Boise, Idaho, is paving the way for its emergence as a cool and hip metropolitan hub, despite the state’s most famous export. Frequently compared to the Denver of a decade ago in size and emerging cultural attractions, Boise was named the fourth best city in the U.S. to live and work by Kiplinger’s Personal Finance Magazine in July. The city gets its vibrant culture from a unique mix of urban amenities and western atmosphere.

Boise’s downtown area contains several distinct areas and districts all within walking distance of each other. The Cultural District, located roughly between Front Street and the Boise River, boasts the Boise Contemporary Theater, which offers cutting edge drama and comedy, including a world-premier in November 2008 by former Daily Show comedienne Lauren Weedman.

The district is also home to the Boise Philharmonic, with acclaimed new conductor Robert Franz, the Boise Art Museum, the Idaho Historical and Black History Museums and the Anne Frank Human Rights Memorial. One of Boise’s best gay bars, The Emerald Club, is the Cultural District’s hotspot for nightlife. Located at 415 South Ninth Street and named one of the top fifty gay bars by Out Magazine, it houses a large dance floor, nightly DJ’s and regular drag contests to keep you entertained.

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