Location: Boise
Top Things to do in Boise
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9 Historic Sites in Boise That You Shouldn't Miss
Nature is a big part of Boise, Idaho. The snow-capped Rocky Mountains serve as a backdrop, the Boise River and its riverfront paths wind through the city and skiing is a short drive away. Boise's varied museums include the Idaho History Museum, the Boise Art Museum, the Basque Museum and Cultural Center and the interactive Discovery Museum of Idaho. Unique attractions include Old Idaho Penitentiary and historic Pioneer Village. Old Boise offers shopping, dining, culture and nightlife.
Restaurants in Boise
1. First United Presbyterian Church
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 6 reviews
2. Old Idaho Penitentiary
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 952 reviews
In 1872 the Idaho Territorial Prison opened its doors to some of the most desperate and mean criminals the West could offer. In 1973 the Idaho State Penitentiary closed to inmates. Now our doors are open for visitors to explore over 100 years of Idaho's unique prison history. Open year-round, visitors of the Old Idaho Penitentiary can walk through solitary confinement, cell blocks, and the gallows. Visit today and relive the Old Pen's exciting past of daring escapes, scandals, and executions. Call for more details about special events, educational programs and guided tours.
Reviewed By moreworld2c - Poulsbo, United States
Several friends had recommended the visit and the guided tour, and we weren't disappointed! Our guide Said was excellent—obviously passionate about local history and had done a lot of personal study to be able to share interesting stories about the prison and its inmates. The visit includes several different styles of cellblocks for the general population, a couple of solitary confinement sites, and death row with its permanent gallows. This visit made me think a lot about crime and punishment, justice and injustice. Very reasonable price. Many well-labeled exhibits and displays.
3. Boise Train Depot
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 150 reviews
Reviewed By AmyL2929 - Boise, United States
My husband and I were looking for a way to start learning a little bit more about our new town. This was a great way to enjoy a beautiful Fall day with each other and see a beautiful building, learn some history, and relax. Although the grounds are not blooming with flowers, the gardens are still interesting with the water features and Koi fish in the pond. Building history and architecture is interesting and amazing to see how building has been preserved. Loved the old train outside and the view from the bell tower is amazing. The bells themselves are great to get a peak at. This was a hopping spot today with visitors of all ages. Had a great time and especially enjoyed the tour guide and staff that were there to answer questions for us!
4. Christ Chapel
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 2 reviews
5. Boise Diversion Dam
6. Belgravia Building
Overall Ratings
3.5 based on 4 reviews
7. Morrison Knudsen Foote Park Center
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 1 reviews
8. Pioneer Village
Overall Ratings
3.5 based on 4 reviews
