Boise City Travel Guide

Discover all the must-see sights, activities, and local culture of Boise City, Oklahoma with our comprehensive travel guide.


Boise City, located in Red Carpet Country, is a charming and picturesque town in the Great Plains region of Oklahoma. Known for its rich history, natural beauty, and warm hospitality, Boise City makes for an ideal destination for those seeking a relaxing getaway. In this comprehensive travel guide, we’ll take you through all the must-see sights, activities, and local culture of Boise City, so you can make the most of your visit.

Introduction to Boise City

Boise City is a small town in the westernmost part of Oklahoma, with a population of just over 1,200 people. Founded in 1908, Boise City has a long and fascinating history, from its early days as a bustling farming community to its role as a key site in the Manhattan Project during World War II. Today, it is a peaceful and quiet town that welcomes visitors to explore its many attractions.

List of Places to Visit in Boise City

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. Cimarron Heritage Center - This museum showcases the rich cultural and historical heritage of the region, with exhibits on local history, art, and music.

  2. Black Mesa Nature Preserve - A 1,600-acre preserve with stunning natural scenery, including forests, prairies, and unique geological formations such as the Black Mesa.

  3. Santa Fe Trail Museum - This museum is dedicated to the history of the Santa Fe Trail, one of the most important trade routes in the 19th century, which passed through Boise City.

Natural Attractions of Boise City: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. No Man’s Land - This vast expanse of prairie land is an ideal destination for hiking, bird watching, and exploring the great outdoors.

  2. Rita Blanca National Grassland - Located just a short drive from Boise City, this national grassland is a beautiful destination for hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing.

  3. Lake Carl Etling - This picturesque lake offers boating, fishing, and camping opportunities, as well as beautiful views of the surrounding landscape.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Boise City

  1. Black Mesa Trail - This 8.4-mile trail takes you through stunning scenery, with panoramic views of the plains and mountains.

  2. No Man’s Land Trail - This 14-mile trail offers a challenging hike with beautiful views of the surrounding landscape.

  3. Sand Creek Trail - A 3.5-mile easy hike perfect for beginners, with beautiful views of the countryside.

Best Things to Do in Boise City: Activities and Tours

  1. Stargazing - Boise City is known for its clear night skies, making it an ideal destination for stargazing and astronomy tours.

  2. Horseback Riding - Experience the beauty of the landscape on horseback, with guides leading you through the stunning scenery of the Great Plains.

  3. Visit the Black Mesa State Park - Home to the highest point in Oklahoma, this state park is a must-visit destination for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Week-Long Itinerary for Boise City

Day Activity
1 Visit the Cimarron Heritage Center
2 Hike the Black Mesa Trail
3 Visit Lake Carl Etling and go fishing
4 Take an astronomy tour at night
5 Explore the Santa Fe Trail Museum
6 Go horseback riding in the No Man’s Land
7 Visit the Rita Blanca National Grassland

Food and Drink Scene of Boise City

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Chicken Fried Steak - This classic dish is a staple of Oklahoma cuisine, and is a must-try for visitors to Boise City.

  2. Bison Burger - Buffalo is a popular protein in Boise City, with many restaurants offering tasty bison burgers.

  3. Fried Catfish - Another local specialty, fried catfish is a delicious and traditional dish that is sure to satisfy your hunger.

Local Beverages

  1. Oklahoma Beer - The state has a growing craft beer scene, with many local breweries offering unique and flavorful beers.

  2. Tulsa Tea - This blend of tea and lemonade is a refreshing and popular drink in the region.

  3. Coffee - Many local coffee shops serve up delicious and unique blends, using locally-sourced ingredients.

Where to Stay in Boise City: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  1. Best Western - This comfortable and affordable hotel is a popular choice for visitors, with clean and comfortable rooms, as well as a swimming pool and other amenities.

  2. Red Carpet Inn - This budget-friendly hotel offers clean and basic rooms, as well as a 24-hour front desk and free Wi-Fi.

  3. Guest House - For a more unique and authentic experience, consider staying in a local guest house or bed and breakfast, where you can experience the warm hospitality of the locals.

What to Buy in Boise City: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  1. Bison Jerky - This tasty snack is a popular souvenir among visitors, with many local shops selling high-quality and delicious bison jerky.

  2. Local Artwork - Boise City is home to many talented artists, and you can find unique and beautiful artwork at local galleries and shops.

  3. Handmade Crafts - Local craft markets and shops offer a range of handmade crafts, from pottery to textiles to woodcarvings.

Local Culture and Customs of Boise City

Boise City is known for its friendly and welcoming locals, who take pride in their heritage and traditions. Visitors can experience the warm hospitality of the locals by attending local festivals and events, such as the annual Cimarron Territory Celebration, where you can enjoy music, food, and entertainment.

Best Time to Visit Boise City

The best time to visit Boise City is in the spring or fall, when the weather is mild and pleasant. Summers can be hot and humid, while winters can be cold and snowy, making outdoor activities less enjoyable.

Do’s and Don’ts of Boise City

Do:

  1. Be respectful of the local culture and traditions.

  2. Try the local food and drinks.

  3. Explore the great outdoors and take in the stunning scenery.

Don’t:

  1. Be intrusive or disrespectful towards the locals.

  2. Ignore safety precautions when engaging in outdoor activities.

  3. Leave trash or litter in natural areas.

Safety and Health

Safety in Boise City

Boise City is a safe and peaceful town, with low crime rates and friendly locals. However, visitors should still take precautions when engaging in outdoor activities, such as hiking or camping, and be aware of the dangers of extreme weather conditions.

Health in Boise City

Boise City has a well-equipped local hospital, as well as several clinics and medical facilities. However, visitors should still take precautions to stay healthy, such as staying hydrated and wearing sunscreen when engaging in outdoor activities.

Getting to Boise City: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Boise City

The closest major airport to Boise City is the Rick Husband Amarillo International Airport, located about 100 miles away in Amarillo, Texas.

Bus Stations Near Boise City

Greyhound offers bus service to Boise City via the nearby town of Dalhart, Texas.

Other Options

Driving is the most convenient way to reach Boise City, with several major highways passing through the town, including US Route 385 and State Highway 325.

How to Get Around in Boise City

Boise City is a small town, and many attractions are within walking distance from the town center. For those who prefer to drive, renting a car is the best option, as public transportation is limited.

Where to Go Next from Boise City: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  1. Amarillo, Texas - This nearby city offers a range of attractions, including the famous Cadillac Ranch and the Palo Duro Canyon State Park.

  2. Oklahoma City, Oklahoma - The state capital is just a few hours’ drive from Boise City, and offers a variety of cultural and historic attractions, such as the Oklahoma City National Memorial and the Museum of Osteology.

  3. Santa Fe, New Mexico - Only a few hours’ drive from Boise City, this historic city offers stunning architecture, art galleries, and unique local cuisine.

Conclusion

Boise City is a hidden gem in the Great Plains region, offering visitors a chance to experience the best of local culture, natural beauty, and warm hospitality. With its rich history, stunning landscapes, and a variety of attractions and activities, Boise City is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for a relaxing and authentic getaway.