Girlfriends Bring More Sparkle to the Gem State
This week we say “Let’s go to Idaho!” (Apologies for the rhyme. It just rolled off our fingers.) While a few of us here automatically respond with the notorious meme/t-shirt/bumper sticker quip when someone says “Idaho”, My Girlfriendships® knows that this is a fantastic destination if you and your crew want to make some great memories. (If you are curious about how Idaho got its name, this is a great story.)
This week we’re bringing you to Boise (because there are currently 28 cities with non-stop flights to it, making it quick and easy to get to) and Coeur d’Alene because, well, read on to find out!
Before we dig into those two cities, here’s a fun girlfriend fact: The Idaho state seal is the only one in the U.S. designed by a woman. In 1891, girlfriend Emma Edwards Green entered a statewide competition by using only her initials, and walked away with the honor.
Boise
Once you’re in Boise, you’ll know who’s native and who’s just visiting. If they say "boy-see,” it’s probably a long-time resident or native. Everyone else usually says "boy-zee”. However you say it, here are two great activities.
What to Do
- Kirkham Hot Springs | This legendary hot spot is one of many along the Ponderosa Pine Scenic Byway. It features geothermal pools and waterfalls of varying temperatures, and is by the South Fork of the Payette River. Soaking in Kirkham is like soaking in a dream. Hot water pours over the cliff into pools below, making it a literal natural shower. This is one of those charming spots that you must experience firsthand.
- The Ribbon of Jewels | What a wonderful place for a My Girlfriendships visit. The Boise River Greenbelt serves to unite The Ribbon of Jewels—properties given to the city in honor of some of Boise’s finest civic leaders who are also women. The parks serve as legacies to these remarkable women and their commitment to their community.
Where to Stay
- The 36th Street Urban Yurt | We’ve yet to suggest a yurt (a yurt?!) for your lodging, but we will this time! A “yurt” is a “portable, round tent used as a dwelling by nomadic groups in the steppes of Central Asia.” Always ready for new adventures here at My Girlfriendships, that sounds like the perfect place—a Nomadic-style stay in the city.
- Modern and Luxurious Private Home | Looking for something more current, and less, well, yurt-y? This modern and luxurious VRBO is perfect for you and seven of your besties. Located in a quiet Boise neighborhood, we think your crew will be relaxing in style after day-tripping and soaking in Boise.
Coeur d’Alene
Located near the top of the Idaho panhandle, you'll actually fly into Spokane International and then make the short, 40 minute drive to this lovely city. Here are some things to do when you’re there:
What to Do
- Coeur d’Alene Adventures | In all the times My Girlfriendships has visited the west, we have never gone horseback riding. Well, better late than never. Guided by a professional wrangler while riding gentle, cowboy-trained quarter horses, we’ll trek into the woods the way it was done when girlfriends first lived in this part of the country. Here’s their Facebook page and Instagram site.
- Coeur d’Alene Resort Spa | After a day of horseback riding, no doubt we’ll all be ready for a spa day. Then again, what girlfriends are not always ready for a spa day? At the Coeur d’Alene Resort Spa, you’ll be treated to natural area elements—the water, stone, cedar, and more. Bask in ultimate relaxation at one of the top resort spas in America, according to Condé Nast Traveler’s Gold List.
Side note: Feeling a little more adventurous? In Harrison (also on Lake Coeur d’Alene and south of the town) is The Emerald Creek Garnet area, a spot where we can dig our own gems. In fact, there are only two places in the world Star Garnets can be found—India and in the Idaho Panhandle National Forests. The garnets found there are called "star garnets'' because of a unique feature that causes some of them to display a reflection like a four- or six-pointed star. How cool would that be, girlfriends? We’re ready for some DIY gemstones!
Where to Stay
Need lodging in Coeur d’Alene? Here are two great options:
- Coeur d’Alene Resort | Since we’re already indulging in their spa, why not stay at the resort? The Coeur d’Alene Resort is located on the north shore of Lake Coeur d'Alene, acclaimed by National Geographic as one of the most beautiful lakes in the world. If your crew loves golfing, you must make a tee time at their world-famous golf course—yes, the one with the world’s only floating green. Check them out on Twitter and Insta.
- Fantastic lakefront home | Click that link and check out this gem. We were sold after looking at the view from the kitchen and living room. Three bedrooms, four beds, and close to all the fun Coeur d’Alene has to offer—and more! Wouldn’t it be perfect for you and your friends?
Tally ho and let’s go to Idaho!
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