Buried & Blighted in Boise Ghost Tours

If you’re curious about Boise’s spooky side, the Buried & Blighted in Boise Ghost Tours promises an evening of chilling stories and atmospheric sights. This tour, lauded as Boise’s #1 ghost experience, runs nightly throughout the year, making it a reliable choice for locals and visitors alike. We haven’t done it ourselves, but from what we’ve gathered, it offers a compelling mix of history, ghostly legends, and authentic storytelling — all without stepping inside a single building.

We love the depth of research and passionate guides that bring Boise’s haunted past to life. The stories about The Idanha Building, The Owyhee Hotel, and Belmont Barbershop are narrated with genuine knowledge and a sense of fun. Plus, the fact that it’s led by a women and minority-owned company adds a layer of meaningful community involvement. The only possible drawback? If you’re not comfortable walking about a mile or prefer indoor visits, this outdoor-focused tour might not suit everyone.

This tour is perfect for history buffs, ghost enthusiasts, or anyone seeking a unique night activity that combines storytelling with a touch of the supernatural. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with a group, it’s designed to entertain and give a fresh perspective on Boise’s storied streets.

Key Points

• Authentic stories: The tour features fact-based tales of Boise’s ghostly legends, witch trials, and mysterious events.
• Expert guides: Led by knowledgeable, engaging storytellers who bring history and hauntings to life.
• Historic locations: Stops include iconic buildings like The Idanha and The Owyhee, with stories focused on outside appearances.
• Accessible walking tour: Covers roughly one mile, so comfortable shoes are a must.
• Year-round nightly schedule: Available all year, rain or shine, offering flexibility for planning.
• Inclusive experience: Operated by a women and minority-led company committed to authentic hospitality.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at Boise’s Haunted Streets

When we think of Idaho’s capital, we often picture outdoor adventures or the state’s rugged landscapes. Yet, behind Boise’s friendly, small-town vibe lies a series of stories that make the city unexpectedly ghostly. The Buried & Blighted in Boise Ghost Tour takes you through some of the most haunted sites, revealing the secrets lurking beyond the facades.

The Idanha Building is a standout. Once a grand hotel, it’s now a hub for paranormal activity. Visitors report ghostly guests still checking in and unexplained noises, which makes it a perfect story for a ghost tour. We’re told the guide’s storytelling makes the building’s history come alive, without even entering — just from outside, you get a real sense of history and mystery.

Similarly, the Owyhee Hotel has a reputation for spectral activity, especially in its basement. The building’s transformation from a hotel to upscale apartments and offices hasn’t stopped its ghosts from lingering. Participants like Sommer from the reviews mention how “Daisy did a great tour” and how it was especially enjoyable with a smaller, more intimate group, making the stories more personal and engaging.

The Belmont Barbershop, one of Boise’s oldest continuously operating businesses, boasts vintage charm and eerie tales. Many wonder if the spirits of past patrons still linger behind the vintage mirrors and barber chairs. It’s a quiet but evocative stop that adds a splash of local color and history to the ghostly mix.

What to Expect on the Tour

From start to finish, you’re looking at a one-hour walk through Boise’s downtown core. The tour begins outside The Owyhee at 1109 W Main St, a familiar landmark for many locals, and guides will be easily spotted in their US Ghost Adventures t-shirts. Expect to arrive 15 minutes early to check in and get settled.

The tour is entirely outdoor, focusing on building exteriors and the surrounding streets. The guides do not enter any buildings, but their detailed descriptions and stories create a vivid picture of the haunted places. Expect to walk about one mile, so wear comfortable shoes and dress for the weather. The tour runs rain or shine, so an umbrella or raincoat might come in handy.

Each stop offers a different piece of Boise’s haunted puzzle. For example, outside the Idanha Building, you might hear about ghostly apparitions and historic tragedies. At the Owyhee, chilling tales in the basement evoke the sense of lingering energies. The Belmont Barbershop provides a more intimate setting for stories about vintage spirits and local legends.

