Idaho Vacation: Nampa Train Depot Museum



Nampa Train Depot Museum,  Nampa, Idaho

While there are many old railroad depots that have been turned into museums, there are few, if any, that rival the beautiful Baroque revival architecture of the Nampa Train Depot Museum.  Make this scenic building and contents a quick Idaho vacation stop. 

Built by the Oregon Short Line Railroad in 1903, the depot was the 2nd in Nampa, replacing the original depot built in 1887.   The building now houses displays of the Canyon County Historical Society and Union Pacific Railroad. 

Old Railroad Sign, Nampa Train
Depot Museum

The museum was saved from demolition in 1972 and dedicated and opened  to the public on July 3, 1976.  Between 1972 and 1976, the building was partially restored and the beautiful woodwork was rebuilt and replaced.  The original woodwork had been removed while the depot served as offices and storage between 1925 and 1972. 

The museum has three main exhibit rooms plus offices for the Canyon County Historical Society and a museum store. 

Model of Dewey Palace Hotel,
Nampa Train Depot Museum

In what was originally the Women's and Children's Waiting Room, a feature exhibit is a replica of the Dewey Palace Hotel, once the largest and most stately in the region.  Another exhibit demonstrates the classy travel clothes that were typical of the period.  There are also several items from Thomas Edison's contributions including a gramophone and various light bulbs.  The "Bronco Billy" western classic starring Clint Eastwood was shot in several SW Idaho locations including Nampa.  Memorabilia and props from the movie are on exhibit.  Other items of interest are also located in this room.

Early Edison Phonograph,
Nampa Train Depot Museum

The original Station Office is now full of railroad items.  Try out the telegraph, or view one of the two working train sets and see if you can find the miniature animals, lookouts, and other fascinating features in the display.  Also on display are a huge collection of locks and keys, old lanterns and other antique office machines. 

Part of Model Train Exhibit,
Nampa Train Depot Museum

In the original Men's Waiting Room are beautiful hand crafted wooden train models made by a Nampa artist.  Also found here in another model train display with lots of detail area surrounding the tracks that depicts an Idaho mountain town. 

Part of Hand Crafted Wooden Train Models,
Nampa Train Depot Museum

Outdoors is a 1942 caboose that is open for inspection.  The museum has a large collection of books and photographs of the area.  Museum staff will help with research efforts if they are given some advance notice. 

The museum hosts many school and youth groups and is open to the public.  Museum hours are
Wednesday - Friday 11:00am to 5:00pm and Saturdays 10:00am  to 2:00pm (May-October) and 11:00am to 2:00pm November-April. 

Lock and Key Display,
Nampa Train Depot Museum

The Museum is located at 1200 Front Street, Nampa.  Access from I-84 is quite easy from either Exit 36 or 38.  You cannot miss the railroad tracks in downtown Nampa.

Need a suggestion for a place to eat?  Click here for details on a great Mexican meal or here for wonderful Chinese food.  Both are located close to the museum. 

Additional Information:

Canyon County Historical Society: http://www.canyoncountyhistory.com/about
City of Nampa: http://ci.nampa.id.us/pages/home.php
Nampa Chamber of Commerce: http://www.nampa.com/

Idaho Vacation: Cleo’s Ferry Museum and Nature Trail

Just 16 miles south of Nampa, along the banks of the Snake River lies one of the more interesting and intriguing museums and nature trails you will ever visit.  Cleo’s Ferry Museum and Nature Trail is a wonderful stop for  a short Idaho vacation. This is a “must visit” for anyone living in Idaho or just passing through the area.

This eclectic outdoor collection is totally unique and a pleasure to visit. The museum and nature trail make an ideal Idaho thing to do and will be a delight for any age.  There is a covered picnic table with a  super view of the Snake River that makes a great spot for lunch.

