basque museum & cultural center

We were lucky enough to be in Boise on the first Thursday of February, and we got to partake in all the offerings of the museum for free. It was absolutely wonderful! I for one had absolutely no idea about the Basque heritage in the Boise area, so it was an incredible learning experience. Additionally, the tour of the boarding house next door was truly extraordinary. It was really cool to see the space and transport yourself to those times, and the guide was great at answering all our questions. Also, on first Thursday they have live music which was likewise just INCREDIBLE. It was really lively and just a lot of fun to partake in. Finally, the gift shop is full of neat little Basque items and postcards, as well very friendly staff. Overall it was the absolute highlight of our stay in Boise and I highly recommend it.

With the largest Basque population outside the Basque homeland, Boise is the perfect location to house a museum featuring many historical pieces telling the pastoral herding story of this people.

A spontaneous visit with a sulky 13 year old and just me. We left very impressed! Great presentation of the little known history of the Basque people and their impact on the US and the Northwest. We both learned a lot and really enjoyed the exploration. Make sure you do the tour of the boarding house.

We were able to see the museum, and the boarding house next door, for free during the First Thursday event. The best part: the group of Basque musicians that were playing accordion, that was great to see!

What a treat to learn about the Basque people in Boise and the surrounding areas. I saw an add to attend a program titled "Basque 101" which was conducted prior to the local festival. The idea was to inform others what the Basque culture is and allow attendees to the festival to better enjoy the experience. There was a brief history of the Basques migration to the United States and the local area. This was followed by traditional food sampling and learned the steps to one of the dances. Music was provided as a sample of what was to come. This was a super experience. The museum was very interesting, as well. Anyone in the area should take time to visit the area, view the building murals and of course, taste the food. This is located in downtown Boise.

This place is fun to visit. Very interesting. The people were friendly and inviting. This is a must-see when in Boise!

A small museum but presents interesting info about an ethnic group that we Americans know very little about -- the Basques of Spain -- and how a number of Basque emigrated to the US and found their way to Idaho, and how they have strived to retain their culture. Good for anyone interested in these sorts of things.

Who would have thought we would find a small thriving Basque population in downtown Boise. We toured the informative museum, tracing the Basque migration from Spain to the Eastern states to the West, following the sheep, and the vineyards. We enjoyed a delicious Basque lunch at an authentic Basque restaurant across the street.

Hurrah! Fate had us in Boise during the time of the Basque Festival and it was fun! We enjoyed the Basque part of town, watched dances, watched them cook paella in huge, and I mean huge pans. You could buy a serving of paella and they piled it onto plates.We watched the dancers, enjoyed the music, and loved getting a chance to see three Basque sheepherder's homes on wheels. Wonderful.

I have tremendous respect for the Basque, but if your not into it then don't bother. There are a few restaurants in the area. Museum is small but informative.

We enjoyed this museum, and learned a lot of history that was left out of our history books. This is not a large museum, and you need to read as you go through, but it is well worth the time.

A fascinating glimpse of a little known group of immigrants to America. Small museum but very well done

My family is Basque so this museum was interesting for me. The pictures on the walls looked like family. If you want to understand the Basque culture a great place. Also LOVED the Scottish woman who was at the front desk...she exemplifies the friendliness of Boise.

The Basque block, not just the museum and cultural center is all great. The little old Basque house, furnished as it was back in the old days, the restaurants on the Basque Block, one of whack was on Diners Drive in's and Dives. GOOD FOOD !!

The lady that runs the place is delightful and fun. Interesting to see the background of the community and how it all started. The miniature house is great. Loved the art and the old pictures too.