Boise Travel Tips from the Cofounder of the City’s Most Popular Music Festival
Megan Stoll launched Treefort Music Fest, a Boise institution. Here, she shares her fave spots to have fun in town
Megan Stoll is the mastermind behind Boise’s wildly popular Treefort Music Fest, the first festival in the U.S. to receive B Corp status. The five-day, indie-music event is held at venues throughout Downtown Boise each March.
Stay
The Modern Hotel & Bar, a renovated Travelodge turned boutique, midcentury hotel on the west side of downtown, is within walking distance of shops, restaurants, music venues, and bars. According to Stoll, the hotel bar whips up some of the best cocktails in town.
Eat
The patio at Wild Root Cafe on North 8th Street is one of Stoll’s staple lunch spots. “They have loads of seasonal, delicious food, from ramen to salads, and a menu that fits all dietary restrictions,” she says. On weekends, she likes the waffles on the brunch menu. If she’s short on time, Stoll grabs a slice from Americana Pizza at the skate park. When she wants to catch up with friends, she heads to Petite 4, a French bistro on the Boise Bench. “The menu is perfect for sharing,” she says.
Drink
Guy Hand
Stoll starts her day with a locally roasted pour-over coffee at Neckar Coffee downtown. “The vegan COYO granola and fruit compote bowl is to die for,” she adds. If you arrive later in the day, they have an interesting natural-wine menu.
Do
The Record Exchange is a staple in Boise for any music lover, says Stoll. Boise also has an incredible live-music scene. “Neurolux is easily one of my favorite venues in the U.S. for a stiff drink and loud music. They also have an awesome jukebox and make the best Bloody Marys in town.” Before shows, lounge on the vintage furniture at Art Haus and sip on a mezcal cocktail, Stoll recommends.