Boise True Crime 1970s Moto Tour Part 1

Boise True Crime 1970s Moto Tour Part 1 – Garden City & The Bench

Imagine rolling through Boise in a 1978 GMC Motorhome, feeling the wind as you explore some of the city’s most infamous crime sites. For just $60 a person, this 4-hour vintage tour takes you on a ride through history, led by the knowledgeable Mark Iverson. You’ll visit a local dive bar with a dark past and get an up-close look at the notorious Boise “Murder House.” You’ll also cruise through Boise’s neighborhoods, enjoying cold beer from the fridge and a few surprises along the way.

What we love about this tour is its authentic vintage vibe, and the way it blends history with a bit of noir intrigue. Cruising in a classic motorhome makes the experience feel like stepping back into the 1970s — with the added bonus of fascinating stories behind each stop. The tour’s relaxed pace and small-group feeling make it easy to soak in the atmosphere and ask questions.

One thing to consider is that guests must be 21 or older, which makes sense given the alcohol onboard and the dive bar visit. Also, since the tour is booked about three weeks in advance, it’s good to plan ahead. This experience is ideal for those interested in true crime stories, vintage vehicles, or local Boise history — or anyone looking for a different way to see the city.

Key Points

Vintage Style: Cruise Boise in a classic 1978 GMC Motorhome, adding a nostalgic touch.
Dark History: Visit a dive bar linked to notorious crimes and see the infamous “Murder House.”
Local Stories: Led by historian Mark Iverson, offering engaging insights.
Relaxed Pace: About four hours, allowing time to enjoy each stop without rushing.
Age Restriction: Only travelers 21+ due to alcohol and bar visits.
Advance Booking: Usually booked 22 days in advance, so plan ahead for peak seasons.

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Exploring Boise in a Vintage Motorhome

This tour is a rare chance to blend history, mystery, and fun — all aboard a 1978 GMC motorhome. When we first read about it, we were intrigued by the idea of traveling through Boise in such a unique vehicle. It’s not every day you get to cruise around in a vintage RV, especially while soaking up stories of Boise’s darker past.

Led by Mark Iverson, the tour promises an informative and entertaining experience. His background as a historian means you’ll get stories rooted in fact, but told with flair. The tour’s four-hour duration feels just right — enough time to visit several significant sites without feeling rushed.

What immediately stood out is the combination of authenticity and comfort. You can relax inside the motorhome with a cold beer from the fridge, which adds a casual, social element — perfect for meeting fellow travelers. The stops include a mix of historic sites and local haunts, giving you a well-rounded sense of Boise’s less-publicized stories.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Stop 1: 215 E 34th St

This initial stop introduces you to the neighborhood and sets the tone for the tour. While the tour doesn’t specify what’s special about this address outright, considering the focus on true crime, it’s likely linked to some local incident or history that’s part of Boise’s darker stories. Expect Mark Iverson to weave in engaging tales about this part of the city.

Stop 2: North End Organic Nursery

Not your typical crime stop, but this spot shows the tour’s broader approach — blending Boise’s quaint neighborhoods with its shadowy past. The North End is known for its charming homes and community feel, but it could also hide secrets, making it a fascinating juxtaposition.

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Stop 3: McCleary’s Pub

Here, you’ll visit a dive bar with a history linked to Boise’s crime stories. The atmosphere is likely laid-back, with the possibility of hearing local legends or tales of infamous characters. It’s a perfect pit stop for a cold drink and some local flavor.

Stop 4: Sacred Heart Catholic Church

Expect this stop to reveal stories connected to the community’s history, perhaps including some darker episodes. Churches often serve as landmarks in many crime stories, either as sites of intrigue or as witnesses to historical events.

Stop 5: Ceramica

This arts-focused stop might seem out of place at first glance, but it’s probably another piece of Boise’s layered story. It provides a visual contrast and a chance to appreciate Boise’s creative side amid the darker tales.

