This special use area is located directly in front of the Boise Depot. Dogs are not allowed at Platt Gardens.

In 2011, the city completed a major repair project to reseal the existing ponds.

A 10-inch gravity fed pipe was installed in October to improve water circulation. The $7,500 project also created a new waterfall in the lower pond. 

Since the completion of the project, fish and plants have been reintroduced by the Idaho Water Garden and Koi Society. Large colorful koi can be seen swimming in the ponds.

Future plans include an historic review of the grounds in conjunction with a new planting plan for trees and vegetation.

Located on a hillside overlooking Capitol Boulevard and downtown Boise, Platt Gardens is a scenic location for wedding and graduation photos. The 7-acre park features ponds, walkways, a monument made of volcanic rock, benches, trees and flowering plants.

Boise City acquired the Platt Gardens and the Depot through a donation from Union Pacific Railroad, January 1982.

Platt Gardens was designed by Spanish landscape architect Ricardo Espino. Built by Union Pacific in 1927, the Depot gardens feature a winding walk, benches, ponds, a monument of volcanic rock and a welcoming display of greenery. Visitors would often picnic while waiting for passengers arriving on the train. The site’s vantage point on the Boise bench provides an impressive view of the city. The garden was named for Howard V. Platt, who at the time, was general manager of the original Oregon Short Line Railroad.

The Platt Gardens is a public park and it may not be reserved, but may be used for drop-in use.

---