Boise Depot Centennial
The Boise Depot, located on W. Eastover Terrace, is one of the city’s most prominent and recognizable landmarks. It’s a treasured building that holds many memories for residents and visitors to the City of Boise. Originally constructed in 1925 for use as a Union Pacific railroad depot, it opened to the public on April 16, 1925, to great fanfare. While it is no longer operational as a train depot, the beautiful Spanish-style structure is now operated by the Boise Parks and Recreation Department, serving as a historic setting for weddings, receptions, corporate and community events and so much more. With the Boise Depot’s 100th anniversary coming up on April 16, 2025, the city is planning a celebration of the past, present and future for this important Boise landmark.
Boise Depot Centennial Information
Check out the schedule of events below. The official community celebration is expected to start the weekend of April 13, 2025, and continue through the 100th anniversary date of April 16, 2025. Departments from across the city are working together to plan insightful, engaging and informative opportunities for residents and visitors to experience the Boise Depot and learn about its storied history in the City of Trees. Additional partnerships, artist calls and entertainment opportunities will be announced as plans are determined. Please bookmark this page and continue to check back as announcements are made!
Boise Depot Centennial Schedule of Community Events
Sunday, April 13 – Family Day – 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Join us for a free open house at the Boise Depot with activities for kids and adults, interactive exhibits and vendor booths, model trains, classic cars, food trucks, guided tours, projection art unveiling, and more.
Monday, April 14 – Depot Tours – 9 a.m. to noon
Take a free tour of the historic Boise Depot with one of our knowledgeable guides. Coffee and food vendors will also be available on site throughout the morning.
Tuesday, April 15 – Entertainment, Art and History on Display – 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Join us for live performances and presentations (schedule to be announced), plus educational opportunities at the historic Boise Depot as we celebrate the past, present and future of this beloved Boise landmark.
Wednesday, April 16 – Boise Depot 100th Birthday Celebration – 5 to 10 p.m.
Celebrate the 100th anniversary of the opening of the Boise Depot with live music, kids activities, a photo booth and other activities. Food and drink vendors will be available on site. We’ll wrap up this “Roaring 1920s” themed party with cake and a commemoration honoring the beloved Boise Depot. No tickets are required, and all ages are welcome.
Art Projection Experience: Join us for animated art projection on the Depot building. Projection will begin each evening at dusk, conditions permitting.
Please note, this schedule is still subject to change as plans are made.
Parking Information & Shuttle Schedule
On site parking will be limited during the Boise Depot Centennial community celebration. Attendees are encouraged to walk and bike to the Boise Depot, or utilize the free shuttle service operating from nearby Ann Morrison Park at various times throughout the event. Additional information including maps and a shuttle schedule will be posted as details are determined. ADA accessible parking with a placard will be provided at the Boise Depot on a first come, first served basis.
Boise Depot History
Did you know – the City of Boise’s first depot was built on the Bench just a short distance from the present building? New York architects prepared the plans for the station at the present site and thousands turned out to see the first transcontinental engine steam into the new station on April 16, 1925. Click here to learn more about the Boise Depot’s history, the Platt Gardens, current usage of the site and more.
Call for Archives
Help us search for and uncover the rich history and untold stories of one of Boise’s most iconic landmarks! As we prepare to celebrate the Boise Depot’s centennial, we’re looking for photographs, artifacts, and ephemera that capture the early story of the depot. The Boise Depot didn’t just bring trains to town, it brought culture, business, jobs, commerce, immigration, and adventure. Let’s work together to capture the full story!
Do you have anything related to the Boise Depot that highlights:
- Construction of the depot or laying of the tracks
- The neighborhood prior to the depot construction, including businesses such as the Baxter Foundry
- Development and dedication of the Platt Gardens
- The growth of the neighborhood from 1925 to 1970s
- Employees of the depot such as a red cap or porter, engineers, tickets or shop sales, etc.
- The Red Cross Canteen during World War II
- Commerce
- Travel
Check out these images for examples of what we are looking for:
Opening Day, Boise City Archives
Travelers in the Boise Depot, Boise City Archives
Opening Day, Apple Blossom Girls, Boise City Archives
Interested in contributing?
Please complete the Donation Submission Form below or call (208) 608-7052 and a member of our team will reach out to you.
Elements of community contributions may be incorporated into digital collections and exhibits.
Take a Tour
The Boise Depot is open to the public each week on Sundays and Mondays from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Come explore the Great Hall, wander the Depot and Platt Gardens, and take a ride up into the bell tower. Free guided tours are offered each Sunday at noon and 1:30 p.m. All ages are welcome and no ticket is required. The Boise Depot is closed all legal holidays.
Get Involved
One of the goals of the Boise Depot Centennial is to involve the community as much as possible in the celebration of this Boise landmark. Additional details about partnership opportunities, artist calls and more will be announced in the coming months. Want to get in touch with us? Click here to send us an email and connect with city staff.
Bring Back Rail Effort
Interested in the City of Boise’s work to bring back rail service? Click here to learn more about current efforts and sign-up to receive updates via email.
Send a Message to Parks and Rec
For other after hours park related emergencies (i.e. irrigation issues, restrooms), please call (208) 489-6640.