
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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20+ Best Patios & Rooftop Bars in Boise, Idaho (Local Guide)
Looking for the best patios and rooftop bars in Boise? I’ve got you! After living in Boise for 10+ years,…
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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…

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 Pack for Florida in the Winter
I had the most challenging time figuring out what to pack for Florida when traveling there in February, so I…
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A Trip to Palawan: How to Make the Most of Your Visit
This is a guest post brought to you by Anna from Expert World Travel. You may see affiliate links sprinkled throughout…
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Florida Aquarium Shark Dive: My Bucket List Experience
They say you should do something once a year that scares you and boy have I completed the task for…
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20 Solo Travel Safety Tips from Experienced Solo Travelers
20 Solo Travel Safety Tips from Experienced Solo Travelers Traveling solo can be daunting for some people, but once you…
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What to Do in McCall Idaho in the Winter
McCall is an extremely special place for me and one of my all-time favorite spots in Idaho in the winter.…

