Boise, Idaho - America's Best Kept Secret!

Downtown BoiseLocated along the river where the desert meets the Rocky Mountains, Boise is one of America's most livable and likable cities. With a population of 185,000, Boise offers the culture and entertainment of a large urban area in a place that feels a little like everyone's hometown. In fact, several Fortune 500 companies call Boise home. Quality of life is high and residents and visitors alike enjoy the unique blend of natural beauty and urban comforts. Boise is located on a high desert plain and has a surprisingly mild climate. The city sees very little rain or snow - an average of 12 inches each per year - and the moderate temperatures and low humidity make it the perfect place to play year-round.

Oinkari Basque Dancers of BoiseVisitors will be surprised by all Boise has to offer. The city is proud of its philharmonic orchestra, opera, ballet and theater companies and summer Shakespeare festival that features outdoor performances along the Boise River. The Gene Harris Jazz Festival and Art in the Park continue to be favorites among both locals and visitors and there are plenty of museums and attractions to educate and entertain.

City of Boise, IdahoCulture and entertainment mix nicely with the abundant outdoor recreation. Summer brings plenty of sunshine, perfect for a bike ride or a walk along the 25-mile Greenbelt or a round of golf at one of the area's 12 beautiful courses. For those who like a bit more adventure, try mountain biking in Boise's foothills, floating the Boise River on an inflatable raft or tube, or whitewater rafting on the Payette River, just 45 minutes north of the city. In the winter, enjoy Nordic skiing at Bogus Basin Mountain Resort or spend a day - or night - skiing or snowboarding the resort's groomed downhill trails. Boise's indoor ice-skating rink is open year-round.

Sports fans can enjoy Boise's professional athletic teams, including the Idaho Steelheads WCHL hockey and Boise Hawks baseball. Les Bois Park features both thoroughbred and quarterhorse racing and simulcast racing and betting during the off-season.

Kayak on the Boise riverBoise has many fine restaurants offering a wide variety of cuisine in both casual and elegant settings - everything from coffee houses to brew pubs to romantic elegance. Boise Towne Square Mall, Boise Factory Outlet Mall, boutiques, galleries and antique stores will tempt the savvy shopper. Downtown Boise is alive with events, entertainment and a variety of dining and unique shopping options.

Our rare blend of urban amenities and outdoor recreation opportunities offers something for everyone, from conventions to individual business travelers to families. Make plans to visit Boise soon!

Incredible Dining

Gernika Basque Pub & Eatery, in downtown Boise, IdahoDining out in Boise will certainly prove to be one of the highlights of your visit. The city features abundant restaurants and cafes that will please the palates and pocketbooks of all visitors.

Choose to dine in a four-star establishment offering continental cuisine, experience a number of ethnic eateries, relax in a trendy coffee house or find a great steak and potato dinner in a casual, western setting. Boise has many cafes that offer sidewalk, patio or balcony seating which is generally available May through September.

For restaurant suggestions, Boise offers a wide variety of establishments to choose from which keeps competition for your business keen. That means quality food and affordable prices - two more reasons why your stay in Idaho's capital city will leave you with pleasant memories. Bon Appetit!

Special Activities for Spouses/Guests

Guests of conference delegates are invited to join in our whitewater rafting adventure with Cascade Raft & Kayak on Saturday, July 12th, from 4pm - 10pm. There is an additional fee of $65.00 per person for this excursion.

Two additional excursions are planned for spouses/guests of delegates.

We are hosting a tour of the Anne Frank Memorial, Old Idaho Penitentiary and Idaho Botanical Gardens. This no-cost tour is scheduled for Monday, July 14th, from 9am to 1pm.

Finally, guests are invited to participate in a journey to the Oregon Trail History & Education Center at Three Island Crossing State Park. This tour for guests and spouses is scheduled for Wednesday, July 16th, from 9am to 3pm. There is no cost to participate in this event.

Click here to see a complete schedule of activities for guests.

Getting Around Downtown Boise