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Welcome to Boise
m a g a z i n e

TM

&

INSIDE:

BIKE
FRIENDLY
BOISE
at
CONCIERGE CORNER & VISITOR SERVICES
Pick up your complimentary copy

Located at the Southeast corner of Front Street and Ninth

2016

T R E A SU R E VA L L E Y S
PR E M I ER SHOPPI NG, DI N I NG, &
E N T ERTA I N M E N T DEST I NAT ION

SHOPPING
Anthropologie

ENTERTAINMENT

DINING

Village Cinema

Kona Grill

LUXURY THEATER with VIP SEATING

lululemon

Yard House

Big Als

LOFT

BOWLING ARCADE & SPORTS BAR

Chicos

Twigs Bistro
Casa Del Matador

White House | Black Market

Backstage Bistro

and more

Grimaldis Pizzeria

/TheVillageAtMeridian

TheVillageAtMeridian.com

/VillageMeridian

Located at Eagle Road and Fairview Avenue

Table of Contents
2

Welcome to Boise

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR ................................................................................4

FROM THE MAYOR ...................................................................................................5
City of Boise Mayor David H. Bieter welcomes you to Boise.

BOISE CITY OF TREES 2016 .................................................................................6

The big city with a small town heart. A look at Boises past, present and at what
the future may have to offer.

FACTS AT A GLANCE ............................................................................................12

Whats so great about Boise? Get the facts about Boises geography, population,
housing, cost of living and more.

ATTRACTIONS ........................................................................................................... 14
Discover exciting things to do in and around Boise, all year long.

ENTERTAINMENT & EVENTS ...........................................................................20

Let Boise entertain you. Live music, family fun, festivals, celebrations, fairs and more.

BIKE-FRIENDLY BOISE ....................................................................... 30

Its a fact, the city even won an award and find out how you can bike share today.

ARTS AND CULTURE ............................................................................................ 36

Museums and galleries, dance, poetry, opera, plays and more you can find it all in Boise.

SHOPPING ...................................................................................................................40

You can shop till you drop in Boise at the mall, downtown and in shopping
nooks and crannies.

DINING GUIDE ...............................................................................44-64

What are you hungry for? Find it here by cuisine over 350 to choose from!

RECREATION AND SPORTS .............................................................................66

Ski, golf, mountain bike, fish, swim, skate and support local college and
professional teams. Go Broncos!

HEALTH AND WELLNESS ..................................................................................70

Where to go for your medicial needs and physical well-being from hospitals to yoga.

REAL ESTATE ............................................................................................................72

Of course you want to live here! Find out how to make your dream come true.

EDUCATION ............................................................................................................... 74

Students who attend award-winning Boise schools consistently have high scores
in national testing. A brief description of local schools, school districts, secondary
education, colleges, universities and more.

TRANSPORTATION ............................................................................................... 78

Planes, trains and automoblies plus buses, carpooling and more. How to make it
to Boise and get around once youre here.

INCREDIBLE IDAHO .............................................................................................. 82

Idahos past and present. Discover the great beauty and wilderness
that is Idaho.

On the cover

PUBLISHER
Bill Cummings

EDITOR
Jeanne Huff

ADVERTISING DIRECTOR
Cindy Suffa

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES
Rocky Cook
Corey Wong

MAGAZINE/
GRAPHIC DESIGN
Maura Wery
Michael Duntz

ADMINISTRATIVE
ASSISTANT/
PUBLIC NOTICE/
REPRINTS
Laura Butler

COVER PHOTO
Joshua Roper

PHOTO CAPTION

Susanna Smith and Justus Jones on a bike

ride in downtown Boise.
For advertising rates or copies of
Welcome to Boise magazine, contact:
P.O. Box 8866 Boise, ID 83707
855 W. Broad Street, Ste. 103
Boise, ID 83702
Phone 208-336-3768 Fax 208-336-5534
info@idahobusinessreview.com

This photo was taken at dusk the magic hour

in late October 2015 at the corner of Eighth and
Idaho in downtown Boise. You can see the transition
the neon lights that just came on and the light beginning to leave the sky. Susanna Smith, who handles
banquet and catering sales for Kindness, and Justus
Jones, freelance Web designer and online marketer,
are biking from their daytime jobs to check out some
nightlife fun.
I shot this with a Nikon D750 with 17 35mm 2.8
lens at f4.
Joshua Roper

Welcome to Boise
magazine is published by
Idaho Business Review Inc.
Every effort has been made
to verify editorial content
for accuracy; however,
the publisher cannot
be responsible for any
inaccuracies or omissions.
Opinions expressed are
those of the individual writer
and do not necessarily
reflect the editorial policy
of Idaho Business Review
Inc. Reproduction in whole
or in part without written
permission is prohibited.
Copyright 2016 Idaho
Business Review Inc. All
rights reserved.
Welcome to Boise

From the editor

4

Welcome to Boise

Welcome to Boise.
This city has got what youre looking for, whether you are
here for a weekend getaway, at a business convention, or youre
moving in.
Youll see friendly faces wherever you go: downtown, at the
coffee shops, at the malls, on
the streets, standing in line at
the movies or stopping in at the
grocery store.
Thats because we like it
here. And we want to share our
city with you.
This place that keeps
getting bigger but still has
a small-town heart also has
just about everything youd ever
want in a city: sports including
football, basketball, baseball
and hockey; cultural activities
Photo by Pete Grady
including art galleries, ballet,
live theater, an orchestra and the opera; attractions such as a
zoo, an aquarium and museums of all kinds; shopping opportunities from funky thrift stores to a destination shopping center
that features live music, an ice-skating rink and dancing fountains; and dozens of parks, ponds and streams, as well as a river
with a kayak park.
This year, we have also included a comprehensive Dining
Decisions dining guide, listing local eateries by cuisine, so you
can find your way to whatever youre hungry for.
Also, check out our cover story, Bike-friendly Boise. And
feel free to take a bicycle tour around town you can rent Boise
GreenBikes by the hour.
Boise. We like it here.
And, we know you will like it, too!

Jeanne Huff

Sincerely,

David H. Bieter
Mayor

From the mayor

Welcome to Boise!
As youre about to discover, this city is a remarkable place.
Newcomers and visitors are always impressed by Boises vibrant
downtown, welcoming neighborhoods, abundant recreational
opportunities, and friendly people.
Stay a little longer, and youll
get a sense of the spirit of innovation and independent spirit
thats deeply imbedded in our
150-year history. Located, as
we are, so far from other major
urban centers, Boiseans have
always looked to ourselves to roll
up our sleeves and make things
happen to find the new ideas
that will make our community
stronger. Thats why so many
entrepreneurs and businessesincluding some of the most
cutting-edge technology firms in
the country call Boise home.
Its no wonder that our city draws attention from coast to
coast. Our mission is to make Boise the most livable city in
the country, and with the help of our dynamic and imaginative
citizens, were making it happen.
Enjoy!

Welcome to Boise

Boise City of Trees 2016

Photo by Joshua Roper

Welcome to Boise

estled in a valley surrounded by foothills, Boise has the wide-open feel of the Wild West.
It is the state capital and Idahos largest city. Boise is a big city with a small-town heart.
Many dream about such a place. Its got affordable housing, whether you live in a
downtown high-rise, in a bungalow or a stately Victorian in the historic North End, in a
mid-century ranch house on The Bench or in the outlying bedroom communities.
Theres little to no traffic; rush hours are over in minutes. But the great outdoors may be its greatest asset. Skiing is less than an hours drive and just 16.5 miles away. Foothill trails by the hundreds skirt the
heart of the city. A river runs right through Boise, with floating and boating in summer, and an anglers
paradise all year long. Boise also is a center for culture, arts, finance and politics.

Bigger.
Better.
Boise.

Boise has quickly become one of the

Non-stop air service from 19 major U.S. cities.
Northwests most vibrant hot spots and Currently expanding to 86,000 sq. ft. A new
Boise Centres convenient location in
14,000 sq. ft. ballroom, 22,000 sq. ft. of new
downtown is easily accessible to culture,
meeting and pre-function space is coming in
September 2016.
entertainment and recreation.

Boise
is adding hotels to accommodate larger
Its easier than ever to host your next
conventions
and groups.
meeting, convention or tradeshow at
Boise Centre, Idahos premier
Give us a call. We look forward to introducing
convention facility.
you to a bigger and better Boise Centre.

boisecentre.com
208.336.8900

Boise, the city of trees, has a rich history that dates back to before its
incorporation in 1863. Find out more information by visiting the Idaho
State Historical Society at www.history.idaho.gov. All photos from the
collection of the Idaho State Historical Society. Clockwise starting at the
top: No. 72-47-11B; No. 63-176-73; No. 62-53.4; No. 61-174-8.

Welcome to Boise

HISTORY
The Coeur dAlene, Kalispell, Kootenai, Nez Perce, Shoshone-Bannock
and Paiute Indians lived in the Idaho
territory long before the Lewis and
Clark expedition arrived in 1805. Their
arrival opened the way for others,
including fur traders, who followed La
Rivire Bois, the river named from the
French bois, which means woods,
timber or forests. This is how the City
of Boise got its name and its nickname: the City of Trees.
In 1863, Boise was incorporated
and proclaimed the capital of the
Idaho Territory.
In 1886, the Capitol building was
completed, one year before Boise had
its first streetcar. Since then, Boise has
steadily grown.

JOIN THE THRIVING,

RIDING COMMUNITY

ValleyRide your Transit Provider

for Ada and Canyon Counties
ADA COUNTY -

18 weekday routes. Most routes

operate during 5:15 am.6:45 pm.
Limited Saturday routes operating
during 7:45 am.6:45 pm.

CANYON COUNTY -

5 weekday routes. Bus service

within most of Nampa and
Caldwell. Service operation is
6:20 am.7:15 pm, Monday
through Friday.

INTERCOUNTY -

5 weekday routes that provide

service between Ada and
Canyon counties Service hours
vary, Monday through Friday.

Check valleyride.org for current bus schedules.

Employers do you have employees

who regularly ride the bus?
Consider obtaining Premium Passes for
your employees! If you have employees
that ride the bus three or more times,
this is a great added benefit for them.
There are great tax benefits too.
We also offer other commuting options
for employers like ACHD Commuteride
that reduce traffic congestion and wear
and tear on our roadways.

For general information on transportation options for individuals or organizations,

visit rideline.org or call 345-7433

Thrill seekers soak up the lull

in excitement while rafting
down the Boise River.
IBR file photo.

BOISE TODAY:
BOI-SEE NOT BOI-ZEE

Boasting a low cost of living, Boise is part of Idahos

banana belt it has a moderate climate and is pleasant
year round.
There are more than 85 miles of trails and pathways
for hiking, biking or jogging in the Boise foothills. And the
areas 20 public golf courses get used a lot there are on
average 325 playable days a year. Beyond the foothills the
landscape is shaped with mountains, lakes, reservoirs and
high-valley prairies, perfect for hunting, camping, fishing
and boating.
Boise also has become a major regional center for
business and education. And, it is the third-largest city in
the Pacific Northwest.

10

Welcome to Boise

TRAFFIC? WHAT TRAFFIC?

The typical daily commute here is about 20 minutes. And
the airport makes long-distance travel easy, too with connections to just about anywhere and nonstop flights to Chicago,
San Francisco, Sacramento, San Diego, San Jose, Denver, Las
Vegas, Salt Lake City, Seattle, Minneapolis, Los Angeles, Phoenix, Portland, Reno, Spokane, Lewiston, Idaho Falls, Houston,
Oakland and McCall/Salmon.
Boise regularly makes the top of the list as one of the best
places to live, raise children and do business. Situated on the
valley floor at the base of the foothills of the Rocky Mountains,
the city is alive and growing, offering a plethora of educational
and career opportunities. And, literally within minutes, you can
move from work to play, casting a line into the Boise River, hiking on a foothills trail or skiing on a cushion of powdery snow.

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Facts at a Glance
12

Welcome to Boise

he city of Boise is located in a

broad basin along the Boise River
valley. It is the states capital city
and the county seat for Ada County.
Westward along the valley, the cities
of Meridian, Eagle, Kuna, Nampa and Caldwell
blend into one another, creating a sprawling
metropolitan area.
The Boise City-Nampa metropolitan statistical
area comprises Ada, Boise, Canyon, Gem and
Owyhee counties. These counties form the most
densely populated area in the state of Idaho. This
region is referred to as the Treasure Valley, so
named for the great treasures of gold and silver
once mined in the area.

GEOGRAPHY

The geological forces that created the area

resulted in foothills that sweep up from the city
to mountains 7,600 feet in altitude. The plain in
which most of the greater Boise area is located is
at 2,842 feet in elevation. A large concentration
of geothermal wells, springs and hot springs is
located throughout the foothills.

TAX STRUCTURE

Idaho has one of the most balanced tax systems

in the nation. Revenues are obtained from personal
income tax, sales tax and property tax, with no
single tax being out of balance with the others. This
sound structure, coupled with moderate tax rates,
provides a good climate for economic growth.

POPULATION

Source: U.S. Bureau of Census, 2014 estimates

Provided by: Idaho Department of Labor, Communication &
Research

City of Boise ........................................ 216,282

Ada County...........................................426,236
Boise City-Nampa MSA......................... 664,422
Canyon County..................................... 203,143
State of Idaho.................................... 1,634,464

White alone ............. 81.4%

Hispanic ................. 12.9 %
Asian alone .............. 2.0%
American Indian or Alaskan
Native alone........... 0.6 %

Black alone............... 0.8 %

Native Hawaiian & Other ......
PacificIslander......... 0.2 %
Two or more races... 2.1 %

TOPOGRAPHY AND CLIMATE

Ada County
Land area............................1,645 square miles
Boise elevation .................................2,842 feet
Mean temperature ....................... 51.1 degrees
Precipitation .....................12.1 inches per year
Snowfall ...........................21.4 inches per year
Sunny days.................................. 234 per year

HOUSING MEDIAN HOME PRICE

Intermountain MLS Statistics, 2015 Q3 Report

Ada County
New construction ....................$320,000
Existing homes ........................$219,000

EMPLOYMENT

Annual 2014, Idaho Department of Labor, Communication

& Research

Total employed
City of Boise .............................108,528
Ada County...............................201,664
Boise City-Nampa MSA.............299,088
State of Idaho............................739,800
Unemployment rate
City of Boise................................... 3.9%
Ada County.................................... 4.1%
Boise City-Nampa MSA.................. 4.4%
State of Idaho.................................4.8 %
United States..................................6.2 %
Per Capita Income
U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis, U.S. Department of
Commerce, 2014

POPULATION GROWTH

Boise City-Nampa MSA Annual Growth Rates

Source: U.S. Bureau of Census
Provided by: Idaho Department of Labor, Communication &
Research
1990-00 ..............4.5%
2000-01 ..............3.6%
2001-02 ..............2.8%
2002-03 ..............2.4%
2003-04 ..............2.5%
2004-05 ..............3.0%
2005-06 ..............4.2%

ETHNIC/RACE BREAKDOWN

Boise City - Nampa MSA, five-year estimates, U.S. Bureau of

Census, 2014
Provided by: Idaho Department of Labor, Communication
& Research

2006-07 ..............3.4%
2007-08 ..............2.1%
2008-09 ..............1.3%
2009-10 ..............1.9%
2010-11 ..............1.6%
2011-12 ..............1.6%
2012-13 ..............2.0%
2013-14 ..............2.2%

Ada County............................... $43,783

Boise City-Nampa MSA............. $37,991
Idaho......................................... $36,743
EFFECTIVE BUYING INCOME

U.S. Bureau of Census, 2014 AmericanCommunity Survey

Ada County one-year estimates in 2014 inflation-adjusted
dollars

Total number of households...... 159,896

Median household income .... $57,716
Average household income ... $78,548

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W
Attractions

hen fur trappers first arrived here in the early 1800s, the Boise River was the
star attraction. Today, more than 100 years later, La Rivire Bois retains that
status as it winds through the heart of our city.
But thats not all; there are many more sights to see and experience here.
Five city parks, each unique, line the Boise River as it flows through the city.
Within walking distance of the river are many downtown points of interest, and more are outside
city limits. We have included as many as we can think of here, in alphabetical order. Can you find
more?

Ann Morrison Park

Ann Morrison Park, Boises largest park, starts up across Capitol Boulevard where Julia Davis leaves
off. It features athletic fields, a lighted fountain, picnic facilities, cycle and jogging paths, and playgrounds.

The Aquarium of Boise

The Aquarium of Boise on Cole Road has more than 250 species of animal and marine life. It is home
to an octopus, sharks, eels, seahorses, alligators, puffins and a variety of fish. Its a hands-on experience,
too you can pet and feed sharks and rays. Aquariumofboise.org.

Barber Park

Barber Park is a county park located along the Boise River six miles upstream, and is the starting point
for raft and tube trips down the Boise River, which also has year-round fishing for rainbow trout even in the
middle of downtown.

The Basque Block

Boise has one of the highest concentrations of Basques in the U.S. The Basque Block, on Grove Street
between Sixth Street and Capitol Boulevard, houses several historical buildings, including the Basque
Museum and Cultural Center. The museum comprises a complex of buildings including the original boarding house that was home to many Basque immigrants and sheepherders from 1910 through the 1970s.
Basquecenter.com.

BoDo

Located at the crossroads of Broad and Eighth Streets, BoDo is a four-block, multi-use shopping,
dining and entertainment district that combines the renovated warehouses of the 8th Street Marketplace
with new construction. Businesses include a major hotel, a multi-screen movie complex, fine and casual
restaurants, coffee shops, wine shops, a concert venue, a dozen or more national and local retail and specialty shops, art galleries and two parking garages.

Bogus Basin Mountain Recreation Area

Bogus Basin Mountain Recreation Area, about 16 miles north of Boise, offers day and night skiing with
67 runs and seven chairlifts. Deep powder, short lift lines, nearly 23 miles of groomed Nordic ski trails and a
childrens tubing hill make Bogus Basin a popular winter destination for locals and visitors.

Boise Art Museum

Boise Art Museum features a diverse range of exhibitions, from cutting edge to historical. BAM also
hosts one of the Northwests most popular arts and crafts festivals, Art in the Park, held the weekend after
Labor Day.

The Boise Depot

Up Capitol Boulevard from downtown is the citys most photogenic landmark: the stately, mission-style
Boise Depot, completed in 1925 when the railroads still ruled the West. Today, enhanced by the scenic
nearby Platt Gardens, the depot offers one of the best views of downtown Boise.

The Boise River Greenbelt

The Boise River Greenbelt, a system of walking and biking paths along both banks of the Boise River, is
about 25 miles long and has pathways for jogging, skating, cycling or just strolling. With towering trees, lush
growth and abundant small wildlife including eagles, deer and foxes it is one of Boises most popular
features.

14

Welcome to Boise

The Boise Art Museum features

a diverse range of exhibitions.
Photo courtesy of Boise Art Museum.

The Boise River Park

The Boise River Park The Boise River Park in Garden City
features wave shapers for surfing and kayaking.

The Bown House

The Bown House lies along the Oregon Trail and is

listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It was
built in 1879 by Joseph and Temperance Bown and features
sandstone quarried from the local foothills. Today, it is used
as a teaching classroom of a home of the 1800s, including
furniture, kitchen and laundry items, toys, newspapers and
more. It is on the site of the Riverside Elementary School
and is open to the public on the first Saturday of the month
from 1 to 4 p.m.

City Hall Plaza

City Hall Plaza is in the heart of downtown in front of

City Hall. It features a flag plaza, fountain, arboretum and
historical artifacts and is a great place to sit and relax when
exploring the city.

C.W. Moore Park

C.W. Moore Park is a quaint city park at the corner of

Fifth and Grove streets that features pieces of Boises past
architecture recognizable pieces and parts of buildings
that were razed and demolished and one of Boises original waterwheels (it still works). Its a great place to take a
coffee or lunch break or to relax any time.

The Discovery Center of Idaho

At the edge of Julia Davis Park, the Discovery Center of Idaho

is a participatory science and industry facility with a unique,

hands-on learning environment fun for children and adults.

Downtown Boise

Downtown Boise offers shopping, urban parks, cultural

facilities, sidewalk cafes and buildings of architectural interest.
Self-guided walking tours are available through the Boise City
Department of Arts and History and feature public art by local
artists, including on dozens of traffic boxes.

Floating the Boise River

Floating the Boise River from Barber Park into the city is a
popular summertime activity for people of all ages. Tubes or rafts
can be rented at Barber Park and a shuttle service is available for
a small fee.

