Boise Sights
Although Boise may not be a destination tourist city, it is along a popular route to Seattle from the Southwest. Taking in a few sights can break the long drive up. Below are a few of the most popular sights in and around town.
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The Boise Depot is a historic Spanish-style structure operated by the Boise Parks & Recreation Department as a public meeting space and historic site. The Boise Depot was designed by New York architects, opened in 1925 and has panoramic views of Boise. Around the building are gardens with pathways and waterfalls. This has been a top tourist attraction since its restoration in 1993. When the interior of the station was being restored, the original Barkalow Brothers newsstand which had been built when the station opened, was discovered behind a false wall. It was in good condition and offers a glimpse into history. The main hall of the depot was turned into a reception hall, with historical exhibits of the depot and rail travel in southern Idaho placed in the main door alcoves.
The Old Idaho Penitentiary State Historic Site
Boise Depot
A video presentation at the Old Idaho Penitentiary Historic Site recounts the prison history and describes daily prison life. Solitary Confinement, Death Row and the Gallows can be explored by visitors.
The Boise River Greenbelt covers more than 16 acres of land and boasts over 25 miles of paved and graveled paths. Popular activties along the greenbelt include biking, walking, skating and running.
Julia Davis Park
Boise River Greenbelt
This 86 acre park located in downtown Boise is home to a variety of attractions including the Zoo Boise, the Boise Art Museum, the Idaho State Historical Museum and the Rose Garden.
In the heart of downtown Boise, this shopping and entertainment district offers visitors diverse restaurants, specialty stores and night spots.
Idaho Botanical Garden
Old Boise Historic District
Open year round this garden features 12 specialty gardens, each with a unique focus. The address is 2355 North, Penitentiary Road, Boise, ID 83712
As for most larger cities there are many smaller museums to visit. Here is a list of a few more not mentioned above. Boise Art Museum, Morrison Knudsen Nature Center, Idaho Historical Museum, Idaho Black History Museum, Idaho Military History Museum, Idaho Museum of Mining & Geology, World Center For Birds Of Prey, Basque Museum & Cultural Center, Boise Watershed Education Center.
Other Museums Of Boise
The Idaho State Capitol Building is an architectural masterpiece that holds monuments, displays and artifacts for those interested in learning about Idaho's history and culture. 60 minute tours of the building are offered.
Zoo Boise
Idaho State Capitol Building
Zoo Boise features a wide variety of new and interesting creatures including penguins, a red panda, ocelots, and zebras. A number of school and family programs are also offered.
Discovery Center of Idaho
This science center is known as the hands on science museum of Idaho.
If you want to get some exercise, the local big mountain for Boise is Shafer Butte. Just the drive up the mountain is a nice excursion as the views are really nice. From the highest parking lot, you can take a hike on trails & roads to the summit of Shafer Butte.
Platt Gardens
Shafer Butte & Bogus Basin Ski Area
Road up to Bogus Basin
Boise Depot
Boise Depot
Boise Depot
View over Boise
Idaho State Capitol Building
Platt Gardens