More than Spuds and Blue Turf

When people consider Idaho, they’ve historically thought of potatoes and Big Sky country. More recently, the gridiron success of the Boise St. University (BSU) Broncos – and the signature blue artificial turf on which the team plays its home games — has given the Gem State a greater identity. While these associations are justified, the city has also received several accolades as a place that offers a positive quality of life. Inc. recognized it as a Top 10 Hottest City for Entrepreneurs. The same year, Forbes named it the third-best U.S. city for business and careers. With such diverse and technology-forward companies as Micron, a semiconductor producer; DirecTV; and the American Ecology Corp. maintaining major operations there, the city’s diverse economy is poised for strength.

The “City of Trees” also offers a diverse cultural milieu. An influx of big-city refugees, independent thinkers (a hallmark of the interior West) and entrepreneurs have brought cultural amenities befitting a much larger burg. The city also enjoys a thriving performing-arts scene – the Idaho Shakespeare Festival, the Boise Little Theatre and the Boise Contemporary Theatre all call it home. Brewpubs, upscale bistros and other unique eateries also flavor the local landscape.

One of the Boise’s most unique cultural influences is its large Basque population, whose cultural heritage traces to the region now within portions of Spain and France. Approximately 15,000 people of Basque descent reside in Boise. Thus, markets, museums and other cultural centers that pay homage to the Basque legacy provide a distinct cultural patina.

This gallery showcases Boise’s signage diversity. Whether celebrating the Broncos’ ascent into a top-flight football program, reflecting cultural diversity or enterprises that mix urbane chic with Big Sky sensibility, a gallery of Boise signage embodies its distinct character.