By Mark Orwell
Garden City, Idaho, isn't what most people would refer to as a "hip-and-happening" city, but there are some fun things to do if you know what you are looking for. With a population of 10,624, Garden City is small, but it has many cultural and outdoor activities, as well as some great restaurants and bars. There are hidden gems in Garden City, so whether you're a resident looking for something new to do or just passing through, chances are you will be able to find something that interests you.
Restaurants
Local restaurants in Garden City, Idaho, cater to a wide range of tastes. Le Café de Paris is a fine-dining French restaurant that has gathered great reviews. Go here for fresh baguettes and French cuisine done right. If you are more into food from the Far East, consider Nam King for hearty portions of Chinese food. Modest prices and out-of-this-world taste make it the place to go for noodles and garlic chicken.
Le Cafe de Paris
204 N. Capitol Blvd
Boise, ID 83702
(208) 336-0889
Nam King Restaurant
4624 W. State St.
Boise, ID 83703
(208) 345-0260
Eagle Island Park
Eagle Island State Park is partly located in Garden City, with the rest of it branching out into surrounding areas. It's a great place for outdoor enthusiasts or for families looking to get away from it all. You can enjoy camping, fishing, biking, hiking, and a number of other activities amid the park's beautiful scenery.
4000 W. Hatchery Rd.
Eagle, ID 83616
(208) 939-0696
www.visitidaho.org/thingstodo/parks/eagle-island-state-park.aspx
Shopping
If you enjoy shopping, the best place to go is the Northgate Shopping Center, which includes a number of department stores, such as JC Penny, as well as name-brand stores. Smaller boutiques help to personalize the shopping experience here. Everything from clothing to electronics, household supplies to children's toys can be found at the shopping center.
Northgate Shopping Center
5808 W. State St.
Garden City, ID 83703
(208) 853-1693
Theater
If you are looking for a more cultural experience in Garden City, consider checking out the Alley Repertory Theater, which puts on stage plays that attract people from nearby cities. Every year, the lineup consists of well-known plays as well as new contemporary works that are sure to delight all sorts of audiences. The theater is community-driven, which means you will be seeing local actors take the stage.
Alley Repertory Theater
3638 Osage Street
Garden City, ID 83714
(208) 388-4278
www.alleyrep.org
About the Author:
In the summer of 2003, Mark Orwell began his career as a freelance writer focusing on popular culture, music, and film. He continues to write on a broad array of topics from Miami, Florida. His work has been available in the United States, the Caribbean, and South Africa.
