Most Iconic Buildings in Boise, Idaho

Albertsons Library

A significant landmark on the Boise State University campus is Albertsons Library. The structure was created in the modernist architectural style by Hummel, Hummel, and Jones. The library opened its door in 1964, offering a wealth of material and assistance for studying and research. Numerous academic and community events are held here.

Boise Contemporary Theater

With its contemporary and welcoming design, Boise Contemporary Theater stands out in the center of Boise’s hip BoDo neighborhood. This theater is housed in a renovated seed warehouse on Fulton Street. The theater was established in 1997 and is renowned for its small venue and top-notch productions that showcase both renowned directors and local talent. Through its enlarged Theater Lab initiative, it also provides educational seminars and events.

Boise Depot

One of Boise’s most notable landmarks is the Boise Depot. The structure, which was constructed in 1925, has a 96-foot-tall Spanish Colonial Revival tower. Its attractiveness is enhanced by its placement on the edge of the Boise River Valley. New York architects Carrere, Hastings, Shreve, and Lando created the depo’s design. The stunning Platte Gardens in front of it are another reason for its fame. The Boise Depot was brought back to its original condition in 1993 with a $3.4 million refurbishment that included colorful trim and beige inside walls. (pictured above)

Hoff Building

One of the most famous buildings in downtown Boise is the Hoff Building, formerly the Hotel Boise. It was built in 1930 and exemplifies the Art Deco design and reflects the luxury of the era. It was a contemporary hotel designed by Tourtellotte & Hummel. In 2023 it was selected “Best Office Building” in the Idaho Business Review Reader Rankings; its elaborate Renaissance Revival architecture continues to draw notice.

Idanha Hotel

Situated at 928 Main Street, the Idanha Hotel is a famous structure with a long history. It was the first French chateau building in the city when it was constructed in 1901. The Idanha used to be Idaho’s highest structure, at five floors tall. It also had the first elevator in the state. Today this building has become an apartment complex, but its historic appeal is still a major feature in downtown Boise.

Ninth Street Bridge

The most famous bridge in Boise is the Ninth Street Bridge, also known as the Eighth Street Bridge. Completed in 1911, it features a distinctive Pratt through truss design and has historical significance as a key connection across the Boise River. It is a pedestrian and cycling truss bridge.

Old Idaho Penitentiary

One important landmark is the Old Idaho Penitentiary, which was built in 1870 and operated until 1973. It is renowned for both its distinctive architecture and lengthy history. The jail, which housed over 13,000 convicts and experienced multiple escapes and disturbances, was situated at the foot of the Boise foothills. The penitentiary is now a museum, and visitors can explore former cellblocks and learn about its history.

St. John’s Cathedral

Boise is home to the well-known Catholic cathedral St. John’s Cathedral, also referred to as the Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist. The Romanesque Revival cathedral is the biggest in Idaho, having been completed in 1921. The Diocese of Boise has its headquarters here. The cathedral, which was designed by Tourtellotte and Hummel, has vivid stained glass windows and has exquisite architectural embellishments. The building's historical value was demonstrated in 1978 when it was added to the National Register of Historic Places.

US Bank Plaza

The US Bank Plaza is a well-known skyscraper 19 stories high and completed in 1978. The building’s architecture has a contemporary style that complements the nearby buildings. Before it was renamed US Bank Plaza, it served as the Idaho First National Bank headquarters and was known as Idaho First Plaza. The building is well-known for its important position in Boise’s economic sector and is mainly used as office space.

Zions Bank Building

The highest tower in Idaho, the Zions Bank Building, was completed in early 2014 and is an 18-story building. It took fourteen months to complete, finally opening in February 2014. Its design features a modern aesthetic with a glass, steel, and wood interior, and it serves as the Idaho headquarters for Zions Bank. It is recognized for its sustainable design, achieving LEED certification. The formal inauguration featured a lavish gala that included the Goo Goo Dolls.