Located in Ada County, of which it is the county seat, Boise is the largest city in Idaho and is also the state capital. This city situated in the southwestern part of the state and covers a total area of 82.8 square miles. The estimated population of Boise is 226,000, making it one of only two cities in the state to have a population in excess of 100,000. The Greater Boise metropolitan area has a population of around 709,000.
Founded in 1863, Boise was incorporated as a city in 1864 and was constructed along the banks of the Boise River. The origin of the city's name is something of a mystery, but is believed to come from the French word 'Bois' meaning 'Woods'. As the largest city in Idaho, Boise is an important economic, industrial, and cultural center for the state, home to many attractions like Zoo Boise, State Capitol Building, and Anne Frank Human Rights Memorial. Map