Boise, Idaho has many wide open spaces as well as historic places. Whether you prefer exploring the great outdoors or investigating some great museums, you're sure to find some interesting things to do here. The Boise Art Museum, World Center for Birds of Prey, Old Idaho Penitentiary and the Boise River Greenbelt are just some of excellent attractions in Boise.
The Boise River Greenbelt was converted into a green space from a garbage dump in the 1960s. It has tall trees and is known for wildlife such as bald eagles, ducks and squirrels. Walking, rollerblading, running, cycling and biking are just some of the favorite activities here. The Boise River Greenbelt connects twelve parks that are within easy access to downtown. In the summertime, classic river sports such as tubing, rafting, canoeing and kayaking are popular here.
The Old Idaho Penitentiary is a popular tourist attraction in Boise. The Penitentiary began as a single cell house in 1870 and operated for about 100 years. During that time, it had around 13,000 convicted prisoners and about 215 of these were women. The Old Idaho Penitentiary was closed after riots against conditions there were held in 1971 and 1973. You can view a film about the prison and see Death Row, the Gallows and Solitary Confinement which was known as "Siberia."
World Center for Birds of Prey in Boise is the headquarters for the World Peregrine Fund. The Center's goal is to rehabilitate birds and release them to the wild. There is an education center and the Center is concerned with conservation and ecology as well as the biology of birds of prey. Boise's World Center for Birds of Prey is known for the rare Harpy Eagle and has condors and falcons for breeding.
The Boise Art Museum has a large permanent collection and fifteen galleries. The exhibits include many ceramic works by twentieth century artists and also focus on Pacific Northwest artists and works of American Realism. The Boise Art Museum has an interesting sculpture garden and its Art Experience Gallery offers children twelve and under learning experiences in how art is created.