Boise, the heart of Idaho’s capital city, where the vibrant culture and community spirit are echoed in the diverse array of local shops. Boise boasts a charming tapestry of unique boutiques, artisanal stores, and hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Let’s take a delightful stroll through the streets of Boise, uncovering just a few of our favorite local stores that enrich the city’s character and offer an unparalleled shopping experience. From quaint bookstores to bustling markets, join us on a journey celebrating the essence of Boise’s local commerce scene.
Mixed Greens
Voted best gift shop in Boise for 6 years in a row, they carefully curate every product found in the store, specializing in local and handmade goods. Their inventory is constantly changing & you’re likely to find something new & different every time you stop in! Looking for a souvenir to remember your trip to Boise or for a special gift? This is the place to go!
Rediscovered Books
Their motto: “Where Books and People Meet” certainly rings true in this centrally located, beloved bookstore in downtown Boise. Through an expert staff ready to help match people with the right books, great author events, and a wide array of book related experiences, Rediscovered Books brings the community together. They’ve also added a small bookstore on 13th and State, now known as Once and Future Book, to their bookstore family. The all used bookstore provides gently used books at great prices as well as a cozy atmosphere with treasures around every corner.
Idaho Made
Idaho Made is your premier, local destination for everything handmade. This artisan co-op offers you the opportunity to support over 60 local creators, all in one amazing location! Whether you are looking for a one of a kind item, a gift for someone special, or a little something for yourself, you are sure to find what you are looking for here. From pottery to jewelry, stationary to sculpture, the rotating cast of member artisans and the seasonal nature of handmade work means you never know what delights you’ll find at Idaho Made, but you can be positive you’ll discover something extraordinary.
Lark and Larder
Lark and Larder is a neighborhood market located on the Boise Bench offering local and regional products from farmers, producers, artists and makers. In addition to local produce and groceries, they offer a variety of local, hand-crafted work in glass, ceramics, jewelry, health and beauty, textiles, paper goods, art and more. If you’re on the hunt for something special and unique that is locally made, they’ve got you covered.
City Peanut Shop
City Peanut Shop serves the community and travelers with a premium selection of small-batch, hand-crafted nuts. Their collaborations with local and regional breweries, wineries, cider houses, and restaurants have allowed them to reach a broad base of customers. In addition to their nuts, sweets, and gourmet popcorn, they also sell gifts and gear that reflect the culture of Boise and the Northwest.
The Record Exchange
The Record Exchange is Idaho’s largest independent music store, steadfastly expanding Idaho’s musical boundaries since 1977. In addition to their extensive collection of vinyl and CD’s, they have an amazing array of gifts, homeware, toys, jewelry, and as they say “Weird stuff you didn’t know you wanted until you saw it!” Need a caffeine boost while you’re out shopping? They even have a full espresso bar.
Hyde and Seek
Located in the heart of the charming Hyde Park neighborhood, you’ll find that it’s nearly impossible to walk away from this eclectic shop empty handed. With so many incredible items to look at, you simply won’t know where to start. Idaho’s capital city is home to a lot of unique shopping destinations, but Hyde and Seek especially sticks out as a one-of-a-kind place filled with an eclectic array of items.
Boise Art Glass
Celebrating their 20th anniversary in Boise this year, Boise Art Glass strives to communicate quality through their showcase of fine glass products including a variety of handmade items from sculptures, chandeliers, jewelry and more. Interested in making your own gift? They also offer classes where you can learn how to blow glass and take home a special souvenir.
The Chocolat Bar
Looking for something sweet while in downtown Boise? Pop into The Chocolat Bar to select from a variety of truffles, caramels, and other treats or pick up one of their pre-made gift boxes. They source premium ingredients to produce amazing flavor combinations that will keep you wanting more. The quality and flavor of our chocolate is the foundation upon which their sophisticated offerings are built as they utilize their own unique chocolate blends.
Dragonfly
Another unique, must-visit shop in Boise: Dragonfly who is celebrating their 40th anniversary this year. They have it all – clothing, jewelry, aromas, accessories, jewelry, and gifts! Need a break after all of that shopping? Dragonfly is unique because they are also home to The Alley Lounge: ‘a listening bar.” You can enter through a connecting side door from Dragonfly or through another door onto the alley and back parking lot.The vibe is loungey, dark and funky, with a living-room like seating area and interesting wall decor. Pick up a gift from Dragonfly and then pop over to The Alley Lounge for a drink and some relaxation.
Banana Ink
An Idaho inspired clothing brand that has been offering creative apparel since 2011. They created this brand because they wanted to see more clothing made for people who live in and love Idaho. Their dedication to local is unmatched – all of their shirts, hats, sweatshirts, keychains, etc. are printed, embroidered, cut and crafted in Idaho. Stop by here to pick out your new favorite tshirt and to represent this great Idaho brand.
Fluff Hardware
Fluff Hardware has evolved into a beautifully curated supplier of unique accessories for women. Coming from the craft fair and farmer’s market world, their storefronts now serve as a beautiful retail space not only for their house-made original designs but also a one-stop-shop for all your accessorizing needs. They sell everything from hats to purses to bandanas to textiles, to jewelry…and soooo much more! All of their offerings are very unique, classic, versatile, and quality made. Stop by either their downtown location or their new location in Hyde Park!
A unique fact about downtown Boise is that 96% of businesses are locally owned. They are more than just places to shop; they are pillars of our community, embodying the passion and dedication of the people who pour their hearts into their craft. Every purchase made at these local establishments contributes directly to the fabric of Boise, nurturing its economy and preserving its unique identity. So, let’s continue to champion these small businesses, fostering a culture of support and appreciation. By doing so, we not only enrich our own lives with exceptional products and experiences but also ensure the longevity and vitality of our beloved city.
For a list of all shops in Boise, click here.
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