The guides are praised for their knowledge and storytelling ability. Sommer’s review highlights how having a small group made the experience more fun and personal, which suggests that the tour’s size can influence the overall vibe — ideal if you enjoy a more intimate crowd.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

At roughly an hour long, this ghost tour is a manageable and focused experience. The cost, which we can assume aligns with similar experiences, offers good value considering professional storytelling, authentic locations, and the dedication of the guides. As it’s operated by a women and minority-led company, booking also supports local entrepreneurs committed to authentic and inclusive storytelling.

It’s particularly appealing for those who want a night activity that’s both entertaining and educational. Thanks to the outside-only approach, it’s suited for all seasons and weather conditions, making it accessible year-round. Plus, the tour’s focus on historical accuracy and well-researched stories ensures you’re getting more than just ghost stories — it’s a glimpse into Boise’s past through a paranormal lens.

Practical Tips for Participants

• Wear comfortable shoes — the walk is about one mile.
• Dress appropriately for the weather — rain or shine, the stories go on.
• Arrive early — 15 minutes before the start time at The Owyhee.
• Bring a sense of fun and curiosity — whether a skeptic or true believer, you’ll enjoy the storytelling.
• No indoor entry or recordings — focus on outside sights and stories.
• Group size can be small, especially if booked privately, making for a more intimate experience.
• Accessible for most people who can walk a mile, but not suited for those with mobility impairments.
• Cost is reasonable for an hour of guided storytelling, especially considering the depth of information provided.

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Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re a history lover eager to learn about Boise’s past through ghost stories, this tour is a natural fit. Ghost enthusiasts will find the tales authentic and well told. It’s also excellent for couples or friends looking for a fun, slightly spooky evening, or families with older kids interested in local legends.

However, if you prefer indoor experiences or have mobility concerns, this outdoor walking tour might not be ideal. Those looking for a more active or extended ghost hunt might want to explore other options, but for a quick, atmospheric glimpse into Boise’s haunted corners, this tour hits the mark.

Final Thoughts

The Buried & Blighted in Boise Ghost Tours offers a well-researched, engaging look at Boise’s ghostly reputation. Led by experienced guides, it combines storytelling with historic ambiance, making it a worthwhile night out. The outside-only format allows for a flexible experience, and the emphasis on authentic, fact-based tales means you’re not getting just ghost stories but a slice of local history with a supernatural twist.

For travelers who enjoy a good ghost story, value local culture, and appreciate knowledgeable guides, this tour provides a memorable way to see Boise’s haunted side. It’s particularly ideal if you want a relaxed, hour-long activity that’s both fun and educational — a perfect complement to any city visit.

FAQs About the Boise Ghost Tour

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s designed for those comfortable walking about a mile and interested in ghost stories. Older kids who enjoy spooky tales might find it fun, but very young children might not be the best fit.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, it’s recommended to reserve your spot ahead of time, especially during peak seasons or weekends. You can reserve and pay later, offering flexibility.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are important. Since it runs rain or shine, be prepared for the weather.

Can I record videos during the tour?
Video recording is not permitted, so you’ll want to focus on enjoying the stories and atmosphere without distractions.

Are the stories based on real events?
Yes, the stories have been carefully researched to be fact-based, emphasizing true legends, ghost tales, and historical mysteries.

Is the tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
No, it requires walking about a mile, so it’s not suited for those with mobility impairments.

What is the size of the group?
It varies, but reviews mention that smaller groups can make the experience more personal and engaging.

Will I see any ghosts?
While the tour focuses on outside storytelling about haunted buildings, whether you believe in spirits or not, the tales are atmospheric and evocative.

What if it rains?
The tour proceeds rain or shine, so come prepared for all weather conditions.

How long does the tour last?
About one hour, making it an easy addition to your evening plans.

In all, if you’re after a fun, atmospheric, and well-guided peek into Boise’s spooky past, this ghost tour offers a satisfying blend of history and mystery.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby