Idaho State Museum
Idaho State Museum things to do, attractions, restaurants, events info and trip planning
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Most state museums fall into Best! State! Ever! sorts of narrative and the Idaho State Museum is no exception. But it's well laid out and has some really neat video elements throughout. I will say that I don't taking the volunteer-led daily tour adds much, at least it didn't for me. On the main floor as you walk in is a lovely gift shop and the "origins" area - this is where they talk about the formation of Idaho, nature & wildlife, and there's an interactive digital "stream" and a wall with shifting projection mapping that you can view from two levels. A small theater plays Native American stories that is well worth watching. The second/upper floor holds the bulk of the museum, with three areas, split into north, central, and south Idaho. The exhibits cover mining, forestry (with an immersive forest fire experience), skiing, rivers, pioneer history, agriculture, & industry. And many are interesting and interactive. There's even a video "bike tour", though it's currently not working. Historically, it seems to work best to tour from north to south, or from the right door first, but it doesn't really matter and there are "back" ways between all the rooms. Don't miss the "extra" Art Deco room and the Native American room at the far left of the building. The basement/bottom floor is a really fun kids' play area with a train and touch screens, plus a large room dedicated to notable Idaho natives. Many of the displays come with push-button music or examples for that person. It's definitely worth it for the price and I spent much more time here than I thought I would - about 3.5 hours! If I had it to do over again, I wouldn't take the 40-minute tour and would have felt a little less rushed towards closing time, but I still was able to take my time and see everything there was.
Sara Beth WadeSara Beth Wade
10
Took my daughter and her friend to explore this museum. It's self guided, full of Idaho history and easy to maneuver and enjoy. Parking can be challenging and is time limited so you may have to move your vehicle if you spend more than 2 hours here. Admission price is reasonable and offers free admission during first Thursday of every month, from 5-7pm. It's recently remodeled and it shows with lots of natural light, open spaces, interactive and hands on exhibits. The museum is divided into 7 - 8 different areas. Each area covers alot of information without being too overwhelming. Origins was my favorite area to explore as it covers the 5 federally recognized tribes of Idaho. How the Indians help shape the Gem state. Idaho history is also covered in 3 different areas that include; Lakes and Forests (North Idaho), Mountains and Rivers (Central Idaho) and Deserts and Canyons (South Idaho). Two changing exhibits rooms offer changing exhibitions thoughout the year. On our visit the exhibit was the Japanese Inturment Camp and it's ties to Idaho. A very moving and emotional display. The Idaho Room which features local Boise history. Boomtown is for kids and is a hands on experience and very interactive. History Lab and Stories from Idaho are also worth browsing through. Plan to spend at least two hours here if not more. The gift shop is also worth a look as they carry a lot of unique, local and hand made items from Idaho.
Sandi YoungSandi Young
00
The Idaho State Museum did not disappoint! It has an excellent curated collection of artifacts and replicas. It combines art, technology, sound effects, and visuals to tell the history of the Gem State. The Big Burn exhibit was especially impressive. Kids will love the interactive presentation, which even incorporates artificial wind. Native Americans and women are well-represented. My favorite was the fashion exhibit. There really is something for everyone! Due to COVID, some parts of the museum are not accessible, but there’s plenty to see and read about in the open portions. Staff was disinfecting exhibits, extra precautions are being made to ensure the safety of guests, and everything appeared to be very clean. Staff was friendly, knowledgeable, and helpful. My only complaint is that they do not offer a teacher discount. Bottom line: highly recommend. 😊
Alyssa CooperAlyssa Cooper
10
I attended the Chinese Lunar New Year celebration at the Idaho State Museum in February 2024. I had not been in this facility since it was remodeled. It is beautiful and expansive. There is a great deal to see so I was only able to see some of the exhibits in between activities for the lunar celebration. I will definitely visit the museum again to see more of what they have to offer. They have a senior citizen discount and other discounts. If you join the Idaho historical society you get many perks related to the museum including free admission and advance notice of special events.
Sue ESue E
20
Idaho State Museum has cataloged and captured the real lives of American heros. I was impressed by all the amazingly strong women from the past. It's humbling to know the trials and tribulations they endured and still fought for the rights of other women and men. Take time to read the books and lecture presented during your visit, its truly imspirarional. I do not want to forget about the staff. Everyone I met was impressively friendly and helpful. Thank you.
Victoria NapolitanoVictoria Napolitano
10
Went there on a busy Sunday afternoon and the place was buzzing. Lots of activities for kids and lot of interactive learning activities. There are 3 different levels/floors. so a lot to cover if you plan to experience it all. The place can use some additional staffing to direct people but it sure was a great experience and place to visit, specially if you are looking to learn about Idaho history.
Rajesh KariyaRajesh Kariya
30
Nearby Attractions Of Idaho State Museum
Zoo Boise
Julia Davis Park
Labyrinth Escape Games Boise
Clockwise Escape Room Boise
Knitting Factory Boise
Discovery Center of Idaho
Idaho Central Arena
Jack's Urban Meeting Place (JUMP)
Idaho Anne Frank Human Rights Memorial
Modern Hotel

Zoo Boise
4.2
(2.7K)Click for details

Julia Davis Park
4.7
(2K)Click for details

Labyrinth Escape Games Boise
5.0
(1K)Click for details

Clockwise Escape Room Boise
5.0
(1K)Click for details
Nearby Restaurants Of Idaho State Museum
Bardenay Restaurant & Distillery - Boise
Bittercreek Alehouse
Tin Roof Tacos
Fork
BACON Boise
Yoi Tomo Sushi and Grill
Chandlers Prime Steaks & Fine Seafood
Elmer's Kitchen (Boise, ID)
Matador Boise
Goldy's Breakfast Bistro

Bardenay Restaurant & Distillery - Boise
4.6
(1.4K)Click for details

Bittercreek Alehouse
4.5
(1.3K)Click for details

Tin Roof Tacos
4.5
(1.3K)Click for details

Fork
4.5
(1.9K)$$
Click for details
Basic Info
Address
610 Julia Davis Dr, Boise, ID 83702
Map
Phone
(208) 334-2120
Call
Website
history.idaho.gov
Visit
Reviews
Overview
4.7
(365 reviews)
Ratings & Description
cultural
family friendly
accessibility
attractions: Zoo Boise, Julia Davis Park, Labyrinth Escape Games Boise, Clockwise Escape Room Boise, Knitting Factory Boise, Discovery Center of Idaho, Idaho Central Arena, Jack's Urban Meeting Place (JUMP), Idaho Anne Frank Human Rights Memorial, Modern Hotel, restaurants: Bardenay Restaurant & Distillery - Boise, Bittercreek Alehouse, Tin Roof Tacos, Fork, BACON Boise, Yoi Tomo Sushi and Grill, Chandlers Prime Steaks & Fine Seafood, Elmer's Kitchen (Boise, ID), Matador Boise, Goldy's Breakfast Bistro

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