Hyde Park is iconic for its shops and neighborhood feel, two things that excel in the wintertime. With the holiday season in full swing, you might be trying to fit in seeing friends before one or both of you get swept into other holiday plans — and Hyde Park might be the perfect walkable destination for your get-together. And if you go in the evening over the next couple weeks, see if there are tickets available to see TRICA’s Snow Globe!
Breakfast & Coffee
I’m often astonished by the number of people who haven’t tried or even heard of Certified Bakery. Its door is easy to miss, tucked beside the Royal and Hyde Perk Coffee House, but their breakfast, coffee, and pastries are some of the best to-go options around.
This little sandwich was recently one of Hey Boise’s most recognized Where Is It? challenges. (Blake Hunter / City Cast Boise)
If you want to sit down and eat or sip, a block away is Java’s Hyde Park location inside a historic house. It’s cozy, and a frequent meeting spot for everyone from teenagers to retirees. Java’s riff on the Mexican mocha, the Bowl of Soul, is something of a staple, especially with their in-house whipped cream.
Shopping and Things to Do
In City Cast Boise’s podcast guide to December, audio producer Evelyn Avitia recommended making a candle at Lit & Co., which is easier than you might think and a fun, easy gift to buy someone. Also don’t miss their colorful taper candles.
After Lit & Co., try Hayes Company Boutique, Hyde Park Mercantile, and Hyde & Seek for your various gift shopping needs — even if you don’t buy much of anything, they’re fun to pop into for their charm and inspiration.
Two of the funnest spots in Hyde Park are the G. Willikers toy store and Goody’s Soda Fountain candy shop, both local stores that will wow — and maybe overwhelm — anyone. They’re great for gifts, and Goody’s is especially nostalgic for almost anyone who grew up in the area.
When your eyes start glazing over in the stores, take a walk. Camel’s Back Park is just a couple blocks to the north, and a walk through one of the North End neighborhoods is bound to be wistful and charming.
Lunch & Dinner
You can’t go wrong with a dinner in Hyde Park, whether you’re stopping at Casa Mexico, Parrilla, 13th Street (a well-loved classic), or Lost Grove Brewing.
Though Lost Grove’s location in Hyde Park is newer, it’s settled nicely into the fabric of the Hyde Park community like it’s been there for a decade.
The Royal is Hyde Park’s nightcap location of distinction. (Frankie Barnhill / City Cast Boise)
For drinks, the Royal makes a mean Old Fashioned, and Hyde Park Fine Wines has one of the coziest wine tastings I’ve been to.
If you’re heading to Hyde Park to shop for the holidays, don’t get overwhelmed by the options! Remember gift cards are always on the table — and gifting any Boisean with a reason to visit Hyde Park will be well-received.