The museum is the work of the late Dr Samuel (Pappy) Swayne, a physician, and his wife Cleo. The Swayne’s built a number of stone buildings to house the medical practice, their home, and other buildings to house their collections of oddities. After Pappy passed away in 1976, Cleo managed the collections and added many additional outdoor exhibits and the Nature Trail. The purpose of the exhibits is exemplified in the message of one of the numerous signs that line the nature trail “This Place Was Built as a Vibrant Faith Adventure.”

This museum has such a diversity of things to see it is hard to classify just what it

is.  Here area few highlights that I especially enjoyed – full size bronze statues of children playing in the “playground” area. Full size pioneer wagon with team, buildings built with watermelon shaped rock left from the great Bonneville flood of some 14,000 years ago.  Pretty peacocks, some completely white that strut around the main building site.  The paved 3/4 mile nature trail loop along the Snake River and the base of the canyon wall. 

 Along the nature trail look for larger than life African animals, bronzed figures playing softball, bronze statues of Mark Twain, Benjamin Franklin and others.  The Enchanted Forest is near the far end of the trail.  As one returns along the base of the canyon wall, look for the Prayer Garden, the Chapel on the Hill, and as you get closer to the starting point the hundreds of bird houses, each with its own saying reflecting Cleo’s philosophy of life. 

There are many places to sit, rest, and meditate along the nature trail.  Many pieces of statuary are located along the trail.  Be sure to look for the shy animals that inhabit the bushes, trees and marshy areas.  Many different birds and small animals are found here.  Occasionally deer are seen along the trail.  There are many other scenes depicted that will just have to be experienced as they are too numerous to try to list everything. 

Cleo’s Ferry Museum and Nature Trail is located just off of ID-45, about 16 miles south of Nampa and just prior to crossing the Snake River. Turn off ID-45 at Dan’s Ferry Service gas station and follow a short private road down the hill to enter the museum.

The approach is marked by old metal equipment, numerous statues, tricycles, and other memorabilia. A hand painted sign designates the museum entrance and there is a well done mural, depicting Historic Walters Ferry, on the left of the drive. Bear left to the parking lot and sign in at the guest book kiosk. Admission is free but a donation box at the kiosk reminds us that donations are welcomed. The stone buildings are currently closed but the nature trail is open daily from 8:00am to 8:pm. 

Steve and Naomi Washburn are caretakers of the area.  If you are lucky enough to find them, you will enjoy a good visit and gain much historical insight of this facinating electic display of love and dedication from Pappy and Cleo Swayne.  The spiritual, unique, and tranquil Cleo’s Ferry Museum and Nature Trail should be on your list of things to do while on an Idaho Vacation. 

Click here for a link to Steve’s blog about the museum and nature trail.

Idaho Vacation: Great Mexican Food in Nampa

The Treasure Valley of Idaho is reported to have the best Mexican food in the state and perhaps in the entire Pacific Northwest.  Finding good food is always a worthy goal while on an Idaho vacation. 

The El Rinconcito, located in Nampa for the past 26 years, is one of the best choices for Mexican food in the region.  A few days ago, my wife and I decided to visit the El Rinconcito on a weekday evening.  We encountered good food, no crowds, friendly staff, lively music, and a truly enjoyable evening. 

The modest building sits on 1st street just north of the new Public Safety building, currently under construction.  The address is 824 1st S, Nampa. Phone 208-466-6963.  They are located about 3 blocks west of the Nampa Post Office and a block north.  If in doubt on directions, Google the address to get a map. 

This family owned and operated restaurant is everything good if you are wanting to avoid chain organizations and patronize independent family operations.  Most, if not all, employees are family related.  With 26 years experience, they have tailored the menu and service to that expected of their clientele.  Their very high reviews and ratings are well earned.  Our server, Ilia, was very friendly, knew the nuances of various menu items, and provided very fast courteous service.  The decor is very typical but authentic Mexican style.  The music was lively and at a very pleasing volume. Conversations were not difficult because of extraneous sound levels.