Stop 6: 805 W Linden St

A specific address that might be the site of a notable crime or a historically significant location. Mark Iverson’s storytelling will likely fill in the details, making this more than just a random address.

Stop 7: 301 W Parliament Ct

The final stop, possibly a private residence or landmark tied to Boise’s criminal lore. As you wrap up, the stories from this site tie together the tour’s themes of mystery and history.

What to Expect During the Tour

Expect a casual, storytelling-heavy experience. Mark Iverson’s expertise means you’ll get detailed narratives, but in a conversational style that’s approachable. The vintage motorhome is the star, providing a cozy, nostalgic setting for the journey.

The cruise through Boise neighborhoods is leisurely, allowing you to look at the city’s architecture and street life up close. During stops, you’ll get off the motorhome and explore sites, but much of the journey is spent inside the vehicle, enjoying the cool breeze and beverages.

The group size is not specified, but given the small-group feeling, it’s likely intimate enough for questions and interaction. The evening timing (starting at 6:30 pm) makes it a good option for an after-dinner activity or a different way to see Boise’s lights.

Practical Details and Value

This tour costs $60 per person, which includes the experience, the vintage vehicle, and the stories. Given the personalized narration and the novelty of traveling in a vintage RV, the price feels reasonable, especially considering the unique photo opportunities and insider stories.

Booking in advance is wise — the tour is usually booked about 22 days ahead — so plan your Boise trip accordingly. The free cancellation policy offers flexibility for unpredictable schedules, and the tour’s near public transportation access makes it easy to reach the meeting point.

The 21+ age restriction makes it ideal for adult travelers interested in Boise’s darker side, especially if you enjoy a cold beer and stories of crime and intrigue.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re fascinated by true crime, vintage vehicles, or local stories, this is a perfect fit. It’s excellent for history buffs, adventurers looking for something different, or locals wanting a fresh perspective on their city. The relaxed pace and small-group setting make it suitable for couples, friends, or solo travelers eager for a memorable night out.

If you’re traveling with kids or prefer more traditional sightseeing, this may not be the best fit since it’s geared toward adults interested in Boise’s criminal lore.

The Sum Up

This Boise True Crime Moto Tour offers a distinctive way to explore the city’s dark corners and stories from the 1970s. Traveling in a vintage GMC motorhome lends a nostalgic, fun vibe, making historic sites and local legends more engaging. The knowledgeable narration by Mark Iverson ensures you’ll learn something new and intriguing, without feeling like you’re on a stuffy tour bus.

It’s best suited for travelers who love history with a twist, enjoy quirky local experiences, or simply want to see Boise from a different perspective. The combination of authentic vintage charm, engaging storytelling, and a relaxed atmosphere makes it a memorable way to spend an evening in Idaho’s capital.

For those curious about Boise’s lesser-known stories, or craving a fun, adult-oriented adventure, this tour hits the mark. Just remember to book early, bring your curiosity, and prepare for an entertaining ride through Boise’s past.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for everyone?
Not quite — guests need to be 21 or older, mainly because alcohol is served and the visit includes a dive bar. It’s best for adults interested in Boise’s dark stories.

How long does the tour last?
It runs approximately 4 hours, giving enough time to visit multiple sites and enjoy the vintage ride without feeling rushed.

What’s included in the price?
For $60, you get the guided tour, the vintage motorhome experience, and access to cold beer and snacks during the ride.

Is the tour accessible via public transportation?
Yes, the meeting point is near public transit, making it easy to reach without a car.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, providing flexibility.

What should I bring?
Comfortable clothes, a sense of curiosity, and perhaps a camera for photos inside and outside the vintage vehicle.

Are there any restrictions on group size?
While not specified, the small-group feeling suggests a limited number of participants for a more personal experience.

This Boise True Crime Moto Tour offers a fun, authentic, and slightly quirky look at Boise’s history. It’s a fantastic choice for those craving something off the beaten path, with a bit of dark intrigue and vintage style to spice up their Idaho trip.