Blackfoot, Idaho: Idaho Potato Museum

At the Idaho Potato Museum the world's largest baked potato stands in front of the museum.

This roadside attraction was just what I'd hoped for -- one of those small town, earnest, lovable places that's a tribute to something ordinary that makes America great. A sweet, friendly lady greeted us at the front desk/gift shop and was impressed we were all the way from Rhode Island. Inside was the story of Idaho potatoes, told in a low-tech way with lots of folk-arty paintings and exhibits.

The gift shop was a vast array of great, goofy souvenirs... who wouldn't want a memento from such a fabulous place? And, true to their slogan ("We give taters to Out-Of-Staters") we received a box of yummy hash browns to take home with us! You can't beat that.

The Idaho Potato Museum, formerly known as the Idaho Potato Expo, has had some exciting changes. The new name better suits what it is, a Museum on Potato History. The Museum also houses a gift shop and sells Potato related gifts.

The World Famous Largest Potato that sets out front was just refurbished in April, in addition to new signage in front of the large Spud and new signs by the entry with a Spud that features the Crown.

Every year, hundreds flock to get their photo next to the Large Spud. It is as famous as any Hollywood Star and has just as many photos taken with it.

With admission you get a free small box of Famous Idaho hash browns made right here in Blackfoot Idaho -- the World Potato Capital. They also sell the world Famous Marilyn Monroe poster with her in an Idaho potato sack.

Thought you'd like a view of the World's Largest Baked Potato with scale - Julie (pictured, is 5 ft 4 in, 167 cm).

I just got back from Idaho, where I toured the Potato Expo in Blackfoot. The giant styrofoam potato has been replaced with a smaller (plastic?) potato that is loaded with butter and cream cheese. I was a little disappointed that instead of a free baked tater, they gave me a 4.5oz milk carton of dehydrated "Homestyle Hash Browns".