Eagle Island State Park

Eagle Island State Park, a few miles west of Boise in the city
of Eagle, has a natural swimming area just off the Boise River,
plus picnic grounds and a waterslide.

The Grove

At the focal point of the downtown area lies The Grove,

Boises public plaza. The Grove is the venue for many community events, including Alive After Five, a weekly event during the
spring and summer months that features live music, food and
entertainment.

Historical buildings

Boises pioneer heritage has been preserved in numerous

historical buildings in the downtown area, including four shopping
Welcome to Boise

15

districts Old Boise at Sixth and Main streets; the central downtown core at the corner of downtown at Eighth and Idaho streets;
BoDo District at the crossroads of Broad and Eighth streets; and
the Linen District along Grove between 14th and 15th streets. All
feature specialty shopping in renovated and restored buildings
that reflect Boises past.
Other buildings of historic interest include the restored 1927
Egyptian Theater (Capitol Boulevard and Main); the French chateau-style Idanha Hotel, now converted into apartments (10th and
Main); the Simplot Building (10th and Main); Alexander Building
(Ninth and Main); the Union Block (on Idaho between Seventh
and Eighth); Pioneer Building (Sixth and Main); Fidelity Building
(Eighth and Idaho); the Hoff Building (Eighth and Bannock); the old
Central Fire Station (Sixth and Idaho); and the original U.S. Assay
Office (between Idaho and Main, and Second and Third Streets).
Several churches near downtown also are of historical interest.

temporary home of museums staff and store, will feature a small

sampling of the Essential Idaho: 150 Things That Make the Gem
State Unique exhibit that was a featured at the Idaho State Historical Museum for the Idaho Territorial Sesquicentennial.

Hyde Park

Idaho Museum of Mining and Geology

Hyde Park, on North 13th Street in Boises historic North End

neighborhood, a little more than a mile from downtown Boise,
has been a thriving commercial district since the turn of the 20th
century. Today, its a popular gathering place that includes a variety of restaurants, unique antique shops, boutiques and galleries.

Idaho Anne Frank

Human Rights Memorial
A few blocks west of downtown, at the intersection of Eighth
Street and the Greenbelt, is the Idaho Anne Frank Human Rights
Memorial. This educational park consists of the Human Rights
Wall, inscribed with more than 60 quotations and stories from
human rights heroes; two reflecting ponds; three waterfalls; an
amphitheater; and a life-sized bronze sculpture of Anne Frank.

The Idaho Black History Museum

The Idaho Black History Museum was established to preserve, enhance and display accurate and stimulating information
regarding African-American culture as an essential part of Idahos
diverse heritage. Housed in the historic St. Paul Baptist Church
building in Julia Davis Park, the museum presents exhibits and
provides educational and community outreach programs including lectures, films, workshops, literacy programs, and musical
performances.

The Idaho Botanical Garden

The Idaho Botanical Garden, located on the grounds of the

Old Pen, is a regional destination garden on 15 acres, featuring an
ever-expanding range of horticultural offerings. It has 14 separate
theme and display gardens, including the Lewis and Clark Native
Plant Garden. It also hosts outdoor summer concerts in its Outlaw
Field, in conjunction with the Knitting Factory.

The Idaho Historical Museum

The Idaho Historical Museum is currently closed for renovation until 2017. However, the Museum Store as well as several
exhibits will take temporary residence at 214 Broadway Avenue,
the former Bureau of Reclamation Building. The BOR, as the

16

Welcome to Boise

Idaho Ice World

Idaho Ice World, just off the Gowen Road exit of I-84, features
two public skating rinks for open ice skating, as well as youth and
adult hockey leagues. Skate rentals are available, as well as food
concessions and fast-food restaurants.

The Idaho Museum of Military History

The Idaho Museum of Military History, at Gowen Field south

of the Boise Airport, is dedicated to Idaho military history and to
those who served in Americas conflicts from post Civil War to the
present. It features displays and military memorabilia.
Next door to the Old Pen, as the locals call it (see the Old
Idaho Penitentiary) is the Idaho Museum of Mining and Geology, featuring the states colorful history of mining and geology
through historical photograph and artifact exhibits.

The Idaho State Capitol

Down Capitol Boulevard is the Idaho State Capitol, a smaller

version of the nations Capitol and the only statehouse in the
country heated with natural geothermal hot water. Built from
native sandstone quarried at nearby Table Rock, it was completed
in 1920.

Julia Davis Park

Julia Davis Park is the site of several of Boises main attractions. Named for a pioneer family, the 90-acre park lies along the
Boise River in the center of the city. It has picnic facilities, playgrounds, tennis and Bocce ball courts, horseshoe pits, public art,
a playground, boat rentals (featuring swan-shaped paddle boats)
and a band shell. (It also is home to The Idaho Historical Museum,
Boise Art Museum, The Memorial Rose Garden, Zoo Boise, The
Idaho Black History Museum the Discovery Center of Idaho, and
new this year, the Bloch Cancer Survivor Plaza.)

Kathryn Albertson Park

Across Americana Boulevard from Ann Morrison Park, near

the river, is Kathryn Albertson Park, a passive botanical and wildlife park. It is located near downtown and features wide walking
paths, ponds, fountains, outdoor gazebos, thousands of trees and
other plants, and birds and small wildlife.

Julius M. Kleiner Memorial Park

The 60-acre Julius M. Kleiner Memorial Park has a band shell,

Bocce ball, tennis courts, basketball, gardens, ponds, fishing, a
playground, and volleyball, among other amenities. It is also the
site of the Meridian Senior Center and the Rock of Honor Memorial
Monument for Veterans. It is adjacent to The Village at Meridian.

L Y S I
R E A L
K E L L E R

B I S H O P
E S TAT E

W I L L I A M S

R EA LT Y

B O I S E

Les Bois Park

Les Bois Park features live horse racing (May August) and
simulcast racing daily. On Ladies Night, women get in free.

Lucky Peak State Park

Lucky Peak State Park is about eight miles east of Boise, has
year-round fishing, and in the summer features water skiing and
sailing in the reservoir, and swimming at Sandy Point Beach below
the Lucky Peak Dam. And, if youre lucky enough to be around
in the spring when the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers discharges
water from the lake, youll be able to see an amazing site called
the rooster tail.

The Memorial Rose Garden

The Memorial Rose Garden in Julia Davis Park is a favorite

spot for flower lovers and is a lovely, fragrant place to stroll or relax.
The garden has about 2,400 roses every year and is a popular site
for weddings.

Military Reserve Park

Military Reserve Park, located at Fort and Reserve streets, is a

466-acre historic and natural attraction that encompasses the Old
Boise Barracks, the Veterans Affairs Medical Center and hiking trails
in the foothills that offer spectacular views over the city.

Municipal Park

Heading upriver from Julia Davis Park is Municipal Park, on

Walnut Street off Warm Springs Avenue. The park has playgrounds
and picnic facilities adjacent to the Idaho Fish & Game headquarters (your source for hunting and fishing information and licenses).
It is a favorite place for family reunions and company picnics (but
no dogs allowed).

Morrison Knudsen Nature Center

At the edge of Municipal Park is the one-of-a-kind Morrison

Knudsen Nature Center, a living museum that, among other things,
lets you see sturgeon, and the life of a mountain stream through
underwater viewing windows and interpretive signs.

The OFarrell Cabin

On the grounds of the Military Reserve Park is the OFarrell

Cabin, considered to be the citys first permanent residence and
first place of Catholic worship. Limited tours are available.

Old Boise Historic District

Old Boise Historic District, located at Sixth and Main Streets,

offers an array of businesses, including restaurants, unique shops
and nightlife.

The Old Idaho Penitentiary

Toward the end of Warm Springs lies the Old Idaho Penitentiary, built in 1870 and used until 1973. The Old Pen held many
Wild West desperadoes in its time, and many of their stories are

18

Welcome to Boise

told in a slide show and self-guided tour. In recent years, the

Old Pen has been a popular site for paranormal investigations and has been featured on TV shows, including Ghost
Adventures on the Travel Channel. At Halloween, the site hosts
Frightened Felons, an event that attracts thousands and features the Thrill the World Boise zombie dancers. Today, the site
also houses the Idaho Transportation Exhibit and the History of
Electricity in Idaho Exhibit.

Veterans Memorial State Park

Veterans Memorial State Park, off of State Street, features

100-year-old cedars along the Boise River, a large fishing
lake, extensive trails and a childrens playground.

The Village at Meridian

The Village at Meridian, at the corner of Fairview and Eagle Roads in Meridian, features a plaza-like park dotted with
trees, a dancing, Bellagio-style fountain, live music in temperate months and an outdoor ice-skating rink in the winter. The
plaza is rimmed by shops, restaurants and a 15-screen movie
theater, and is adjacent to the Julius M. Kleiner Memorial
Park.

Victorian mansions
on Warm Springs Avenue
There are a number of stately Victorian mansions that line
Warm Springs Avenue, by which many are heated by Boises
geothermal resources.

The World Center for Birds of Prey

Just south of Boise is the World Center for Birds of Prey,

where you can see dozens of species of raptors up close.

Zoo Boise

Zoo Boise is a nationally accredited facility that safely

and humanely exhibits living animals. It is home to more
than 200 animals from more than 80 different species,
including the largest display of birds of prey in the Northwest. Special features include Butterflies in Bloom, June to
September; the Giraffe Encounter; the Sloth Bear Encounter; the Zoo Farm; big game animals; the Small Animal
Kingdom, which features three separate environmental
areas to explore; an African plains exhibit; and a variety of
exotic species from around the world.

More attractions

More attractions are outside of Boise, but still close

by, including Roaring Springs Waterpark, Wahooz Fun
Center and Pinz Bowling Center, and the Meridian
Speedway racetrack in Meridian; and in Nampa the
Rollerdrome indoor roller skating rink and Warhawk Air
Museum, featuring aircraft from U.S. wars.

Whether youre buying,

leasing or renting,
make sure
you get
natural gas.
For facts on energy
efficiency and conservation,
visit www.intgas.com

Think of this as your new corner office.

When you open a new account at
Mountain West Bank, you become the
most important person in the building.
Our banking experts not only shower you
with a full array of the finest financial
services in town, but can help you find
the best restaurants and daycares, too.
To see exactly how important you are to
us, visit any of our eight Treasure Valley
locations or click mountainwestbank.com.
Your corner office awaits.
Ask us about Totally Free Checking.

8 Treasure Valley locations

www.mountainwestbank.com | (208) 376-0471

Meridian Financial Center. Corner of Eagle Road and Fairview Avenue.

Entertainment & Events

20

Welcome to Boise

f you like going places and doing things, youve come to the right place here in
Boise, there are events throughout the year to please everyone.
Boise is a routine stop on national tour itineraries. Legendary performers like
The Rolling Stones, Elton John, Sting, Snoop Dog, and many more have performed
here, and Broadway shows light up the nights. Classical performers such as Josh
Groban, Itzhak Perlman, the Boston Pops, and the world-famous Vienna Boys and Mormon
Tabernacle Choirs have treated sell-out audiences.
Like to go to the movies? Boise has a variety of choices, from the Edwards 21-screen
multiplex and IMAX theater, to the historic Egyptian Theatre, that features classic movies,
concerts, lectures and more. Or try The Flicks, Boises art house theatre celebrating its
30th year, where you can wine and dine before, during or after your movie, inside or out
on the patio. There also is a nine-screen Edwards Theater complex in BoDo, The Village
Cinema 15 in Meridian features D-Box motion seats and includes its own restaurant,
The Backstage Bistro, that serves adult beverages, Meridians Majestic Cinemas with 18
screens, and several smaller discount cinema complexes (aka dollar movies) scattered
around the city.
Catch live music any day or night of the week at Boise concert houses, nightclubs,
restaurants, coffeehouses and street corners. Live theater, concerts, slam poetry,
storytelling, opera and dance rounds out the arts and entertainment scene in Boise. Please
refer to the Arts & Culture section for more information on the performing arts and cultural
offerings.
After dark, Boises downtown streets come alive as crowds of people roam from one
place to another, taking in night life at coffeehouses and nightclubs with music, dancing,
live comedy and just plain old people-watching.
And, cheers! If you are a craft beer aficionado or an oenophile, youre in luck. We have
breweries large and small with each one catering to its loyal following. And, in addition to a
number of tasting rooms and wine bars scattered throughout the city and beyond, including those in wineries surrounding Nampa and Cardwell, you can tip a glass in Garden City
at a variety of inner city wineries.

SPRING/SUMMER EVENTS
FIRST THURSDAY
This monthly event takes place on the first Thursday of each month, when downtown Boise
businesses offer extended hours to give the public an opportunity to stroll through some of the
citys unique galleries and stores while enjoying entertainment, events and the many restaurants
offering a wide variety of cuisines. Call 472-5251 or visit downtownboise.org.
TREEFORT MUSIC FEST
Get a taste of the local music and art scene with appearances from national and regional
musicians. March 23 27. treefortmusicfest.com.
CAPITAL CITY PUBLIC MARKET
Local farmers and producers set up along the Eighth Street corridor between The Grove and
Bannock Street to sell their products to residents and visitors. April to December. Call 345-9287 or
visit capitalcitypublicmarket.com.
BOISE FARMERS MARKET
This is every Saturday 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at 11th and Grove streets in Boise, April to October, at
516 S. Eighth St. November and December. theboisefarmersmarket.com.
EAGLE SATURDAY PUBLIC MARKET
It is held at Heritage Park in Eagle, April to October.
MERIDIANS FARMERS MARKET AND BAZAAR
This takes place in the Ustick Marketplace II on Eagle Road, May to September.

The Outlaw Field Summer Concert Series at the Idaho Botanical Garden is a popular summer attraction.
Photo courtesy of Idaho Botanical Garden

GENE HARRIS JAZZ FESTIVAL

Started by Idahos Musical Ambassador to the World,
the Gene Harris Jazz Festival features great public jazz
concerts by world-class musicians, competitions and jam
sessions. March 29, April 1, 2016. Visit geneharris.org.
KNOBBY TIRE MOUNTAIN BIKE SERIES
The Knobby Tire Mountain Bike Series promotes mountain bike races throughout the state of Idaho, endorsing health
benefits and team spirit. April to September. knobbytireseries.
com.
BOISE MUSIC WEEK
A Boise tradition for 92 years, this weeklong musical event
includes choral and full-cast musical theater performances
throughout the city. Boise is nationally recognized as the first
city to observe Music Week; other cities throughout the country
have followed suit. All performances are free to the public. Late
April to early May. Call 375-4711 or visit boisemusicweek.org.
RACE FOR THE CURE
The Boise Affiliate of Susan G. Komen for the Cure joins more
than a million survivors and activists around the world working
to better the lives of those facing breast cancer in the local
community. The 5K run/walk is followed by a survivor parade
and an awards ceremony and has raised more than $2 million

for the local service area. May 7, 2016. Call 384-0013 or visit
komenboise.org.
RUSSIAN FOOD FESTIVAL
Come enjoy stroganoff, piroshki, blini, manti, borscht and
baklava for dessert at this annual event. Watch readings by
professional actors of Chekhov plays or tour the St. Seraphim of
Sarov Orthodox church while you enjoy all of the amazing food.
May. Call 345-1553 or visit stseraphimboise.org.
ALIVE AFTER FIVE
Wednesday evenings come alive on The Grove in downtown Boise with musicians, entertainers and great food. June to
September. Call 472-5251 or visit downtownboise.org.
GREAT GARDEN ESCAPE CONCERT SERIES
Enjoy live music every Thursday evening June through
September at Idaho Botanical Garden. Food and drink vendors
are available, or you can bring your own picnic. Call 343-8649.
idahobotanicalgarden.org.
OUTLAW FIELD SUMMER CONCERT SERIES
Idaho Botanical Garden partners with the Knitting Factory to
bring world-famous performers to their outdoor concert venue.
June through September. Call 343-8649 or visit idahobotanicalgarden.org.
Welcome to Boise

21

Welcome to

Boise
Centre
B

oise Centre is Idahos premier convention center and

meeting venue. Conveniently located in the heart of
vibrant downtown Boise with hotels, restaurants,
entertainment, nightlife and recreation just outside
Boise Centres doors.
Each year Boise Centre hosts international, national
and regional conventions, corporate conferences, association meetings, tradeshows and special events. Currently
offering 50,000 square feet of meeting and event space,
Boise Centre is excited to be opening an expansion in
September 2016. Upon completion of the expansion, Boise
Centre will feature 90,000 square feet of meeting and
event space.

More Space for Your Events

Opening September 2016
The expanded meeting and event space will provide
Boise Centre the opportunity to accommodate more local
events and larger conventions. Included in the expansion
is a new 14,000-square-foot ballroom to seat 800 guests,
eight new flexible meeting rooms and a spacious glass
enclosed lobby overlooking the citys civic plaza and fountain.
A new catering kitchen is included in the expansion
ensuring Boise Centre will continue to deliver the highest
levels of culinary excellence and guest service. An enclosed
concourse will connect Boise Centre East to the existing
Boise Centre, providing guests seamless access between
the two buildings.
Along with the convention center expansion, several
developers have announced they will build hotels in downtown Boise in the next two years. The additional hotel
rooms will help Boise accommodate larger conventions and
multiple groups meeting at Boise Centre. Two hotels began
construction in 2015 and two more are expected to break
ground before the end of 2016.

Boise Centre Expansion

New 4th Floor Lobby

A Tradition of Excellence
As the premier location for meetings, conventions and
special events, this in-demand gathering place hosts over
200 events each year providing more than 120,000 guests
with outstanding service.
Treasure Valley residents enjoy dozens of community-oriented events. Highlights each year include Festival of
Trees, Kid for a Night, and the Flower and Garden Show.
Meeting and event planners appreciate the venue because

New 14,000 S.F. Ballroom

of the customizable set up options within the Centre. From
tradeshows, product launches, music performances to fashion shows and auctions, Boise Centre is an ideal location.

208.336.8900
www.boisecentre.com

and technical services, high-speed Internet, Wi-Fi connections throughout, extensive recycling and sustainability
programs.
Boise Centre has consistently earned top accolades for
its quality meals, presentation and service. Our inhouse
culinary team is the exclusive provider of food and beverage service for all events held at the facility. Whenever
possible, Boise Centre uses Idaho Preferred and Buy Idaho
ingredients to help support Idahos farmers, ranchers and
food producers.
To begin planning your event, we encourage you to visit
Boise Centres website www.boisecentre.com. Here you
will find an event photo gallery, facility floor plans, menus,
technology services and a convention and tradeshow
checklist.

Concierge Corner & Visitor Services

Locals, as well as visitors, can discover the many
opportunities Idaho has to offer when they visit Concierge Corner & Visitor Services. Conveniently located
just across the street from Boise Centre, on the southeast corner of 9th and Front Streets, information is
readily available on events, accommodations, dining,
recreation opportunities, and Idahos growing arts and
cultural scene. The Concierge Corner Team is made up
of dedicated volunteers who have welcomed visitors from
around the world.
Stop by to discover more information about Boise, the
State of Idaho and the Pacific Northwest. Concierge Corner & Visitor Services is open 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday
through Friday and on special occasions.

An Economic Powerhouse
Boise Centre is more than just a meeting place; its an
integral part of the community. Just outside the Centres
doors rests the Grove Plaza, a public area dedicated to
civic and community events including the seasonal Capital
City Public Market and weekly concerts.

Professional Staff and Catering Services

Over the past 26 years, the venue has built a reputation
for providing excellent service and high quality events.
Boise Centre features full-service catering, audio visual

Boise Centre is a key contributor to the economic

health of the Treasure Valley. Since opening in 1990,
Boise Centre has welcomed over 4.4 million guests, generating over $899 million dollars in goods, services, jobs
and taxes.
Out of town visitors, attend events at Boise Centre,
spend money locally on lodging, dining, retail, transportation, recreation and entertainment. Annually, Boise Centre
generates an estimated $20 million dollars in local economic impact and over $500 hundred thousand dollars in
sales tax revenues.
Boise Centre is truly a community gathering place, and
an economic powerhouse.

The Caldwell Night Rodeo in August.

