As a Boise, Idaho local I’ve been lucky enough to check out most of the accommodations in Boise and downtown. And recently I was able to book a staycation at the upscale boutique hotel, Inn at 500 Capitol that I have had my eye on for a while. I was mostly excited to check out their themed rooms ranging from an Idaho potato room to a wine-themed room!
This art-focused, Four Diamond hotel is situated at the heart of Boise’s downtown and is in a perfect location if you’re going to be exploring Boise. Bringing your pet? Not a problem. The Inn at 500 is pet-friendly and even has an entire floor dedicated to staying with your pet.
Curious about what to do in Boise, Idaho? Peep my blogs about what to do in the City of Trees, here. Also, while we’re at it, let’s be friends on Instagram!
Where to Stay in Downtown Boise: Inn at 500 Capitol
Getting to The Inn at 500 Capitol
If you’re flying into Boise, the Inn at 500 is located at 500 S Capitol Blvd, Boise, ID 83702 on the corner of Myrtle St. They offer a complimentary luxury shuttle service in their Mercedes vehicles available to and from the Boise Airport or within a 4-mile radius of the hotel. This is based on availability and can be scheduled by contacting the hotel.
The hotel is about a 10 minute Uber/Lyft/Taxi from the Boise Airport. If you’re driving to the Inn at 500, you’ll be coming in from the entrance on Capitol since Myrtle is a one-way street. The Inn at 500 has valet since it is a downtown hotel and the valet will just give you your ticket and park the car for you.
The Inn at 500 Capitol Lobby & Check-In
This hotel is extremely unique with thoughtful attention to detail. Not only is the staff extremely welcoming and friendly—providing guests with a free welcome drink of local beer, wine, and soda—but they have knowledge of the area and will provide wonderful local recommendations.
Upon entering the lobby you’ll notice this hotel is very art-focused. In fact, there are over 500 pieces of art in the hotel and most are produced locally! There’s a fun fireplace in the lobby with beautiful, Idaho-inspired decor that will make you feel like you’ve arrived in the Pacific Northwest. You’ll also see the door to enter the award-winning restaurant, Richards, which is a great option—especially if you don’t feel like going too far. More on Richards in a bit.
Rooms
The hotel has a total of 110 rooms, including suites, penthouses, and 53 themed rooms! This is what makes this hotel so unique. Their rooms have such fun themes like a Sun Valley, Idaho ski room, a Spirit of Boise Balloon festival room, a Rat Pack room, and a University of Idaho and Boise State room.
We stayed in their One Bedroom Suite on the 4th floor with a huge balcony looking out over downtown Boise and it was incredible! All I could think was, “Wow, I wish I was throwing a party right now so more people could enjoy this!” Check out my video tour of it here.
The room was spacious, comfortable, had a separate room for the bedroom and lounge area, and had a cozy fireplace with a kitchenette and dining table. Most of the rooms have wonderful views of downtown Boise and you can’t really go wrong with any of them.
One of the highlights, besides the views and the luxurious robes, was the little butler pantry! It’s a great way to get your room service delivered to you in a socially distanced way.
Other in-room amenities include a refrigerator, sitting area, gas fireplace, walk-in shower, plush robes, free wi-fi, smart TVs, coffee maker, and safe.
Grounds & Amenities
Onsite Restaurant: Richards
Upon entering the hotel on the left side, you’ll find the entrance to the upscale, Richard’s restaurant. Chef and owner, Richard Langston has created a delicious menu with locally sourced, fresh produce, meat, dairy, and eggs. The wine list, beer menu, and cocktail menu are also wonderful! I recommend getting the Old Fashioned, tomato soup, scallops, and any of the homemade pasta!
24-Hour Fitness Center + Complimentary Bicycles
Let’s be real, I barely ever go to the gym while I’m traveling, but this gym made me want to workout! The hotel also provides complimentary bicycles if you want to take your workout outside and down the Boise greenbelt.
Local Wine, Beer, and Snacks Upon Arrival
I love that they provide you with local beer and wine upon arriving at the hotel. They also have free snacks, water, and soda for you at the front desk whenever you need them.
Pet-Friendly Hotel
Pet-friendly rooms are available upon request, so be sure to book through the hotel directly to ensure you get one. They even have a “best friend” room decked out with pet-themed decor and an entire floor dedicated to pet-friendly rooms.
Commitment to Cleanliness
The Inn at 500 Capitol staff is taking steps to keep their guests and team members safe and healthy with thorough CDC-approved sanitation standards. Fully vaccinated individuals will no longer be required to wear a mask in our public areas.
Weddings + Events
The hotel takes great pride in hosting exceptional events without overlooking a single detail. Through meticulous planning and flawless execution, their staff creates remarkable celebrations.
Holiday Gift Package
Right now, for a limited time, you can give the gift of a giveaway at the Inn at 500 Capitol! It’s the perfect give for a friend or family coming to visit Boise. This package is $225 and includes a one-night stay in the Deluxe King guestroom (including tax) and $25 to enjoy at Richard’s! Get your gift.
Price
Room rates fluctuate depending on what time of year it is, but I recommend checking out the Inn at 500 Capitol website to see prices when you’re planning on visiting.
In the Boise Area
There are plenty of ways to experience the Boise area during your stay. Check out my posts with everything I love doing in Boise for a weekend here.
Which restaurants in the Boise/Meridian area would you suggest for the best location for a large (80-90 people) wedding luncheon? I am making a plan from out of state and don’t know the area, but am looking for ideally a nice atmosphere, good food, accommodation for lots of people, and a good value. Thanks!