Top 10 Free Things To Do and Attractions in Nampa

"Back downtown, stop into the beautiful Idaho State Capitol Building to gaze up from the marble-ensconced rotunda into the 208-foot tall dome. Stroll surrounding streets past historic Western-style buildings, the exotic 1927 Egyptian Theatre and new glass towers. Smoke & Thyme mobile kitchen’s ever-changing, Idaho-inspired menu and artisan ice creamery STIL are required stops, as are shops Idaho Made and Mixed Greens for local artists’ jewelry, ceramics and clothing."

"Construction on the capitol began in 1905, with completion of both wings occurring in 1920. The building boasts Renaissance Revival architecture with Greek features. Make sure to look up and catch a glimpse of the dome topped by a 5 foot 7 inch bronze eagle."

"Once home to a number of notorious Idaho criminals, the Old Idaho Penitentiary dates back to the 1870s. For those who enjoy learning more about criminal history and the history of the prison system, this is a must see attraction as it provides a wealth of information as well as a fascinating experience. You can take a tour of the penitentiary and take a look at the cells and the solitary confinement area amongst other things."

"You can’t come to Boise without visiting the infamous Old Idaho Penitentiary!. I went to this penitentiary long ago when I was in grade school, and it was as spooky then as it was this time around. You can take one of the daily guided tours or do the self-guided tour to explore the grounds that once held some of the West’s most desperate criminals from 1872 to 1973."

"The Old Idaho Penitentiary opened in 1872 and held some of the West’s worst criminals. It was a functioning prison for 101 years and received over 13,000 inmates. The Penitentiary was closed in December of 1973."

"Located on Old Penitentiary Road, the Idaho Botanical Garden is a garden sitting on 50 acres of land that was formerly the farm and nursery of the Old Idaho State Penitentiary. After ten years of sitting vacant, the garden was created in 1984. The garden is made up of a large variety of separate gardens, including the Alpine Garden, the Cactus Garden, and the English Garden."

"The Botanical Garden is one of the most romantic places in Boise and an inexpensive way to relish stunning nature. If you and your sweetheart like to relax in the fresh air, this peaceful haven in the center of the Old Penitentiary Historic District is right for you. Fun for children and adults alike, the Garden will be a wonderful scene for your dream date."

"When visiting downtown Boise, make plans to stroll through Freak Alley. It’s the Northwest’s largest open-air, multi-artist mural gallery, and was started by one man simply painting an alleyway door in 2002. The murals change twice yearly and are all done by local artists spanning from 7 to 35 years of age!"

"Why not discover the works of modern art together with your bae?. Freak Alley Gallery is free, outdoors, and open to the public all day long. Even if the gallery is not on top of the most romantic places in Boise for some, it is definitely worth visiting for couples hooked on art and local artists."

"Located between 8th and 9th Streets, this huge outdoor gallery first started in 2002 and is one of the most colorful things to see in Boise."

"The Boise Cakery is located in a shopping center in Garden City, and can make wedding cakes, Quinceanera cakes, Valentine’s Day cakes, anniversary cakes, birthday cakes, cupcakes, and other special occasion cakes. They take orders for their custom cakes, and you can even order online. They also make a variety of macarons, and one of their coolest specialties is a special take on Rice Krispie treats."

"Love Cakes Bakery Boise offers cakes, cupcakes, cheesecakes, and other European desserts, including Macarons, cookies, cream puffs, and eclairs. Their cakes include everything from plain round cakes to 3-tiered wedding cakes. You can also stop by for cake-by-the-slice or individual cakes."