Frequently Asked Questions

Meeting Planner Frequently Asked Questions

• Where is Boise Centre located?

  Boise Centre is located in the heart of downtown Boise, which is located in the Southwestern portion of Idaho. Boise is the State Capital of Idaho. Idaho is located in the Pacific Northwest and borders Washington and Oregon.

• How large is Boise Centre?

  Boise Centre is 85,000 square feet, which includes 50,000 square feet of exhibition/meeting space. Boise Centre has a 25,000 square foot ballroom and 20 different meeting room combinations. Boise Centre also has a 349 seat auditorium known as the Summit. The total capacity for the facility is 4,200.

• When was Boise Centre constructed?

  Completed in January 1990, Boise Centre quickly became a valuable economic catalyst for growth—not only in downtown Boise where the facility is located, but also for lodging properties throughout the District that accommodate thousands of guests every year. It took 14 months to construct the facility at a cost of $10,565,000

• Is Boise Centre a union facility?

  No. Boise Centre is a non-union facility and manages its entire workforce.

• How many events are held at Boise Centre?

  Boise Centre hosts more than 300 events annually, including conventions, meetings, trade shows, exhibits and fund-raising events. Yearly favorites include the Festival of Trees, Kid for a Night, Boise Flower and Garden Show and Chamber of Commerce events. Boise Centre is proud to serve more than 200,000 guests annually.

• What is Boise Centre’s scheduling policy?

  Boise Centre is highly experienced in hosting a variety of events – from conventions and trade shows to corporate meetings and social gatherings. We want you to consider us a valuable resource throughout the booking and scheduling process.

  Rental structure is based on established rental rates and is determined by the type of event and the amount of space used.

  The Marketing & Sales Department will work with you to book your event on an available date in the space most appropriate for your function. To learn more about available dates or to schedule a tour of Boise Centre, please contact us at 208-489-3682 or email us. (stacieb@boisecentre.com)

• When are contracts or use permits issued?

  To hold event space and dates on a confirmed or definite basis the Boise Centre requires a Use Permit or Contract to be issued along with a non-refundable deposit as requested. (Deposits usually represent one-third of the rom rental fee.) Upon selection of the Boise Centre, a Use Permit will be issued. The Use Permit is the legal binding document that outlines all of the agreements between the Client and Boise Centre.

  The Use Permit includes two parts: (1) the actual Use Permit and (2) Schedule A, which lists the actual rooms, occupied times, attendance, room rental fees and deposit schedule.

  The Use Permit and Schedule A cannot be considered fully executed until both parties have signed the agreement and Boise Centre has received the initial deposit and signed Use Permit.

  If you need to make changes to your events or space requirements this will affect your contract.  Please alert your Event Manager immediately so they can make the necessary contract changes and that the correct space is on hold for your event.

• Why can local events only be contracted one year from the date of the function?

  Boise Centre is an economic development tool whose first priority is to allow for larger convention groups to meet in the area, rent hotel rooms and utilize other services, enhancing the economic benefit to our community. Convention and meeting planners bring these large events to Boise, and as such must have the ability to book many years in the future. Any group coming to Boise that utilizes hotel rooms and the space at the Centre have first priority. Conventions typically book space farther out than one year while local events contract space within one year.

• Does the Boise Centre have in house audio visual equipment?

  Yes, our professional in-house Audio Visual Department offers full audio visual equipment rental, staging, technical support and event production services. In addition to our in-house inventory and staff, Boise Centre and Production Services International (PSI) have partnered to provide you with an extensive line of state-of-the-art audio/visual equipment ranging from wired microphones to full stage sound, lighting and data projection packages. Through this partnership we have brought together National and International technical experience with our own on-site expertise.

  We offer:

  • Complete production services
  • Complete line of video projection
  • Sound reinforcement
  • Stage lighting
  • Backline
  • Truss
  • Staging
  • Drape
  • Screens
  • Microphones

  Boise Centre also offers the latest in digital display technology for use during your event. This state-of-the-art media allows you to communicate with your guests using a variety of media formats from daily agendas and sponsor slides to streaming video and way finding.

