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.
As Seen In
Explore Boise & Idaho Guides
-
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…
-
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…
-
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!
-
20 Epic Things to Do in Lebanon
Are you seeking breathtaking beaches, a resilient population, lively nightlife, and a rich history? Then look no further, Lebanon has…
-
A Guide to Kayaking to Shoshone Falls in Idaho
Shoshone Falls, reputably known as the “Niagara of the West”, is located in my hometown of Twin Falls, Idaho. Standing…
-
22 Best Breweries in Idaho
Did you know that Idaho is the biggest barley producer in the United States and the second-largest hops grower? That…
-
What to Do in Lake Chelan, Washington
Dreaming about exploring the scenic outdoors of the West Coast? Look no further than Chelan, a city in Washington state…
-
8 Best Hikes Near McCall Idaho
Home to beautiful Payette Lake, the picturesque town of McCall, Idaho, is a place where the outdoors is always ready…
-
Williamsburg Brooklyn Self-Guided Bike Tour
There are many attractions that bring tourists from all over the world to the great city of New York. And…