Photo courtesy ofCaldwell Night
Rodeo/Photo by Jim Babb

GREEK FOOD FESTIVAL

Enjoy Greek dancing, music and entertainment by Greek
Mediterranean dancers while you partake in delicious souvlaki,
dolmathes, gyros, pastries and much more. There is a suggested donation of $1. First Friday and Saturday in June. Call
345-6147 or visit serfes.org.
SAINT ALPHONSUS CAPITOL CLASSIC RACE
This is a childrens race designed to encourage children
to be healthy and have fun. It is still one of the largest children-only races in the country. June. Call 367-4997 or visit
saintalphonsus.org/Foundation_events.html.
EMMETT CHERRY FESTIVAL
The cherry capital of the state celebrates with a carnival,
arts and crafts, concessions, parades, music and dancing,
and cherry pie-eating contests. June. Call 365-3485 or visit
emmettcherryfestival.com.
NATIONAL OLDTIME FIDDLERS CONTEST
The best fiddlers in the nation gather in Weiser for a heated
hoedown competition. Live entertainment, carnival, arts and
crafts, food and workshops. June. Call 414-0255 or visit fiddlecontest.com.

24

Welcome to Boise

MERIDIAN DAIRY DAYS

Celebrating Meridians rural heritage with a dairy show,
petting zoo, carnival and parade. June. Call 888-2817 or visit
meridianchamber.org.
DELI DAYS
Enjoy New York deli food, all kinds of kosher Israeli
sandwiches, knishes, salads, bagels and desserts as well as
entertainment at this two-day event at Ahavath Beth Israel
Synagogue on the Boise Bench. Delivery available. Late June.
Call 343-6601 or visit ahavathbethisrael.org.
TWILIGHT CRITERIUM
Ranked by VeloNews as the third best Criterium in the U.S.,
this premier cycling event draws more than 20,000 spectators to the streets of downtown Boise. Racers compete for the
$20,000 purse in cash and merchandise. July 16. Visit boisetwilightcriterium.com.
4TH OF JULY LIBERTY DAY PARADE
This is a Fourth of July parade through downtown Boise
featuring marching bands, antique cars, floats, fireworks and
flag-waving fun. Visit libertydayparade.com.

Find out why Boise is so

excited about its libraries!
Stop by or visit our website to learn about:
Using our online video tutorials on graphic
& website design, coding & more
Reserving a 3D printer or meeting room
Using our computers, laptops, tablets or WiFi
Downloading music, ebooks & emagazines
Attending a class or program
Borrowing books, movies & video games
....and so much more!

Boise Public
Library
Main Library 715 S. Capitol Blvd. 972-8255
Library! at Cole & Ustick 7557 W. Ustick Rd. 972-8300
Library! at Collister 4724 W. State St. 972-8320
Library! at Hillcrest 5246 W. Overland Rd. 972-8340

www.boisepubliclibrary.org

LEFT: A child watches in anticipation as a lion

strolls around at the Boise Zoo. Photo courtesy of
Zoo Boise. | RIGHT: The Veterans Memorial State
Park features 100-year-old-cedars. Photo courtesy
of Boise Parks and Recreation.

EAGLE FUN DAYS

A three-day community party, with live music, family
bike night, a pancake breakfast, the Wet & Wild Parade and
the worlds largest Rocky Mountain Oyster Feed, which also
serves as a fundraiser for the Eagle Volunteer Fire Department. July. Call 939-4222 or visit eaglechamber.com.
SNAKE RIVER STAMPEDE RODEO
The Snake River Dayz signature event, Nampas Pro-Rodeo Cowboys Association rodeo, is one of the top 10 regular
professional rodeos out of about 800 in the PRCA and features
one of the largest all-horse parades in the West, as well as
clowns, barrel racers and cowboys. July 14 - 18. Call 4668497 or visit snakeriverstampede.com.
CALDWELL NIGHT RODEO
Voted as one of the Top 5 Large Outdoor Pro-Rodeos out
of 700 and listed among the top 20 Pro-Rodeos in the nation,
the Caldwell Night Rodeo draws more than 40,000 fans to
watch world-class cowboys and cowgirls compete for one of
Pro-Rodeos richest purses. August 18 23 in Caldwell. Call
459-2060 or visit caldwellnightrodeo.com.
WESTERN IDAHO FAIR
Big-name entertainment, carnival rides, games, food and
traditional country fair activities at Expo Idaho. August 21-30.
Call 287-5650 or visit idahofair.com.

FALL/WINTER EVENTS
FIRST THURSDAY
This monthly event takes place on the first Thursday of
each month, when downtown Boise businesses offer extended
hours to give the public an opportunity to stroll through some of
the citys unique galleries and stores while enjoying entertainment, events and the many restaurants offering a wide variety
of cuisines. Call 472-5251 or visit downtownboise.org.

26

Welcome to Boise

CAPITAL CITY PUBLIC MARKET

Local farmers and producers set up along the Eighth Street
corridor between The Grove and Bannock Street to sell their
products to residents and visitors. April to December. Call 3459287 or visit capitalcitypublicmarket.com.
BOISE FARMERS MARKET
It is every Saturday 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at 11th and Grove
streets in Boise, April to October; at 516 S. Eighth St. November
and December. Theboisefarmersmarket.com.
EAGLE SATURDAY PUBLIC MARKET
It is held at Heritage Park in Eagle, April to October.
MERIDIANS FARMERS MARKET AND BAZAAR
ALBERTSONS BOISE OPEN 2016
This Pro-Am golf tournament is presented and sponsored
by Kraft Albertsons and Hillcrest Country Club, and brings big
names and newcomers to town. Sept. 12-18. Visit the website
at albertsonsboiseopen.com.
FITONE
A three-day event that starts with a two-day Womens
Show and ends with thousands of women of all ages gathering
to participate in this 5K/10k/half marathon run/walk event and
expo with a party in the park afterward. September. Call 3812221 or visit fitoneboise.org.
ART IN THE PARK
Boise Art Museums annual three-day arts sale in beautiful
Julia Davis Park showcases juried arts and crafts and features
a variety of food booths and entertainment. Sept. 9, 10, 11. Call
345-8330 or visit boiseartmuseum.org.
HYDE PARK STREET FAIR
Celebrating Boises quaint Bohemian neighborhood in the
North End, live rock music, a plethora of arts and crafts, and

FEATURING THE BEST

independent, foreign and art films,

including the best Hollywood movies.

Visit the historic Boise Depot,

an Idaho landmark!
Tour the former Union Pacific passenger station, enjoy
the panoramic view from the belltower, and learn
about railroad history.

4 SCREENS BEER WINE CAFE

PATIO & FIRESIDE DINING

Free Public Hours

11 a.m.-5 p.m. Sundays & Mondays
(closed on legal holidays)
Free Guided Tours
1st Sunday of every month
Noon and 1:30 p.m.,
approximately 1 hour in length
THE BOISE DEPOT
2603 Eastover Terrace Boise, ID 83706
parks.cityofboise.org (208) 608-7600

GIFT CERTIFICATES VIDEO & DVD RENTALS

theflicksboise.com
342-4222 646 Fulton

Mon - Thurs 4pm-9:30pm

Fri - Sun 12pm-9:30pm

The Western Idaho Fair features big-name entertainment, carnival rides, games, food and more. Photo courtesy of Western Idaho Fair

a beer garden and food court highlight this three-day fair in

Camels Back Park. Held the third weekend in September, Sept.
16, 17, 18. Restaurants, antique shops and other specialty
stores in Hyde Park also stay open during the event. northendboise.org.
HOLIDAY PARADE
The holiday season is heralded each year with a parade of
floats, bands and Santa Claus. End of November. boiseholidayparade.org.
WINTER GARDEN AGLOW
Idaho Botanical Gardens Christmas lights display with hot
refreshments and cookies to help you revel in the holiday atmosphere. November to January. Call 343-8649 or visit idahobotanicalgarden.org.
SAINT ALPHONSUS FESTIVAL OF TREES
Elaborately decorated trees are displayed and sold with
proceeds benefiting Saint Alphonsus Regional Medical Centers
special programs. Over more than 20 years, the Festival has
raised more than $5 million to improve health care in our community. Thanksgiving weekend. Call 367-2759 or visit saintalphonsus.org/Foundation_events.html.

28

Welcome to Boise

TREE LIGHTING CELEBRATION

Welcome the holiday season with the Mayor as he lights
the Christmas tree on The Grove in downtown Boise. Saturday
after Thanksgiving. Call 385-7300 or visit downtownboise.org.
FAMOUS IDAHO POTATO BOWL
Played on the blue turf at Bronco Stadium, this bowl game
includes a team from the Western Athletic Conference versus a
team from the Mountain West Conference. December. Call 4241011 or visit famousidahopotatobowl.com.
CHRISTMAS IN THE CITY
Between Thanksgiving and Christmas, downtown Boise
lights up for the holiday season, with the Holiday Parade and
many other festivities. Its a great time to stroll through unique
shops and galleries and enjoy the variety of restaurants and
entertainment downtown. Late November to December. Call
472-5251 or visit downtownboise.org.
THE NEW YEARS EVE IDAHO POTATO DROP
The Idaho New Years Commission presents music,
activities, refreshments, magic shows, street performers, fire
dancers and more for the whole family. 954-5077 or visit idahonewyearscommission.com.

WINNEMUCCA, NV
THERES MORE THAN MEETS THE EYE

March

Annual Events

Silver State International Rodeo

Fifties Fever Car Show

Run-A-Mucca - Motorcycle Rally

Tri-County Fair & Stampede

Basque Festival
Ladies Ranch Rodeo

Fall Farm Festival

Western States Ranch Rodeo Finals

MaY

JUNE

Boise, ID

July

Ranch Hand Rodeo Weekend

Shooting the West

257 MILES

September

95

October

WINNEMUCCA
80

Reno, NV
166 MILES

80

Salt Lake City, UT

354 MILES

Explore the many outdoor adventures, exciting special events, Nevada style
gaming and night life, historic museums, and exquisite Basque dining.

www.winnemucca.com

Bike-Friendly Boise

You can bike on the

GreenBelt year-round.
Photo by Pete Grady.

30

Welcome to Boise

Biking is
easy and fun

Story by Teya Vitu

Idaho Business Review

Boises streets are painted

with wide bicycle lanes, the
Boise River Greenbelt can
take you on a two-wheel
tour from Lucky Peak to
Meridian, try the foothills for
extreme mountain biking, and
GreenBike takes bike riding in
Boise to easy street

Downtown bicycling is popular in Boise, and parking it is easy

Photo by Patrick Sweeney.

he bicycle world now knows

Boise is a force to be reckoned
with as a bicycle-friendly community.
Boise was listed at the silver level as a Bicycle Friendly Community for
2015 by The League of American Bicyclists,
a national organization that promotes safer
roads and a bicycle-friendly America.
This was the first time Boise applied for
bicycle-friendly status and the Boise was one
of only 73 communities to reach the silver
level out of 350 recognized communities.
There are four platinum cities (Boulder, Colo.;
Fort Collins, Colo.; Davis, Calif.; and Portland,
Ore.), 21 gold and 252 bronze but no diamond communities, the highest level, according to the league.
Boise has done a lot of good things to
be a bike-friendly city, said Cynthia Gibson,
executive director of the Idaho Walk Bike Alliance, which promotes active transportation
across the state. We have the new bike lanes
on Capitol Boulevard. We have a lot more bike
parking than even last year. They just beefed
up bike parking on Eighth Street in the last
six months.
Groups that promote bicycling and walking, including Gibsons, say communities with
strong walking and biking facilities are safer,
healthier, and more economically vibrant. Boise established a Bicycle Advisory Committee
last year and one of its tasks was to apply for
this League of American Bicyclists recognition.
One of the things (the league) wanted
to see was a bicycle advisory committee,
said Dave Fotsch, a committee member and
Welcome to Boise

31

BOISE GREENBIKE BIKE SHARING

IS A HIT, TRY ONE OUT
Bike sharing in Boise ends its first fair-weather riding season with 3,395 members enrolled in Boise GreenBike, the local
bike-sharing program that is a service of Valley Regional Transit.
This is a program where people can pay $4 to use a bicycle
for 60 minutes or enroll in monthly or annual memberships.
By far, the most popular use of these bicycles is for rides on the
Boise River Greenbelt. Bicycle-friendly Eighth Street is the most
commonly used city street, though all downtown streets between
Third and 11th streets and State Street to the greenbelt see bike
sharing usage, said Dave Fotsch, director of Boise Greenbike.
Weve added an amenity that provides greater mobility in
downtown, Fotsch said.
By November 2015, cyclists made some 10,300 rides on the 114
green-and-blue bicycles since the first bikes hit the streets on
April 15, 2015. The bike fleet at Boise GreenBikes 15 docking stations in and near downtown Boise will likely be reduced to half in
the winter months, but bike sharing is available year-round, said
Fotsch, who would like to double ridership in the next year.
Boise is now one of 91 American cities with bike sharing
programs 25 of them new in 2015, said Matt Martin, project
manager at the North American BikeShare Association. Boise
got bike sharing before Portland, Ore., which will introduce its
system in summer 2016.
More than 90 percent of our members are pay-as-you-go (at
$4 for 60 minutes), Fotsch said. Thats in line with the way it
works in most other cities. Day passes outnumber all other plans.
Boise, however, has a unique twist on buying an hour of riding
time. Most bike share programs, Fotsch said, charge for an hour
whether you ride one minute or 60. Boise GreenBike only counts
off minutes ridden and the $4 hour is good for as many days as
it takes to log 60 minutes.
Teya Vitu | Idaho Business Review

Local restaurateur, Remi McManus, co-owner of Boises State and

Lemp upscale restaurant, enjoys road biking. Photo by Pete Grady.

32

Welcome to Boise

Dave Fotsch, of Boise GreenBike, in downtown

Boise. Photo by Lisa Jordan.

director of Boise GreenBike, the bike sharing program. One of the things that helped pull us to
the silver level is the bike share program.
The League of American Bicyclists has
named bicycle-friendly communities since
2003.
We applaud this new round of communities for investing in a more sustainable future
for the country and a healthier future for their
residents and beyond, said Andy Clarke, president of the League of American Bicyclists, in a
news release. The growing number of leaders
taking up bicycling as a way of solving many
complex community problems is encouraging.

discover boise the

way

A S E R VI CE O F

$4 HOUR
Pay As You Go
P ROR ATED

$15 MONTH
60 minutes of ride
time every day.

$70 YEAR

60 minutes of ride
time every day.

Download the Social Bicycles App. Go to SOBI.IO | Boise.GreenBike.com

Arts and Culture

34

Welcome to Boise

n any given day in Boise, you might see a Shakespeare play, listen to a jazz concert,
attend a classical ballet, watch a contemporary play, visit a world-class art exhibit, or
see, or participate in, a Story Story Night or a poetry slam competition.
Boises cultural infrastructure includes performing arts facilities, outdoor venues,
museums and creative businesses. Public art is a part of downtown, displayed in
and on buildings, sidewalks and traffic light boxes. Cafs and art galleries feature local artists.
The Boise City Department of Arts & History organizes events and manages projects to showcase
local musicians and performing, literary and visual artists. The department also supports public art,
offers art and history tours and a lecture series.
Public art, including sculptures, murals and paintings, is on display from the moment you step
off the plane at the airport or take a taxi or Uber ride downtown. Youll see it at the Boise Watershed
and Foothills Learning Center, at any of the public library branches and in the city parks. Pick up a
self-guided Public Art Map at a cultural district kiosk at Eighth and Idaho streets or Eighth and Broad
streets, the Anne Frank Memorial Kiosk, or outside the front entrance of City Hall; or you can download it and a self-guided Traffic Box map online at boiseartsandhistory.org. You wont want to miss
the Banksy-esque Freak Alley between Bannock and Idaho streets, an ongoing exposition created by
dozens of local artists that evolves with each new addition. And there are now more than 60 traffic
light boxes wrapped with original art by Boise artists. In addition, there are about 10 transit shelters
with art by local artists.
Also: Mark your calendars for Treefort Music Fest. Treefort is a multi-day, multi-venue celebration
of Boises music and art scene that allows the city to host national musical acts, while also providing a
prominent spotlight for local and emerging musicians and artists of all stripes. The festival is scheduled for March 23-27 at venues all across downtown Boise. And thats not all branching off from the
original, you can now go to Comedyfort, Filmfort, Foodfort, Storyfort, Hackfort, Yogafort, Kidfort plus,
there will be a number of performance art beyond the stage presentations. Community cultural and
arts events take place year-round. Be sure to check and see what events youll want to attend.

SMALL TO MID-SIZE VENUES

Designed in a spare modernist style by the Conrad-Lombard Architect firm, The Velma V. Morrison Center for the Performing Arts opened in Boise with My Fair Lady on April 7, 1984. It is on the
Boise State University campus and has an idyllic location along the Boise River. Fun fact: From above,
the building is in the shape of the state of Idaho. The venue features a 10-story stage house that
drops to six stories for the performing hall, seats more than 2,000, and doubling as the Boise State
departments of music and theater arts the classroom portion consists of three stories. The Morrison Center presents Broadway in Boise productions, Boise Philharmonic performances, and locally
produced professional and student performances and concerts.
The Egyptian Theatre, designed by Tourtellotte and Hummel Architects and built by contractor J.O.
Jordan & Son, opened with Don Juan on April 19, 1927. Its name changed twice to the Fox and the
Ada before returning to the original. As the Ada Theater, it was entered on the National Register of
Historic Places on Nov. 21, 1974. In 1927, it had about 1,200 seats, but it now has 749, after a second
restoration in 1999 by the Hardy Foundation. Earl Hardy first renovated it in 1978. It had survived
the blight of urban renewal and continued as a first-run movie house with a stage, and the Robert
Morton pipe organ. Today, the theater is used for movies check out Boise Classic Movies that show
oldies but goodies on the big screen but is also available for speakers, concerts, live performances
and special events. Opera Idaho performances are held at the Egyptian.
An idea first dreamed up by government officials and business and community leaders, the Boise
Centre became a reality in January 1990. Adaptable for groups of 10 to 2,000, the 85,000-square-foot
building resides in the heart of downtown and is the citys convention center and premiere meeting
facility. With the Grove Plaza fountain dancing in the open air beyond its doors, the center is literally
within steps of many fine hotels, first-rate restaurants, coffee shops, bars, museums, entertainment
attractions and shopping. (Currently, the Boise Centre is undergoing an expansion and in September
2016 will include nearly 40,000 square feet and will be able to host 1,000 convention attendees at a
time.)
Open since 1990, Boise Centre is Idahos premier convention center and is located in the heart
of downtown Boise. Each year Boise Centre hosts over 200 events including conventions, meetings,
conferences, tradeshows and social functions. Boise Centre features 50,000 square feet of meeting

Season Runs June September

Get your

Tickets

ONLINE!
2016 Plays

And Then There Were None

BY AGATHA CHRISTIE May 27 July 31

Loves Labors Lost

BY WILLIAM SHAKESPEARE June 3 26

My Fair Lady

BOOK AND LYRICS BY ALAN JAY LERNER,

MUSIC BY FREDERICK LOEWE

July 1August 26

Twelfth Night

BY WILLIAM SHAKESPEARE August 528

Forever Plaid

WRITTEN AND ORIGINALLY DIRECTED

AND CHOREOGRAPHED BY STUART ROSS,
MUSICAL CONTINUITY SUPERVISION AND
ARRANGEMENTS BY JAMES RAITT

Season Sponsor KeyBank

Season Partners Albertsons, Foerstel Design, Micron Foundation, Truckstop.com
Season Media Partners 94.9 FM the River, The Idaho Statesman, KTVBIdahos News Channel 7

September 225

www. idahoshakespeare.org or call 336-9221

Laura Welsh Berg*. *Member Actors Equity. DKM Photography.

15-1218 ISF Season Ad-IBR-f.indd 1

BOISE LITTLE THEATER

producing quality community theater since 1948

BoiseLittleTheater.org

100 E. Fort St., Boise

208.342.5104

12/21/15 1:11 PM

The Egyptian Theatre first opened its doors in April 1927 with the movie Don Juan. In 1999, the theatre was restored to it full glory
and today is used as a special events space for concerts, weddings and comedians as well as a movie theatre for those die-hard
classic movie fans. Photo courtesy of Hardy Foundation/Photo by John Korom.

and event space and an expansion is currently underway that

will add another 40,000 square feet of space.Over the past
25 years, Boise Centre has consistently earned top accolades
for its quality meals, presentation and service.Boise Centre features full-service catering, audio-visual and technical
services, high speed Internet, Wi-Fi connections throughout,
extensive recycling and sustainability programs. Just outside
its doors are more than 100 shops, 80 restaurants, a number
of microbreweries and nightlife. The Fulton Street Theater is a
beautifully transformed seed warehouse located downtown in
the Boise Cultural District. This intimate, 231-seat theater is the
primary venue for Boise Contemporary Theater and Balance
Dance Company. It also houses the Idaho Shakespeare Festival
administrative offices and a dance studio, along with a variety
of rehearsal and classroom spaces.
The Esther Simplot Performing Arts Academy is a rehearsal, recital and performing space with administrative offices
housing Opera Idaho, Ballet Idaho and the Boise Philharmonic. It
also features a number of classrooms that local musicians and
smaller organizations can use.
Outside of the downtown area, the Visual Arts Collective is
a mixed-use, contemporary venue that caters to exhibitions and
events for the performing arts and visual art mediums, including performances by the Alley Repertory Theater. (See also Art
Galleries.)
Boise State University Special Events Center is on campus,
seats 435, has a stage, and is used by local arts organizations
as well as university departments for dance, theater and film
events. It is located inside the Boise State Student Union Build-

36

Welcome to Boise

ing, which holds events from art installations to lectures in its

more than 40 ballrooms and event spaces, each with a differing
capacity from 35 to 520.
Other cultural performance facilities include the Boise Little
Theater, The Flicks Theatre and Knock Em Dead Dinner Theater.

