
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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5 Hot Springs in Iceland You MUST Visit
If you’re traveling to Iceland any time soon, then visiting hot springs should be at the top of your list.…
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Diaries from Around the World: 3 Months
Diaries From Around The World: 3 Months Wow….crazy it will be 3 months on the road in about 5 days.…
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15 Things to Know Before Oktoberfest in Munich
Ohhh Oktoberfest! One of the most fun bucket-list “check-offs” I’ve experienced and one of the best things I’ve done in…
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Shanghai Like a Local with Expat Lyndsey Vincent
Lyndsey Vincent is an American expat and my friend from college who just left Shanghai after living and working there…
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Diary from Around the World: 2 Months
WOW! Today marks my 2 month and 1 week anniversary of traveling around the world! I can’t believe it. Some…
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The Perfect Getaway to Lake Bled Slovenia
If the photo above doesn’t convince you to make a getwaway to Lake Bled Slovenia then I don’t know what…
