The University of Idaho is the state's premier school of higher education, so local residents have access to the resources of two major universities within a few miles of each other. The U of I has a lovely campus, best explored on foot since much of its core is closed to vehicular traffic.

Many of the best concerts in the area are held in the wonderful auditorium of the U of I Administration Building, notably the Auditorium Chamber Series, which brings in world-famous performers on a regular basis.