Hidden Gems: Discover Boise's Best Murals

Hey there, fellow art enthusiasts! 🎨

Freak Alley Gallery is the largest open-air mural gallery in the northwest, featuring multiple artists, and is situated between 8th and 9th Street, and Bannock and Idaho in Downtown Boise.

In 2002, Colby Akers created the first drawing on the back alley door of Moon's Cafe. Over time, the Gallery evolved into the remarkable piece of art it is today. Now, the murals and graffiti-inspired creations extend far beyond the initial doorway, with artwork visible throughout the entire alley. This transformation was made possible by the hundreds of participants, volunteers, and community members who support the Gallery. Each year, artists contribute new pieces, offering a continually evolving and dynamic experience for everyone. Every summer, a major painting event takes place, inviting artists and community members to be part of Freak Alley Gallery as it evolves.

Let's take a stroll down Freak Alley in Downtown Boise, one of the most visited spots for tourists and artists alike.

Here are some of Boise's must-see murals beyond Freak Alley!

1. Old Boise Bus Station: Located at 339 N 12th St, this spot is a canvas for multiple murals, each telling its own unique story. From nostalgic nods to pop culture to depictions of local life, these artworks are a testament to Boise's rich artistic expression.

2. N Capitol Blvd: Take a stroll down N Capitol Blvd to find murals that capture the essence of Boise's community spirit. These pieces often reflect themes of unity, diversity, and the city's vibrant history.

3. Jefferson Place: At Jefferson Place, you'll encounter murals that blend contemporary art with historical references, offering viewers a thought-provoking visual experience.

4. North 16th Street & West Main Street: One of four murals commissioned by the Idaho Suicide Prevention Hotline. 

5. 8th Street Tunnel: Artist Addie Boswell's mural depicts characters radiating light in their own different ways. Weaving together are people who have stood up to injustice, overlapping with cultural symbols and imagery of pride, all coexisting within elements of Boise’s natural landscape. Boswell states, “My faith is in people. There is always extraordinariness in ordinary life, and there is always a story to tell.”

More Murals to Explore in Garden City:

• Airplane Mural: Adorning the Signs by Smith Building at 4747 North Glenwood Street, this mural is a soaring tribute to creativity.

• 'Be Great' Mural: Located at the Boys and Girls Club of Ada County, 610 East 42nd Street, this inspiring piece encourages viewers to strive for greatness.

• Hunter Mural: Find this artwork at the Boise Hunter Education Center on 109 West 44th Street, celebrating the region's outdoor heritage.

• Fishing and River Rafting Murals: Underneath the Glenwood Bridge on the Greenbelt, these murals pay homage to Boise's beloved river activities.

• 'A Garden of Creativity': On the back of Cobby's Sandwich Shop at 4348 Chinden Boulevard, this mural is a delightful explosion of color and imagination.

Lastly, you'll notice all the traffic boxes in downtown Boise are covered in art as well.

This all kicks off from a cool initiative that began over 20 years ago! The Boise City Council decided to spice things up by enacting an ordinance that sets aside 1.4% of capital project funds—yep, the cash meant for building and infrastructure improvements—to make sure public art gets a spotlight in city facilities. How awesome is that?

A total of 217 traffic boxes adorned with vibrant artwork line several streets in Boise, primarily in the downtown area. While it's enjoyable to spot them during outings and find your favorite traffic boxes, the Boise City Department of Arts and History offers an interactive map displaying the locations and images of all 217 boxes.

Exploring these murals is not just about admiring art; it's about connecting with the stories and passions of Boise's community. So grab your camera, invite some friends, and set out on a mural-hunting adventure. Who knows? You might discover a new favorite spot in the City of Trees! 🌳

Hi, I'm Ozzie, founder of Boise Bohemian and your community Realtor. If you're as passionate about Boise's vibrant culture as I am, let's connect! Reach out to receive a curated list of local events and available homes in our beautiful city. I answer the chat box

Hidden Gems: Discover Boise's Best Murals