Historic Sites

Idaho’s wilderness is dotted with reminders of its storied history. Explore everything from indigenous monuments to Oregon Trail landmarks and ghost towns to abandoned mines.

  • Experience the Oregon Trail

    Experience the Oregon Trail

    Back in the 1800s, Boise was an important stop along the Oregon Trail. It was the only trade post for miles, and many died just trying to get here.

  • Nampa’s Warhawk Air Museum

    Nampa's Warhawk Air Museum

    The Warhawk Air Museum takes visitors of all ages on a personal journey through flight.

  • Boise’s Basque Block

    Boise’s Basque Block

    Explore the hub of Basque food and culture outside of Europe.

  • 6 Wide-Open Spaces

    6 Wide-Open Spaces

    When the urge to shut off your phone, pack up the car, and search for big skies becomes unbearable, Southwest Idaho will be waiting. There’s a haunting beauty to be discovered here.

  • Small Town Travels

    Small Town Travels

    Southwest Idaho’s full of hidden gems. Don’t miss out on these small towns. They’ve got big celebrations — and big fun.

  • 10 Things to Know Before Rafting Hells Canyon Whitewater

    10 Things to Know Before Rafting Hells Canyon Whitewater

    Visiting Hells Canyons means exploring the deepest river gorge in North America and experiencing some of the best whitewater in the nation.

WHEN TO GO

Most historic sites are easily accessible year-round. Some may be more challenging to get to in the winter months. Check conditions before heading out.

Accommodations, Activities & More

Idaho State Museum

Idaho State Museum

The Idaho State Museum provides a fun, interactive experience where people of all ages and backgrounds come to explore the story of Idaho. Furthermore, the Museum looks at how Idaho’s unique landscapes have shaped, and continue to shape, our experience.

Warhawk Air Museum

Warhawk Air Museum

The NASA Space Center and Warhawk Air Museum education center is designed to ignite an appreciation for country, history, space, and aviation.

Basque Museum and Cultural Center

Basque Museum and Cultural Center

The Basque Museum & Cultural Center brings to life the triumphs and struggle of the Basque people with many stories from the U.S. as well as their homeland.

Creekside Campground & Event Center

Creekside Campground & Event Center

This private campground is tucked away in the Boise National Forest along highway 21, just a 45 minute drive north of Boise.

James Castle House

James Castle House

The James Castle House is a historic site and museum serving as a testimony to the legacy of self-taught Idaho artist James Castle.

Lawson’s Emu-Z-Um

Lawson’s Emu-Z-Um

It's historical name of Emu-Z-Um was a whimsical name inspired by the 100-plus emus once raised at the ranch by the original owners, Jack and Belva Lawson.

Boise
McCall