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These days, there’s a lot going on in Southwest Idaho. But by any standard, that’s been the case for hundreds of years. We know you like to mix a little learning in with your fun (c’mon, who doesn’t?), so here are some suggestions on how to take in some of Southwest Idaho’s history...

The Oregon Trail: More than 150 years ago thousands of pioneers passed through Southern Idaho along the Oregon Trail. Some settled here. Others went on. Today, there are many ways that you can re-live and learn about this important era in our history, including:

Three Mile Crossing: Once the key point where pioneers forded the Snake River, today it is a nicely developed state park featuring a campground and interpretive center, complete with intact wagon wheel ruts and a 19th-century prairie schooner replica.

Kelton Ramp: The Kelton Ramp is where many Oregon Trail pioneers came down off the rim of high desert plateau to the Boise River. Part of the Oregon Trail Reserve, a 66-acre site in Southeast Boise.

Old Fort Boise Replica: An exact replica of the fort originally built by the Hudson Bay Company in 1834 and later used for protection and a source of supplies for Oregon Trail travelers.

Julia Davis Park Museums: The Idaho Historical Museum and Idaho Black History Museum are both located within Julia Davis Park (adjacent to Zoo Boise and the Boise Art Museum), making it easy to enjoy lots of history with just an easy walk.

Basque Museum and Cultural Center: Housed in a former Basque boarding house, this interactive museum lets you learn all about the Basque traditions, history and important contributions to Idaho.

Old Idaho Penitentiary: Built in 1870 and used through 1973, the “Old Pen” was the official territorial penitentiary. Today you can tour the prison, learn about its notorious inmates, even visit solitary confinement.

Historic towns: 150 years ago or so, Southwest Idaho had some of the West’s great mining boomtowns. You can still explore them today. Walk along historic wooden sidewalks and peek through the bars of the old Territorial Jail in Idaho City. Enjoy a meal in the historic Idaho Hotel in Silver City. Or explore the other “ghost towns” that dot Southwest Idaho.

Warhawk Air Museum: Get up close and personal with World War II history, including numerous rare, original aircraft. View memorabilia and other period artifacts that will transport you to the 1940s.

Also Consider

Hell’s Canyon: Southwest Idaho is your jumping off point to jet boat or raft North America’s deepest canyon. Big water. Petroglyphs and historic cabins. Fun.

Wine: The Snake River Valley Appellation, the nation’s newest wine region is right here. Tour wineries. Taste. Relax.

Snake River Birds of Prey: Visit Peregrine Fund's World Center for Birds of Prey to learn through interactive exhibits and intimate encounters with live birds, including the endangered California Condor, Harpy Eagle, and Aplomado Falcon.