I don’t know why it took me so long to visit the Idaho Botanical Garden… maybe it’s because I assumed it was just a bunch of plants and not much else. But, I finally went this last week, and I get it now.

In 1984, The Idaho Botanical Garden was established on a 32-acre site of old prison grounds leased from the Idaho State Historical Society and the State of Idaho. What started as a vision for transforming these historic grounds has now blossomed into one of Boise’s most beloved spaces for concerts, weddings, classes, workshops, art, sculptures, nature walks, and peaceful moments among the trees.

Here’s what’s blooming at the Garden:

• 15 acres of cultivated garden to explore, with another 25+ acres for future expansion
• Private events like weddings, corporate events, and other celebrations
• Classes and workshops for youth and adults
• Membership and volunteering

Set on the site of the Old Idaho Penitentiary overlooking the foothills, the Idaho Botanical Garden is a peaceful oasis filled with winding paths, wildflowers, shady trees, and curated gardens that each feel like their own unique escape. It's been here for 41 years, but somehow still feels like a hidden gem.

SPONSORED BY IDAHO SHAKESPEARE FESTIVAL There’s still time to catch an Idaho Shakespeare Festival show! Don’t miss out on one of the best summer traditions in Boise. Idaho Shakespeare Festival performances are in full swing. If you haven’t been yet (or want to go again), now’s the time to grab tickets for the shows still on stage. Whether it’s date night, a family outing, or just a gorgeous evening under the stars, Idaho Shakespeare Festival is summer in Boise at its best. See what’s playing & get tix here!

Great Garden Escape

Has anyone been coming here since the 90’s?? That’s when the first official Great Garden Escape was held over 30 years ago.

If you haven't been yet, this is the Idaho Botanical Garden's most intimate summer concert series, featuring a variety of local acts on the grass in the Meditation Garden.

Act I: Chasing the Sun – Thursdays in June (June 5, 12, 19, 26)

• June 5: Sove the Second (indie pop/glowing melodies)
• June 12: Bread and Circus (boogie rock)
• June 19: Mungo (experimental/musically magnetic)
• June 26: Boise Straight Ahead (brass/strings)

Act II: Breathe In, Bloom Out – Late Summer Thursdays (August 28, September 4, 18, 25)

• August 28: Turtle Poppers (bluegrass)
• September 4: Hillfolk Noir (soul/grit meets groove)
• September 16: Ryan Curtis (americana)
• September 25: Elevator Operator (indie/lyrical introspection)

Bring your own food and non-alcoholic beverages (no outside alcohol allowed), or enjoy offerings from on-site food trucks and a bar stocked with local canned cocktails, wine, and beers. Lawn chairs and blankets are encouraged!

SPONSORED BY THE EGYPTIAN THEATRE SAW The Musical is coming to Boise… and it’s killer. One of the most iconic horror films of all time is now a musical! SAW The Musical: The Unauthorized Parody of Saw is hitting the stage at The Egyptian Theatre on Saturday, June 14, and Sunday, June 15. It’s part comedy, part bloodbath, and completely unexpected. This off-Broadway hit parodies the original Saw film, following two strangers trapped together and forced to play the game. Think Little Shop of Horrors meets Avenue Q, with a splash of satire, sexuality, and (of course) fake blood. 🎟️ Recommended for ages 16+ 🔪 Not for the squeamish, but definitely for fans of dark comedy and cult classics. ⏳ Last year this show sold out, so don’t miss your chance! Get tix here!

Other signature events

​Outlaw Field Concert Series: Experience musical performances by internationally known artists in Idaho’s most unique and scenic concert spot during the Summer.

​Beastly Botanicals - Farm to Table Soiree: Towering flora, carnivorous plants, jewel-toned beetles, and mysterious creatures, all brought to life through visual installations, performances, and culinary storytelling in the month of September. Tix just went on sale!!

​Harvest Days: This is their fall harvest event that happens during the month of October along with the Scarecrow Stroll.

​Plant Sale: Keep the Garden growing while enjoying live music and diving into their plant collection. Happens twice a year in Spring and Fall.

​Bug Day: Spend a day with the bugs during this family-friendly event. Typically happens in late September. Did you find the bugs? (hint: in the link!)

​Shade City Brewfest: A groovy 70s-inspired, sustainability-driven, beer-filled community celebration in April.

​Fairy and Gnome Home Exhibit: Charming, community-built housing for the mythical inhabitants of the Garden displayed during the month of May.

​Winter Garden aGlow: The Garden’s biggest fundraiser of the year, featuring a magnificent display of lights and decorations during the Holidays.

They also host tons of classes and workshops, like plant potting, crafts, and more! You can find more info on their youth and adult programs here.

How to support

Become a member. Volunteer. Go to a Garden event. Adopt a plant. Donate. Or just tell a friend about it. This space exists because of people who care and there are so many ways to get involved.

• ​Become a member!​
• ​Volunteer!​
• ​Adopt a plant!​
• ​Become a partner!​
• ​Donate!​
• ​Come visit!​

They also have a newsletter! It includes upcoming events, educational programs, garden tips and their monthly Web Thymes newsletter.

Keep up with them on Facebook and Instagram!

You can check out their website here.

Admission

General Admission: $14 for adults, $12 for seniors and students, $8 for children ages 4-12, and free for children 3 & under.

Membership

Starting at $55/year, benefits include unlimited free general admission, discounted tickets for classes and events, pre-sale access to concerts, and more.

Membership perks:

• FREE general admission to the Garden year-round
• Reciprocal benefits at 345 botanical gardens across the country
• Access to Members Only Plant Sale
• FREE admission to Garden exhibits
• Special discount on camps, classes, & events!
• Pre-sale tickets and separate entrance for Outlaw Field Summer Concert Series
• Discounted advance ticket purchase for Outlaw Field Summer Concerts Series (4 tickets max)
• Subscription to Web Thymes monthly e-newsletter

If you’ve never been… just go!

I thought this place was just for plant people. I was mistaken. It’s for music lovers, families, book readers, wanderers, and anyone who needs a break from the city. It’s a beautiful space (safe, quiet, and close to downtown!) and it kind of feels like Boise’s best-kept secret.

• Phone: (208) 343-8649
• Email: info@idahobotanicalgarden.org​

The Garden is located at 2355 Old Penitentiary Rd in Boise. Currently open from 9am-5pm Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. Last entry is at 4pm. They’re closed on Tuesdays! Hours change regularly based on the season and what events are going on.

Spring is in full bloom, so there’s no better time to go! I’ll definitely be back. Probably with snacks, a blanket, a book, and maybe a few friends. You should come, too :)

Thanks for reading!

With love from Boise,

Carly

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