Sunday, September 27th, was World Tourism Day, and although we may not be able to travel the globe right now, we can still discover new and interesting places in our own backyards. Don't despair if you missed the actual Tourism Day! You can still spend some quality time being a tourist in Boise. Idaho's capital city has so much history and culture to explore that you may be surprised what you can stumble upon without venturing far from home.

1. Idaho Botanical Garden – 2355 Old Penitentiary Rd., Boise, ID 83712
   Grab a breath of fresh air at the Idaho Botanical Garden. As one of the oldest and original botanical gardens in the state, the Idaho Botanical Garden continues to welcome residents and visitors alike to stroll its fifteen lush acres. Located in the Boise Foothills and the Old Penitentiary Historic District, this self-guided and small group tours are available where you can learn about local conservation efforts and admire the wonderful pieces of art around the garden.
   
   
2. Oregon Trail Reserve – 4500 E. Lake Forest Dr., Boise, ID 83716
   The Oregon Trail is an iconic America route that crossed through part of Idaho. A visit to the Oregon Trail Reserve will let you retrace the steps of Western settlers that spanned 2,170-miles from the Missouri River to Oregon. Along the trail are actual pieces of wagons left behind by these pioneers. The Oregon Trail Reserve is a fascinating place to learn about our nation's history while enjoying our state's natural beauty.
   
   
3. Zoo Boise – 355 Julia Davis Dr., Boise, ID 83702
   Visit your wild neighbors at Zoo Boise. Home to over 300 animals representing more than 100 species, Zoo Boise gives you an up-close and personal look at these stunning creatures. Their engaging special attractions include encounters with sloth bears and giraffes, a petting zoo, a butterfly area, animal presentations, and a conservation cruise. Grab your tickets in advance and meet the newest member of Boise's community, a female nyala calf.
   
   
4. Boise Art Museum – 670 Julia David Dr., Boise, ID 83702
   The Boise Art Museum invites you to wander their exceptional exhibits, stunningly curated collections, and learn about in nearly every form. Current exhibitions include Io Palmer's 'Desired Interruptions,' a collection of ceramics and textiles from the Southwest, and three impressionist masterworks from the Smithsonian American Art Museum. Tours of the gallery are available, but if you'd like to unleash your creative juices, BAM has classes and workshops for artists of every skill level.
   
   
5. Old Idaho Penitentiary – 2445 Old Penitentiary Rd., Boise, ID 83712
   We encourage you to go to jail during your tour of Boise! The Old Idaho Penitentiary is one of the most interesting sites in the city. Opened in 1872, some of the cruelest criminals in the West were contained inside. Today, guests can take an exciting tour throughout the site's 30 buildings. There are educational events, exhibits, and tours throughout the year, which will teach you everything you've ever wanted to know about the daring escapes, scandals, and executions the Old Idaho Penitentiary has witnessed.