OUTDOOR PERFORMING ARTS SPACES

The Idaho Shakespeare Festival Amphitheater, located just

outside of Boise along the Boise River, has a beautiful view of
the foothills. It is the performing home of Boises professional Shakespeare troupe and a nature reserve where you can
observe bald eagles in the winter. The company plays to an
audience of more than 50,000 each year.
The Grove Plaza, located in the center of downtown, is the
central outdoor gathering place for Boise and plays host to a
variety of special events, including the Mayors Christmas Tree
Lighting. During the summer it is the venue for Alive after Five,
a concert series provided by the Downtown Boise Association,
as well as a variety of other community and commercial events.
And, from early spring to winter holidays, it is the location for
many of the Capital City Public Market vendors and live music.
The Gene Harris Band Shell in Julia Davis Park is a traditional outdoor band shell that was built in 1927 and can accommodate up to 1,500 for lawn seating. It is used throughout the
summer by a variety of local organizations as a performing and
event venue.
Boise States Centennial Amphitheater is an outdoor venue
located on campus along the Boise River and can seat up to

Discover everything there is to see and

do in Boise and throughout the region at

CONCIERGE CORNER &

VISITOR SERVICES
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Event Calendar Listed on boisecentre.com 208 344-5338

650 for summer events.

The Idaho Botanical Garden which features thousands of
lush flowers and seven specialty gardens in the spring, summer
and fall, and shines with more than 300,000 sparkly lights for
Winter Garden aGlow through the winter holidays also comes
alive with music, culture and art, hosting plein air painting
events, opera, outdoor movies and concerts.

LARGE VENUE ARENAS

The Ford Idaho Center Complex, located just off I-84 at the
edge of Nampa about 20 minutes west of Boise, consists of a
3,000 to 12,000-seat, multi-purpose arena that hosts concerts,
trade shows, a variety of sporting events and other large gatherings. It includes a separate sports center, an outdoor amphitheater and a horse park for equestrian events.
CenturyLink Arena is a 5,000-seat indoor sports and events
center connected to the Grove Hotel in downtown Boise. The
arena is home to the Idaho Steelheads ice hockey team, Idaho
Stampede basketball team and a venue for the staging of popular concerts, trade shows, ice shows, circuses and other events.
Taco Bell Arena, on the campus of Boise State, is a 2,500
to 13,500-seat, multi-purpose events center designed for
event flexibility, audience comfort and performer luxury. The
arena can accommodate virtually any type of performance or
sporting event, including circuses and ice shows, by adjusting
seats, stages, lights and sound. It opened originally as the BSU
Pavilion, in 1982.

LOCAL PERFORMING
ARTS ORGANIZATIONS
Idaho Shakespeare Festival presents Shakespeare and
other classical and contemporary playwrights June through
September. Plays run in repertory Tuesday through Sunday
and are performed at the festivals riverside amphitheater (see
Outdoor Performing Arts Spaces). The festival manages Idaho
Theater for Youth and The Drama School, which produces educational touring programs for schools and a year-round training
program for all grades.
Boise Philharmonic performs seven subscription concerts
in both Boise and Nampa during its October-through-May
season, plus a Holiday Pops Concert in December, a free family
concert in the park in May and a variety of educational concerts
for children throughout the year.
Ballet Idaho presents a diverse season of dance and
performances, ranging from the great classics to premier contemporary works. The company tours productions and provides
educational outreach opportunities statewide.
Opera Idaho produces operas using national, international
and Idaho artists. The companys season also includes outreach
and youth programs. Opera Idaho performs at the Egyptian
Theatre.
Boise Contemporary Theater is a professional theater company producing a season that reflects and explores contempo-

38

Welcome to Boise

rary life through fully produced plays and staged readings. They
reside in, perform at, and manage the Fulton Street Theater.
Balance Dance Company is a contemporary youth dance
company that works with several choreographers every season,
both local and national. Balance presents several performances,
including two fully produced concerts at Boise Contemporary
Theater, one in November and one in March. For more information, visit balancedance.org.
Idaho Dance Theatre is a professional dance company renowned for innovative artistic collaborations working with local
artists. They produce two or three public performances throughout the year featuring original contemporary choreography, and
provide extensive educational outreach as well.
Off Center Dance is a modern dance company dedicated
to bring dance to Boise and Idaho. It is seven years old.
The Cabin serves writers and readers with educational
and cultural programs that highlight the power of language.
Programs include: Reading and Conversations: a reading series;
Writers in the Schools; The Big Read (Citywide Book Club);
Idaho Writing Camps; and a monthly newsletter.
Boise Baroque Orchestra is a professional performing
ensemble comprising a chamber orchestra and chorus of about
50 musicians. Its season runs September through April.
The Boise Highlanders, a bagpipe band established in
1961, performs in dozens of parades and other local events
and celebrations each year, including St. Patricks Day, Fourth of
July, Veterans Day and the Holiday Parade.
Boise Little Theater is a nonprofit community theater
company established in the 1950s that produces six to seven
plays a year. The works vary in style and origination and include
comedies, dramas, mysteries and musicals.
Boise Master Chorale is a symphonic chorus of about 100
auditioned voices and performs four concerts each season.
Featured are major secular and sacred choral literatures from
all musical periods.
Knock Em Dead Dinner Theater is a unique opportunity
to enjoy community musical theater and plays along with a
fully catered meal. Five annual productions perform Thursday
through Saturday nights from September through June.
Other acting groups include Alley Repertory Theater, which
performs at the Visual Arts Collective, Stage Coach Theatre and
Daisys Madhouse.
Boise is also home to several arts organizations for the
younger set, including the Treasure Valley Institute for Childrens
Arts, called Trica, and the Treasure Valley Childrens Theater.

VISUAL ARTS ORGANIZATIONS

Visual arts organizations include Boise Open Space Collective, a group of local artists who, once a year, open their studios
to the public for weekend art tours.
Through Idaho Parents Unlimited Inc., The Creative Access
Art Center and the VSA brings art to all Idahoans, including
those with special needs, through workshops, artists-in-residence, classes, installations and a rotating art gallery.

During a 2015 summer Idaho Shakespeare Festival performance of the Secret Garden based on the novel of the same name
by Frances Hodgson Burnett the 11-year-old main character as well as audience members are shipped off to England after an
outbreak of a deadly disease spreads through India in the early 20th century. The musical features book and lyrics by Marsha
Norman, music by Lucy Simon. Photo courtesy of Idaho Shakespeare Festival.

The Green Chutes Artists Co-op offers local artists a retail

space in which to sell their wares to the public.
The Treasure Valley Artists Alliance is a community of
artists whose mission is to forge connections among visual
artists in the Treasure Valley in order to create opportunities for
creative collaboration, support and community contribution.

SPOKEN WORD

Story Story Night, which occurs monthly, is is a live

storytelling program that provides a forum for our community
to come together to share real experiences, live on stage and
without notes.
Big Tree Arts hosts bi-monthly poetry slams, where local
poets perform original poems that are three minutes or shorter,
in front of a live audience and randomly chosen judges. At the
nights end, one is pronounced winner.
You can catch open mic poetry readings throughout the
Boise metro area at coffee shops, libraries and bars.

ART GALLERIES

Boises art gallery listing includes fine art galleries that

feature everything from traditional to contemporary fine art,
glass art, sculpture, photography, prints and many other types
of visual art. If youre an artist, you may find a gallery to display
your work, and if youre a collector, or like to purchase art, youll

be delighted with gallery and gift shop choices.

Boises anchor art gallery, the Boise Art Museum, located
in historic Julia Davis Park close to downtown, is Idahos only
collecting art museum accredited by the American Association
of Museums. BAM features a diverse range of art exhibitions
from cutting-edge to historical and offers an array of educational programs for adults and children.
Other downtown galleries include Art Source Gallery (with
an annex at the Boise Air Terminal), Browns Gallery, Gallery
601, Lisk Gallery and Stewart Gallery. The Boise Creative
Center is a private studio and gallery. Sue Lattas The Sculpture Studio offers hands-on, 3-D, multi-dimensional artist
workshops.
Beyond downtown Boise in Garden City, is a new and
burgeoning arts district. The Alley Arts and Cultural District
includes Zion Warne Studios, featuring glass-blowing classes,
shop rental and an art gallery, and the Visual Arts Collective, a
contemporary fine art gallery and venue for visual and performance arts, film, music and theater. Enso Artspace is an artist
collective and gallery featuring exhibitions of local artists.
First Thursdays in Boise are some of the best times to
peruse the range of local galleries, sample complimentary hors
doeuvres, taste wines and catch a glimpse of some great local
artwork displayed in area businesses. The event is year-round
on the first Thursday of each month. Pick and choose where to
stop according to your interests, or see how many of them you
can pack into your schedule.

Welcome to Boise

39

f you like to shop, youve come to

the right place.

Shopping

MALL SHOPPING

40

Welcome to Boise

Boise Towne Square mall, located on

the western edge of the city, is Boises
largest retail center. With more than 200
shops and restaurants, the mall offers a
selection of big name department stores,
local boutiques, a food court and sitdown dining. It is easy to access and has
convenient and abundant parking. At the
eastern edge of Boise, just off Interstate
84 at Gowen Road, Boise Factory Outlets
have brand-name products at bargain
prices. Smaller malls and shopping
centers serve neighborhoods throughout
the city with department, discount and
outlet stores, as well as specialty shops,
consignment shops and thrift stores.

DOWNTOWN BOISE

Boise has a vibrant and eclectic

downtown with shopping and dining
as well as cultural, music and athletic
events in the heart of the city. An increasing number of people make it their home,
and shopping opportunities are growing
with the residential population.
Youll find fashion, furnishing and
accoutrements for you and your home.
A variety of specialty shops add to the
mix. Womens and mens clothing stores
include a mix of styles and price ranges.
Jewelry retailers also offer a mix of higher-cost and affordable jewelry, watches
and decorative items. There are shops
with trendy and contemporary clothes
and accessories as well as sporting good
outlets. Browse local galleries for an art
treasure or a special, one-of-a-kind gift.
Regular and seasonal events bring
throngs to downtown: the Capital City
Public Market (every Saturday 9:30
a.m. to 1:30 p.m. from April through
December); Alive After Five, a weekly
summer concert series on Wednesday
evenings; and First Thursday evenings
every month, with gallery and shopping
strolls.

PARK AND SHOP

Be on the lookout for a Boise public
parking garage in the Downtown Parking
System close to your shopping destination. There are six of them, with 2,561
parking spaces, and the first hour of garage parking is free. There also are more
than 1,000 metered parking spaces
downtown, and with the push of a button
you get the first 20 minutes free. And,
there are a number of meters that now
take credit cards and Downtown Boise
gift cards in addition to coins in BoDo,
around Boise City Hall and on Eighth
Street. The parking meters are enforced
8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday.

SOUTH EIGHTH STREET

HISTORIC DISTRICT
A stroll through this district is not
only charming, but provides a brief history lesson as well. Look for relics of the
past in the form of the original owners
names on many of the buildings. This
was the citys first commercial/industrial subdivision and is home to BoDo, a
development that includes a nine-screen
theater, a hotel, parking garages, retail
shops, restaurants, a concert hall, Jacks
Urban Meeting Place (see Attractions),
and other nightlife entertainment.
The individual businesses are the
heart of this area and offer a unique
diversity and character. If you are in
doubt about what gifts to buy, explore a
little further.

OLD BOISE
HISTORIC DISTRICT
The east end of Boises downtown
commercial district, now known as Old
Boise Historic District, has a heritage that
goes back to the founding of the City of
Trees in 1863.
A variety of building types there include dwellings, fraternal halls and commercial structures. Most are two-story
brick buildings with stone trim. Historic
buildings include the 1879 Perrault Building, on the southeast corner of Seventh

The Village at Meridian dancing lights rival those at The Bellagio in Las Vegas. Photo by Village Staff.

and Main; the 1892 Masonic Temple, between Sixth

and Seventh on Main Street; the 1892 Spiegel Building/
Night Grocery (Pengillys Saloon), at 513 W. Main St.;
the 1904 Belgravia Apartments, at Fifth and Main; and
the 1906 Boise City Turnverein Building, at Sixth and
Main. The area peaked in 1910 with the development
of the Statesman and Pioneer Tent & Awning Buildings,
kitty-corner from one another at Sixth and Main, with the
last major historic building, the Fraternal Order of Eagles
Hall, at 602 W. Idaho St., constructed in 1917.
Notable features of the Old Boise district included
early gas street lamps. A few of the original lights remain, but most were replaced by single, electric-globe,
cast-iron lights.

BOWN CROSSING

Located in southeast Boise, Bown Crossing

features restaurants and specialty shops and is easily
accessible by automobile or via the Boise Greenbelt,
which accommodates foot traffic, bicycles, inline
skates and skateboards.

BEYOND BOISE

The nearby communities of Eagle and Meridian

are constantly expanding retail selections and have
many additional shopping and entertainment opportunities. Eagle Road, for instance, from its Meridian
intersection at Interstate 84 through State Street in
Eagle, has shopping options at each intersection and
also along the way.
At the intersection of Eagle Road and Fairview is
The Village at Meridian, a one-two punch that delivers
several shopping centers in one location. The power
center features a handful of quick-service restaurants and medical options along Eagle Road, backed
by a handful of big-box stores. At the corners apex
is The Village at Meridians lifestyle shopping center,
anchored by Big Als and Cinema West (with four IMAXsized screens and a dozen regular screens). Also, on
the second floor of the theater is the Backstage Bistro,
a restaurant and bar for those going to the movies over
21. The shopping center includes more than 100 upscale specialty shops, boutiques and restaurants, with
a plaza-like park in the center featuring ice-skating in

Welcome to Boise

41

TOP: Eager shoppers can shop to their hearts

desire in downtown Boise. | LEFT: Shopping at the
local farmers markets is fun. IBR file photos.

the winter and terrace-lined patio seating

with bocce courts and live-music concerts
in the summer. With outdoor heating, heated
pavement and the valet parking that accommodates the surrounding free parking fields
year-round shopping is comfortable at this
mall alternative.
There also are retailers whose offthe-beaten-path locations make them a
destination stop (Cabelas, Boise Army-Navy
Store, and more). And keep an eye out for
the many consignment and thrift stores
throughout the community for fashionistas
and bargain hunters.

42

Welcome to Boise

Idahos

Largest Convention Center

Bigger!
is Getting

More Space Means More Options.

Boise Centre, Idahos premier convention and
meeting venue, is expanding to better deliver the
atmosphere, location and service you need to
make your next event unforgettable.
86,000 sq. ft. of fully-carpeted, beautifully
appointed meeting spaces
New 14,000 sq. ft. ballroom

New 13,000 sq. ft. of flexible meeting space

New 9,000 sq. ft. of pre-function space, ideal
for networking, receptions and registration
Spacious glass enclosed lobby overlooking
a civic plaza and fountain
New concourse connecting to existing
Boise Centre

We look forward to introducing you to a bigger and better Boise Centre.

boisecentre.com 208.336.8900

What are you in the mood for? Sushi or American? Italian or Asian? Pizza or
Basque? We hope our guide will help you decide. If youre craving something
from your favorite chain restaurant or drive-through, you will likely find it (just
Google it!), from McDonalds to Ruths Chris Steak House, but here we proudly
feature local fare. Below are more than 350 restaurants to choose from by
cuisine, so the only question is: What are you hungry for?

Bon appetit!
AMERI CAN

46

G E RM A N 6 1

ARGENTINIAN

56

HAWA IIA N 6 1

ASI AN 5 6
BARBECUE 6 0
BASQUE

60

CENTRAL, EASTE RN
EUROPEAN

60

HIM ILAYA N

IN D IA N 6 1
IRISH
61
ITA LIA N / P IZ Z A

CUBAN
60
M E XIC A N
EGYPTIAN

EUROPEAN/
MEDITERRANEA N
FRENCH

44

Welcome to Boise

61

61

M ID D LE E A ST E RN

61
63
64

61

P E RU V IA N 6 4

61

P OLYN E SIA N

64

Cottonwood
Our menu offers premium game, fresh seafood, Northwest beef and other
seasonal favorites. Not to mention over 200 wines. Open seven days a week.

(208) 333-9800 9th & River Street cottonwoodgrille.com

A M E R I C AN
10 Barrel Brewing Co.
Boise / 830 W. Bannock St. /
344-5870

$$

13th Street Pub and Grill

Boise / 1520 N. 13th St. /
639-8888

$$

36th Street Bistro

$$
Boise / 3823 N. Garden Center Way
/ 433-5108
Addies
Boise / 501 W. Main St. / 388-1198

Alias Coffee House

Boise / 908 W. Main St. / 338-1299

Andys Deli
$
Boise / 840 W. Idaho St. / 336-5186
Angells Bar And Grill Renato
Boise / 909 Main St. / 342-4900

$$$

Bacon
Boise / 915 Idaho St. / 387-3553

Backstage Bistro $$$

Meridian / 3711 E. Longwing Lane /
995-2943
Bad Boy Burgers 1
Boise / 815 S. Vista Ave / 331-1580

Bad Boy Burgers 2

Boise / 7000 W Fairview Ave. /
373-0020

Bardenay
Boise / 610 Grove St. / 426-0538
Eagle / 155 E. Riverside Drive /
938-5093

$$

Beef OBradys
Meridian / 1505 Eagle Road /
888-6228

$$

Bens Crow Inn

$$$$
Boise / 6781 Warm Springs Ave. /
342-9669
Berryhill & Co. Restaurant
$$$$
Boise / 121 N. Ninth St. / 387-3553
Bier: Thirty Bottle And Bistro
Boise / 3073 S. Bown Way /
342-1916

$$

Big Als Sports Bar & Grill

Meridian / 1900 N. Eagle Road /
780-6118

$$

Big Bun Drive-In

Boise / 5816 W. Overland Road /
375-5361

Big City Coffee

Boise / 1416 W. Grove / 345-3145

Big Juds
Boise / 1289 Protest Road /
343-4439
The Bistro
Meridian / 1789 S. Eagle Road /
888-0800

$$

Bittercreek Ale House

$$
Boise / 246 N. Eighth St. / 345-1813
Black Bear Diner
$$
Boise / 1371 S. Entertainment Ave. /
322-1888
Bleubird
Boise / 224 N. 10th St. / 345-1055

The Blue Moose Caf

Eagle / 79 E. Aiken St. / 939-3079

Blue Sky Bagels

$
Boise / 407 W. Main St. / 388-4242
Meridian / 3161 E. Fairview Ave/
Suite 130 / 855-9113
Bobs Sunrise Family Restaurant
$$
Boise / 7135 W. State St. / 853-7400
Meridian / 805 N. Main St. /
888-4517
The Boise Bistro Market
Boise / 6103 W. Fairview Ave. /
377-8664

Barbacoa / Photo
by Laurie Pearman

Boise Co-Op
$$
Boise / 888 W. Fort St. / 472-4500
Meridian / 2350 N Eagle Road /
809-2200 / boise.coop /
Grab and Go 6 locations
at Boise Airport
Featuring made-from-scratch
items including hand-tossed pizzas,
burritos, sandwiches, espresso,
soups, a hot bar and organic salad
bar, sushi, and more.

