Tucked between Cole and Eagle Roads, West Boise sprawls from Chinden Boulevard to I-84. This area includes a lot of commercial spaces, but it has no shortage of charm. This part of town includes most of Boise’s mid-century architecture outside the bench. For families who want more space for their money and excellent accessibility to all parts of the Treasure valley, West Boise offers a great value.

Real Estate

The mid-century homes of West Boise tell this area’s story through architecture. The Mountain View subdivision has full-brick ranch-style homes and views of the foothills for days. It’s perhaps the best-known part of West Boise, but there are atomic ranches, large lots and other retro gems in Winstead Park, Westland Acres and the Cruzen-Mountain View neighborhoods, as well.

Other mature neighborhoods like The Traditions, The Legends, Shenandoah West and DeMeyer Park, are also great locations for families in this area, with large upscale homes built in the ‘80s and ‘90s. Hewlett Packard’s West Boise campus is a major feature, and it’s now home to several state government employees. Commuters also have convenient access to downtown, the freeway and Eagle Road.

Lifestyle

West Boise’s green spaces, shopping centers, local restaurants and magnetic brewery scene make it self-contained for all lifestyles. The Hyatt Hidden Lakes Reserve is the crown jewel of green space, while Kleiner Memorial Park also offers a walking trail and gardens on the western side of the community. Winstead Park offers yet another green gathering place, with a playground and pavilion.

Here, there is no shortage of shopping. Its western edge borders The Village at Meridian, and Boise Towne Square Mall offers even more retail stores to the east. Living on the east side means I’m as far away as I can be from Target, and I’m always jealous of West Boiseans who live close to Boise’s only location. The Fairview Avenue corridor has even more locally owned shops and national chains.

With its variety of commercial spaces, this area has become a destination for Boise breweries and wineries. Powderhaus, Sockeye, Bear Island and Edge all call the area home, while Par Terre Winery opened its tasting room in 2018. Owned by a family of former professional ballet dancers, this winery is one of my favorites.

There is also a diverse range of excellent family-owned restaurants. Locals love Delsa’s ice cream, and it’s our go-to when we’re in the area. Island Sushi and Ramen is also a must-try for fresh sushi and hot ramen. Sunshine Spice Cafe offers up Afghani pastries and other exotic delicacies.

Things to consider:

West Boise is split between West Ada and Boise School Districts. This is just something to look into when looking at where the district lines are drawn. Both Centennial and Capital High Schools are located in West Boise, along with the private Bishop Kelley High School. The Library! At Cole and Ustick is not only a beautiful building but one of the best libraries in the system.

While Radon isn’t very common in Boise, parts of West Boise have higher levels of it. If you’re looking at property with livable space in the basement, that will be something you want to be sure to test for.