- See -
Don't forget to pack your camera! These are some of the most photo worthy destinations in the valley, most of which also have a long history! (We may be a bit biased, but most of the other destinations in this Local Area Guide are pretty photo worthy, too!)
| Old Idaho Penitentiary State Historic Site Built in 1870 of hand-cut sandstone, the Old Idaho Penitentiary housed inmates for more than a century before reverting its status to a museum and state historic site. The Old Idaho Penitentiary, or "Old Pen," includes 30 historical structures, some of which now feature educational exhibits. Visitors can tour the facility to see jail cells, the Gallows, and the Solitary Confinement area. The Old Idaho Penitentiary also hosts events throughout the year, including paranormal investigations, cemetery tours, and a festive holiday event in October. |
| Location: |
2445 Old Penitentiary Road, Boise, Idaho |
| The Idaho Botanical Garden is located at what was once the #2 Yard of the Idaho State Penitentiary. Since the prison`s closing, through a community effort and interest in horticulture, the Idaho Botanical Garden was established and has continued to grow since its inception in 1984. The garden features 14 specialty gardens that vary from a contemporary English Garden to a Meditative Garden, with each landscaped space having a unique focus. The botanical garden also includes an heirloom Rose Garden, with more than 300 different roses in 107 varieties. |
| Location: |
Address: 2355 Old Penitentiary Road, Boise, Idaho |
| The Basque Museum and Cultural Center contains exhibits and collections that provide a look at the Basque heritage, history and culture. The mission of the Basque Museum and Cultural Center is to preserve, promote and perpetuate Basque history and culture. Boiseko Ikastola, the only Basque language preschool outside of the Basque Country, has been established as part of this mission. Museum collections include oral history archives, a library, a collection of records & tapes, manuscript materials, and numerous artifacts and photographs. It is the home of significant resources for anyone interested in Basque history and culture. |
| Location: |
611 Grove Street, Boise, Idaho |
| Phone: |
(208) 343-2671 |
| The Idaho State Capitol construction began on the Capitol Building in 1905 and was completed in 1920. The majority of the building was constructed of locally sourced sandstone with marble from Alaska, Georgia, Vermont, and Italy. The top of the dome has a five-foot-high statue of a golden eagle. The building features various displays and temporary exhibits. In 2010, the building was rededicated following extensive restoration work. Visitors are encouraged to tour the Capitol at their leisure during operating hours, and guided tours can be scheduled for groups of five or more. |
| Location: |
700 West Jefferson Street, Boise, Idaho |
| The Boise Depot is a beautiful historic Spanish-style structure operated by the Boise Parks and Recreation Department as a public ceremonial or meeting space and historic site. Designed by New York architects, the building opened in 1925 to elaborate fanfare in the capital city.
With a splendid panoramic view of the Boise Front, the building grounds include Platt Gardens, a lovely park with pathways, a gazebo and a koi pond makes this a popular site for weddings, photographs and public gatherings. |
| Location: |
2603 W Eastover Ter Boise, Idaho |
| Experience birds of prey eye-to-eye and explore the mysteries of their flight, survival, and relationship with humans. Live bird demonstrations and falconry heritage tours complement hands-on exhibits for all ages. Enjoy panoramic views of the Treasure Valley from the interpretive trail and gazebo, or browse the gift shop. Admissions and purchases support conservation programs worldwide. |
| Location: |
5668 West Flying Hawk Lane, Boise, Idaho |
| Freak Alley is a "notable venue" for murals, graffiti and public art located in an alley in downtown Boise. It is said to be the largest outdoor gallery in the Northwest, and has been a Boise institution since 2002. It began with a painting of a single alley doorway and now extends from the alley itself to gravel parking lot.
Freak Alley was established by Colby Akers, Freak Alley Gallery. According to an article from the Arbiter, Akers fell into the project by originally having the opportunity to paint the side of the Moon`s Cafe on the far side of what is now the completed alley. Many neighboring businesses saw this and wanted him to continue his work farther into the space to cover the back of their building.
Extant murals painted over and replaced by new murals (or incorporated into them) every few years. It has featured prominently in a survey of ten mid-sized American cities with thriving artistic communities in which Boise ranked second.
Freak Alley relies solely on donation and volunteer work to operate the indoor and outdoor facility and accepts anyone interested in becoming a part of its culture. More information can be found on their website - www.freakalleygallery.org |
| Location: |
210 N 9th St, Boise, ID 83702 |
| Hyde Park is on the National Historic Register for several reasons. First, the building and architecture of the areas is unique. Secondly, a “sub” urban retail area of the age of Hyde Park is unusual for any community. It rivals such famous areas like the Niles District in Oakland for its character and quality.
Hyde Park is also home to many different restaurants, businesses, and shops. Our favorite? Goody`s Soda Fountain, with some of the best ice cream in the neighborhood! It also borders the iconic Camelsback Park, which hosts the annual Hyde Park Street Fair. |
| Location: |
13th Street, Boise |