46

Welcome to Boise

$ $10 $$ $20 $$$ $30 $$$$ $40

$7.99 Lunch Specials

Best Happy Hour in Town
4pm - 7pm and 11pm - close

KITCHEN OPEN LATE NIGHT HAPPY HOUR

LARGE PARTY SEATING AVAILABLE
350 N. Milwaukee | 208.321.0033
Off I-184 in Boise Towne Square Mall

BOISE

730 W. Idaho Street | 208.363.0037

Between Capitol Blvd. & 8th Street

5 OFF

Valid at participating locations only. Void where prohibited. No cash

value. For promotional purposes only. One per person, per visit.
Cannot be combined with any other offers or discounts. Not valid for
gift card or alcohol-only purchases. Dine-in only. Not valid on to-go
orders. Excludes tax and gratuity. Coupon cannot be duplicated and
may not be reprinted. PROMO: WELCOME5 EXP 12/31/17

ANY $25
PURCHASE

PREMIERING JANUARY 14TH, 2016 ON GOOD MORNING IDAHO!

Enjoy Idahos Local Flavor every Thursday morning at 6:16 AM on Channel 6 in the Sysco Kitchen. Sysco Executive
Chef, David Knickrehm will host and explore the uniqueness of what local independent restaurants have to offer.
Please visit the Sysco Kitchen web page within Channel 6s website at www.onyourside.com to see all archived
interviews, stories, and recipes to try at home!

Make your weekend dining plans by viewing Channel 6

every Thursday morning!

Boise Fry Company

$
Boise / 204 N. Capitol Blvd. /
949-7523
Boise / 6944 W. State St. / 391-1573
Boise / 3083 S. Bown Way /
965-1551
Meridian / 2020 E. Overland Road /
884-5530
Bonos Real Chicago Food
Meridian / 6700 N. Linder Road /
884-4422

$$

Bowl of Heaven
$
Boise / 5628 W. State St. / 853-3330
Eagle / 435 S. Eagle Road /
939-0748
Bread of Life
1535 W. Franklin Road
Suite D / 887-1205
Nonprofit, pay what you want or
pay it forward Lunch, M-S.

The Bridge Caf

$
Boise / 123 N. Sixth St. / 982-1720
Boise / 2016 W Front St. / 345-5526
Broadway Deli
$
Boise / 3369 S. Federal Way / 385-9943

Buckhorn Family Restaurant

Boise / 4115 Broadway Ave. /
344 -1091

The Capri
Boise / 2520 W. Fairview Ave. /
342-1442

Burger Belly
Boise / 1079 Broadway Ave. /
336-1240

Castle Ranch Steakhouse

$$$
Boise / 3300 Vista Ave. / 914-3952

Burger N Brew
$$
Boise / 4295 W. State St. / 345-7700
Burger Time
$
Boise / 1273 S. Orchard / 424-5073
Busted Shovel
Meridian / 704 Main St. / 288-2217

Buzz Coffee And Caf

Boise / 2999 N. Lakeharbor Lane /
344-4321

Capitol Bar
$
Boise / 6100 W State St. / 629-5134
Capitol Cellars
Boise / 110 S. Fifth St. / 344-9463
Caf Crane
Eagle / 3130 E. State Street
Suite 105 / 938-7790

$$
$

Chandlers Prime Steaks and

Fine Seafood
$$$$$$
Boise / 981 W. Grove St. / 383-4300
Cheerleaders Sports Grill
$$
Boise / 815 W. Ann Morrison Drive /
789-0270
$$
The Chefs Hut
Boise / 164 S. Cole Road / 376-3125
Cloud 9 Brewery
$
Boise / 1750 W. State St. / 336-0681
Cobbys Sandwich Shop
$$
Boise / 1030 Broadway / 345-0990
Boise / 6899 Overland Road /
323-0606
Garden City / 4348 Chinden Blvd. /
322-7401
Cottonwood Grille
$$$$
Boise / 913 W. River St. / 333-9800

10 Barrel Brewing Co.

Photo by Sean Powell

48

Welcome to Boise

$ $10 $$ $20 $$$ $30 $$$$ $40

The Creperie
Boise / 7709 W. Overland Road /
375-2737

Crescent No Lawyers Bar & Grill

Boise / 5500 W. Franklin Road /
322-9856

$$

Fork / Photo by Pete Grady

Crooked Fence Barrelhouse

$$
Garden City / 5181 Glenwood Ave. /
376-4200
Crooked Flats
Eagle / 3705 N. Highway 16 /
258-6882
Curb Bar And Grill
Meridian / 1760 S. Meridian Road /
855-0202

$$

$$
Cylos Lounge
Eagle / 1065 E. Winding Creek Drive /
939-6253
Dawson Taylor Coffee Roasters
$
Boise / 219 N. Eighth St. / 336-5633
Deli At The Grove
Boise / 101 S. Capitol Blvd. /
336-3500

Dougs Burger Den

Eagle / 231 E. State St. / 939-3300

Deli George
$
Boise / 220 S. Broadway Ave. /
323-2582 / deligeorge.com
A second generation deli embracing
the word delicatessen. Serving
hand-crafted pastrami, hand-cut
steak sandwiches and the best box
lunches and office catering in Boise.
Since 1997.
Delsas Ice Cream Parlour
Boise / 7923 W. Ustick Road /
377-3700

The Dish
$$$
Boise / 205 N. 10th St. / 344-4231
The District Coffee House
Boise / 210 N. 10th St. / 343-1089

$ $10 $$ $20 $$$ $30 $$$$ $40

Double Tap Pub

$$
Boise / 409 S. Eighth St. / 364-7800

The Drink Event Center &

Waterfront Grill & Bar
$$
Boise / 3000 N. Lakeharbor Lane /
853-5070
Dutch Goose
$$
Boise / 3515 W. State St. / 342-8887

The Egg Factory

$$
Boise / 6882 W. State St. / 853-2037
Boise / 8061 W. Fairview Ave. /
322-0191
Eighteen 1 Restaurant & Catering
At Eagle Hills Golf Club
$$$
Eagle / 605 N. Edgewood Lane /
939-0402
Elmers
$$
Boise / 1385 Capitol Blvd. / 343-5714

Eddies Diner
Boise / 3095 N. Lakeharbor Lane /
853-9800

Emilios
Boise / 245 S. Capitol Blvd. /
333-8002

$$$

Eddies Restaurant
Boise / 7067 W. Overland Road /
377-3340

Express Caf
Meridian / 400 E. Fairview Ave. /
888-3745

$$

Eds 50s Caf

Meridian / 979 S. Progress Ave. /
258-2085

Edge Brewing Co.

Boise / 525 N. Steelhead Way /
995-2979

$$

Fanci Freez
$
Boise / 1402 W. State St. / 429-1400
Fat Guys Fresh Deli
Meridian / 1626 S. Wells Ave.
Suite 100 / 855-0424

Welcome to Boise

49

Wild Root Caf and Market.

Photo by Jeanne Huff

Flying M Coffeehouse
$
Boise / 500 W. Idaho St. / 345-4320
Nampa / 1314 Second St. S / 467-5533

Golden Wheel Drive-In

Boise / 11100 W. Fairview Ave. /
323-7849

Firehouse Pub and Grill

Meridian / 1767 W. Franklin /
846-9535

Goldys Breakfast Bistro

Boise / 108 S. Capitol Blvd. /
345-4100

$$

$$

Grind Modern Burger and Brewforia

Boise / 705 Fulton St. / 342-0944
Grit American Cuisine
Eagle / 360 S. Eagle Road /
576-6666

$
$$

Fork
$$
Boise / 199 N. Eighth St. / 287-1700

Goldys Corner
$
Boise / 625 W. Main St. / 433-3934

Harrys Hideaway Bar and Grill

$$
Meridian / 2032 E. Overland Road /
888-9868

Fresh Off The Hook

$$
Boise / 507 N. Milwaukee St. /
322-9224
Boise / 401 S. Eighth St. / 343-0220

Gramercy Park Pizza and Grill

$$
Meridian / 1626 Wells Ave., Suite 115 /
854-7979

Hawkins Pac-Out
$$
Boise / 2315 N. Bogus Basin Road /
338-9627

Grants Neighborhood Grill

Meridian / 1835 W Cherry Lane /
884-4278

Highlands Hollow Brewhouse

$$
Boise / 2455 Harrison Hollow Lane /
343-6820

Full Steam Bistro

$$
Boise / 920 E. Park Blvd. / 999-8661
The Galley
$
Boise / 650 W. State St. / 336-3663
Gils K-9 Bar
Boise / 2506 Main St. / 345-4420

50

Welcome to Boise

$$

The Griddle Good Cookin

$
Boise, 404 E. Parkcenter Blvd.,
No. 200 / 297-7615
Eagle / 177 Eagle River St. /
939-9070
Meridian / 2310 E. Overland Road /
288-1848

High Note Caf

Boise / 225 N. Fifth St. / 429-1911

$$

Hilltop Station
$$
Boise / 12342 Idaho E. Highway 21 /
338-8859
$ $10 $$ $20 $$$ $30 $$$$ $40

A selection of downtown
cocktail bars
10 Barrel Brewing Company
826 W. Bannock
Craft beer and pub food.
Balcony Club
150 N. Eighth St.
The best dance and night clubbing
experience in Boise.
The Bar at the Grove Hotel
245 S. Capitol Blvd.
A fireplace and piano music.
The Bar at Mai Thai
750 W. Idaho St.
Mixologist on duty, featuring
retro cocktails and new drinks.
Bardenay
610 Grove St.
Restaurant, bar with in-house
distillery for gin, rum and vodka
The Basque Center
601 W. Grove St.
Built in 1949. A cultural center
with a public bar.
Berryhill
121 N. Ninth St.
Restaurant and cocktails.
Bittercreek Alehouse
246 N. Eighth St.
Featuring food and late night happy
hour menu.

Bodovino
404 S. Eighth St.
A total wine experience. Featuring
Wine Emotion machines with 144
wine bottles on tap.
Boise Brewing
521 W. Broad St.
Brewery and tasting room.
Community supported beer.
The Brickyard
601 W. Main St.
Featuring dueling pianos.
China Blue Nightclub
100 S. Sixth St.
We bring the upscale Vegas
experience to Boise.
Crowbar
107 S. Sixth St.
Dedicated to underground electronic
music artists. We are about
experience. The experience of getting
lost in the moment, the music, the
venue, and the hand crafted drinks.
Dirty Little Roddys
100 S. Sixth St.
Right beneath China Blue.
All you need to know:
has a Mechanical Bull.
Fork
199 N. Eighth St.
Loyal to local. Seventy-five percent
of the spirits served come from the
Northwest region.

Humpin Hannahs
621 Main St.
A dance club and bar.
Leku Ona Fine Basque Dining and Spirits
117 S. Sixth Street
Means good place. Classic Basque
restaurant and bar.

Pengillys Saloon
513 W. Main St.
Open since the mid 1970s, features a
114-year-old hardwood Brunswick bar
and a turn-of-the-century cash register.
Listed by Esquire magazine as one of
the top 100 bars in the nation.

Liquid Lounge, Liquid Laughs

405 S. Eighth St., in BoDo
A lounge and a comedy club.

Piper Pub & Grill

150 N. Eighth St.
A community gathering place in the
true pub tradition.

Matador
215 N. Eighth St.
A tequila bar and restaurant
featuring Mexican cuisine.

Press & Pony

622 W. Idaho St.
Classic and craft cocktails in a
welcoming environment.

The Mode Lounge

800 W. Idaho St.
Offers educational cocktail classes.
We are a lounge. We are a place
for people who like to drink craft
cocktails, meet friends and make new
friends.

Prost! Boise
274 Eighth St.
Finally, a proper German
bar for Boise.

The Modern Hotel and Bar

1314 W. Grove St.
A former 1960s Travel Lodge turned
ultra cool.
A place to see and be seen.
Mulligans Bar & Grill
1009 W. Main St.
Where the beer flows like wine.
Pool tables.
Neurulux
111 N. 11th St.
Live music. Retro, hipster,
dive-y where the cool kids go.

Pizza, Elevated.
In the heart of Downtown Boise resides a true taste
of Naples. Idahos only VPN certified wood-burning
Neapolitan pizzeria, located on level 2 of the 8th and
Main Zions Bank building, offers Boises best happy
hour from 4-6 Mon-Fri. Authentically prepared pizzas,
fresh salads, pastas and a wide assortment of small
plates will please any appetite. Attentive service pairs
perfectly with our full bar and our Pick-Two lunch
offers the ultimate combination for any occasion.
Come see why weve been voted Boises Best Family
Restaurant many times over, and please visit us online
for additional locations and our menu.

800 W. MAIN ST, STE 230 (208) 287-4757 WWW.FLATBREADPIZZA.COM

Red Feather Lounge

246 N. Eighth St.
Committed to the local movement.
A pioneer in Boise craft cocktails.
Silly Birch
507 Main St.
A sports bar with
12 flat screen TVs.
Tom Graineys
109 S. Sixth St.
A sporting pub and Graineys
Basement and Graineys
Underground. For 30 years.
The Whiskey Bar
509 Main St.
A whiskey bar nuff said.

$$

Hungry Onion
Meridian / 334 W. First St. /
888-0051

Java
Boise / 223 N. Sixth St. / 345-0777
Boise / 1612 N. 13th St. / 345-4777

Kind Cuisine Caf

Boise / 4628 W. State St. /
367-9000

Hyde Park Pub

Boise / 1501 N. 13th St. / 336-9260

Jennys Lunch Line

Boise / 106 N. Sixth St. / 433-0092

Kindness $$$
Boise / 1109 W. Main St. / 629-7444

Joe Mommas
Eagle / 600 S. Rivershore Lane
Suite 170 / 939-3917

$$

Kopper Kitchen
$$
Boise / 2661 Airport Way / 344-5619

Jumpin Janets
Boise / 572 Vista Ave. / 342-7620

$$

Juniper Kitchen & Cocktails

Boise / 211 N. Eighth St. / 342-1142

$$

Kahootz Steak and Alehouse

Meridian / 1603 N. Main St. /
895-9861

$$

Jakers Bar and Grill

$$
Meridian / 3268 E. Pine Ave. /
288-0898 / jakers.com
Forty years of legendary food and
genuine service. Featuring great
prime rib, steaks and seafood.
Seating for groups up to 40. Sunday
brunch 11-2 p.m. Reservations
accepted, walk-ins welcome.

State & Lemp / Photo by Pete Grady

Leaf Teahouse
Boise / 212 N. Ninth St., Suite B /
336-5323

Legends Sports Pub and Grill

Boise / 7609 W. Overland Road
Suite 100 / 377-1819

$$

Lifes Kitchen
Boise / 1025 S. Capitol Blvd. /
331-0199

The Lift Bar + Grill

$$
Boise / 4091 W. State St. / 342-3250
$$
Lindys Steak House
Garden City / 12249 Chinden Blvd. /
376-4258
Locavore Bistro
Boise / 3110 S. Bown Way /
338-8887

$$

Lock, Stock & Barrel

Boise / 1100 W. Jefferson St. /
336-4266

$$

Lucky Fins Seafood Grill

$$
Boise / 801 N. Main St. / 888-3467
Meridian / 1441 N. Eagle Road /
888-3467
The Local
$$
Boise / 904 W. Main St. / 386-3354
Main Street Burger
$
Meridian / 1615 N. Main St. / 288-2126
Main Street Deli
Boise / 4822 Fairview Ave. /
514-4876
McGraths Seafood House
Boise / 1749 S. Cole Road /
375-6300

52

Welcome to Boise

$$

$ $10 $$ $20 $$$ $30 $$$$ $40

Melting Pot
$$$$
Boise / 200 N. Sixth St. / 383-0900

Bleubird / Photo by Pete Grady

Mercato Coffee House

$
Meridian / 3015 W. McMillan Road /
855-9161
Menchies Frozen Yogurt
Meridian / 2126 N. Eagle Road /
884-0518 / menchies.com

Merritts Family Restaurant

$
Boise / 6630 W. State St. / 853-1801
The Mode Lounge
$$
Boise / 800 W. Idaho St. / 342-6633

Modern Hotel and Bar

$$$
Boise / 1314 W. Grove St. / 424-8244
Open nightly for dinner, brunch on
weekends. Craft cocktails, regional
beers, thoughtfully selected wines,
cuisine influenced by French and
American traditions. Northwest
James Beard nominated Chef.
Moe Joes Breakfast Eatery
$$
Meridian / 2961 E. Overland Road /
629-8761
Moons Kitchen Caf
$$
Boise / 712 W. Idaho St. / 385-0472
Boise / 6767 W. Fairview Ave. /
376-6767
Mulligans
$$
Boise / 1009 W. Main St. / 336-6998
Murphs Corner Brew
Boise / 7709 W. Overland Road /
375-0012
Muse Bistro and Wine Bar
Meridian / 1435 N. Eagle Road /
895-1900

$$

On The Fly Deli

$
Boise / 800 W. Main St., Suite 200 /
344-6833
$ $10 $$ $20 $$$ $30 $$$$ $40

Owl Tree Bakery

Boise / 3910 Hill Road / 570-7164

Plan B Lounge
Boise / 121 N. Ninth St. / 387-3553

$$

The Pantry
Boise / 1545 Shoreline Drive /
344-5486

Porterhouse
Eagle / 600 S. Rivershore Lane /
938-1441

$$

Quinns Restaurant and Lounge

Boise / 1005 S. Vista Ave. /
342-9568

$$

Parrilla Grill Fusion

Grill and Cantina
Boise / 1512 N. 13th St. / 323-4688
Pastry Perfection
Garden City / 5855 Glenwood St. /
376-3700

The Perks of Life

Eagle / 1540 E. Iron Eagle Drive /
938-7809

$$

Pinnacle Sports Grill

Meridian / 2902 N. Eagle Road /
884-4400

$$

The Ram Restaurant & Brewery

$$
Boise / 709 E. Park Blvd. / 345-2929
Meridian / 3272 E. Pine / 888-0314
The Ranch Club
$$
Garden City / 3544 W. Chinden Blvd.
/ 343-7447
Red Feather Lounge
$$
Boise / 246 N. Eighth St. / 429-6340

Piper Pub & Grill

$$
Boise / 150 N. Eighth St. / 343-2444
Pizzalchik
$$
Boise / 7330 W. State St. / 853-7757

Reel Foods Fish Market

and Oyster Bar
Boise / 611 S. Capitol Blvd. /
342-2727 / reelfoodsfish.net
Welcome to Boise

$$

53

The Refuge
Boise / 404 E. Parkcenter Blvd. /
424-8211

Rembrandts Coffee House

$
Eagle / 93 S. Eagle Road / 938-1564
Rendezvous
Eagle / 1117 E. Winding Creek /
939-1911
Ricks Caf Americain
at the Flicks

Boise / 646 Fulton St. / 342-4288
Ricks Press Room
Meridian / 130 E. Idaho Ave. /
288-0558
River City Coffee and Caf
Boise / 5517 W. State St. / 853-9161

$$

$
$$

Riverside Grill
$$
at the Riverside Hotel
Garden City / 2900 Chinden Blvd. /
343-1871
Rockies Diner
Boise / 3900 Overland Road /
336-2878

$$
Roosters at Parkside Cafe
Boise / 930 S. Vista Ave. / 336-9300
Boise / 720 E. Park Blvd. / 489-2999
Rudys Pub and Grill
Meridian / 2310 E. Overland Road
Suite 150 / 884-4453
Saint Lawrence Gridiron
Boise / 705 W. Bannock St. /
433-5598

$$

$$$

Sams Place
Boise / 3395 N. Five Mile Road /
376-0074

Sandbar Patio Bar and Grill

at the Riverside Hotel
$
Garden City / 2900 Chinden Blvd. /
343-1871
Shanaz Home Kitchen
Cuisine and Catering
Meridian / 520 S. Main St.
Suite 96 / 922-6433
Shangri-La Tea Room
& Vegetarian Restaurant
Boise / 1800 W. Overland Road /
424-0273
Westside Drive-In / Photo by Pete Grady

$$

Sockeye Grill and Brewery

Boise / 3019 N. Cole Road /
658-1533
Boise / 12542 W. Fairview Ave /
322-5200
Solid Grill & Bar
Boise / 405 S. Eighth St. /
345-6620

$$

$$$
The Stagecoach
Garden City / 3132 Chinden Blvd. /
342-4161
State & Lemp
$$$$$$$$
Boise / 2870 State St. / 371-4003
Steves Caf
Meridian / 2483 E. Fairview Ave.
Suite 105 / 887-1133

Stubs Sports Pub

Boise / S. Findley Ave. / 336-7882

$$
Sun Ray Caf
Boise / 1602 N. 13th St. / 343-2887
$

$
Soup Kettle Grille
Meridian/ 3675 E. Overland Road /
999-2830

Taphouse Pub & Eatery
$$
Boise / 760 W. Main St. / 336-6991
Tavern at Bown Crossing
$$
Boise / 3111 S. Bown Way / 345-2277
$
Thomas Hammer
Boise / 298 N. Eighth St. / 433-8005

54

Welcome to Boise

Tom Sweeneys Dutch Oven Caf

Boise / 1621 N. Orchard / 353-1535

The Trolley House

Boise / 1821 Warm Springs Ave. /
345-9255

Twigs Bistro and Martini Bar

Meridian / 3690 E. Monarch
Sky Lane / 895-0029

$$$

Twisted Timber Pub and Grill

Boise / 4563 S. Cloverdale /
362-7157

$$

$ $10 $$ $20 $$$ $30 $$$$ $40

WEND YOUR WAY TO

IDAHO WINE COUNTRY
You can get to Idahos Wine Country in just
minutes. Located in the Nampa valley, it is known
as the Snake River Valley American Viticultural
Area (AVA). It is one of the nations top wine areas
and recognized by wine enthusiasts as a hotspot.
Download a driving map to more than 30
wineries from the Idaho Wine Commission at
idahowines.org. Then, take a leisurely trip through
pastoral Idaho, stopping along the way for a few
taste-bud-tickling and tantalizing wine tastings.
Or, if youd like to leave the driving to
someone else, take a wine tour from Boise Shuttle
Services. For more information visit boise-shuttlecharters.com.
Most of the wine tastings are complimentary,
but call ahead to make sure they are open for tasting.
If youre pressed for time, just stop at a local
wine bar, tasting room or wine shop. The Boise
Co-op Wine Shop (boisecoopwineshop.com) has
a large selection of wines from around the globe
and so does Albertsons (try the one at 16th &
State in Boise, albertsons.com). Other shops in
Boise you may want to check out include: the
Basque Market, featuring wines from the Basque
country (thebasquemarket.com); and for bargain
basement prices, check out the Grocery Outlet
(groceryoutlet.com) or, for its famous two-buck
Chuck, that is now three bucks, go to Trader
Joes (traderjoes.com).

