Idaho Botanical Garden, Boise (must see)

The Idaho Botanical Garden is managed on a non-profit basis. It is located on the North Old Penitentiary Road in Boise. Until 1973 when the prison was abandoned the site was the prison's farm and nursery. When the penitentiary was closed, the farm land was also abandoned and it lay fallow for a decade. In 1984 the gardens were created on the site.

The Botanical Garden hosts many events throughout the year such as garden parties, concerts, and sponsored tours. A typical event is the Outlaw Summer Concert Series. the concerts are held before a scenic background featuring top recording artists.

The gardens include the English Garden, designed by John Brookes for the local climate. There is the Herb Garden with herbs for medicinal purposes and cooking. The Native Plant Garden has sagebrush, syringa, dogwood and fescue. The Rose Garden has roses and the Water Garden has Lilies, iris, koi, frogs, and once in a while, water fowl.