Fright Nights at the Old Idaho Penitentiary

Haunted attraction · Boise · Idaho

The state's actual 19th century territorial prison turns into a haunted house for adults only nights each October, with actors working the old cell blocks and infirmary where inmates really lived and died. It bills itself as Idaho's only haunted cell house, and it is not exaggerating.

Best for: Boise haunt fans who want real history under the scares

Don’t miss

  • Real 1870s territorial prison
  • Terror on Cell Block 4
  • 18-plus, photo ID required

Plan your visit

2026 dates not confirmed This one runs a season rather than opening year-round. We last checked on August 20, 2026, and they hadn't posted a full 2026 window yet. Check the website before setting out.

2026 Forecast

Color nearby peaks: October 15–October 19

Color builds from September 27 · mostly bare by November 7

Color starts: September 27Peak: October 17Bare: November 7AugustDecember

Sampled at Fright Nights at the Old Idaho Penitentiary’s own coordinates and elevation (848 m) rather than a regional average.

Idaho is sampled at 42 weather points, then moved 1 day earlier so the model agrees with 1 published peak date from smokymountains.com. Idaho is running 2 days later than its own average this year. How the forecast works

When to go to Fright Nights at the Old Idaho Penitentiary

You get about 29 days of color here, from the first turn through to roughly October 26. Against Idaho overall, that is 7 days later. The 2,782 ft elevation accounts for most of the difference.

You will find it at Boise, ID, in Idaho. The venue has not published its 2026 dates yet, so check before you drive out.

Fright Nights at the Old Idaho Penitentiary on the map

Drag the date slider to see when color reaches this corner of Idaho, or tap a pin for that stop’s own peak window.

More things to do in Idaho

See all things to do in Idaho

Frequently asked

When does Fright Nights at the Old Idaho Penitentiary peak in 2026?
Peak color is predicted for October 15–October 19 (best estimate October 17). Color starts around September 27 and is mostly bare by November 7.

Own or manage Fright Nights at the Old Idaho Penitentiary? Update your listing or get in touch.