  Signage includes five 42” LCD’s placed at key locations throughout the facility and a large touch-screen kiosk is located in the lobby. The kiosk is portable and can be placed anywhere in the facility to enhance your next meeting or event.

  For complete AV information or rates please contact our AV Manager at 208-336-8900

• Does the Boise Centre offer free Wi-Fi?

  Yes, complimentary wireless internet is available throughout the facility.

• What are some of the green initiatives Boise Centre has implemented?

  Boise Centre is proud to participate in several sustainability programs that benefit the meetings, conventions and trade shows held at the facility and which benefit the local community as well.

  Boise Centre’s sustainability initiatives regarding energy efficiency include:

  • An upgraded fluorescent lighting system from T-12 to T-5 and T-5 HO
  • Use of lighting controllers that reduce output by 50% when events are being set up or taken down
  • An interactive lighting and HVAC control systems which send heating or cooling into setback mode when lights are turned off
  • Heat provided through Boise City’s geothermal water system
  • Natural light in the main lobby areas provides for reduced lighting, particularly when events are being set up or taken down
  • Energy reducing motor control drive upgrades to the cooling tower and chiller

  Boise Centre’s sustainability initiatives regarding waste reduction include:

  • Partnership with Allied Waste and Western Recycling to recycle all forms of paper, plastic and metal materials
  • Designated compactor for all recyclable materials
  • Partnership with Sustainable Futures, a nonprofit company specializing in sterilizing glass wine bottles and re-selling to local wineries
  • A composting program with local neighborhood co-op farms to provide composting materials
  • All plastic cups, flatware, and “to go” boxes are made from corn products
  • All paper cups, plates, and napkins are made from recycled, compostable paper products
  • Use of china versus paper when possible
  • Filtered water stations in public areas
  • Use of water stations rather than individual pitchers of water in all meetings
  • Reducing paper waste by replacing traditional guest signage inside the facility with new digital technology

  In 2010 Boise Centre contributed 4,156 pounds of recyclable compost, 2,888 pounds of coffee grounds, 110 cases of glass bottles and 30,000 pounds of compacted recyclable product was redirected from landfills. Recycling continues to be a focus for the Centre and the Boise Centre team continues to research and implement many sustainable measures which allow the facility to become more and more environmentally-friendly.

  Additional elements of Boise Centre’s sustainability initiatives include the donation of thousands of pounds of food each year to the Boise Rescue Mission, participation with the Buy Idaho and Idaho Preferred programs supporting local farmers and ranchers to supply as much locally-produced food as possible and the use of locally produced wine products when possible.

• How many hotels are within walking distance from Boise Centre?

  There are 800 hotel rooms within three blocks, 1,400 rooms within a mile and thousands more, from luxurious to affordable, in the city.

• How many hotel rooms are available in Boise?

  Approximately 6,500 hotel rooms are available throughout the entire City of Boise. A complete listing of accommodations can be picked up at Concierge Corner or by clicking here.

• How far is Boise Centre from the Boise Airport (BOI)?

  Boise Centre is located approximately 8-10 minutes away from Boise Airport (BOI) and all hotels offer free shuttle service.

• Which Airlines fly into Boise Airport?

  Boise Airport (BOI) is served by the following airlines, charters, commuters, and air taxis.

  • American Airlines / American Eagle
  • Delta
  • Frontier
  • Alaska Air
  • SeaPort Airlines
  • Skywest
  • Southwest Airlines
  • United
  • US Airways
  • Conyon Aviation
  • Jackson Jet Center
  • McCall Aviation
  • Mountain Aviation
  • N2 Air Charter
  • Salmon Air
  • Turbo Air
  • Western Aircraft

  Boise Airport (BOI) is open 24/7. Ticket counters and check-in kiosks are located on the 2nd floor of the terminal. Airlines suggest you arrive 90 minutes prior to departure (2 hours during high travel seasons).

• Is "Boise Air Termimal (Gowen Field)" the same as Boise Airport (BOI)?

