
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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Roaring Springs Water Park in Meridian, Idaho: 12 Tips Before You Go
If you’re looking for one of the best ways to cool off during the summer in the Treasure Valley, you…
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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…

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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Where to Stay in Paris: Hotel Chavanel
Lately, I’ve become obsessed with boutique hotels. There’s something unique about them without the generic gimmicky vibes of chains. When…
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What to Do in Doha Qatar in 48 Hours
What to Do in Doha Qatar in 48 Hours After traveling a bit through the Middle East at the end…
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The Ultimate Girlfriend Getaway to Sun Valley Idaho
If you follow me on Instagram you’ve probably noticed my stories and posts about my trips back to Sun Vally…
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Best Day Trips from Indianapolis: Hamilton County
After an amazing visit to Indianapolis, I decided to make an overnight stop in Hamilton County to see what life…
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9 Fun Things to Do in Indianapolis as a 20-Something
Honestly, before heading to Indianapolis I had NO CLUE what to think. I’ve obviously heard of Indianapolis before and…

