoon of cumin
-½ yellow onion
-½ cup of cilantro
For Cinco de Mayo, try your hand at making them from scratch with some street taco tortillas and shredded colby jack cheese. Add shredded chicken as well for a spot of protein.
- Heat some oil in a saute pan,
- Arrange filling in the center third of the tortilla, fold the sides in
- Carefully add to the pan with tongs, holding sides closed and turning until the tortilla is crispy. This should take about 2-3 minutes per side
- Rest on paper towels to absorb any excess oil and let cool for a few minutes
- In a large stock pot, heat your vegetable oil and toast the vermicelli until golden brown, constantly stirring to avoid burning or sticking to the pot
- Add your tomato sauce and fully incorporate with vermicelli to bring to temperature
- Add all 8 cups of water and stir. For less broth, use only 6 cups of water
- Immediately add chicken bouillon, garlic powder, black pepper, & cumin. Stir to incorporate
- Roughly chop half of a yellow onion, add to pot, and stir, then cover for 3-5 mins to allow onions and noodles to cook, stirring occasionally.
- Remove from heat, cut stems from cilantro and add leaves to pot, then stir and serve. Garnish with leftover cilantro or cheese. NOTE: You can omit cilantro if you have the gene that makes it taste like soap.