Varsity Pub
Meridian / 1441 N. Eagle Road /
906-0658

Viking Drive-In
$
Boise / 3790 W. State St. / 342-7289

$$
Wild Root Caf and Market
Boise / 276 N. Eighth St. / 856-8956
Wild West Bakery and Espresso
Boise / 83 E. State St. / 939-5677

Willowcreek Grill
$$
Boise / 2273 S. Vista Ave. / 343-5544
Windingcreek Grill and
Drunken Koi Sushi
$$
Eagle / 1065 E. Winding Creek Drive /
938-3010

Westside Drive-In
$$
Boise / 1939 W. State St. / 342-2957
Boise / 1113 Parkcenter Blvd. /
424-0000 / westsidedrivein.com
With the most adventurous menu in
town, Chef Lous 2 decade run at the
Westside has solidified the Westside
as a timeless Boise Institution.

WilliBs Saloon
Boise / 12505 W. Chinden Blvd. /
331-5666
Zees Rooftop Caf
Boise / 250 S. Fifth St. / 381-0034

$$

Zeppole Baking Co.

$
Boise / 983 E. Parkcenter Blvd. /
338-1499
Boise / 217 N. Eighth St. / 345-2149
Zimms Burger Stache
$
Boise / 10889 Fairview Ave. / 514-3800

AR GENTI NEAN
Barbacoa
Boise / 276 Bob White Court /
338-5000

$$$$

Tangos Subs and Empanadas

Boise / 701 N. Orchard / 322-3090

ASI AN
Ahi Sushi
Eagle / 1193 E. Winding Creek /
938-3474

$$

Baguette Deli (Vietnamese)

Boise / 5204 W Franklin Road /
336-2989

Bankok Thai
Boise / 477 N. Milwaukee St. /
375-0946

Chiang Mai House Thai

Restaurant
Boise / 4898 W. Emerald St. /
342-4051

$$

China Palace
Eagle / 625 E. State St. / 939-8938

China Wok
Meridian / 993 S. Progress Ave. /
855-1555

Confucius Restaurant
Boise / 8775 W. Fairview Ave. /
322-7851

$$

Dharma Sushi & Thai

$$
Boise / 624 W. Idaho St. / 392-2834

Chandlers Prime Steak

and Fine Seafood /
Photo by Guy Hand

56

Welcome to Boise

Dong Khanh
Boise / 2137 S. Broadway Ave. /
345-0980

$ $10 $$ $20 $$$ $30 $$$$ $40

Fortune Wok
$$
Garden City / 5161 N. Glenwood St. /
378-4645
Fujiyama
Boise / 283 N. Milwaukee St. /
672-8227

$$

Gangnam (Korean)
$$$
Boise / 303 N. OrchaRoad Road /
323-8822
Golden Star
Boise / 1142 N. Orchard / 336-0191
A Boise classic. Try the fried rice.

Guang Zhou Chinese Restaurant

Boise / 7609 W. Overland Road
Suite 120 / 378-5888

Happy Fish (Sushi)

Boise / 855 Broad St. / 343-4810

$$

IOU Sushi
Boise / 1517 N. Milwaukee St. /
672-7223

$$

Jade Horse Restaurant

Meridian / 48 E. Fairview Ave. /
888-0322

$$

Jades Chopstick
Garden City / 6790 W. State St. /
853-1302

$$

K-Fusion Korean BBQ & Grill

Boise / 1716 S. Broadway Ave. /
336-5959

$$

Kyoto Japanese Steakhouse

Boise / 6002 W. Fairview Ave. /
378-8808

$$$

Ling and Louies Asian

Bar and Grill
Meridian / 3210 E. Louise Drive /
888-5000
Lucky Palace Chinese Restaurant
Boise / 8630 W. Overland Road /
376-2828

$$

$$

$$
Mai Thai
Boise / 750 W. Idaho St. / 344-8424

$ $10 $$ $20 $$$ $30 $$$$ $40

Highlands Hollow / IBR file photo

Maru Sushi
Boise / 9140 W. Emerald St. /
639-5563
Mekong Fresh
Noodle & Grill (Laotian)
Meridian / 520 S. Meridian Road /
208-908-6191
Mandarin Palace
Boise / 5020 Franklin Road /
345-6682

$$

$$

Mongolian Barbecue Grill

$$
Boise / 801 W. Bannock St. /
433-9334
Boise / 6920 W. State St. / 853-7964
Mongolian Stir Fry
Boise / 8037 W. Fairview Ave. /
376-3662

$$

Mr. Wok
$$
Boise / 650 S. Vista Ave. / 336-7771
facebook.com/mrwokboise/
Mr Wok restaurant serves Asian
cuisine. Our beloved customers most
love Chicken Teriyaki, Soft Tofu Stew
(
), Spicy Seafood Noodle Soup
(
), and
Pho (
). Our prices range
from $7.50 to $11.50 for our Kalbi
(Korean Short Ribs).
North End Chinese
$$
Boise / 1806 W. State St. / 343-1080
Pad Thai House
Boise / 1473 S. Five Mile Road /
375-6014

$$

Pats Thai Kitchen

Boise / 577 E. Park Blvd.
Suite C110 / 345-0026

$$

Welcome to Boise

57

Pho 79
Garden City / 7310 W. State St. /
853-8889

$$

Pho Bac
Garden City / 7700 W.
Goddard Road / 319-0160

$$

Rice Contemporary Asian Cuisine $$

Eagle / 228 E. Plaza St / 939-2595

Pho Nouveau
Boise / 780 W. Idaho St. / 367-1111

$$

Rice Works
$
Meridian / 3635 E. Longwing Lane/
855-5977

Pho Tam
Boise / 1098 N. Orchard /
473-2386

$$

Quik-Wok
$$
Boise / 2775 Broadway Ave. /
342-1515
Boise / 4858 W. Overland Road /
342-2626
Meridian / 3055 E. Fairview Ave. /
888-3373
Reef / Photo by
Laurie Pearman

Raw
$$
Boise / 2273 Vista Ave. / 343-0270

Rotary Sushi
Boise / 10506 W. Fairview Ave. /
375-3758

$$

Sa-Wad-Dee Thai Restaurant

Meridian / 1890 E. Fairview Ave.
Suite B / 884-0701

$$

Sakana Sushi Bar and Grill

Boise / 925 Vista Ave. / 367-1688

$$

Sakana Sushi Steakhouse

Meridian / 1718 S. Eagle Road /
888-6278

$$

Sakura Sushi
Eagle / 3210 E. Chinden Blvd. /
938-1599

$$

Siam Orchid Thai & Sushi Bar

Boise / 8716 W. Fairview Ave. /
871-6371

$$

$$
Shige Japanese Cuisine
Boise / 100 N. Eighth St. / 338-8423
$$
Superb Sushi
Boise / 2594 N. Bogus Basin Road /
342-3385
Boise / 208 N. Eighth St. / 385-0123
$$
Sushi Joy
Boise / 2275 W. Main St. / 433-8888
Sushi Ya
Boise / 8915 W. Overland Road /
377-2000

$$

a Taste of Thai
$$
Boise / 8053 Emerald St. / 323-8424
Tepanyaki Japanese Steak House $$
Boise / 2197 N. Garden St. / 343-3515
Thai Basil Restaurant
Meridian / 3161 E. Fairview Ave.
Suite 110 / 888-5797

$$

Thai Cuisine
Boise / 6777 W. Overland Road /
658-0516
Top Wok
Boise / 12375 W. Chinden Blvd.
Suite C / 327-8889

$$
$

Vina Vietnamese Restaurant

$
Meridian / 1534 N. Main St. / 888-1378
Windingcreek Grill and
Drunken Koi Sushi
$$
Eagle / 1065 E. Winding Creek Drive /
938-3010
Wok-Inn Noodle
$
Boise / 4912 Emerald St. / 343-7262

58

Welcome to Boise

$ $10 $$ $20 $$$ $30 $$$$ $40

chef richard langston

2014 James Beard
Award Nominee
classically trained
locally inspired

808 w. fort street, boise

208.472.1463
cafevicino.com

Feat
Diners ured on
, Dr
and D ive-ins
ives!

o
From Southern Italy to S

Theres nothin as nifty as food, fun & fifties!

uthern Idaho!

italian

RISTORANTE
Visit Ginos Italian
Ristorante where
century-old family
recipes are re-created.
Serving the Treasure
Valley since 1996
CHINDEN BLVD

1939 W. State St.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .342-2957

1113 Parkcenter Blvd. . . . . . . . . . .424-0000

Phone-in orders welcome cheflou.com

W. MCMILLAN RD
USTICK RD
LINDER RD

BLACK CAT RD

Located just
three miles
north of
FAIRVIEW AVE
the 10 mile
interchange. FRANKLIN RD

TEN MILE RD

Great Food - Great Place!

I-84

Voted Best Italian Restaurant,

9 years running.
Idaho Statesman, Best of Treasure Valley
Wine Spectator Award
of Excellence

208-887-7710 3015 W. McMillan Road, Suite 108, Meridian

Hours: Lunch 11am-3pm Dinner 3pm-10pm
Find us on Facebook & Twitter!

Goodwood Barbecue Company

Boise / 7849 W. Spectrum St. /
658-7173
Meridian / 1140 N. Eagle Road /
884-1021

$$$

K-Fusion Korean BBQ & Grill

Boise / 1716 S. Broadway Ave. /
336-5959

$$

Mickeyrays Barbecue
$$
Boise / 980 N. Milwaukee / 343-7427

B ASQ UE
Bar Gernika
Boise / 202 S. Capitol Blvd. /
344-2175

Guidos / Photo by Pete Grady

Wok-King
Boise / 2146 Broadway Ave. /
345-1799

$$

Big Daddys BBQ

Meridian / 1551 W Cherry Lane /
898-5924

$$

Yoi Tomo
Boise / 405 S. Capitol Blvd. /
344-3375

Zen Bento
$
Boise / 1000 W. Main St. / 388-8808
Boise / 3912 W. State / 343-1760
Eagle / 342 E. State St. / 938-4277

BARBECUE
BBQ 4 Life
$
Boise / 930 S Vista Ave. / 906-4960

60

Welcome to Boise

$$

Epis Basque Restaurant

$$$
Meridian / 1115 N. Main St. / 884-0142

$$

Yokozuna Teriyaki
$$
Boise / 824 S. Vista Ave. / 377-3064
Meridian / 2031 E. Fairview /
888-9699

Basque Market
$
Boise / 608 W. Grove St. /
433-1208 / thebasquemarket.com
Boises destination for specialty
items from the Iberian Peninsula,
especially the Basque Country.
Wines, paella, tapas, catering, and
events too! Delicious seasonal Friday
night dinners!
Leku Ona
Boise / 117 S. Sixth St. / 345-6665

Yen Ching
$$
Boise / 305 N. Ninth St. / 384-0384

Big K BBQ
$$
Garden City / 3409 W. Chinden Blvd.
488-9527 / boiseidahobbq.com
Local, authentic BBQ, slow smoked,
never rushed, a true Ma and Pa, hole
in the wall BBQ joint!!!
Bobs Texas BBQ
$$
Eagle / 9990 W. State St. / 921-9646
Bodacious Pig
Eagle / 34 E. State St. / 514-0068
C K Hawaiian BBQ
Boise / 7709 Overland Road
Suite 110 / 376-4380

$$

CENTR AL, EASTER N

EUR O PEAN
Tres Bonne
Boise / 6555 Overland Road /
658-1364

CUB AN
Casablanca Cuban Grill
Boise / 5506 Overland Road /
331-2370

$$

$ $10 $$ $20 $$$ $30 $$$$ $40

E G Y P T I AN
Country Donuts
Boise / 10358 W. Overland Road /
327-9867

EUROPEAN/
M E D I T E R R ANEAN
Amir Mediterranean Food & Bakery $
Amir The Royal Spoon
Boise / 201 W. Boise Ave. / 297-4318
ATavola Gourmet Marketplace
Boise / 1515 W. Grove / 336-3641

$$

Bosnia Express (Boex)

$
Boise / 4846 Emerald St. / 433-9955
Europe Delicious Bakery
and Grocery
$
Boise / 9958 W. Fairview / 367-9109
The Gyro House
Boise / 6631 W. Ustick Road /
378-1325

The Gyro Shack

$
Boise / 6935 W. Overland Road /
375-7424
Boise / 5602 W. State St. / 853-2684
Mazzah
$$
Boise / 1772 W. State St. / 333-2566
Boise / 404 E. Parkcenter Blvd. /
333-2223
Mo Mo Dumpling
Meridian / 3223 E. Louise Drive /
514-2137

$$

Primos
Boise / 8489 W. Overland Road /
373-7700
Meridian / 2830 S. Eagle Road /
855-0288

$$

Romios
Boise / 8125 W. Fairview Ave. /
658-1550

$$

I R I SH

Janjou Patisserie
$
Boise / 1754 W. State St. / 297-5853

Ha Penny Irish Pub and Grill

Boise / 855 Broad St. / 343-5568

Le Coq dOr at
Chateau des Fleurs
Eagle / 176 S. Rosebud Lane /
947-2840 / 947-2844

OMichaels Pub & Grill

$
Boise / 2433 N. Bogus Basin Road /
342-8948

$$$$

$$

I TALI AN/PI ZZA

GERM AN
Caf Zupas
$
Boise / 600 N Milwaukee St. /
319-1295
Boise / 133 Broadway St. / 401-1414
Meridian / 2148 N. Eagle Road /
401-2155
Prost
$$
Boise / 274 N. Eighth St. / 336-9395
Schnitzel Garten
$$
Eagle / 1225 E. Winding Creek Drive /
629-8855

Alavita
$$
Boise / 807 W. Idaho St. / 780-1100
Asiagos
$$
Boise / 1002 W. Main St. / 336-5552
Bella Aquila
Eagle / 775 S. Rivershore Lane /
938-1900

$$$

Cacicis Old World Sicilian Foods

Meridian / 3630 E. Monarch
Sky Lane / 893-5020

HAWAI I AN
C K Hawaiian BBQ
Boise / 7709 Overland Road
Suite 110 / 376-4380

Maui Wowi
Meridian / 520 E. Franklin Road /
869-9966

Madhuban
$$
Boise / 6390 W. State St. / 853-8215

Chicago Connection
$$
Boise / Fourth and Bannock Streets
/ 342-3434
Boise / 3931 Overland / 344-6838
Boise / 7072 S. Eisenman Road /
388-8888
Eagle / 1545 E. Iron Eagle Drive /
939-9100
Meridian / 1629 N. Main St. /
888-1986
Meridian / 1935 S. Eagle Road /
888-0023
chicagoconnection.com
Chicago-style pizza, pasta, hot
sandwiches, salads, salad bar and
more. Hot oven pizza delivery.
Try the Baked Lasagna Pie.
Large orders welcome.

Taj Mahal Restaurant

$$
Boise / 150 N. Eighth St. / 473-7200

Cucina Di Paolo
$$
Boise / 1504 Vista Ave. / 345-7150

HIMI LAYAN
Mount Everest Momo Caf
Boise / 2144 S. Broadway Ave. /
342-1268

$$

INDIAN
Bombay Grill
$$
Boise / 928 W. Main St. / 345-7888

$
Sofias Greek Bistro
Garden City / 6748 N. Glenwood St.
/ 853-0844

$ $10 $$ $20 $$$ $30 $$$$ $40

FRE N CH

DaVincis
$$
Eagle / 190 E. State St. / 939-2500
Welcome to Boise

61

Shangri-La's Caprese Pizza

Photo by Guy Hand

Diggs Pizza
Boise / 4646 S. Cole Road /
362-3177

$$

Extreme Pizza
Boise / 590 Broadway Ave. /
947-5675

$$

Flying Pie Pizzeria

$
Boise / 6508 Fairview Ave. /
376-3454
Boise / 4320 W. State St. / 345-8585
Meridian / 601 S. Main St. /
888-9500
Francos NY Style Pizzeria
$$
Boise / 1221 W. Boise Ave. /344-5144
The Front Door Northwest Pizza
and Taphouse
Boise / 105 S. Sixth St. / 287-9201

Flatbread Neapolitan Pizzeria

$$
Boise / 3139 S. Bown Way /
343-4177
Boise / 800 W. Main St. / 287-4757
Meridian / 830 N. Main St. /
288-0969 / flatbreadpizza.com
VPN certified wood-burning
Neapolitan pizzeria, level 2 of Eighth
and Main Zions Bank building. Voted
Best Family Restaurant. Happy hour
4-6 Monday - Friday.

62

Welcome to Boise

Gelato Caf
Meridian / 2053 E. Fairview Ave.
Suite 101 / 846-8410

$
$$

Ginos Italian Ristorante & Bar

$$$
Meridian / 3015 W. McMillan Road /
887-7710 / On Facebook
Reservations recommended at this
Italian restaurant relocated from
downtown Boise to Meridian.
Try the lasagna or Osso Bucco.

