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- An Expanded List Of Things To Do In Coeur d'Alene
Coeur d’Alene in northern Idaho makes for a great family holiday destination with plenty of fantastic outdoor recreation to keep everyone happy. It’s mainly known for the Coeur d’Alene Lake, where visitors can enjoy cruises and a range of watersport activities. With its golf resorts and litany of great hiking and biking trails, Coeur d’Alene truly makes a fantastic destination for adventure seekers.
The city itself has plenty of cafés, restaurants, and wineries, and there is plenty of history and art to soak up in the Coeur d’Alene downtown area. It's also home to the Museum of North Idaho.
UPDATE: 2023/09/04 08:51 EST BY BARRY JUMA
An Expanded List Of Things To Do In Coeur d'Alene
There's no shortage of things to do in Coeur d'Alene, a stunning lakeside getaway in Idaho. To satisfy the needs of travelers, this guide has been expanded to include more activities and attractions, from exploring the Mineral Ridge Scenic Area to hanging out at Independence Point.
Things To Do
Whether someone wants to explore Coeur d'Alene's wine scene, play golf, or even hike, this is the perfect destination for a peaceful retreat. Here is all the information travelers need on the best time to visit Coeur d’Alene, how to get there, where to stay, and the best things to do.
1 Learn About Local History At The Museum Of North Idaho
One thing to do while in Coeur d'Alene is to visit the Museum of North Idaho. Here, people can experience the state's rich history as well as enjoy exhibits on geology, the Coeur d'Alene Tribe, railroad, steamboats, recreation, logging, and all things Idaho culture.
This museum, although smaller, boasts many interesting collections and is a spot to check out while in Coeur d'Alene.
Tickets to the museum start at $6 for adults and $2 for kids, so this is a very affordable stop on the itinerary.
- Address: 115 Northwest Blvd, Coeur d'Alene, ID 83814, United States
- Hours: 11 am - 5 pm (daily)
- Cost: Adults (Aged 13-64) - $6; Seniors (Aged 65+) - $5; Children (Aged 5-12) - $2; Children (Aged 4 and under) - Free
2 Shop At Kootenai County Farmers' Market
Another thing to experience in Coeur d'Alene is the Kootenai County Farmer's Market. Here, visitors to Idaho can find fresh, local, and sustainable produce, meats, cheeses, and bread, as well as native plants and other sourced goods.
This farmer's market happens on Saturday and Wednesday each week, with the hours of operation being 9 AM to 1:30 PM on Saturdays and 4 PM to 7 PM on Wednesdays.
The locations for the Saturday and Wednesday markets are also different;
- Saturday - SE Corner Hwy 95 & Prairie Ave., Hayden, Idaho
- Wednesday - Main Street, Riverstone, CDA Coeur d’Alene, Idaho
The Kootenai County Farmer's Market takes place twice-weekly at two separate locations. Make sure and double-check the address and day before heading out, as one is in Hayden and the other in Coeur d'Alene.
3 Take A Tour Of Seven Stars Alpaca Ranch
The next place to visit while in Coeur d'Alene is Seven Stars Alpaca Ranch. Here, guests will get to see Alpacas, Llamas, and Valais Black Nose Sheep, all of which produce the rugs sold on-site.
Many guests of this attraction mention the kind employees and adorable animals, so this might be a perfect spot to bring children. Idaho is rich in agriculture, as well as having a thriving animal sector, so Seven Stars Alpaca Ranch is a nice way to learn more about local businesses.
The ranch is located minutes from downtown Coeur d'Alene, making it a quick car ride for tourists.
- Address: 2885 S Folsom Ridge Rd, Coeur d'Alene, ID 83814, United States
- Tour Hours: Wed & Fri - Sun: 11 am
- Cost: General admission (12 and over): $12; Children (11 and under): $7; Children (3 and under): Free
Tours are by appointment, so visitors should book their slots in advance.
4 Explore The North Idaho Centennial Trail
For people in Coeur d'Alene who love being outside, exploring the North Idaho Centennial Trail may also be worth it. Here, visitors can walk the trail: 24 miles long, extending from the Idaho/Washington state line to Higgins Point. This trail is right outside Coeur d'Alene, so it won't be a long distance from hotels in town.
