Old Idaho Penitentiary in Boise: What to Know Before You Visit

The Old Idaho Penitentiary is one of the most unique and surprisingly fascinating things to do in Boise, in my opinion. We don’t have a ton of “tourist attractions”, but this is perhaps one of them. It’s located just east of downtown, near the Boise Foothills, and was a former prison that operated from 1872 to 1973, housing 13,000 inmates during that time; 216 of them were women. Now it is a historical site you can explore, and they have lots of different events and next door they have the Outlaw Field Concert Series (one of my favorite summer activities) in the old “outlaw field”.

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Old Idaho Penitentiary in Boise: What to Know Before You Visit

When people ask if the Old Idaho Penitentiary is worth visiting, I always say yes. Mainly because I think it’s unique, and the fact that it was a working prison until 1973 still fascinates me. If you like history or off-the-beaten-path things, this might be for you.

It’s more interactive than you might expect, and you’re free to move through the grounds at your own pace. There’s something about standing in the actual spaces where real events happened that makes it feel different from a typical museum. It gives you a glimpse into a side of Idaho history that most people don’t think about, and that’s what makes it memorable in my mind!

What to Expect

When you visit the Old Idaho Penitentiary in Boise, you can walk through original cell blocks, the gallows, solitary confinement, and the old yard where inmates once lived and worked. The buildings are mostly preserved as-is, and that makes it feel a little more spooky!

You can choose to do a self-guided tour or go on a guided tour, depending on availability. Guided tours are usually about 60-90 mins. With self-guided, you can go however fast or slow you want. I recommend planning for about 1.5-2 hours if you want to see everything without rushing.

It’s also partially outdoors, so spring and fall are ideal seasons to visit before summer heat sets in.

You can also pair this visit with a hike to Table Rock or a foothills hike since they are right next to each other.

And in the fall, the Boise Trolley Tour does a tour to see the outside of the prison at night!

Things to Know Before You Go

Location: 2445 Old Penitentiary Rd, Boise, ID
Parking: Free parking lot on-site
Tickets: Admission required (check the official website for current pricing and hours)
Time Needed: 1.5–2 hours
Shoes: Wear comfortable walking shoes, as there are uneven surfaces and stairs
Guided vs. Self-Guided Tours: Guided Tours are available most days for an additional $2 fee and can last around 60-90 mins, and Self-Guided Tours are available during all operating hours and can last however long you want.
Events: There are tons of fun events that the Penitentiary throws, especially during spooky season! See their events, here.
War Memorial & Exhibit – On-site, you’ll find one of the nation’s largest collections of historic arms and military memorabilia

Local Tips

Pair it with a hike to Table Rock – The Table Rock trailhead is right next door. Many locals hike Table Rock first and then tour the prison (or vice versa).
Go earlier in the day – The grounds have minimal shade, so spring and fall mornings are the most comfortable times to explore.
Don’t skip the solitary confinement area – It’s one of the most memorable parts of the visit and shows you what prison life was actually like at the time.
Check for special events – The penitentiary hosts occasional events, including seasonal tours and themed nights that add something extra beyond the standard visit. It would be great visit to in the Fall in Boise or during Halloween!
The Guided Tour – I think this option gives you a bit more interesting stories and explanations! However, if you’d rather do your own pace, self-guided is also a good option!

Nearby Spots

Table Rock Trail – Iconic Boise hike next door
Boise Foothills Trail System – Additional hiking options
Warm Springs Golf Course – Quick 9 or 18 holes after exploring
Downtown Boise – Just 10 minutes away

FAQ: Old Idaho Penitentiary Boise

How long does it take to tour the Old Idaho Penitentiary?

Most visitors spend 1.5 to 2 hours exploring the site.

Is the Old Idaho Penitentiary worth it?

Yes! I think so, but Boise doesn’t have a ton of “tourist sites,” so it depends on how long you are visiting for. If you love history or want a break from outdoor activities, it’s a great option.

Can you combine Table Rock hike and the Old Penitentiary?

Absolutely. They’re right next to each other and make for an easy half-day outing.

Is the Old Idaho Penitentiary good for kids?

Yes, but it may be more engaging for older kids who can appreciate the historical context.

Is the Old Idaho Penitentiary haunted?

I’d say yes, but this is straight from their website: “Several paranormal groups, including a team from the Travel Channel series Ghost Adventures, have conducted investigations at the site. While there is no conclusive evidence to suggest there are ghosts at this site, many visitors have seen and heard things they cannot explain.”

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