Gramercy Park Pizza and Grill

Meridian / 1626 Wells Ave.
Suite 115 / 854-7979

$$

Grimaldis Pizzeria
Meridian / 3573 Longwing Lane /
884-2031

$$

Guidos Pizzeria
Boise / 235 N. Fifth St. / 345-9011
Boise / 12375 Chinden Blvd. /
376-1008

Idaho Pizza Company

$$
Boise / 6840 N. Glenwood /
853-1224
Boise / 1677 Broadway / 343-1011
Boise / 4218 W. Overland Road /
343-5455
Boise / 3053 S. Cole Road /
362-7702
Boise / 7100 W. Fairview Ave. /
375-4100
Eagle / 78 Eagle River St. /392-1175
Meridian / 405 E. Fairview Ave. /
888-4441

$ $10 $$ $20 $$$ $30 $$$$ $40

Louies Pizza & Italian Restaurant $$

Meridian / 2500 E. Fairview Ave. /
884-5200
Lucianos Italian Restaurant
Boise / 11 N. Orchard / 577-6415

$$

Lucky 13 Pizza
Boise / 3662 S. Eckert Road /
344-6967

$$

Lulus Fine Pizza

Boise / 2594 Bogus Basin Road /
387-4992
Mancinos Pizza & Grinders
Boise / 6564 S. Federal Way /
333-1383

$$

New York Richies

$$
Garden City / 5865 Glenwood St. /
323-0003

Bar Gernika
Photo by Jason Jacobsen

Protos Pizzeria Napoletana

$$
Boise / 345 S. Eighth St. / 331-1400

Old Chicago Pizza

$$
Boise / 350 N. Milwaukee
Suite 1017 / 321-0033
Boise / 730 W. Idaho St.
363-0037 / oldchicago.com
Whether its lunch, dinner, or a big
sporting event, gather around at Old
Chicago Pizza & Taproom to share
handcrafted pizzas, an incredible
selection of regional and local craft
beers, and great times.
Orbit-Fire Pizzeria
$$
Boise / 1204 S. Vista Ave. 344-6600
Papa Joes/Papas Cup of Joe
Boise / 1301 S. Capital Blvd. /
344-727

$$

Pie Hole
$$
Boise / 205 N. Eighth St. / 344-7783
Boise / 1016 S. Broadway Ave. /
424-2225
Pizzalchik
$$
Boise / 7330 W. State St. / 853-7757

$ $10 $$ $20 $$$ $30 $$$$ $40

Uncle Giuseppes
Garden City / 6826 Glenwood St. /
853-1594

Wiseguy Pizza Pie

$$
Boise / 106 N. Sixth St. / 336-7777
Richards Caf Vicino
$$
Boise / 808 W. Fort St. /
472-1463 / cafevicino.com
Richards Caf Vicino (va-CHEE-no)
offers a Mediterranean bistro-style
menu in an intimate, elegant setting
serving lunch and dinner with a full
bar and excellent wine selection.
Slyce Box
$$
Meridian / 916 N. Main St. /
888-0842
Smoky Mountain Pizza
$$
Boise / 1805 W. State St. / 387-2727
Boise / 415 E. Parkcenter Blvd. /
429-0011
Eagle / 127 E. State St. / 939-0212
Meridian / 980 E. Fairview Ave. /
884-1067
The Stuffed Olive
Eagle / 404 S. Eagle Road
Suite A / 938-5185

$$

Tonys Pizzeria Teatro

Boise / 105 N. Capitol Blvd. /
343-1052

$$

MEX I CAN
Amigos Mexican Restaurant
$$
Boise / 2919 W. State St. / 343-1001
Andrades
Boise / 4903 W. Overland Road /
424-8890

$$

Caf Ole Mexican

$$
Boise / 210 N. Milwaukee / 322-0222
Meridian / 3284 E. Pine / 887-3888
cafeole.com
Caf Ole has served exceptional,
regional Mexican cuisine & famous
Margaritas for 30+ years. We offer
the Valleys best happy hour,
banquet rooms, catering & more!
Open daily for lunch & dinner.
Welcome to Boise

63

Photo courtesy of Cottonwood Grille

Caf Rio Mexican Grill

Boise / 8233 W. Franklin Road /
287-9400

$$

Calle 75 Street Tacos

$
Meridian / 3635 E. Longwing Lane /
846-9001
Campos Market
$$
Boise / 413 N. Orchard / 658-0644
Cancun Authentic Mexican
Boise / 6919 W. Overland Road /
375-3882

$$

Carniceria Coalcoman
Boise / 5234 W. Fairview Ave. /
629-0467
Casa Mexico
$$
Boise / 1605 N. 13th St.
Suite B / 333-8330
Boise / 10332 Fairview Ave. /
375-0342
Eagle / 393 W. State St. / 939-7795

El Tenampa
Meridian / 906 N. Main St. /
888-4089

$$

El Torito
$
Boise / 4596 W. Chinden / 321-4651
Enriques
Kuna / 482 W. Main St / 922-5169
Fiesta Guadalajara
Boise / 3552 S. Findley /
424-8580 / 424-8575
Eagle / 3210 E. Chinden Blvd. /
938-1116
Meridian / 704 E. Fairview Ave /
884-0161

$$
$$

Ishtar Market & Restaurant

Boise / 4516 W. Overland Road /
275-8437

La Tapatia
Boise / 401 W. Parkcenter Blvd. /
343-6403

$$

Kabob House
Boise / 9140 W. Emerald St. /
323-1112

Corona Village
$$
Boise / 4334 W. State St. / 338-9707
Meridian / 21 E. Fairview Ave. /
887-9348

Los Mariachis
Boise / 6565 W. Fairview Ave. /
323-5917

64

Welcome to Boise

Senor Fresh Mexican Eatery

Boise / 12375 W. Chinden Blvd.
Suite F / 378-1888

$$

Mi Casa
Meridian / 3223 E. Louise Dr. /
577-6534

Pollo Rey Mexican Rotisserie

$
Boise / 222 N. Eighth St. / 345-0323

Jalapenos Bar and Grill

Boise / 8799 Franklin Road /
375-2077

Los Betos
$
Boise / 5220 W. Fairview Ave. /
376-0679
Boise / 6906 W. State St. / 853-1494
Meridian / 3143 E. Magic View Drive /
887-4711

$$

Parrilla Grill Fusion

Grill and Cantina
Boise / 1512 N. 13th St. / 323-4688

$$

MI DDLE EASTE R N

Chapala
$$
Boise / 1201 S. Vista Ave. / 429-1208
Garden City / 3447 W. Chinden Blvd.
342-5648
Garden City / 5697 Glenwood St. /
321-8262

El Gallo Giro
Boise / 5285 Glenwood St. /
321-0355

The Matador
$$
Boise / 215 N. Eighth St. / 342-9988

$$

PER UVI AN
Amigos Mexican Restaurant
(and Peruvian)
$$
Boise / 2919 W. State St. / 343-1001
Lima Limon Peruvian Restaurant $$
Kuna / 751 W. Fourth St. / 922-3144

PO LY NESI AN
$$

Reef
$$
Boise / 105 S. Sixth St. / 287-9200

$ $10 $$ $20 $$$ $30 $$$$ $40

Engage with history!

Visit the the Old Pen Historic District

Wander through the Old Idaho
Penitentiary learning tales of
territorial day bad guys and
Idahos notorious criminals and
visit A. Lincoln: His Legacy
in Idaho exhibit at the Idaho State Archives showcasing the 16th
president and his connections to the 43rd state.
For more information please call (208) 334-2682
or visit www.history.idaho.gov

 Located in the Old Pen historic district on Old Penitentiary Road in Boise 

Cardiology
Dentistry
Dermatology
Feline Behavior
Internal Medicine
Ophthalmology
Oncology
Pathology
Physiotherapy
Radiology
Surgery

Idahos only team of

24/7 Animal Emergency Hospital
Located in Garden City, near Chinden and 50th
208.375.1600 westvet.net

Recreation and Sports

66

Welcome to Boise

rying to decide what to do? Just do it all! Head up to Bogus Basin Mountain
Recreation Area for a half-days skiing or boarding, and make it back in plenty
of time for a 3 p.m. tee time. Or hit the links early then go up in the evening and
take in a little night skiing, beautiful and magical. Or maybe youd rather go for a
jog or bike ride? Boises Greenbelt has more than 25 miles of paved and graveled paths, and thats just for starters. Take a walk on the Greenbelt that meanders along the
Boise River before work, and get in some fishing in the river on your lunch hour.
The mild banana belt climate encourages outdoor activities here year-round.
Drop the kids off at one of the public swimming pools, then meet your tennis date, or go
for a hike in the foothills, or get the camping gear out for a night under the stars with the whole
family. Short day drives to the mountains around Boise make one-night camping a fun weekend
trip.

RECREATION
BIKING
In addition to miles of paved paths along the Greenbelt, bike trails in the foothills at the
edge of town offer thrills and spills for the most avid mountain bikers. Dirt bikers and ATV
enthusiasts will also discover miles of varied terrain and tracks for their passion. And, Boise
is a bike-friendly place just about anywhere you want to pedal to. (See the cover story Bike
Friendly Boise for more information.)
BOATING, SAILING AND WATER SKIING
Lucky Peak Reservoir, Arrowrock Dam and many scenic mountain lakes are just a short
drive from Boise, providing opportunities to enjoy boating, sailing or water skiing.
THE BOISE RIVER GREENBELT
This runs along both banks of the Boise River and provides more than 25 miles of paved
and graveled paths to accommodate walkers, bikers, skaters, joggers and runners. Anglers line
the banks, and wildlife can be seen along the length of the Greenbelt year-round.
FLOATING THE BOISE RIVER
This activity can be done by inner tube, raft or kayak from Barber Park to Julia Davis Park or
Ann Morrison Park in the heart of the city is a popular summertime activity in Boise and a great way
to cool down and enjoy a couple of hours of total relaxation. People of all ages float in inner tubes or
rafts that can be rented at Barber Park; a shuttle service is available for a small cost.
CAMPING
Southwestern Idahos scenery offers virtually endless opportunities for camping, and Boise
is the gateway to hundreds of developed and primitive public and private campgrounds within
one or two hours driving time from the city.
GOLFING
There are 20 public and five private courses in the greater Boise area to offer golfers a
wide variety of courses, covering every degree of difficulty and affordability. Area golf courses
offer an average 325 playable days a year, and all are within an hours drive from Boise.
HIKING
With hundreds of miles of trails, many starting in the foothills at the very edge of the city,
hiking is a popular, almost year-round activity. Trails offer a variety of endurance levels, from
short and easy to rugged mountain trails. The Ridge to Rivers Trail System weaves through the
Boise Foothills with more than 125 miles of trails for hikers, mountain bikers and some motorized vehicles.

Bogus Baisn is just minutes from Boise

for skiing or snowboarding the winter.
Photo courtesy of Bogus Basin Mountain
Recreation Area. / Photo by Doug Karcher.

HUNTING AND FISHING

Idaho has the widest variety of game in the nation, from
upland game birds to trophy elk. Idaho fishing is as internationally famous as hunting, and the fly fishing is incomparable.
The state is home to 39 species of game fish, and steelhead
fishing is a major attraction. Professional outfitters and guides
offer trail rides and backpacking trips into the rugged, remote
areas of the state, escorting travelers on horses, llamas and
pack mules. These trips are often combined with fishing,
hunting, river running or wilderness getaways to area guest
ranches.
KAYAKING
Kayakers can enjoy surfing the waves at the Boise River
Park. There are two state-of-the-art waveshapers, and they
can create an approximately 20-foot wide primary wave and a
25-foot secondary wave, suitable for green wave surfing.
SKATING
Long, smooth stretches of the Greenbelt are perfect for
roller and inline skating. Boises skate parks have ramps,
pipes, slide rails, pyramids and bowls that offer challenges
for skateboarders and inline skaters. Idaho Ice World offers
two indoor ice skating rinks, or you can join a hockey league
if youre up for some competition. And, if its winter time, you
can also skate at The Village at Meridians ice skating rink.

SKIING/SNOWBOARDING
Bogus Basin Mountain Recreation Area, 16.5 miles from
Boise, has more than 2,600 acres of skiing and snowboarding
terrain, a vertical drop of 1,800 feet, a lift capacity of 9,980
skiers per hour, and a popular 800-foot-drop tubing hill. Bogus
Basin has more night skiing terrain than any other ski area in
the Northwest. And, it has a tubing hill.
Nordic skiing and snowshoeing are also available at Bogus
Basin. Park and ski trails are abundant in the mountains outside
of Boise.
SNOWMOBILING
Within three hours of Boise, in the Donnelly and McCall
areas, amid some of the most spectacular mountain scenery in
the nation, there are more than 1,500 miles of groomed trails
with many more miles of untracked powder.Nordic skiing and
snowshoeing are also available at Bogus Basin. Park and ski
trails are abundant in the mountains outside of Boise.
WHITEWATER RAFTING
Idaho has more than 3,100 miles of whitewater rivers, the
most of any state in the lower 48, with opportunity for adventure on nearly every mile. While the Middle Fork of the Salmon
in central Idaho is the most famous and offers the most adventurous river running, some of the best whitewater rafting is less

Welcome to Boise

67

Boise State football is the biggest spectator

draw in Idaho. Albertsons Stadium, home of the
famous Blue Turf, seats 36,387 Bronco fans. This
photo features the student section during the
Air Force football game. Photo courtesy of Boise
State University. / Photo by Annelise Woodward.

than an hours drive north of Boise on the Payette River. Outfitters

and guides have trips available to suit every taste for adventure,
from mild to wild.
Miscellaneous: There also are indoor and outdoor climbing
facilities, equestrian facilities, kayaking classes, swimming pools,
tennis courts, sky-diving outlets and more.

BOISE STATE SPORTS

Boise State football is the biggest spectator draw in Idaho.

Albertsons Stadium, home of the famous Blue Turf, seats 36,387,
and the football team regularly plays in front of crowds at or near
capacity throughout the fall. The team is consistently ranked
among the top teams in the country, won the 2007 Tostitos
Fiesta Bowl in overtime against Oklahoma in one of the greatest
college football games ever played, and is regularly featured in
post-season bowl games.
Taco Bell Arena is the home of the BSU mens and womens
basketball teams, and several of the Bronco teams regularly
place among the nations top programs.

PROFESSIONAL SPORTS

Boise Hawks Baseball Club is a Northwest League Affiliate of

the Colorado Rockies. For all local games, you can join the legion
of fans at Memorial Stadium on Glenwood Street.
The Idaho Steelheads ice hockey team is a local favorite. Since
joining the ECHL, the team has racked up two Kelly Cup championships, three Western Conference titles, and an average of 41 wins
per season. Twenty Steelies players have advanced to the NHL.
Watch their home games at CenturyLink Arena where you can get
close to the action and there is no such thing as a bad seat.
The Idaho Stampede, a mens pro basketball team and af-

68

Welcome to Boise

filiate of the Utah Jazz, is based in Boise and also plays its home
games at CenturyLink Arena.
Firebird Raceway, located between Boise and Emmett, hosts
several drag racing events each summer, including the NHRA
Nightfire Nationals.
Meridian Speedway has a full program of short-track racing.
The Snake River Stampede in Nampa and the Caldwell Night
Rodeo are annual rodeo events that bring professional competitors from all over the nation.
The Albertsons Boise Open presented by Kraft is a popular
annual golf tournament that brings well-known professional
golfers to the city.

COMMUNITY SPORTS

Several community organizations specialize in helping

singles, families, the young and the not-so-young get involved in
sports in Boise.
Youth programs abound, and lessons are available in virtually
every sport. Boise has a large number of sports complexes and
facilities, including the Fort Boise Community Center, Simplot
Sports Complex and two Treasure Valley Family YMCAs with
aquatic centers. In addition, numerous city and neighborhood
parks offer a variety of amenities that ensure residents and
visitors alike wont lack for recreational facilities.
Boise Soccer League is an adult soccer league and has 16
mens teams and more than 250 players. The league is open to
all levels of play without any restrictions and provides the adult
community with one of the lowest cost-per-player participation in
any organized sport.
Ultimate Frisbee has spring, summer and fall leagues in Boise, and disc golf can be played at Ann Morrison Park, Julia Davis
Park and Bogus Basin in the summer months.

Hospitals

Saint Alphonsus Regional Medical Center

1055 North Curtis Road, Boise
367-2121
saintalphonsus.org
St. Lukes Boise Medical Center
190 E. Bannock St., Boise
381-2222
stlukesonline.org
Treasure Valley Hospital (private)
8800 W. Emerald St., Boise
373-5000
treasurevalleyhospital.com

Public Health Services

Central District Health Department

707 N. Armstrong Place, Boise
375-5211
chhd.org

Idaho Urologic Institute

Three Locations to Serve You.
Meridian, Boise, and Nampa.

Idaho Urologic Institute, PA is setting the standard for urologic care in the Treasure Valley and is dedicated
to comprehensive urologic care for men, women, and children.

Cynthia A. Fairfax, M.D.

William H. Fredriksson, M.D.

John A. Greer, M.D.

Katy Holder, P.A.

Dawn K. King, M.D.

Eric W. Klein, M.D.

Helen J. Kuo, M.D.

Melissa McClenahan, P.A.

Stephen J. Miller, M.D.

David B. Rice, M.D.

Todd M. Waldmann, M.D.

Joseph H. Williams, M.D.

For More Information: 208-639-4900

www.idurology.com

2855 E. Magic View Dr., Meridian 222 N. 2nd St., Suite 115, Boise
1613 12th Avenue Rd., Ste. B, Nampa

Health & Wellness

70

Welcome to Boise

n Boise there are many options and activities at your fingertips that promote a healthy
lifestyle. Nestled at the base of the mountains
and along the banks of the Boise River, the city
invites you to walk, hike, and bike. City parks,
athletic fields, golf courses and the Greenbelt along
the river have opportunities for all kinds of physical
activity. Less than an hour from the city limits is the
great outdoors, where you can relax and bask in the
mountains, lakes, reservoirs and high-valley prairies.
Our citizens health reflects our healthy lifestyle:
according to the Centers for Disease Control and
Prevention and the Idaho Department of Health and
Welfare, Idahoans have a longer life expectancy than
the U.S. average.

Alternative Health Care

If you enjoy yoga, youll find a variety of classes here to suit your needs even hot Bikram Yoga
classes. Other alternative health practices, classes
and disciplines available in the Treasure Valley include
a variety of massage therapy choices, from Swedish
to Thai. Deep tissue, sports, hot stone, cranio-sacral,
reiki healing and Amma bodywork massage are all
therapeutic options you can choose in Boise.
In addition to massage options, other available
alternative therapies include acupuncture, traditional
Chinese medicine, holistic nutrition, naturopathic
medicine and chiropractic medicine.
Fitness and wellness classes include Pilates,
Zumba, tai chi, BodyPump, boot camp classes and
more. Check with the local gym, fitness center or the
Treasure Valley Family YMCA to see whats available.
There also are a number of specialty centers to
treat a variety of ailments, including The Humphreys
Diabetes Center and a number of infusion centers.

Hospitals

Local hospitals and medical facilities support

wellness programs. Boise has state-of-the-art hospitals, medical specialists and health professionals to
offer a complete range of diagnostic, medical, dental,
surgical and mental health services for the entire
family.
Boises health facilities cover specialized and
acute care. Saint Alphonsus Regional Medical Center
is a nationally recognized trauma center and home
to Life Flight, the areas first air medical transport
program. Saint Alphonsus specializes in neuroscience, orthopedic, surgery, rehabilitation, cancer, heart,
vascular, and emergency services for the critically ill
and injured. It also offers family-based services to
personalize the birthing experience, such as the maternity center and neonatal intensive care unit, plus a
variety of health and wellness classes.

St. Lukes Health System is Idahos largest health

care provider. Among our many services, we are
home to St. Lukes Heart, St. Lukes Mountain States
Tumor Institutes largest clinic, St. Lukes Center for
Minimally Invasive Surgery, and St. Lukes Childrens
Hospital, the only childrens hospital in Idaho. It has
been nationally recognized for quality and patient
safety and is a designated Magnet hospital, which is
the gold standard for nursing care.
Both medical centers have fully staffed emergency departments open 24/7. Other local medical
institutions include the Boise Veterans Affairs Medical
Center and the St. Lukes Rehabilitation centers,
which provide treatment for the physically disabled.
Treasure Valley Hospital is a private general medical and surgical hospital. There also are short- and
long-term acute care facilities, mental and psychiatric
care centers, public health services, minor emergency centers, surgeons, specialists, family physicians,
dentists, and retirement and assisted living facilities
throughout Boise that provide medical services to the
area.

Medical Research

St. Lukes Mountain States Tumor and Medical

Research Institute is the regions largest provider of
cancer treatment.

Public Health Services

In addition to the hospitals and clinics in the

community, public health services are offered through
the Central District Health Department. Low-cost
immunizations, screening services, and maternal and
infant care programs are available.

Senior Lifestyle Options

Boise has many professionally staffed senior

lifestyle facilities. Different life care choices cater to
resident needs.
Skilled nursing facilities provide 24-hour nursing
care for people recovering from injuries or recuperating from surgery. Hospice and respite care are often
offered in these facilities.
Assisted living facilities fill a niche between
skilled nursing care and home care for individuals
needing less medical attention. Assistance is provided
for daily living activities such as bathing, grooming,
eating and medication management, along with
entertainment activities and social interaction.
Retirement living facilities help people maintain
independence through freedom of choice in an apartment setting. Residents live in a supportive environment with someone to cook, clean and mow the lawn
so residents have time to enjoy a variety of scheduled
activities and social opportunities.