- Trail Length: 24 miles
- End Points: Coeur d'Alene (Higgins Point) and Idaho-Washington state line
5 Admire The Artwork At The Art Spirit Gallery
One of downtown Coeur d'Alene's gems is the Art Spirit Gallery. Here, there will be fine art by established artists from Idaho, as well as people beyond. The Art Spirit Gallery is a top-rated attraction in the city and is a perfect stop while walking through town.
There are pieces for sale inside, so if you see something you like, this could be a perfect excuse to support local artistry!
- Address: 415 Sherman Ave, Coeur d'Alene, ID 83814, United States
- Hours: Wed - Sun: 11 am - 6 pm (closed on Mon & Tue)
The Art Spirit Gallery is located in downtown Coeur d'Alene. People will be able to walk in and view fine art from locals as well as people from out of Idaho. The gallery also sells the works featured, so that is an option for guests as well.
6 Enjoy A Day At Lake Coeur d’Alene
Lake Coeur d’Alene is a big attraction to the city, and there are so many ways to enjoy it. There are a number of popular beaches like Sanders Beach and City Beach.
The park area surrounding the lake has plenty of free amenities, like a volleyball court, and it's a great place for hikes and walks. Lovers of fishing are also drawn to this site, which is renowned for its Chinook salmon population, among other fish species.
- Activities: Hiking, wildlife viewing, fishing, boating
7 Enjoy Watersports In Coeur d'Alene
Popular recreation in Coeur d’Alene includes boating, fishing, white water rafting, kayaking, water skiing, and swimming. Here are some companies that offer lake cruises and watersports:
- Address: 115 S 2nd St, Coeur d'Alene, ID 83814
- 208-918-2082
- Address: 418 E. Coeur d'Alene Ave. Coeur d'Alene, ID 83814
8 Take The Family To Silverwood Theme Park
Silverwood Theme Park is an amusement park located just a short drive from Coeur d'Alene. It's a great place for families and offers rides, shows, and attractions for all ages.
- Admission: Varies depending on the season, starting at $48 for youth & $75 for adults during the summer
- Address: 27843 US-95, Athol, ID 83801
9 Tee Off At Coeur d’Alene Golf Club
The Coeur d'Alene Resort Golf Course is a golfer's dream, known for its floating green on the 14th hole. This meticulously maintained course, set against the backdrop of Lake Coeur d'Alene and the Selkirk Mountains, offers a challenging yet enjoyable game for all skill levels.
The course's unique design incorporates water features, bunkers, and undulating greens, testing golfers' accuracy and strategy. A custom wooden boat shuttles golfers to the floating green, adding to the memorable experience.
- Admission: Adult 18-Hole Green Fee from $50.00, Adult 9-Hole Green Fee from $30.25, Senior (65+) 18-Hole Green Fee from $42.25
- Address: 2321 W Fairway Dr, Coeur d’Alene, Idaho 83815
For the whole resort experience, visitors should consider getting the Stay & Play Golf Package, which includes accommodation by the lake, shuttle services, unlimited practice tees, and cleaning service among other privileges.
10 Go Hiking In Coeur d’Alene
Coeur d’Alene has some great scenic walks and trails to visit. Here are some options.
Tubbs Hill
- A 2-mile loop that takes under an hour to complete and is very close to the city
- Address: Tubbs Hill, Coeur d'Alene, Idaho 83814
The Route of the Hiawatha Trail
- This is a 15-mile trail suitable for hiking and mountain biking
- Address: I-90 Exit 0, Wallace, Idaho
The Pulaski Tunnel Trail
- A four-mile round-trip hike that takes around two to four hours, depending on the ability
- Address: Pulaski Tunnel Trail, National Forest Development Road 456, Coeur d'Alene, Idaho 83873
The Canfield Mountain Trails
- There are a total of 25 trails available for all hiking levels
- Address: Canfield Mountain Park Loop, Coeur d'Alene, Idaho, 83815
Scotchman Peak Trail
- This is a challenging 8.7-mile trail that takes between 6 and 7 hours to complete
- Address: Scotchman Peak, Coeur d'Alene, Idaho, 83811
11 Explore Mineral Ridge Scenic Area
Mineral Ridge Scenic Area, located in the heart of Coeur d'Alene, offers a unique blend of natural beauty and local history. The 3.3-mile loop trail, originally established in 1963 as the first National Recreation Trail in Idaho, takes visitors through a landscape that’s rich in wildlife, showcasing species like bald eagles and osprey.
