Attractions in Boise
Boise, Idaho was founded in the mid-1800s and, nestled in the Rocky Mountain foothills, is a small American city that is thriving with historical, cultural, and natural attractions.
Historical Attractions:
Idaho Historical Museum
This state museum chronicles the history of Idaho, from prehistory to today's Idaho. Specific attractions include summer camps and informational exhibits on Idaho's Native American, Basque, and Chinese influences.
Hours: Summer - Tues-Sat, 9 a.m.-5 p.m./Sun, 1 p.m.-5 p.m. Winter - Tues-Fri, 9 a.m.-5 p.m./Sat, 11 a.m.-5 p.m.
Old Idaho Penitentiary
Closed in 1973, this historical site is for those interested in the "darker" site of Idaho's history. Visitors will see a video presentation and then explore the prison grounds, from the cellblocks, to solitary confinement, to the death row gallows.
Hours: Regular - 12 p.m.-5 p.m. Summer - 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
Cultural Attractions
Boise Art Museum
A constantly changing hub of art in Boise, the Boise Art Museum (BAM) seeks to spread a love of art and culture in Idaho. Art selections range from Boise's own artists to international exhibits, and show off painters, sculptors, illustrators, and many other types of artists. Also featured at BAM are educational and artistic workshops.
Hours: Tues-Sat, 10 a.m.-5 p.m./Sun, 12 p.m.-5 p.m.
Natural Attractions
Lucky Peak State Park
Located just outside of Boise, this collection of parks has something for every nature enthusiast. Picnic at Discovery park; relax at the Sand Point lakeside; and go boating at the Spring Shores marina. Within an hour outside of Boise are numerous other state parks great for camping, backpacking, biking, horseback riding, and skiing.
Hours: Varies.
Morrison-Knudsen Nature Center
A stone's throw from downtown Boise, the MK Nature Center is a slice of nature near the hub of the city. The Center features a "stream walk" where visitors can peer into a fish's world, and educational tours that show off Idaho's natural landscapes.
Hours: Tues-Fri, 9 a.m.-5 p.m./Sat-Sun, 11 a.m.-5 p.m.