TOP 10 QUESTIONS WHEN

CHOOSING A REALTOR
When selling or buying a home, it is important to find a realtor who is knowledgeable,
available to his or her clients, and who has
a proven track record when it comes to
results. How do you know what to ask a
realtor to ensure that he or she is the best
possible choice for you? This is a list of the
top 10 questions that every home seller or
buyer should ask when choosing a person
to represent his or her home or respond to
specific criteria for a replacement home in
a new location.
1. Do you work full time as a real estate
agent?
2. Are you also a broker and/or a Realtor?
(Not all agents are Realtors. Realtors
are agents who are voluntary members
of the National Association of Realtors
and have to adhere to a strict code of
ethics.)
3. How would you assess the current
market for selling/buying?
4. What is your companys current market
share?
5. Would you show me some of your
marketing information and samples?
6. What will be your primary method of
communication with me?
7. Does your company have a website?
8. How often will I hear from you once
my home is listed, or will you present
prospective homes for me to view?
9. What continuing education have you
taken and what designations have you
earned?
10. Do you have any statistics on your
percentage of satisfied clients?
Will your company provide a client
survey for me to complete once our
transaction is finalized?
Choosing a realtor is an important step
towards selling your home, or finding just
the right new home, in a way that is both
pleasant and convenient, and that will
ensure you get the best possible offer
from the largest group of buyers.

WOMENS HEALTH ASSOCIATES

IS PLEASED TO WELCOME

Dr. Jennifer
Hudson

Womens Health Associates provides high quality,

personalized, convenient and caring Ob-Gyn
services for women throughout the many stages
of their lives. Our dedicated medical staff includes
doctors, nurse practitioners, a physician assistant
and certified nurse midwives.

OUR SPECIALTIES INCLUDE:

Obstetrics | Gynecology | Minimally Invasive Surgery |
Bioidentical Hormones | Family Planning | Surgery &
Procedures | Infertility | Midwifery

NOW ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS

208-338-8900
Visit Our New Website: WomensHealthBoise.com
Our Hours Monday - Thursday 8 - 4 Friday 8 - 3 Closed Weekends
333 North 1st, Suite 240 Boise ID 83702

Real Estate

IBR file photo

oise its a great place to live, thanks to a low crime rate, easy access to recreation, a reasonable cost of living, a vibrant cultural community, excellent health care, quality education
and a commitment from residents to preserve their quality of life.
Boise is also an affordable place to own a home and compares favorably with other
cities in the western part of the country. People who move here from larger metropolitan
areas find that they can buy much more for a lot less in Boise. And there are few places in the country
where there is such an abundant mix of urban amenities in combination with the variety of home sites,
and millions of acres of space for recreation or simply enjoyment of the landscape.

LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION

Once you and your family make the decision to relocate, your biggest challenge will be finding the
best home to suit your lifestyle and pocketbook. Contact one of the local real estate professionals many
offer professional relocation services.
Boises physical location has some natural features and divisions that define the character and quality of each community. Foothills to the north, benches and plains to the south that overlook the city and
the Boise Front beyond, the Boise River, and the Boise Valley in between. Downtown living has become
more popular than ever due to a renewed vibrancy in shopping, dining and entertainment opportunities.
Or, how about living in one of Boises historic areas, like Harrison Boulevard, Warm Springs Avenue
or the North End?

BOISE METRO COMMUNITIES

To the west and northwest lie the cities of Meridian and Eagle. Formerly Boise bedroom communities, the cities have each developed a unique identity. While some residents find employment close to
home, others commute into Boise, which takes about 20 minutes a trade-off for an idyllic lifestyle away
from the city.
Meridian has been one of the fastest-growing cities in the state since 1994. It is centrally located in
the Treasure Valley and has easy access to I-84, Highway 55 and the railroad.
Meridians new schools, master-planned communities and the sense of a small town make it a common choice for young families nearly 70 percent of the people who live in Meridian have children.
Northwest of Boise, between the foothills and the Boise River, is Eagle. Many of the valleys most
exclusive residential developments are in Eagle and the surrounding area.
Eagle abuts Meridian and is about 10 miles from downtown Boise, so the majority of Eagle residents
work in the neighboring communities.

RELOCATION SERVICES

Look for a real estate agent who offers professional relocation services, which, in most cases, are
free.

72

Welcome to Boise

Representing the finest properties in Boise,

Eagle, Meridian and surrounding areas
208-344-0200
steve@bhhsidahorealty.com
BHHSIdahoRealty.com

Moving? Our Relocation Service Can Help.

Contact:
Julie Simmons, Relocation Director
208-869-2148
julie@bhhsidahorealty.com

Education

74

Welcome to Boise

oise School District is a nationally recognized high-performing school system

that serves more than 26,000 students. With 11 elementary schools, eight
junior high schools, four traditional high schools, one alternative school and
a multitude of other school-choice program offerings, BSD offers rigorous
academic programs, state and national leading Advanced Placement course
offerings, an award-winning Treasure Valley Mathematics and Science Center, the nationally recognized Dehryl A. Dennis Technical Education Center, a nationally recognized music
program, and standout athletic programs.
Boise, Borah, Capital and Timberline high schools rank among the top 9 percent of The
Wahington Posts list of Americas most challenging high schools. boiseschools.org.
Ten years ago, neighboring Meridian School District, now West Ada School District,
surpassed BSD as Idahos largest school district, providing education to nearly 36,000
students in 31 elementary schools, seven traditional and two alternative middle schools,
five traditional high schools, three alternative high schools, and two senior charter schools.
West Ada has expanded its educational opportunities with magnet schools. westada.org.
More than a dozen private schools (parochial and non-church-affiliated) through the
high school level are available in Boise and Meridian, and a slightly smaller number of
private facilities offer tutoring and enrichment options. There also are charter schools. sde.
idaho.gov/site/charter_schools/idaho_charter_schools.htm.
Riverstone International School is a private, independent school for students from
preschool through grade 12 and is Boises only International Baccalaureate World School.
It is Idahos only Malone Scholar School, with scholarships for gifted and motivated youth.
Traditional financial aid is also available. riverstoneschool.org.

HIGHER EDUCATION OPPORTUNITIES

A public metropolitan research university with more than 22,000 students, Boise State
University has seven academic colleges, serving undergraduate and graduate students in
nearly 200 majors and programs.
Located along the bank of the Boise River, BSU is directly across from Julia Davis
Park and downtown Boise, providing easy access to art, culture and entertainment.
boisestate.edu
Founded in 1891, The College of Idaho in Caldwell is one of the Wests top liberal arts
colleges. The schools approximately 1,100 students enjoy small class sizes, a close-knit
community, a competitive NAIA athletics program and a beautiful residential campus. C of I
has a tradition of educating some of Idahos most accomplished graduates, including seven
Rhodes Scholars. It is also home to four of the past six Idaho Professors of the Year, including 2011 winner Rob Dayley. The Colleges distinctive PEAK curriculum, which offers 26
majors and 58 minors, challenges students to attain competencies in the four knowledge
peaks of the humanities and fine arts, natural sciences, social sciences, and a professional
field, enabling them to graduate with a major and three minors in four years. collegeofidaho.edu
Founded in 1889, the University of Idaho is the states land-grant institution. University of Idaho Boise Center is the universitys gateway to the Treasure Valley, serving the
community with academic programs, research, alumni relations, new student services and
additional outreach. uidaho.edu/boise
Established in 1901, Idaho State University is the states leader in health sciences education. The ISU-Meridian Health Science Center, located off of Interstate 84 west of downtown
Boise, serves approximately 1,000 students and working professionals. The campus offers
more than two dozen undergraduate, graduate, postdoctoral and online programs, including
medical laboratory science, pharmacy, accelerated nursing, speech-language pathology,
counseling, audiology and physician assistant studies. The Center is home to the L.S. Skaggs
Pharmacy Complex, the Treasure Valley Anatomy and Physiology Laboratories, and the ISU
Delta Dental of Idaho Dental Residency Clinic. ISU-Meridian also houses a speech and language clinic, a counseling clinic, and human-patient simulation laboratories. isu.edu/meridian

Boise State University, a public metropolitan research university with more than 22,000 students, features seven academic colleges,
serving undergraduate and graduate students in nearly 200 majors and programs. Students receive hands-on training with industry-leading technology from knowledgeable faculty and staff. Photo courtesy of Boise State University. / Photo by Carrie Quinney.

Northwest Nazarene University, a comprehensive

Christian university, offers more than 60 areas of study,
masters degree programs in 11 disciplines, accelerated
degree programs, concurrent credit for high school students, and a variety of continuing education credits. In
addition to its 90-acre campus in Nampa, NNU also offers
programs online as well as in Boise, Idaho Falls, Twin Falls
and in cooperation with programs in 10 countries. Founded
in 1913, the university now serves more than 2,000 undergraduate and graduate students, more than 6,000 continuing education students, and 2,300 high school students
through the concurrent credit program.nnu.edu.
Boise Bible College is a four-year theological college
fully accredited by the Association for Biblical Higher
Education. The college offers Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor
of Science degrees, as well as an Associate of Science
degree. boisebible.edu.
ITT Technical Institute is a leading private college. The
Idaho ITT, located in Boise, is one of 140 in 35 states and
offers technology-oriented, career-focused degree programs. itt-tech.edu.
Founded in 1891, Stevens-Henager College has five
campuses two in Idaho (Boise and Idaho Falls) and five
in Utah. The college offers associates, bachelors and
masters degrees in the areas of health care, business, and
computer and graphic arts. stevenshenager.edu.

76

Welcome to Boise

The College of Western Idaho is Idahos newest

community college and offers associate degrees in 27
lower-division transfer/general education majors, and
associate of applied science degrees or certificates in 30
professional-technical programs. In fall 2015, the number
of total students served was nearly 20,000. CWI has seven
campus locations throughout Boise and Nampa, including
a 178,000-square-foot building for professional technical
education, plus hundreds of classes online. cwidaho.cc/.
Treasure Valley Community College, founded in 1962, is located in Ontario, Ore., with a satellite center in Caldwell. Currently,
more than 9,000 students attend classes each year, either on a
full-time or part-time basis. It is dedicated to high-quality, up-todate instruction; typically a low student/instructor ratio; effective,
low-cost education; and a pleasant college atmosphere. tvcc.cc.
The University of Phoenix-Boise offers classes that have
been designed for busy working adults. Undergraduate and graduate degrees are offered in the fields of business management,
administration, information technology and more. phoenix.edu.
Boises Carrington College offers degree and diploma
programs in dental assisting, dental hygiene, health care administration, massage therapy, medical assisting, medical
billing and coding, nursing (registered), pharmacy technology, physical therapy assisting and practical nursing. It
is accredited by the Accrediting Council for Independent
Colleges and Schools. carrington.edu/idaho/boise/home.

EXCELLENCE
125 Years of academic quality
4 Idaho Professors of the Year
#1 College in Idaho (Forbes Magazine)

64 National Championships
7 Rhodes Scholars
Countless leaders & innovators

PEAK

VALUE

Ranked among Americas best

college values by Money Magazine
and Kiplingers Personal Finance

SUCCESS

1 major, 3 minors, 4 years

Design your own degree!
collegeofidaho.edu

Transporation
78

Welcome to Boise

etting to Boise, and then, getting around Boise, is easy. Boise is strategically located
to be within reach, and to reach all of the major western U.S. markets, and the various modes of transportation coming and going from the city reflect this accessibility.
Major national airlines, regional airlines and private air charter companies, as
well as motor-freight trucking companies, airfreight and package-express companies
service Boise. The city is also home to a major regional office for NYK Line (North America) Inc., an
international ocean shipping line. Union Pacific Railroad services the area as well. Bus/charter service
includes Greyhound Bus Lines, Boise-Winnemucca Stages, Valley Express, Sun Valley Stages and
Northwestern Stage Lines.

THE HIGHWAY SYSTEM

The major highways that connect Boise to the region are Interstate 84 and U.S. 95. These two
routes also connect Boise to Portland, Salt Lake City, San Francisco, Spokane and Seattle. Locally,
I-84 provides a freeway connection between the four largest cities in the metropolitan area. The
average commute time from home to work or whatever your destination in the Boise metro area is
20.2 minutes.

THE AIRPORT

Boises airport is served by Alaska, Allegiant, Delta, Southwest, United and US Airways. These
airlines provide nonstop service to U.S. cities including Chicago, Denver, Las Vegas, Lewiston,
Los Angeles, McCall/Salmon, Idaho Falls, Minneapolis, Oakland, Phoenix, Portland, Sacramento, Salt
Lake City, San Diego, San Francisco, San Jose, Seattle, Houston and Spokane. An average of 4,772
seats on 51 flights depart every day.
Regional airlines and private air charter companies include: Gem Air, Mountain Aviation, Jackson
Jet Center, Turbo Air, McCall Aviation, Western Aircraft and Western Air Express. For more information,
go to the airport website: iflyboise.com.

COMMUTER SERVICES

Valley Regional Transit operates an extensive citywide bus system called ValleyRide, as well as
RideLine, a telephone number (345-RIDE) for information on transportation alternatives in Boise and
the surrounding areas.
RideShare to Bogus is a carpooling program sponsored by VRT. Go to valleyride.org for details.
Within the metro area, there are several alternatives for urban commuters. Commuteride, a system of carpools and vanpools coordinated by the Ada County Highway District, serves a large number
of residents and employers with alternatives to single-car transport. The program also supports a

Getting to and around Boise is easy. Take the highway, or a byway, travel by plane or take the bus.
Photo courtesy of Valley Regional Transit.

Welcome to Boise

79

Photo courtesy of Boise Airport

Park & Ride system with free parking areas for commuters to catch
the bus or meet up with vanpool or
carpool partners.
Taxicabs are abundant
throughout the city, and most provide service between all of the cities in the metro area. Boise Shuttle
Service contracts with select area
hotels to provide a free shuttle from
the airport to the hotels. And, of
course, if you have the Uber app on
your smartphone, you can get an
Uber ride.

80

Welcome to Boise

We tell stories here.

CAR AND BUS

RENTALS
Boise Party Bus
322-4386
boisepartybus.com

Boise Shuttle Service

342-1900
Boise Trolley Tours
433-0849
boisetrolleytours.com
Commuteride
345-7665
commuteride.com
Valley Ride
846-8547 valleyride.com
Greyhound Bus Lines
343-3681 greyhound.com
Boise-Winnemucca
Stages
336-3300
boise-winnemuccastages.com
Caldwell Transportation Co.
459-6612 ctcbus.com
Avis Rent-a-Car
383-3350 avis.com
Budget Rent-a-Car
383-3090 budget.com
Dollar Rent-a-Car
345-9727 dollarcar.com
Enterprise Rent-a-Car
381-0650 enterprise.com
Hertz Rent-a-Car
383-3100 hertz.com
National Car Rental
383-3210 nationalcar.com
Thrifty Car Rental
342-3924 thrifty.com

We Cab
353-7345
bemychauffeur.com

plays
music
readings

LIMOS

Absolute Limousine
Service
890-7211
absolutelimoservice.com
All Occasions
Limousine Service
468-4078
alloccasionslimousine.net
Boise Limousine Service
871-9515
boiselimoservice.com
Diamond Limousine
861-1120
diamondlimoboise.com
Idaho TownCar & Limo
871-6900 idahotowncar.com
Rods Limos
866-6746 rodslimos.com
Showcase Limousine &
Executive Transportation
938-1726
showcaselimousine.com
Treasure Valley Limousine
869-0765
treasurevalleylimo.com

BCTheater.org 854 Fulton St. Downtown Boise 208.331.9224

IF YOURE WAITING

FOR A SIGN

THIS IS IT.
Advertising works!

Let us show you what

BOISE HAS TO OFFER

Boise Bike Bar

941-4919 boisebikebar.com

420 West Main Street

Suite 102
Boise, ID 83702
www.ralstongroupproperties.com

WINERY TOURS

A local, independent, vibrant, downtown real estate boutique

BICYCLE BARS

Idaho Winery Tours

407-9244
idahowinerytours.com

DRIVING SERVICES MISCELLANEOUS

BuDDies DD
870-7271 buddiesdd.com

My DD
918-0987 myddrivers.com
Smart Guy
713-0185 smartguy.com

Boise Brews Cruise

800-9132
boisebrewscruise.com
Boise Brew Bus
995-5505

Fiercely independent since 1992, we roast our own coffee and

bake fresh daily all of our pastries, cookies and cakes. Dont
forget to check out our eclectic and unique gift store!
500 W. Idaho St., Boise (Corner of 5th and Idaho)
208-345-4320 www.flyingmcoffee.com

Incredible Idaho
82

Welcome to Boise

daho is full of wide-open spaces, half as large as England with one-fiftieth the population, and a
playground for all seasons. More than 1.6 million people call it home.

IDAHO TODAY
Among Americas most rural states, Idaho has 83,500 square miles of land. Forty percent of it is
covered with trees, making it the most heavily forested state in the Rocky Mountains. There are 11
national forests and The Frank Church River of No Return Wilderness Area covers 2.4 million acres
and has the distinction of being the largest single wilderness area in the lower 48 states.
Idaho boasts more whitewater than any other state in the continental U.S. The Salmon River,
stretching 425 miles, is the largest river contained within a single state outside of Alaska. Lake
Pend Oreille, located just south of Sandpoint in northern Idaho, is 43 miles long, six miles wide
and more than 1,000 feet deep. It is the largest natural body of freshwater in the West, one of
2,000 lakes in Idaho. Hells Canyon, the deepest river gorge in North America, and a waterfall
taller than Niagara Falls (Shoshone Falls) are both in Idaho.
The state also has areas of high desert, rolling hills, irrigated farmlands, lava flows and
rock formations.
Idahos landscape with timbered forests, majestic mountains, lakes and rivers of all sizes

and lengths is breathtaking. There are natural wonders

here, such as Hells Canyon, Malad Gorge, the Snake River
Canyon, Shoshone Falls, the Sawtooth Mountains, the
Bruneau Sand Dunes, Bruneau Canyon, the City of Rocks
National Reserve, Craters of the Moon lava flows, Coeur
dAlene and Payette lakes, the rolling wheat fields of the
Palouse, and more than seven million acres of dense forest.

AROUND THE STATE

Idaho is divided into seven distinct regions, each with its
own scenery, lifestyle and recreational opportunities. Northern
Idaho has more lakes than any other western state.
For centuries, north central Idaho was home to the Nez
Perce American Indians, but in 1805 the Lewis and Clark
expedition rediscovered this region on the Voyage of Discovery, describing the area as paradise.
Southwestern Idaho is a land of diversity characterized
by snow-capped peaks in the north, desert canyons in the
southernmost part and a rich agricultural valley, home to
about one-third of the states population, in between. It also
is home to the Bruneau Sand Dunes and Snake River Birds of

Prey National Conservation Area.

Some remarkable geographical phenomena highlight the
south central region. The 250-foot-deep Malad Gorge is there,
and irrigation has turned its desolate lands into a utopia of
beauty and richness, producing crops consumed by millions
all over the world.
The essence of the southeastern Idaho region can be
captured with two tours: one, a visit to the Idaho Museum
of Natural History on the Idaho State University campus in
Pocatello, and the other, of the full-scale replica of Fort Hall,
once a famous trading post along the Oregon Trail.
Eastern Idaho showcases the view of the Grand Teton
mountains of Wyoming, grazing herds of moose and elk, and
what many say is some of the best fly fishing in the world.
Finally, central Idaho is the whitewater-rafting mecca
of the world at Salmon and Challis. The Sawtooth National
Recreation Area includes Redfish Lake, Idahos highest peak,
Mount Borah, at 12,662 feet, volcanic formations at Craters
of the Moon National Monument, and the world-famous Sun
Valley Resort. The Salmon River, also called The River of
No Return, is one of the few undammed waterways left in
America.
This is Idaho.
Welcome to Boise

83

PLENTI{FULL}
At Touchmark, residents say
living well means:
Having more
friendships

Exercising more

Worrying less

Eating healthier

Being more social

What does living well mean to you?

Visit our new Elkhorn Lodge!
Take a tour of our new lodge homes and assisted living services as well as the new
Health & Fitness Club for adults 40-plus.

Learn more: 208-908-0821 TouchmarkMeridian.com/info

TOUCHMARK AT MEADOW LAKE VILLAGE
Full-service Retirement Community
4037 E Clocktower Lane Meridian, ID 83642
208-908-0821 Touchmark.com
1612517 Touchmark, LLC, all rights reserved

Centre
of it all.
in the

Boise Centre is Idahos premier convention center and

is located in vibrant downtown Boise. Surrounded by
restaurants, shops, culture and entertainment, Boise
Centre is truly in the center of it all. Just steps outside
our doors is the Grove Plaza, a Boise landmark and
central gathering place for the community.

From groups of 10 to 2,000, we have the meeting

space, atmosphere, professional event staff and
culinary services to deliver an unforgettable experience.

Boise Centre is the ideal venue for bringing people

together to create memorable experiences. We are
currently expanding to better accommodate larger
conventions and multiple events.
Call now to schedule your upcoming event or to learn more about our exciting expansion project.
208-336-8900 or visit boisecentre.com