Visitors can also discover remnants of the area's mining history, with interpretive signs marking former silver mines. The trail culminates at a viewpoint that rewards visitors with a breathtaking view of the lake, the city, and the surrounding mountains.
- Address: Coeur d'Alene National Forest, Coeur d'Alene, ID 83814, United States
- Hours: 6 am to 10 pm (daily)
- Cost: Free
12 Visit Farragut State Park
Farragut State Park, once a World War II naval training station, is now a 4,000-acre recreational paradise. The park boasts over 40 miles of hiking trails, weaving through forests and around Lake Pend Oreille, Idaho's largest lake.
Visitors can learn more about the park's history at the Museum at the Brig, which preserves the naval station's legacy. The park also offers a variety of water activities, from swimming and fishing to boating, with rental facilities available.
- Address: 13550 ID-54, Athol, ID 83801, United States
- Hours: 7 am - 10 pm (daily)
- Cost: Vehicle entry fee: $7 for residents and $14 for non-residents
Farragut State Park also has camping sites and cabins, so visitors can opt to stay in the park.
13 Hang Out At McEuen Park
McEuen Park is a vibrant urban green space located in downtown Coeur d'Alene. It features a large playground, a splash pad for kids, and a dog park. The park's centerpiece is the Grand Plaza, which hosts community events and concerts.
For those seeking tranquility, there's the Veterans Memorial Garden, a peaceful spot dedicated to local veterans. The park also offers stunning views of Tubbs Hill and Lake Coeur d'Alene.
- Address: 420 E Front Ave, Coeur d'Alene, ID 83814, United States
- Hours: 5 am - 11 pm (daily)
- Cost: Free
14 Wander Around Independence Point
Independence Point, nestled on the shores of Lake Coeur d’Alene, offers visitors a chance to experience the city's natural beauty and history. This area, known for its charming beach, is a hub of activity, especially during the summer months. Visitors can marvel at the panoramic views of the lake, with its crystal-clear waters reflecting the surrounding mountains.
The area is also home to the City Park, a perfect spot for picnics, and the Fort Sherman Playground, a favorite among children.
The Centennial Trail, a well-known biking and hiking path, begins here, offering breathtaking views of the lake and city. For history enthusiasts, the Museum of North Idaho is a stone's throw away, giving insights into the region's past.
- Address: 105 Northwest Blvd, Coeur d'Alene, ID 83814, United States
- Hours: Open 24 hours
- Cost: Free
15 Best Time To See Coeur d’Alene
Coeur d’Alene is a popular destination for visitors, and July is generally the busiest time with the campgrounds and RV sites in the area at their fullest. However, this lakeside resort has so much to do all year round.
Spring
This is a popular time for golfers to visit Coeur d’Alene, as temperatures range from the mid-50s to the mid-60s, and as the weather gets warmer, other outdoor activities like hiking and biking are possible too.
It's a good time to visit to avoid the summer rush. Luckily, there are plenty of beautiful spring destinations in Idaho, so the party doesn't have to stop in Coeur d'Alene.
Summer
Summer is definitely the busy season in Coeur d’Alene, with families flocking to the lake to escape the summer heat. Temperatures can range between the 70s and 80s.
There are lots of local events and festivals at this time of year, and all the outdoor activities are on the table, with plenty of beautiful trails to explore. Visitors can enjoy the beaches, boating, camping, and water sports like kayaking and water skiing.
Fall
Fall is a quieter time of the year to enjoy Coeur d’Alene; visitors can enjoy the fall colors and schedule a wine tasting or beer tasting. Temperatures can range between the mid-50s to the mid-60s. The town also hosts an Oktoberfest festival with local beers on offer.
Winter
Winter is probably the quietest season in Coeur d’Alene, but there are seasonal events in the downtown area. Temperatures range from the mid-30s to the mid-40s. The Silver Mountain Resort offers skiing and snowboarding about a 45-minute drive from Coeur d’Alene.
There are also a number of great festivals and events held in Coeur d’Alene that travelers should factor in when deciding the time of year to visit.
In the spring, there’s the Downtown Art Walk, the Farmer’s Market kicks off, and there’s the Wine Extravaganza too. The 4th of July parade is a great summer event.
