Old Idaho Penitentiary Site — Attraction in Boise

The Old Idaho Penitentiary is a fascinating historical site located in Boise, Idaho. Originally opened in 1872, it served as a prison for some of the most notorious criminals in the West. The facility closed its doors as a functioning prison in 1973, and today, it operates as a museum, allowing visitors to explore over a century of Idaho's prison history.

One of the unique aspects of the Old Idaho Penitentiary is its architecture and layout. The prison complex includes 30 historic buildings, including cell blocks, solitary confinement areas, and the gallows. Visitors can get a sense of the harsh conditions prisoners endured, which, while challenging, were considered a necessary part of their punishment. The solitary confinement cells, in particular, are quite striking, illustrating the severity of isolation used as a disciplinary measure.

The penitentiary also offers various exhibits that provide a deeper understanding of the inmates' lives and the history of the penal system in Idaho. The J. Curtis Earl Memorial Exhibit, for example, displays an extensive collection of historic arms and military memorabilia, ranging from the Bronze Age to modern times. This collection adds a unique dimension to the site, showcasing the evolution of weaponry and its role in law enforcement and military history.

Additionally, the prison grounds feature areas where inmates participated in recreational activities such as boxing, baseball, basketball, and handball. The outdoor area that once served as the prison's sports field is now part of the Idaho Botanical Gardens, where visitors can enjoy concerts and other events.

Despite the grim history, the Old Idaho Penitentiary is an educational and engaging place to visit. The museum offers self-guided tours and special events that delve into the stories of daring escapes, prison riots, and the daily lives of inmates. The staff is knowledgeable and provides detailed explanations, enhancing the visitor experience.

However, one point of concern that could be improved is the maintenance of the site. Some visitors have noted that the cleanliness and upkeep of certain areas could be better, particularly given its status as a historical site.

Overall, the Old Idaho Penitentiary is a must-visit for history enthusiasts and those interested in the darker aspects of Idaho's past. It provides a comprehensive look at the penal history and offers a unique and memorable experience for...

What a fascinating place! I really wasn't sure what to expect, but I went to the botanical gardens, not quite realizing this was right next door, so I bought a combo ticket for both, which saves $5. And speaking of gardens, there are stunning roses and peonies in the prison yards when you walk in, it's amazing.

Walking around, you can see engaging exhibits in some of the buildings, see lots of information about who was incarcerated there and why, and lots about riots over the years. But the most fascinating part are the cell blocks - towering, ancient, and tiny. You can see the gallows room, solitary confinement and other chilling sights.

Don't forget to walk around what's outside the walls - it's like a little neighborhood, with the women's dorm across the way, and houses for the guards and warden, etc. The small gift shop has some great items, and don't miss the video that plays in a room behind the gift shop, with stories from the people who were held here - it's an easy room to miss if you skip the gift shop.

There's a good parking lot in front of the botanical gardens that serves both, street parking in front of the Old Pen, and a lot around the back of the warden's house that's for the table rock trail head and good for this area as well. There's a small amount of parking at the guard house directly across from the entrance if you get...

While visiting my niece in Boise this is the ONE place I really wanted to visit. We went on one of the guided tours, and our guide Leslie was so full of knowledge and lore of the prison. She was fantastic! She had terrific stories and insight. I highly recommend paying the extra $2.00 for the guided tour (and ask for Leslie!) because you get to visit a couple places that are off limits to regular guests. The admission price is very reasonable, even with the added price for the guided tour. Plan to spend at least two hours there, and dress warmly in the winter. There is a lot of walking outside (wear good shoes) and the buildings are not heated, with the exception of the Weapons Exhibit. I would love to go back because there were a few things I missed, like the headstone of Dennis, the prison cat. The Botanical Gardens were also closed, which is where the cemetery is, so we were not able to see the grave of Raymond Snowden. (Notorious prisoner, and last one to be executed there.) Don’t miss this place! It is on the National Registry of Historic Places for good reason!

Update: I returned to the Penitentiary on Easter to see some of the things I missed. It was nice being there on such a nice, warm day. Once again it was a great experience with a friendly staff and the ability to see new...