Idaho isn’t known for unique buildings that look like castles from enchanting fairytales. In fact, there are very few castles hiding around the Gem State. But, located in the heart of Boise is one historic building that is certainly going to catch your eye. Built in 1901, the Idanha has a Hogwarts feel to it. With turrets, multiple stories, arched windows, and more, the Idanha Hotel may have a bit of magic that you need to discover for yourself.
This French chateau-style building was established in 1901. It was first built as an opulent hotel in the Boise area.
Charles (Chuck) Peterson/Flickr
In the late 1800s and early 1900s, Boise was in need of a grand hotel as many individuals passed through on their way out west or as they established their home in Boise.
Andy Melton/Flickr
William S. Campbell was the primary architect for the Idanha Hotel. The hotel was five stories tall, becoming the tallest building in the entire state of Idaho for several years. The unique architecture of the building was eye-catching, and the hotel became quite an attraction in Boise.
Jimmy Emerson, DVM/Flickr
In addition, the Idanha Hotel was the very first building in Idaho to have an elevator. This one feature attracted a rich and glamorous crowd to the hotel along with many Boise locals who just wanted to take a ride in this incredible technology at the time.
Laura Gilmore/Flickr
The hotel hosted many balls and inaugurations and was the location of various speeches and other special events. Many prominent individuals also stopped and stayed in this hotel, including Theodore Roosevelt and William Howard Taft.
Laura Gilmore/Flickr
In the 1970s, the Idanha Hotel was renovated to become an apartment building. While today, you cannot explore and stay in this building as you once did, you can still admire the castle-like design and the unique history from its exterior — it’s quite a remarkable building in the Boise skyline.
Gary O. Grimm/Flickr
You may not know this, but today, the Idanha Hotel is considered one of the spookiest historic hotels in all of Idaho. Check out our article to learn more about the hauntings of the Idanha Hotel and many others that are scattered around the state.
Charles (Chuck) Peterson/Flickr
Andy Melton/Flickr
Jimmy Emerson, DVM/Flickr
Laura Gilmore/Flickr
Gary O. Grimm/Flickr
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Address: Idanha Apartments, IDANHA, 928 W Main St, Boise, ID 83702, USA