  Boise Air Terminal (Gowen Field) is the same as Boise Airport. The name was given to us in the 1940s and is used by the FAA and airlines.

  Gowen Field complex is adjacent to the Boise Airport and is located on 576 acres, with the Gowen Field Traning Area consisting of 136,948 of which 86, 459 is maneuver area, just south of the main post area.

• Is Boise Airport (BOI) called Boise International Airport?

  No. Boise Airport is not an international airport, which means we do not have a U.S. Customs and Border Protection facility at the terminal to process passengers.To fly non-stop to or from an international city, you must make at least one stop at an international airport.However, with non-stop service toseveral of the top 10 airports in the U.S., many international destinations are just one stop away from Boise.

• Does Boise Airport (BOI) have a currency exchange?

  No. Since Boise Airport is not an international airport, it does not have a currency exchange. Currency exchange is available at several local banks.

• What are the estimated taxi fees from Boise Airport (BOI) to Boise Centre?

  The rate varies.We recommend contacting the local cab companies for rates and charges. Keep in mind all hotels offer free shuttle service.

• Are shuttles available?

  Boise Shuttle Service provides transportation to all the major hotels in the Boise area. Many of the local hotels offer complimentary shuttle service to the airport. Guests are encouraged to contact their hotels directly to inquire about services offered.

• Which car rental companies service the Boise area?

  All of the major car rental companies are represented in Boise. These companies include:

  • Alamo
  • Avis
  • Budget
  • Dollar
  • Enterprise
  • Hertz
  • National
  • Thrifty

• What public transportation options exist in Boise?

  Valley Ride Bus System offers pick-up and drop-off location throughout the city.

• What type of parking is available around Boise Centre?

  There are numerous parking structures available throughout the downtown area. Four parking garages surround Boise Centre. All provide hourly and daily parking.

  There are 2,561 parking spaces in six well-lit and covered off-street garages owned by Capital City Development Corporation and operated by Republic Parking Northwest. Short-term (hourly) parking and monthly rates are available. Visitors receive the first hour free in the downtown area and each additional hour is $2.50. 2011 average daily rate is $12.00.

  Garage security is available to provide assistance with the following services:

  • Jump Start vehicles
  • Escort to vehicle during nighttime hours
  • Taxi request for those stranded or unable to drive
  • Lost vehicle assistance

  Private parking garages and lots are available for public parking. Signage at each will direct you on hourly parking rates.

Meals and Entertainment Frequently Asked Questions

• What restaurants are available in downtown Boise and around Boise Centre?

  There are hundreds of restaurants located in Boise ranging from fine dining establishments to casual patio dining. There are many restaurants and clubs within walking distance of the Boise Centre. A complete listing of dining options can be picked up at Concierge Corner.

• Who provides Food & Beverage Service for meetings and events?

  Boise Centre’s in-house culinary team is the exclusive provider of food and beverage for the events held at the facility and has established a very high standard for delivering quality and service.

  The Boise Centre Food & Beverage Department has an established menu, but also works to create custom menus and offerings to meet the needs of its client.

  Outside food and beverage may not be brought into the Boise Centre for personal consumption.

  During events samples may be provided by exhibitors but must be limited to one ounce portions. It is the responsibility of the promoter to notify Boise Centre of any exhibitors handing out food or beverage samples.

  For more information regarding Boise Centre’s food and beverage services, please contact Michael Davis at 208-489-3614.

• Does Boise Centre offer full service catering?

  Yes, Boise Centre has earned an excellent reputation for providing outstanding catering services for the events and functions hosted at the facility. Boise Centre has consistently earned top accolades for its quality meals, meal presentation and service.

• Are groups able to bring in their own catering or beverages?

  No. All food and beverage service will be provided and served by Boise Centre.

• Does Boise Centre offer concessions?

  Yes. Boise Centre has a main concession area located in the main entrance of the facility. A variety of food and beverage items are made available to guests attending events or meetings at the facility. (Concessions are not available for all events, check with your Event Manager to determine if service is needed for your particular event.)

