
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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7 Tips for Floating the Boise River
[Updated for the 2026 Boise River float season.] Floating the Boise River is one of the most popular things to…
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The Perfect Two Week Itinerary for South Africa
I’ve been wanting to make a trip to South Africa ever since I met friends while traveling in Vietnam that…
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The 30 Best Travel Apps to Download Before Going on a Trip
While traveling around the world for 14-months, my iOS iPhone apps were my savior. I’m honestly not sure what I…
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What to Expect When Traveling to Jamaica for Spring Break as a Female
Traveling to Jamaica for Spring Break I’ve been obsessed with getting the chance to go to Jamaica ever since I…
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10 Reasons To Visit the High Tatras in Slovakia During the Winter
Before heading to Europe on my trip around the world, I had NO clue where Slovakia even was. I’d heard…

