A Macabre History of Boise Walking Tour

Overview

What is a town? It’s many things, but above all, it’s a reflection of our desires and needs. To truly understand Boise City’s character, dating back to 1863, we must look beyond the stories of the city’s upper-class founders and politicians.

Instead, we turn our focus to the everyday people—the misunderstood, the misrepresented, and even the vile. While Boise is often portrayed as a quaint and orderly town where pioneers thrived despite the isolation, there’s a darker side to its history that’s often overlooked.

On this tour, I’ll guide you through the shadows of Boise’s past, revealing the macabre, the forgotten, and the unsettling truths that shaped this city.

Remember, what holds true for Boise’s history echoes across America’s past as well.

City: Boise

Tue 13 May

Other dates

You can choose the date already on the booking website

Starting at $25.00

Make a reservation

Tue 13 May

Starting at $25.00

Make a reservation

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What's Included

Stories that you won't hear elsewhere

We include stories found by master's level historians in various physical and digital archives

Additional Info

Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

What To Expect

Boise

Macabre walk through downtown Boise

U.S. Assay Office

Starting Point - Constructed in 1869 to assess the claims of miners in the Idaho Territory. This sandstone structure opened in 1871 and became the center of town that was actually on the outskirts of town. We start here, however, for a crazy story about felines!

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Traveler Photos

Reviews (4)

14Travel1991

Sep 2024

If you’d enjoy learning about local murders and some historical facts along the way, this is the tour for that - generally +/- 2.25 hours.

Ashley D

Sep 2024

Very interesting history of early Boise. Our guide was very knowledgeable and at times it was a little overwhelming as he had so much information to share. But he was funny and engaging and kept our attention. It could have been a little shorter and I thought we were going to end where we started but we didn’t so we had a long walk back to our car. Overall it was fun and I would recommend.

Response from Host

Sep 2024

Thanks for your feedback, though the tour is advertised as a 2hr and 15min walking tour. Regardless of if the tour ended at 10th and Main or our starting point, a walk back was going to happen anyway. Thanks for the positive review however, I appreciate it.

Carrie_H

Aug 2024

Enjoyed the tour and his knowledge of the history of each house. Was very personal with everyone. Funny and entertaining. Highly recommended

Response from Host

Sep 2024

Thanks so much Carrie, It was a great crowd! Appreciate the positive review!!