Time for the food.  Fresh crisp chips were served with a bean dip and salsa.  The salsa was hotter than I enjoy but when mixed with the bean dip gave a near perfect blend of flavors.  My wife ordered a Chili Relleno and I had the El Rinconcito special.  Service was very quick.  Portion sizes were very adequate to large, the dishes were well presented, and the food was excellent.  It is easy to understand how they have been able to stay in business for 26 years.  Prices are extremely reasonable with most dishes priced under $10 and the most expensive about $14.  We will be returning here frequently. 

We agree with many other reviewers, the Treasure Valley has great Mexican food.  El Rinconcito ranks among the very best.  A visit to El Rinconcito, whether it is just an evening out or a stop after a long day of traveling, will add sparkle to your day.  It is a great place to visit on your Idaho vacation.

Idaho Vacation: House of Kim, a Kitchen Vacation

Today my wife needed a kitchen vacation or more correctly, a vacation from the kitchen.  I had recently read some very positive reviews on the House of Kim, a downtown Nampa restaurant, so we decided to give it a try.  Turned out that this is an excellent place to spend an Idaho vacation, even if it is only an hour or so for a meal.  It is a good venue to add to your Idaho things to do, or visit, list.

Since both my wife an I are retired, we take turns preparing lunches and dinners.  This week it is her turn to fix dinner. For a number of reasons, she needed a break so we picked a place we hadn't tried yet. 

The House of Kim has been in busines in Nampa since 1994. The tidy restaurant specilizes in Chinese and Thai food.  James, the chef and owner, completely revamped the menus about three years ago changing ingredients, seasonings and presentation.  Based on our experience, the changes were well done. 

We were warmly greeted and guided to nice circular booths.  These half round arrangements were a welcome change from traditional booths with a table between the seats.  The booths give a feeling of closeness without having to bump elbows or stare at each other across a table as in traditional booths.  Traditional chairs and tables are also available for larger groups or for those who prefer to sit on regular chairs.

If you get the chance, ask for Rachael to be your server.  You will be guaranteed warm smiles, helpful menu suggestions, and good service.  James, the chef, came by several times to visit and to make sure our meal was just right.  It was!  Good old fashioned traditional friendly service.

We started our meal with Satay chicken, grilled chicken pieces on a skewer, served with grilled peppers,  onions, and mushrooms.  A spiced peanut sauce was a nice condiment and went well with the chicken. Taste was wonderful and the appetizer was plenty for two. 

My wife ordered the Spicy Squid meal with additional chicken.  I ordered the Pad Sawee Pork with rice noodles and sauteed vegetables.  Rachel offered us extra plates in case we wanted to do some sharing to try each others meal.  These meals come with varying degrees of spiceness, 1-5.  My wife ordered a spiceness of one and my was a three.  Both of our dishes were nicely seasoned, with distinct differences between our meals.  Portion sizes were average to large, nicely presented and  a joy to eat.  Meals are reasonably priced. The House of Kim is clearly a cut above most Chinese restaurants.  We plan return visits. 

The House of Kim is located in downtown Nampa and quite easy to find and drive to.  Decor and music is typical Chinese and pleasantly done.  Hours are 11 am-2 pm and 5 pm - 9 pm Monday - Thursday, 11 am - 9:30 pm Friday and Saturday, and 4 pm - 8 pm Sundays.  You will be glad if you make a stop here while on vacation in Idaho or just make this an Idaho vacation destination. 

Information:
Address - 1226 1st St South, Nampa
Phone - 208-466-3237
Web site - houseofkim.net
Directions - several sets of direction of travel instructions could be given, depending on your starting location.  I suggest entering the address on the Google map on the right side of the blog page and referring to the map.  Enter your starting address and get complete drving directions.

Idaho Vacation: Wilson Springs, An Urban Fishery

Wilson Springs, located in south Nampa, is more than an urban fishery, it is an outdoor playground.  This is a great year-round destination for your Idaho vacation.  Make it a favorite thing to do any season of the year.

