Transportation in Boise

# Transportation Overview: Boise Boise operates primarily as a car-oriented city, which is important for first-time visitors to understand when planning their trip. While the city has public transit through ValleyRide bus service covering Boise and surrounding areas, the system is designed more for local commuters than tourists, with limited frequency compared to larger metropolitan areas. Most visitors find that having access to a car provides the most flexibility for exploring Boise's spread-out attractions, nearby mountain recreation areas, and the wider Treasure Valley region. **Getting from Boise Airport (BOI):** The airport is conveniently located about 3 miles south of downtown. Ride-sharing services and rental cars are readily available at the terminal - check current rates through booking services. Taxis are also an option for direct transport to your accommodation. The airport's proximity to downtown means transfer times are typically short, usually 10-15 minutes depending on traffic and your specific destination. **Practical tip:** If you're staying primarily in downtown Boise, the compact city center is quite walkable, and you may be able to explore restaurants, shops, and the Boise River Greenbelt on foot or by bike. However, for visiting attractions like the Boise Foothills, Bogus Basin, or wine country in the Snake River Valley, having a vehicle becomes essential. Consider your specific itinerary when deciding whether to rent a car for your entire stay or just for day trips.

Boise Airport (BOI) is compact and easy to navigate, located just 3 miles from downtown

Valley Regional Transit operates the local bus system throughout Boise and surrounding areas

Download ride-sharing apps like Uber or Lyft before arrival as they're the primary on-demand transport options

Boise's downtown area is walkable and bike-friendly with dedicated bike lanes on many streets