Romancing The Pen

Valentine’s Day is right around the corner, and there’s no better way to spend some quality time with your partner in crime than “Romancing the Pen” at the Old Idaho Penitentiary.

BOISE - Looking for something other than roses or chocolates this Valentine’s Day? Cozy up with your sweetheart and find the true meaning of “ball and chain,” with special exhibits on love stories and love letters from the Idaho State Penitentiary, as well as complimentary guided tours throughout the day.

Built in 1870, the Old Idaho Penitentiary is one of only four territorial prisons open to the public today. During its 101 years of operation, the site saw escapes, scandals and the effects of Boise’s transition from the “wild west” to a mid-20th century capital city. Step inside the four walls of the prison yard and imagine a life of confinement as steel doors close behind you.

Romancing the Pen is scheduled this year right on Valentine’s Day, Feb. 14. from noon to 9 p.m.

Adult Admission is $10 each, or purchase pairs at a special 2 for $14 price! The site will be open for self-guided tours in all publicly accessible buildings. Dress warm and bring a flashlight!

While in the area, a great side trip to add to your weekend getaway is a peaceful drive following the Sunnyslope Wine Trail. There are 17 different wineries and vineyards to explore on this trail. A wine and chocolate open house weekend is planned Feb. 11-13 where each winery will offer great parings. For a map and details, visit https://sunnyslopewinetrail.com/events/ wine-chocolate-weekend/

Soak in the relaxing, therapeutic benefits at one of the many developed hot springs near Boise. Located about 90 miles outside Boise, the Rocky Canyon Springs area is along the Middle Fork Payette River. There is an unmarked parking lot on the side of the Middlefork highway where you can park and walk to the spring.

For more ideas to add to your weekend, see https://visitboise.com/