• Are vending machines available at Boise Centre?

  Yes, vending machines are available at Boise Centre which offer a variety of snack items and beverages. The vending machines are located near the Summit and Waters meeting rooms.

City of Boise Frequently Asked Questions

• What are some interesting facts about Boise?

  Boise is the Capital of Idaho.

  The Boise River is just two blocks from Boise Centre and flows through the city.

  Boise is the largest city between Salt Lake City, Utah and Portland, Oregon.

  Boise is the third largest city in the Pacific Northwest.

  According to the 2010 Census, the population of Boise is 205,671.

  On July 3, 1890, Idaho was the 43rd state to join the union.

  Boise is home to the Boise State University with an estimated 20,000 students. BSU is well-known for its blue turf football field. University of Idaho and Idaho State University also have campuses in Boise.

  There are 2,700 acres of parks and urban trails throughout Boise. The greenbelt provides 27 miles of riverfront paths for walking, jogging, cycling, etc.

  Boise has many cultural offerings including: Boise Philharmonic, Idaho Shakespeare Festival, Ballet Idaho and many theater, music and performance groups.

  Sports are a big part of the Boise scene. There are several ski resorts near Boise. There are 17 golf courses through the city.  Mountain biking, fishing, hunting and whitewater rafting are also very popular.

  Boise is the headquarters for several major companies, such Boise Cascade, J.R. Simplot Company, Micron Technology, Idaho Pacific Lumber Company, WinCo Foods, IDOCORP Inc., Bodybuilding.com, Clearwater Analytics . Other major industries are headquartered in Boise or have large manufacturing facilities present. The Idaho state government is also one of the area’s largest employers.

  Numbering about 15,000, Boise's ethnic Basque community is the second largest such community in the United States after Bakersfield, California and the fifth largest in the world outside Mexico, Argentina, Chile and the Basque Country in Spain and France. A large Basque festival known as Jaialdi is held once every five years (next in 2015).

  Boise is a regional hub for Jazz and Theater. The Gene Harris Jazz Festival is hosted in Boise each spring. The city is also home to a number of museums, including the Boise Art Museum, Idaho Historical Museum, the Basque Museum and Cultural Center, Idaho Black History Museum, Boise WaterShed, Discovery Center of Idaho and World Center for Birds of Prey.

  Several theater groups operate in Boise, including the Idaho Shakespeare Festival, Boise Little Theatre and Boise Contemporary Theater.

• What are the annual seasonal temperatures for Boise?

  Boise has a semi-arid climate with four distinct seasons.  Boise experiences hot and dry summers with highs exceeding 100 degrees, yet summer nights often offer significant cool-downs.  Winters are cold with a January average of 30 degrees. 

  Snowfall at Boise averages around 20 inches per year but can vary from a low of only a few inches to 30 to 40 inches.  With milder temperatures frequently in the Treasure Valley during the winter, snowfall is not as great as in other mid-latitude locations.   In contrast, the surrounding mountains get abundant snowfall in a normal year because of the higher elevation, colder temperatures and the mountain orographic wind flow effects producing these greater amounts of snow.

  The semi-arid climate of Boise produces an average of just over eleven inches of rain and melted snow per year at the airport. Precipitation is usually infrequent and light, especially during the summer months. Precipitation is similar to the city of Tucson, Arizona.

• What is the elevation of Boise?

  The elevation of Boise is 2,842 feet above sea level.

Miscellaneous Meeting Planning and Organizing

• Does Boise Centre offer ticketing services?

  Individual events are in charge of their own ticketing needs or requirements. Boise Centre does not have a dedicated ticket office or offer ticketing services for events held at the facility.

• Does Boise Centre offer registration assistance?

  This service may be available at a nominal fee. Please contact our Guest Services Manager at 208-336-8900.

• What type of insurance is required for an event or activity taking place at Boise Centre?

  Groups utilizing Boise Centre must provide a certificate of liability insurance policy listing the Boise Centre as additional insured. Complete insurance requirements are listed in the Boise Centre Use Permit.

