Capitol Gorge | Torrey

The Old Idaho Penitentiary State Historic Site is a former correctional facility located in Boise, Idaho.

It operated as a state prison from 1872 to 1973.

Visual Characteristics

The site comprises multiple stone buildings constructed from local sandstone and granite. Structures include cell blocks, administrative offices, and workshops. The primary cell blocks are multi-story structures with barred windows. The architectural style is predominantly utilitarian, reflecting its original function.

Location & Access Logistics

The Old Idaho Penitentiary is situated at 2445 Old Penitentiary Road, Boise, Idaho. It is approximately 5 kilometers east of downtown Boise. Access is via Old Penitentiary Road, which connects to Warm Springs Avenue. Ample parking is available on-site. Public transport options include Boise's ValleyRide bus system; Route 12 stops within walking distance of the entrance.

Historical & Ecological Origin

Construction began in 1870, with the first inmates arriving in 1872. The facility was designed to house the growing inmate population of the Idaho Territory. It served as Idaho's primary state prison for over a century, undergoing various expansions and modifications throughout its operational history.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors can explore the historic cell blocks, including solitary confinement areas. Guided tours are available, detailing the prison's history and notable inmates. Self-guided tours allow for independent exploration of the grounds and buildings. Exhibits focus on prison life, escape attempts, and the site's role in Idaho history.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available on-site. Limited shaded areas are present within the main visitor center and some outdoor courtyards. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally available. No food vendors are located within the historic site itself, but options exist in nearby Boise.

Best Time to Visit

The best time of day for photography is generally mid-morning or late afternoon to utilize natural light on the stone structures. The best months for visiting are from May through October, offering milder weather conditions for exploring the outdoor areas. The site is open year-round, with indoor exhibits accessible regardless of external conditions.

Facts & Legends

The Old Idaho Penitentiary housed notorious criminals, including Harry Orchard, who confessed to multiple murders. A persistent local legend speaks of spectral figures seen wandering the cell blocks after dark, attributed to former inmates. The site was also used as a filming location for the movie "The Stranger" (1995).

Nearby Landmarks

• Idaho State Capitol Building (3.5km West)
• Boise Art Museum (4.0km West)
• Julia Davis Park (4.2km West)
• Boise River Greenbelt (3.0km Southwest)
• Idaho State Historical Museum (4.0km West)