Big Idaho® Potato Hotel
How do you dispose of a 6-ton spud made of steel, plaster and concrete? You don’t. You recycle it and turn it into the Big Idaho® Potato Hotel, the only potato hotel in the world! The 28-foot long, 12-foot wide and 11.5-foot tall potato is firmly planted in an expansive field in South Boise with breathtaking views of the Owyhee Mountains.
The massive potato was created in 2012 in celebration of the IPC’s 75th anniversary. Bolted to a flatbed trailer the giant spud traveled across the country for seven years. Built for a one-year tour, the sturdy spud held out as long as possible before it returned to Idaho to retire. Kristie Wolfe, a former member of the Big Idaho® Potato Truck Tour team and tiny house builder extraordinaire, knew instinctively how to transform the head-turning tater into a lasting fixture that folks can continue to enjoy.
Here are a few facts about the eco-friendly hotel…
- Energy Efficient– The potato’s walls are made of 10-inch thick green expanding foam for optimal heating and cooling efficiencies.
- Air Conditioning– An 8-inch x 60-inch underground pipe acts as a natural air conditioner and fan pumping cool air into the potato even during hot summer months.
- Water – The sink is located above the toilet to redirect the fresh water that normally goes into the tank to the sink, saving both water and space.
- Conveniently Located-- Just 20 miles to downtown Boise, guests of the Big Idaho® Potato Hotel can enjoy the sights and sounds of one of the fastest growing cities in America.
And, in case you’re wondering…the bathroom is located in a recycled silo just a few steps from the potato. The spa-like loo features a giant whirlpool, a fireplace, luxurious amenities and a glass skylight for night-time star-gazing.