• What security services are offered at Boise Centre?

  Groups can secure security services for their event through a local security company. Boise Centre’s Event Managers will be able to provide this information. Security is a client expense and is not included with rental of the facility.

• Is the Grove Plaza available for scheduling?

  Yes. Please contact the Boise Centre’s Operations Manager at 208-489-3601

• What items are prohibited or restricted at Boise Centre?

  Boise Centre prohibits the following items:

  • Firearms
  • Popcorn
  • Hay or straw
  • No woodworking, sawing or painting inside of the facility
  • All balloons must be tethered
  • All helium tanks must have a base
  • No tape or pins on painted or wood surfaces

  It is recommended that any open flame devises be approved by Boise Centre staff prior to being brought into the facility. As per the Boise Fire Department, candles must be in a holder that will return to the upright position when tipped at a 45 degree angle

• What are the Boise Centre’s restrictions on signs and banners?

  Signs and banners can be put in place with the help of our Operations Department. Please coordinate any needs or requirements with your event manager and we will be happy to make sure your materials are placed securely and safely.

• Does Boise Centre have preferred vendors that I am required to work with?

  All food and beverage must be ordered and coordinated through Boise Centre’s Catering Department. Outside food and beverage may not be brought into the Centre.

  All utility services are provided by Boise Centre.

  Equipment rentals are provided by Boise Centre. On site equipment includes one (1) forklift and one (1) scissor lift.

• Does Boise Centre offer a business center for copies, faxing or other general services?

  Yes. The Boise Centre team is ready and willing to assist as needed in providing copies or other helpful services as needed. In some cases a nominal, per page fee will be charged to the event.

  For larger printing jobs there are several quick print companies located in Downtown Boise. Your event manager can help provide you with these contacts.

• What ADA services are available at Boise Centre?

  All meeting rooms and restrooms throughout the facility are ADA accessible.

• Are first aid services available at Boise Centre?

  Yes. First aid kits with proper supplies are strategically located throughout the facility. These kits are clearly marked and are intended for minor medical concerns. Boise Centre has a defibrillator on site.

  Professional medical responders should be contacted in the case of an emergency.

Area Attractions Frequently Asked Questions

• What attractions, museums or activities are available in Boise?

  A number of recreational opportunities are available in Boise, including extensive hiking and biking in the foothills to the immediate north of downtown. Much of this trail network is part of Hull's Gulch and can be accessed by 8th street. An extensive urban trail system called the Boise greenbelt runs along the river. The Boise River itself is a common destination for fishing, swimming and rafting.

  In Julia Davis Park is Zoo Boise, which has over 200 animals representing over 80 species from around the world.

  The Bogus Basin Ski Area opened in 1942 and hosts multiple winter activities, primarily Alpine skiing and snowboarding, but also cross-country skiing and snow tubing. Bogus is 16 miles from the city limits (less than an hour drive from downtown) which climbs 3400 vertical feet through sagebrush and forest.

  Professional sports teams in Boise include the Boise Hawks of the short-season minor league baseball Northwest League, the Idaho Steelheads of the ECHL (minor league ice hockey) and the Idaho Stampede of the NBA Development League (minor league basketball.)

  The World Center for Birds of Prey is located just outside city limits, and is a key part of the re-establishment of the Peregrine Falcon and the subsequent removal from the Endangered Species list. The center is currently breeding the very rare California condor, among many other rare and endangered species.

• What types of day trips are available in the area if I want to extend my stay in Boise?

  There are many unique opportunities for visitors to take day trips to different areas surrounding the Boise area. Short drives can be taken to the scenic Idaho Mountains or to the Bruneau Sand Dunes. A popular day trip is from Boise to Idaho City which is a short 31 miles through the Boise National Forest.

• What type of shopping is available in Boise?

  There are a variety of shopping opportunities throughout the Boise area. Downtown Boise offers specialty shops and boutiques. Boise Town Square is the region’s largest shopping mall with more than 200 stores under one roof. Boise Factory Outlet Mall offers terrific bargains for shopping enthusiasts.