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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20 Best Things To Do In Carmel By The Sea
Carmel-by-the-Sea is a small beach town located on the Monterey Peninsula of California and is quite literally a fairy tale…
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10 Best Ski Resorts In Idaho
Idaho is known for its scenic mountain landscapes and heavy winter snowfall. The summer months are beautiful and warm. But…
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The Ultimate Boise Bachelorette Party Guide (Girls Weekend Ideas)
Planning a Boise bachelorette party? You’ve come to the right place. After attending more than 15 bachelorette parties and living…
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The Ultimate Northern Idaho Road Trip
Taking a trip to Idaho and not sure what to do? Here’s the perfect Northern Idaho Itinerary for you! I’m…
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Where to Stay in McCall, Idaho: Shore Lodge
Where to Stay in McCall, Idaho: Shore Lodge McCall is hands-down one of my favorite places in Idaho. In fact,…
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Make the Switch to Local Idaho Produce and Products with Idaho Preferred
Many of us Idahoans go to the grocery store to buy products and produce without knowing where our items come…
