Boise, Idaho
Whether you are very familiar with Boise or this is your first visit to the capital of Idaho, there is something new to explore with your person who is aging or disabled. Located in the southwestern area of the state near the Boise and Payette Rivers, the metropolitan area is known for its cultural attractions, outdoor activities, and industrial growth.
Before you set out to enjoy some of the attractions that Boise has to offer, consider the following tips:
- Do your research. Traveling with a senior citizen or a person with a disability can be a lot of fun as you both explore at a slower pace. It also comes with its challenges because you may both require more breaks and stops than if you were on your own. By coming up with a specific itinerary ahead of time and researching each stop, it will save you from a headache along the way.
- Use available assistance. As popular destinations increasingly understand the importance to comply with ADA regulations, don’t be shy about asking for complimentary services, local transportation, or even a mobility aid at each place that you are visiting. The comfort and safety of your loved one comes first!
- Have fun together. As you set out together to explore Boise, expect to enjoy your time by learning some new things about the city and even by meeting some new people.
Eight Popular Attractions
Since we at Harmar understand the value of your time, we are offering you a head-start on your research by suggesting several locations to visit.
- Boise Art Museum: http://www.boiseartmuseum.org/. This museum has a variety of exhibits and also offers many activities for guests. There are designated areas for accessible parking and a barrier-free entrance at the front of the building. Free wheelchairs are offered to visitors on a first-come, first-serve basis and special discounts are given on specific days.
- Idaho State Museum: https://history.idaho.gov/museum/. Featuring over 80,000 square feet of space for exhibits, the museum has over 500 historical artifacts and uses innovative technology to tell the story of Idaho’s history. The museum is committed to being a welcoming place for all visitors, offering wheelchair rentals, accessible parking, assistive listening devices, and special exhibits designed for visitors with disabilities.
- Julia Davis Park: https://www.cityofboise.org/departments/parks-and-recreation/parks/julia-davis-park/. Known as the city’s oldest park, this attractive green space was created after a generation donation of 43 acres was given by Thomas Davis in memory of his wife. The park has many unique features and invites all guests to enjoy a leisurely stroll or ride through its trails and open spaces.
- Velma V. Morrison Center for the Performing Arts: https://www.morrisoncenter.com/. Located on the campus of Boise State University and overlooking the Boise River, this venue opened in 1984 and is recognized as a major destination for arts and culture. It regularly hosts live entertainment and also offers arts education, being committed to making performances, events, and services accessible to everyone in the community. The staff are continually looking for ways to improve services for guests and welcome both feedback and early contact to prepare for your visit.
- Boise Zoo: https://zooboise.org/. In addition to viewing the animals, the Zoo offers fun activities, trails that are easy to navigate, and wheelchairs or scooters for rent.
- Old Idaho Penitentiary: https://history.idaho.gov/oldpen/. Built in 1870, this location is unique for being one of four territorial prisons that are currently open to the public. As Boise transitioned from the Wild West to Idaho’s capital city, it has a fascinating history that is detailed here. The site offers guided tours and special discounts in addition to being ADA-compliant.
- Idaho Botanical Garden: https://www.idahobotanicalgarden.org/. Located conveniently near the old penitentiary, the gardens are a special place to enjoy the community connection between people, plants, and nature. The kiosk offers free all-terrain wheelchairs on a first-come, first-service basis and the majority of the paths are easily accessible.
- Idaho Shakespeare Festival: https://idahoshakespeare.org/. The festival includes an outdoor amphitheater that is wheelchair accessible and equipped with assistive listening devices. Other programs and activities are also regularly offered and the special Access Program provides benefits for groups of seniors and disabled people.
Harmar is Here to Help!
As you continue to wrap up your plans to visit Boise and look forward to an enjoyable time together, remember that we at Harmar are dedicated to helping you as a caregiver and your loved one in every challenge along the way. Whether you are considering a new mobility aid, an upgrade for your home, or ways to make transportation easier, your local Harmar dealer is ready to discuss your best options: https://www.harmar.com/dealer-locator/. Contact us today!