First the area - Wilson Springs Nature Area and Fishing Ponds is the full name but locals refer to the area as Wilson Springs. This 55 acre nature area is across the road from the Nampa Fish Hatchery and in Nampa city limits.  A kiosk near the entrance from the main parking lot provides an overview of the area and explains the regulations. 

Second the fishery. Fed by springs, there are four ponds and a central drain open to fishing year round.  Two ponds are stocked with rainbow trout weekly during winter months and less frequently in spring and fall.  Bluegill are also present in these ponds.  One pond is devoted to warm water fish and feature largemouth bass.  The 4th pond is a trophy trout pond with special regulations.  Paved paths and docks extending into the ponds offer accessibility for handicapped individuals.  A number of unpaved paths gives many access points to the ponds.  The fishery is popular especially for older residents and families with younger children as fishing is relatively easy. 

Third the paths and hiking trails.  Paved paths wind through the area providing access to all ponds and a wetlands area.  Unpaved paths follow the edges of ponds to give access to more of the natural area and the ponds.  This area is very popular with local residents for outdoor exercise.  It is rare to be completely alone in the Wilson Springs area.  Having said that - the area does not give a crowded feeling.  There is a lot of area to give everyone their own space. 

Fourth the other wildlife.  Due to the water and lush native vegetation, the area is very popular with a wide variety of birds including raptors, shorebirds, songbirds, upland birds, and waterfowl.  During the winter months, at least 15 species of waterfowl alone can be seen at the area.  Because the ponds are spring fed, they are ice free all winter except for the very coldest weather. 

Access is easy, activities are varied, fun is to be enjoyed.  You will be glad you took time to visit.  Come often. 

Information:

Directions: I-84 Exit #38; S onto Garrity Blvd 0.3 mi; L (E) onto Flamingo Ave 0.1 mi; curve R (S) and Flamingo turns into Happy Valley Rd; go 3.2 mi; R (W) onto Greenhurst 1.9 mi; L (S) on S Powerline Rd 0.7 mi; R (W) into Wilson Ponds parking lot.  It is about 3351 S Powerline Rd. 

 Idaho Fish and Game web site: fishandgame.idaho.gov.  The Southwest Regional IDFG office is located on the north edge of the Wilson springs area at 3101 S Powerline Rd. 

Idaho Vacation: Warhawk Air Museum

From the battlefront to the home front.  The Warhawk Air Museum tells the story of  America's involvement in World War I and World War II through authentic aircraft and thousands of items from personal collections of those who fought the battles.  A visit to this museum should be on your list of things to do while on your Idaho vacation. 

The Warhawk Air Museum, located at the Nampa Municipal Airport, is celebrating it's 21st anniversary in 2011.  The main museum room contains aircraft and memorabilia primarily from WW I and WW II and a new addition, opened in 2010, focuses primarily on the Korean and Vietnam wars. 

Many cabinets and displays hold personal memorabilia contributed by area soldiers.  Interesting items in one display are the prints painted by Norman Rockwell of the "Four Freedoms: Freedom from Want, Freedom from Fear, Freedom to Worship, and Freedom of Speech."  During the war, these posters were prominately displayed throughout America and are the basis of why Americans were willing to sacrifice so much for the war effort.

One of the more important efforts of the museum is the Veterans History Project, a cooperative project with the Library of Congress.  This project  interviews, films, and then edits the living history sessions with American veterans from WW II, Korea, Vietnam, and the Gulf War.  The museum has completed and delivered in excess of 500 interviews to the Library of Congress. A copy of completed DVD interviews is retained at the museum and a copy is given to the soldier.

After a visit to this museum, newfound respect and appreciation for the soldiers and their families who have fought in any of our wars, will be felt.  We realize anew that our freedoms are not free but have been obtained at great cost and sacrifice. 

