
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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What To Do in Key Largo, FL
Key Largo, the self-proclaimed Dive Capital of the world, is the northernmost part of the Florida Keys. If you continue…
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22 Things To Do In Miami For A Weekend
If you’re planning a weekend in Miami, I’m so excited for you to experience it! I spent a long weekend…
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The Best Time to Visit Idaho
Idaho is known for its lush green landscapes and beautiful snowy mountains. So it is no wonder why it has…
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Wine Tours Boise: My Day Wine Tasting With Snake River Wine Tours
As an Idaho native, it’s been so exciting to see Idaho’s wine scene grow. Idaho now has a thriving wine…
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Where to Stay in La Jolla: The Grande Colonial
San Diego is one of my favorite places to visit for a weekend getaway and when my cousin said he…
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Sustainable Gift Ideas for Travelers
Do you have an eco-conscious traveler friend or family member that is just way too hard to shop for? Look…
