For event attendees, exploring local culture during breaks can be a highlight — and Boise’s prime easy to explore downtown location is packed with opportunities for just that. Just steps from Boise Centre, small, locally owned shops offer unique products that truly capture the spirit of the city. Whether it’s grabbing flavored nuts at The Peanut Shop or indulging in a handcrafted sweet treat from The Chocolat Bar, these stops provide a chance to experience Boise’s local flavor in more ways than one. Attendees can find special souvenirs to bring back to friends and family or keep as tokens of their time here. Meeting planners might also consider dedicating time in the schedule to explore these local gems. Offering vouchers for nearby shops is another way to encourage engagement with Boise’s vibrant community, making for an even more memorable event.
Unique Local Shops to Explore in Downtown Boise
The Chocolat Bar
Locally owned and celebrating 20 years in Boise, The Chocolat Bar offers handmade, small-batch artisan chocolates crafted with premium ingredients. Owners Jason and Trish, inspired by Boise’s natural beauty and their international travels, continue the legacy of creating fresh, never-frozen confections. Known for their rich ganache truffles, buttery caramels, and signature chocolate bark, The Chocolat Bar’s delicious flavor combinations are a true Boise treasure. Attendees can save them for dessert after a meeting dinner or take home a box for friends or family to enjoy.
Banana Ink
Since 2011, Banana Ink has been creating Idaho-inspired apparel and accessories right in Boise. Known for its locally crafted shirts, hats, sweatshirts, and more, this shop celebrates Idaho pride with unique designs made for both native Idahoans and enthusiasts. Attendees can grab a locally made shirt to wear during casual meeting days or pick up a hat or sweatshirt as a fun souvenir to take home. Voted “Best Local Clothing Store” for seven years running, Banana Ink is a must-stop for creative, locally made gear.
Dragonfly
Locally owned and operated in Boise since 1983, Dragonfly offers a little bit of everything. From aromatic incense and candles to a wide range of jewelry like bracelets, rings, and earrings, this shop has something special for everyone. Attendees can browse for gifts, including ornaments, stickers, creams, and fun paper products, or pick up a stylish accessory to wear during their stay.
Olivin Olive Oil and Vinegar Taproom
Olivin offers over 40 varieties of high-quality olive oils and vinegars for tasting, served with fresh bread. Meeting attendees can stop in to sample these flavorful selections or even schedule a balsamic vinegar class with fellow attendees. It’s a fun way to explore Boise’s local flavors while enjoying a unique group activity.
Fantastic Games
While in Boise, attendees can stop by Fantastic Games to discover a wide variety of board games and puzzles. It’s a great way to unwind during breaks or lunch, playing new and old classics with colleagues. Attendees can also pick up something fun to take home for family game nights. With so many options, you’re bound to find a game you’ve never heard of that will keep the fun going long after the event.
Mixed Greens Modern Gifts
Mixed Greens Modern Gifts offers a fun, relaxed shopping experience for attendees looking to explore unique, carefully curated local and handmade goods. With a wide selection of items from jewelry to magnets, notebooks, and mugs, attendees can easily find gifts or something special to take home. There’s even a section dedicated to gift wrap and cards for every occasion.
City Kid Boutique
For meeting attendees with kids, nieces, or nephews at home, City Kid Boutique is a family-owned shop in downtown Boise offering chic, on-trend clothing for babies to tweens. The boutique focuses on comfortable, stylish pieces that reflect a child’s personality and the parent’s fashion sense. It’s a wonderful place to bring back something special that combines style and comfort for the little ones!
Rediscovered Books
Opened in 2006, Rediscovered Books is Boise’s favorite independent bookstore, offering a curated selection of books with the help of passionate staff ready to match attendees with the perfect read to bring home or enjoy during downtime. With a strong community focus, the bookstore hosts author events, book clubs, and supports school libraries throughout the Treasure Valley. Attendees can also explore the nearby Once and Future Books, the all-used sister store, for a new adventure with every visit.
Fluff Hardware
For jewelry lovers, Fluff Hardware in Boise is a must-stop. Known for its bold, in-house designs, Fluff Hardware brings you accessories that are both rugged and timeless. From handcrafted jewelry to hats, purses, and more, every piece is designed to complete your look with effortless style. Whether you’re after something edgy or subtle, these high-quality, one-of-a-kind pieces are made to last and will quickly become staples in your wardrobe.
Record Exchange
Since 1977, Record Exchange has been Idaho’s largest independent music store. Meeting attendees can explore an incredible selection of vinyl, CDs, and even cassette tapes. Beyond music, the store features turntables, audio gear, clothing, posters, and Boise’s first espresso bar. It’s packed with cool, quirky finds, from vinyl accessories to toys and other unexpected treasures.
Taters
Since 1994, Taters has been offering Idaho-themed gifts and souvenirs that celebrate the state’s famous potatoes and more. Meeting attendees can find everything from huckleberry treats and Idaho Spud Bars to custom gift baskets filled with local specialties. With a wide assortment of T-shirts, hoodies, and unique souvenirs like postcards, keychains, and ornaments, it’s a great stop for bringing home a taste of Idaho or picking up fun gifts for family, friends, and even pets.
City Peanut Shop
Opened in 2009, City Peanut Shop is a staple of Downtown Boise. Founded by Dan Balluff, who left the tech world to reimagine the classic peanut shop, this local spot offers hand-crafted, small-batch products loved nationwide. The shop is famous for its Honey Roasted Peanut Butter, nut-filled brittles, flavored popcorn, and a wide range of flavorful peanuts and tree nuts. Attendees can grab unique flavors like Thai Chili Peanuts, Maple Syrup Pecans, Apple Pie Almonds, and BBQ Peanuts to enjoy during meetings or take home as a tasty gift for loved ones.
Incorporating Local Gifts into Your Event
Instead of the usual swag, add a local twist with gifts from Boise’s standout shops. Consider small bottles of gourmet olive oils from Olivin Olive Oil and Vinegar Taproom, Idaho-themed apparel from Banana Ink, or even small bags of flavored peanuts from The Peanut Shop. Whether it’s a handcrafted item or a locally made treat, this gives attendees something meaningful to take home that ties your event to the city.
Learn more about planning meetings in Boise or contact our team for assistance.