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Boise is an amazing city of sensations, sights and sounds. You won't be disappointed! |
WASFAA Happenings ...  Walking up slowly, you see a gathering of people outside
Goldy's Breakfast Bistro. Friendly chatter intermixed
with laughter permeates the morning air. Closing in on
the group, you pause, wondering if the restaurant is
closed. A grinning waiter wearing a crisp, white apron
approaches you. "Coffee?" he asks, holding out a mug and
a pot of steaming coffee. "The food is worth the wait,"
explains a smiling stranger. As you take the cup, another
stranger holds out a section of his paper towards you.
"I've already read the sports page. Would you like it?" he
asks, winking kindly. You close your eyes and look up, the
morning sun touching your cheeks lightly through the
brisk spring air. Is this a dream, you wonder?No, this is Boise, Idaho, one of the best 'big, little cities' in the world. A big city full of cultural, shopping, dining and entertainment choices that is still able to keep its small town friendliness and humanity. You have the opportunity to visit this great city on April 7-9 for the WASFAA Conference and Rendezvous in 2002 at The Boise Center on The Grove, in the heart of downtown. This 'reading tour' just hits some of the highlights Boise has to offer. The Culture of it All There is so much history to see and experience in downtown Boise. A walk down Grove Street will lead you to the Basque Museum and Cultural Center, 611 Grove Street. This museum gives insight into the fascinating history of Basques in Idaho. Continue your walk, stopping at the corner of Capital Blvd. and Jefferson to see the Idaho State Capital, a smaller version on the nation's capital. Tours through the capital are given by the Idaho Historical Society. The Idaho Historical Museum, located in Julia Davis Park, provides an extensive look into the history of Idaho, from prehistoric times through pioneer settlements. The Boise Art Museum also located in Julia Davis Park, hosts exhibits of both local and nationally known artists. If that isn't enough 'cultural sightseeing' for you, there are over nine Art Galleries located throughout downtown Boise for your viewing entertainment. Hey, all this hoity-toity stuff can make one thirsty. It is time to stop off at the Flying M, 500 W. Idaho, an espresso café that displays the arts and crafts of a variety of artists. We will need the caffeine jolt to get us through the next phase of our adventure: shopping. Shop 'til you Drop (or 'til credit cards are denied) It is impossible to name all the stores located within walking distance of The Boise Center. Plan to spend plenty of time just wandering and browsing shops. Half Moon Unique Gifts and Cards, 815 W. Bannock Street, has a name that says it all. This is a fanciful store full of novelty items that would make great 'I had a great time at my convention while you stayed home with the dog and kids' gifts for your significant other. Life's Little Treasures, 800 W. Idaho Street, also is a fun store to see. Or, if you are looking for something Made in Idaho to take home, stop by Buy Idaho, Inc., 404 S. 8 th Street. And, if you just must see a mall, grab a cab and head to The Boise Towne Square, corner of Franklin and Milwaukee. With over 175 stores, and advertising 'over 1 million choices', even the most experienced shoppers should find this mall a challenge to get through. Boy, all this shopping makes one hungry. Let's Eat Eating, one of the best things about a conference! The down side, of course, is being limited by per diems! Downtown Boise offers an eclectic dining experience for all budgets and tastes. This is just a sampling of some of the restaurants. Be sure and visit www.boise.org for even more dining options. Brick Oven Bistro, on The Grove, serves slow roasted meats, sandwiches, and salads. This is a great place for lunch, and conveniently located across from The Boise Center. Galaxy Diner, 500 S. Capitol Blvd., serves up great milkshakes. Throw in a burger and fries and you fit right in the 50's decorated café. Don't forget the leather jacket! BitterCreek Alehouse, 246 N. 8 th , with quality beers from 20 microbreweries and imported craft ales is a great place to stop in after a long day of meetings and sightseeing. They make wonderful hamburgers and sandwiches to keep the beer company. The Piper Pub and Grill, 150 Main Street, is another fun place to have a brewski and pub food. Milford's Fish House and Oyster Bar, 8th Street Marketplace, is open for both lunch and dinner. Milford's is a must stop for fish lovers! For a steak, try Schott's Steaks and Chops, located in the historic Idanha, a beautifully restored, turn of the century hotel. This upscale steakhouse may be over that per diem, but if you love a great steak in a historic atmosphere, this is the spot for you. Now that we've satisfied our hunger, it is time to check some entertainment options. I Love the Nightlife If a good movie is what you crave, The Flicks, 646 Fulton, is known for showing critically acclaimed movies - even if they aren't blockbusters! They serve beer and wine that you can take into the movie with you. Or try the Egyptian Theatre, 700 W. Main, located in a gorgeous, old building that has been refurbished to its former glory. So many choices, so little nighttime! The Dublin Up, 800 W. Idaho St., is a good place to start if you are looking for a happy hour spot. This lively Irish pub offers a good bit 'o atmosphere and fun. Angell's Bar & Grill, corner of 9 th and Main, with it's low lighting and mellow atmosphere, is a great place to unwind after a long day. Love to dance? The Blues Bouquet, 1010 W. Main Street, offers up an array of different music to groove to while chilling with your cocktail. Or if you love sports, check out The Sports Page, in the Grove Hotel, for a game of pool or just to catch up on the scores. Don't Miss Out Boise is an amazing city of sensations, sights and sounds. Register on line in January for the Rendezvous in 2002, WASFAA Conference to be held April 7-9 and come see the small town friendliness of our big city. You won't be disappointed! April 7-9, 2002 Boise, Idaho
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