At first, I was very confused. It looked like just a big, wide-open area of space with some rocks here and there. I didn’t know what to expect, but that wasn’t it. Fortunately, I kept walking until I found the actual garden areas. I learned that the Botanical Garden was established on the grounds of the Idaho State Penitentiary, so I was ready to go check that out next!

the gardens are undergoing a renovation - so, a great deal of construction and very little actual gardens to see. I hope it will be great when it's done - but overall, it was very sad and not worth the entry fee. I kept walking around looking for something to see - but there really wasn't much - I kept asking myself and they are proud of this? - more like a construction zone that a garden.

The Idaho Botanical Garden is a beautiful and amazing place, filled with a wide variety of plants, including many Idaho native plants. On a warm day in October, the bees were busy in the many blooming flowers. It was peaceful, in spite of nearby construction which will soon add more acres to the garden. The hiking trails vary from very easy to more strenuous, as you climb up the hillside. There are several loop trails and you can walk a little or a lot and still enjoy parts of the garden. There are benches for resting. The restrooms were clean and there are drinking fountains so you can stay hydrated. It's a beautiful place to enjoy nature, for a minimal fee. And the plants will be ever changing through the seasons.

The Idaho Botanic Garden is located next to the old prison in Boise, Idaho. There is an admission charge to walk around the grounds. There are lots of flowers and trees and places to sit. Also there is a Koi Pond with colorful Koi swimming around.

What a special place and so well done. I highly recommend taking about 2 hours to wander the grounds. The entry is deceiving. It looks small but it keeps going and going including up. Take time to watch the bees and dragon flies and butterflies flitter around the gardens. I loved all the sculptures throughout the grounds and the variety of the various sections of the property. It's a very cool use for the old penitentiary property. Be sure to walk up to the Sacajawea sculpture, either on the pavement or on the dirt path. Enjoy the view from there and a variety of native plants. The gift shop is small but cute with lots of fun stuff. I'd love to live closer and visit during every season to see what's new and exciting. Truly a lovely place.