Boise is the administrative and cultural hub of Idaho. Many of the attractions in the city center around its status as the state capital.
Idaho State Capitol Building
Capitol Blvd. & Jefferson in Downtown Boise off Interstate 84, (http://www2.state.id.us/g...). If you are bold, you can ring the bell at the foot of the Capitol steps. The Capitol underwent extensive renovation and in early 2010 reopened amidst much fanfare after being completely closed including to government officials for the better part of two years.Julia Davis Park
this Olmsted-esque urban park contains many of the downtown attractions in Boise. It sits across the Boise River from Boise State University. Located within its confines are Zoo Boise, the Rose Garden, Boise Art Museum and a scenic railroad. It also contains the Idaho Black History Museum, (http://www.ibhm.org/).Boise State University
(http://www.boisestate.edu). The school's sports teams, the Boise State Broncos, (http://www.broncosports.com) are a big deal here, especially the football team. Boise State football entered the national consciousness after a stunning upset of perennial power Oklahoma in the 2007 Fiesta Bowl - which arguably ranks as the single most iconic moment in Idaho sports history - and a triumphant return to the same venue three years later. The most famous landmark on campus is Bronco Stadium, best known for its unique blue artificial turf. Bronco Stadium is also home to the New Year's Eve college football classic, the Famous Idaho Potato Bowl.Barber Park
A local favorite. Barber Park is in Southeast Boise and is a refuge for various wildlife, including: deer, elk, bald eagles, hawks, various birds, salmon, trout, and many more. Barber Park is also the starting point for a summer tradition in Boise: floating down the Boise River.Old Idaho State Penitentiary
Warm Springs Ave. A great sight to see. This gem is a museum set in the old state penitentiary where guests can sit in old prison cells, solitary confinement, and explore the inner workings of a once scary place to be.Idaho Botanical Gardens
A truly serene place to visit. The gardens have been the site of many weddings and performances because of its beautiful setting of vibrant flowers and other vegetation. At no cost, it is a superb setting for a picnic. If you happen to be visiting in the month of December, you will find the gardens decked out in an impressive display of holiday lights.Boise Art Museum
670 Julia Davis Drive. A great contemporary art at a very reasonable price. This museum is planned out beautifully and much more than most would expect from a town the size of Boise. Great local pieces as well as other western art.World Center for Birds of Prey
5660 West Flying Hawk Lane. The name explains itself. A fascinating place to visit, many birds of all types constantly in your line of sight. My hawks, eagles, and other big birds of prey. Fun for the family at a very reasonable cost.Basque Museum and Cultural Center
611 Grove Street. The Boise area is home to one of the largest concentrations of Basque populations in the world outside the Basque Country itself. The museum, located in a part of downtown known as the "Basque Block," is a great place to visit whether or not you are of the Basque descent. Chocked full of enriched heritage and even a bar to hang out at. A must see if you are in the Boise area. And if Phil is at the bar, ask for his drink.