I'm a born-and-raised Idahoan (more narrowly, born-and-raised Boisian). Going to school at Western Washington University reminds me of what I love about my home state. Here are some reasons to visit Idaho.

1. The Idaho Shakespeare Festival.

This is a theatre company that produces several plays. If you go to Boise, Idaho, make sure you make it part of your trip manifesto.

2. The Potato Drop.

Every New Year, like the ball in Times Square, there is a potato dropped in the middle of downtown Boise. This is probably the most Idahoan and slightly embarrassing thing Idahoans enjoy.

3. Skiing.

The invention of the ski lift happened in Sun Valley Idaho, so we take our skiing rather seriously. Idaho has some amazing places to ski from Bogus Basin in Boise to Brunndage McCall.

4. Frank Church Wilderness.

It's the largest contiguous wilderness in the continental United States. With the title of 'wilderness' comes with some rules, which can be found on the U.S.D.A Forest Services website. However, the rules shouldn't keep you from camping and having a good time.

5. Craters of the Moon.

A stunning view of rare and unusual geology can be found near Arco, Idaho.

6. The Boise State University blue turf.

It's the blue turf; enough said.

7. The Idaho Potato Museum.

This Is something I've heard of and not actually been, but I really feel the need to go for the pure enjoyment of looking at the history of potatoes. It's located in Blackfoot, Idaho.

8. Silverwood Theme Park.

A theme park; again, enough said.

9. Silver City.

A blast from the past, this ghost town is an awesome place to explore and see a part of Idahoan history.

10. The McCall Winter Carnival.

Just look at these pictures.

11. Hell Canyon.

12. Idaho State Penitentiary.

This is one of the most haunted places in all of Idaho. It's an amazing site, and you can feel the energy of the prisoners still wandering the courtyard.

13. World Center for Birds of Prey.

This is a non-profit that helps save and rehabilitate everything endangered, and other species of birds of prey. You can see the raptors along with other activities.

14. Whitewater rafting.

Idaho has some of the world's best whitewater rapids, and there are plenty of opportunities to go.

15. Hiking.

From Boise, the only city in Idaho, to Jerome, the hiking is a perfect. If you love to hike, Idaho is the place for you.