Big things are happening in Idaho's capital city, from an expanded convention center to new high-energy attractions and culinary gems.
"Groups who choose Boise will have an excellent opportunity to enjoy a welcoming city that's booming with new hotels, restaurants and shops," says Terry Kopp, director of sales for the Boise Convention and Visitors Bureau. "The best part for business visitors is that just about all of the amenities that make Boise so attractive are within walking distance of the Boise Centre's newly renovated and expanded facilities."
Perhaps the most notable development in the city for groups is the completion of the three-phase, $47 million expansion of the Boise Centre. The effort adds 36,000 square feet of space, including a new ballroom and eight additional breakout rooms, bringing the venue up to a total of 80,000 square feet of meeting space.
While there are more options than ever for getting business done in the city, some of the biggest additions have been in Boise's entertainment offerings. Last fall saw the opening of the new Fly High Trampoline Park -- an indoor park of trampoline surfaces and foam pits, where groups can play trampoline basketball and dodgeball, among other activities. Grove Plaza, a central location for concerts and local events, wrapped up renovations last year, and now boasts an enhanced water fountain, new bricks, and upgraded lighting and sound systems (as well as open Wi-Fi access). This followed the opening of the 55-acre Esther Simplot Park, which now offers sprawling trails, grassy areas, ponds, bridges, and swimming spots, connected to the 25-mile Boise River Greenbelt.
Last year also saw a new stadium proposed, to be built just south of the downtown core.
As for new properties, last year the boutique Inn at 500 Capitol opened, offering 110 rooms and the welcoming Richard's Restaurant. Last summer, the 180-room Residence Inn by Marriott opened its doors, as did the 152-room Hyatt Place.
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This article appears in the January 2018 issue of Successful Meetings.