
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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The Spirit of Boise Balloon Classic: Boise’s Annual Hot Air Balloon Celebration
This event is one of my absolute favorites in Boise! If you’ve never seen the sky filled with dozens of…
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Idaho Botanical Garden in Boise: What to Know Before You Visit
If you live in Boise long enough, like me, the Idaho Botanical Garden becomes one of those places you return…
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15 Best Restaurants in Boise (Updated 2026)
I am a big foodie and love finding the newest and hottest restaurants in Boise (the largest city in Idaho)…

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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Why Salzburg is My Favorite City in Austria
Every so often, I happen upon a place that totally enchants me, takes my breath away, and makes me feel…
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Jackson Hole in Summer: A Weekend Guide
Jackson Hole, Wyoming in summer is like an adult playground! If you’re looking for western, outdoorsy vibes, Jackson is the…
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Where to Stay on the Oregon Coast: Headlands Lodge
Pacific City Hotel, Oregon: Headlands Lodge Review My husband and I went on an Oregon road trip leaving from Boise,…
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The Traveling Spud’s Top Picks – All of my favorite product links
January 2024 Favorites “Top 15” I get a lot of questions daily about my favorite products for travel, beauty, fashion,…
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How To Choose Your Next Travel Destination
Ah, the age-old question: how to choose your next travel destination? If you’re here, you’re probably ready for a new…
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Hot Spring Etiquette Guide: Know Before You Go
Looking to learn some proper hot spring etiquette before you have soak? If so, you’re in the right place! There’s…
