
Welcome!
to the Traveling Spud Blog
I’m Katie, the voice behind The Traveling Spud! Your go-to resource for Boise travel guides, Idaho weekend getaways, family-friendly adventures, and easy escapes from the Pacific Northwest. Here you’ll find curated itineraries, local favorites, unique stays, and practical travel tips to help you plan your next trip with confidence.
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Explore Boise & Idaho Guides
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Where to Stay in Boise, Idaho: Best Neighborhoods & Hotels (Local Guide)
Affiliate links may be sprinkled throughout the blog below. I’ll receive a small commission when you purchase from my links…
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Best Hikes Near Boise, Idaho: Local Favorites for Every Season
Most people know there are a lot of great hikes near Boise, but it took me a while to find…
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Best Pumpkin Patches Near Boise, Idaho (2026 Local Guide)
Fall in Idaho is literally my favorite season everrrr! The crisp mornings, changing leaves, pumpkin spice lattes (!!), and weekends…

Hi, I’m Katie
The face behind the traveling spud
Once a full-time solo traveler and tech professional in San Francisco, I now call Boise, Idaho home — balancing global adventures with building a life and raising my family in the Pacific Northwest.
I’ve traveled to over 40 countries and continue to explore both international destinations and the best weekend getaways across Idaho and the western U.S. From off-the-beaten-path experiences to practical family travel tips, I share real itineraries, honest recommendations, and lessons learned along the way.
My guides have helped thousands of readers plan trips to Boise, Idaho, and destinations around the world.
I’m goofy, not always put together, and fully committed to living big, whether that means crossing off a bucket-list trip or discovering a hidden gem close to home.
Idaho Travel
BOISE / SOUTHERN IDAHO / CENTRAL IDAHO / NORTHERN IDAHO / MOUNTAIN TOWNS
Recent Travels and Adventures!
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Swim with Manatees in Florida: Everything You Need to Know
Let’s be real; the main reason I went on my trip to Florida (and to escape the Boise cold) was…
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8 Best Pet-Friendly Hotels in Boise, Idaho (Dog Friendly Stays)
If you’re traveling with your dog, finding pet-friendly hotels in Boise, Idaho, can make your trip much easier. Luckily, Boise…
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The Perfect Germany Romantic Road Itinerary: Tips, Map, & Guide
Psst: I use affiliate links on my site. If you make a purchase through them, I may receive a small…
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What 3 Months Traveling in Europe Cost Me
Before I started on my journey around the world, I was doing tons of research about how much money I…
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Things to Do in Boise in Summer: A Local’s Guide
Summer in Boise is hands-down one of the best times to be here. The Boise River opens for floating, patios…
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25+ Things to Do in Mobile, Alabama
Do you want to explore one of the oldest cities on the Gulf Coast? Then look no further than historic…
