Nampa is the second largest city in Idaho, with an approximate population of 86,000, after the capital city of Boise. Nampa is actually located 20 miles west of Boise, and is considered to be part of the Boise metropolitan area. First-time visitors to Nampa aren't usually prepared for the distinct odor that permeates the city, especially on foggy days. This odor is a by-product of the Amalgamated Sugar Company sugar beet processing plant, which only occurs occasionally as of 2006, when efforts were made to drastically reduce odor-causing plant emissions.
Nampa is a city that is booming with new homes, shopping centers, and roads. Large retailers such as Costco, Target, Wal-Mart, JC Penney, Sam's Club, and Best Buy have already opened, or are scheduled to open up shop in Nampa. Much of the city's bustle centers around shopping centers and chain and specialty dining establishments.
Attractions in Nampa include the Warhawk Air Museum, the Canyon County Historical Museum, the Hispanic Cultural Center of Idaho, the Deer Flat Wildlife Refuge/Lake Lowell, the Berry Ranch, and Wilson Ponds & Fish Hatchery, to name a few. As a visitor to Nampa, you may be apt to visit Nampa's historic downtown. In particular, the Belle District, nestled in the heart of historic downtown, is Nampa's premier cultural, shopping, and dining destination. Visit the Chasa Art Gallery to take in the fine displays of Southwest art, catch a gig at Kat's House of Blues, dine in the cozy European atmosphere of Cafe de Coco or sample the impeccable Northwest cuisine of the Copper Canyon. No matter what your taste, you're sure to find yourself pleasantly occupied and entertained in Nampa.