The museum features many of the most important aircraft models that gave air superiority to US forces in the war.  Also displayed are many "mother's flags", sweetheart pillows, ration books, and other sentimental memorabilia contributed by soldiers and their families.  These displays give a very personal feeling to the entire museum.  One cannot help but feel a renewed reverance and hightened respect for our nation's military and the sacrifices that have been given.

The museum hosts several veterans activities throughout the year.  It also features a fully equipped events center, meeting rooms, gift shop, and a library.

Warhawk Air Museum was founded by M Susan Paul and her husband John Paul.  It operates as a 501c3 non-profit organization and is entirely funded  by individual donations and private foundations.  The museum is just a mile off of I 84 and very easy to visit.

Information:

Address - 201 Municipal Dr, Nampa, ID 83687

Phone - 208-465-6446, fax - 208-465-6232

Website - warhawkairmuseum.org

Hours - Winter Tues-Fri 10am-4pm,Sat 10am-5pm, Closed Sun & Mon

             Summer Tues-Sat 10am-5pm, Sun 11am-4pm, Closed Mon

Admission - Adults $10, Seniors or Military (with ID) $8, Child (ages 5-12) $4

Directions - Exit I-84 at exit 38, travel south on Garrity Blvd approx .6 miles to 39th St, turn left and travel approx .4 mile,  39th St changes to Municipal Dr,. The museum is on the right.  There is ample parking for busses, RVs, or other large vehicles.  Guided tours can be arranged by calling ahead.

Idaho Vacation Suggestions: Nampa Winter Fest 2011

Need an activity to help get through the winter?  Here is an easy to do free Idaho vacation idea.

Winter Fest 2011 will be at the Nampa Civic Center on Saturday January 22, 2011.  Civic Center events coordinator James Brown said of this years event, "Winter Fest is a free fun-filled family event for the public to come and see what's new in Nampa." 

Winter Fest 2011 is bigger and better than ever.  Families can come and spend a morning or afternoon together enjoying a host of activities, free of charge.  Businesses from throughout the Treasure Valley will have booths to share information and opportunities, and provide give-aways.  Service organizations will be on hand to explain about their organizations. 

Live entertainment includes various music acts, several dance groups, and educational information and "petting" opportunities for snakes and other reptiles provided by the Idaho Herpetological Society.  Want to handle an 8 foot snake? 

Craft vendors and an expanded "Taste of Nampa" food court complete the array of exciting things to do for this fun filled Saturday Idaho mini vacation activity.

Admission: FREE
Time: Saturday Jan 22, 2011 9am to 4pm
For more information:  contact Nampa Civic Center 208-468-5550
Civic Center Address : 311 3rd St S. Nampa

Idaho Travel - Places for Indoor Exercise

How do you get exercise while taking an Idaho vacation in the winter?  Todays entry is not so much a destination as it is a lifestyle suggestion for things to do.  Cold winter weather makes outdoor exercise more difficult for many residents as well as for travelers. 

Enter the world of community recreation centers, YMCAs, private gyms, and motel/hotel workout rooms.  Travel and winter vacations are no excuses to miss needed physical activity.  Not everyone is comfortable being involved in outdoor winter snow activities so alternatives are necessary. 

Although recreation facilities can be found in most communities, todays focus is on the Nampa Rec Center located at 131 Constitution Way in south Nampa.  This 140,000 square foot facility opens weekdays at 5:00am and doesn't close until 10:00pm.  Weekend hours are a bit shorter.  Full and varied facilities are available for any type of indoor activity. 

Free Rec Center passes can be found in the Nampa Parks and Recreation Winter and Spring Activity Guide (available at the Rec Center) and are good until April 1, 2011. Take advantage of these passes when traveling to or through Nampa. 

For more information on the Nampa Rec Center call 208-468-5777or nampareccenter.org.  Check the web or phone book listings to find Rec Centers in other locations.