Live music and a full bar welcome visitors to this painfully hip club. In addition to its often peculiar patrons, pinball, pool and Ms. Pac-Man fill the space of this dim, smoke-filled building on the periphery of downtown's nightlife. Bands range from obscure local musicians to the borderline mainstream variety. Other nights, DJs spin music and wannabe models strut their stuff at fashion shows. Check website for upcoming events.

For stiff drinks minus the flair, this cozy full-service downtown bar caters to sports enthusiasts and alternative 20-somethings alike. Local and national sports memorabilia enhance the bar's interior, located in the basement of the historic Idanha Hotel. Conversation is encouraged in this dim and smokey, but strangely charming tavern. Although housed in small quarters, chairs and stools take up most of the space. The draft beer selection is limited. If you prefer premium beer, buy it in the bottle.

This popular bar is one of the veterans of Boise's downtown nightlife. Live blues and rock acts pound out cover tunes at this centrally located watering hole. The Rocci Johnson Band, an old mainstay, plays its own original tunes here. A balcony overlooks the stage and dance floor. Darts, pool and video games also are located downstairs. Despite a smattering of college students, the clientèle is generally 30 and older.

One of Boise's truly local bars, this saloon has pleased its patrons for decades. In lieu of loud music and gimmicks, the tavern features stiff drinks, great conversation and a laid-back ambience. Its gorgeous old-style serving bar comes complete with an antique cash register and also complements the high-backed, wooden booths. Pengilly's Saloon is a great escape from the elbow-to-elbow traffic that often defines the downtown's weekend nightlife. Check their website page for upcoming bands.