Entertainment Alternatives in Boise, ID

Boise has a wide variety of nature-based recreational opportunities in its vicinity. The Boise River Greenbelt, an extensive urban trail system, runs along the Boise River, which in itself is an excellent location for swimming, fishing and rafting. The foothills immediately north of the downtown area offer lots of hiking and biking opportunities as well. Just outside the city limits, the World Center for Birds of Prey works hard towards the conservation and recovery efforts of several rare and endangered species. The WCBP's Visitors Center offers interactive displays, shows and more. The Morrison-Knudsen Nature Center, just east of downtown and adjacent to the Municipal Park, allows you to stroll through water features and wildlife experiences, with viewing areas into the water, bird and butterfly gardens, waterfalls, and a visitor's center free to the public.

In sports, there is much to do and much to see. Besides the previously mentioned recreation in the foothills and along the Boise River, the Bogus Basin Mountain resort is 16 miles north-northeast of Boise, and offers a full range of winter sports, including cross-country and downhill skiing, snowboarding, and snow tubing. Boise is also set to host the Winter 2009 Special Olympic World Games, with over 2,500 athletes from over 85 different countries. The MPC Computers Bowl in December pits a Western Athletic Conference team against an Atlantic Coast Conference team. The 30,000 seat Bronco Stadium is known for its blue AstroTurf football field, and Taco Bell Arena holds 12,000 spectators for basketball or other entertainment. Boise State University is well-known for the recent success of its football team, though it is also well-regarded as a commuter school for part-time undergraduate students.

Other entertainment includes a wide variety of shopping locations, including the Boise Towne Square Mall, a major shopping attraction for the area which has recently undergone an upgrade, including trendy new retailers. The Velma V. Morrison Center for the Performing Arts, located in Boise State University, hosts many local and national fine arts performances as well. With this and much more to offer, you will never be bored in Boise, Idaho.