16 Best Ways To Get Around Coeur d’Alene
Coeur d’Alene has a few options in terms of getting around the city, the most popular being car rental. It has a free public bus network operated by CityLink.
- For route information. Call 1-877-941-RIDE.
It's possible to rent a car from Spokane Airport, and Avis operates out of the city itself:
Avis Rent A Car
- Address: 401 N. 4th Street
- Coeur d’Alene, ID 83814
- 208-665-7797
As it's a very scenic city with a historic downtown district, it's a great place to rent a bike and explore. Here are a number of bike rental companies in Coeur d’Alene:
CDA Bike Co.
- Address: 314 N 3rd St, Coeur d'Alene, ID 83814
- 208-966-4022
Vertical Earth LLC
- Address: 1323 E Sherman Ave, Coeur d'Alene, ID 83814,
- 208-667-5503
Electric Adventures
- Address: 1949 N Beebe Blvd, Coeur d'Alene, ID 83814
- 208-818-8687
The downtown area in Coeur d’Alene is very walkable and has plenty of shops, cafés, and restaurants to explore.
17 Where To Eat And Drink In Coeur d’Alene
Coeur d’Alene is a popular tourist destination and has many dining options available with a range of world and unique Idaho cuisines. Here are some highly rated options to try out.
Brilliant breakfast spots in Coeur d’Alene:
- Le Peep, the Breakfast Nook, Elmer’s Restaurant
Lovely lunches in Coeur d’Alene:
- Best Sandwich Shack, Izzy’s Comfort Kitchen, Meltz Extreme Grilled Cheese
Delectable dinners in Coeur d’Alene:
- The iron horse, Tito’s Italian Grill and wine shop, Cedars Floating Restaurant
Best coffee shops in Coeur d’Alene:
- Coeur d'Alene Coffee Co., Calypsos, Union Roasters
Great Bars in Coeur d’Alene:
- Crickets Restaurant & Oyster Bar, Whispers Lounge, Backwoods Bar
18 Where To Stay In Coeur d’Alene
There are great accommodation options in Coeur d’Alene, from resorts, boutique hotels, and budget hotels; there are options to suit every budget. There are plenty of camping and RV sites available too close to the lake with plenty of amenities available.
Here are some options to consider for a Coeur d’Alene excursion.
Highly rated hotels in Coeur d’Alene
- Room rates for The Coeur d’Alene Resort start from $250 per night
- Amenities: Golf course, spa, pool, fitness center
- Address: 115 S 2nd St, Coeur d'Alene, ID 83814
SpringHill Suites by Marriott Coeur d'Alene:
- Room rates for Springhill Suites by Marriott Coeur d’Alene start from $175 per night
- Amenities: Indoor pool, fitness center, hot tub
- Address: 2250 W Seltice Way, Coeur d'Alene, ID 83814
- Room rates for the Blackwell Boutique Hotel start from $130 Per night
- Amenities: Lush grounds, fireplaces, outdoor lounging
- Address: 820 E. Sherman Ave. Coeur d'Alene, Idaho, 83814
- Room rates at One Lakeside start from $145 per night
- Amenities: chef-ready kitchens, full-size washer, and dryer, living rooms with a queen-size pullout sofa
- Address: Lakeside / 1st, East Lakeside Avenue, Coeur d'Alene, Idaho, 83814
Camping and RV resorts in Coeur d’Alene
- RV site bookings at Tamarack RV Park available from $42 per night
- Amenities: Full-service RV sites, laundry facilities, Wi-Fi, campfires & BBQ
- Address: 3630 N Government Way, Coeur d'Alene, Idaho 83815
- RV site bookings at Camp Coeur d’Alene available from $44 per night
- Address: 10588 E Wolf Lodge Bay Road, Coeur d'Alene Idaho 83814
- Amenities: Full-service RV sites, laundry facilities, Wi-Fi, hot showers
- Address: Wolf Lodge Bay Road, Coeur d'Alene, Idaho 83814
- RV site bookings available from $60 per night
- Amenities: laundry room, Wi-Fi, camp on-site store
- Address: 12329 E. Frontage Rd. Coeur d'Alene, Idaho 83814
Budget accommodation in Coeur d’Alene
Baymont by Wyndham Coeur D Alene
- Room rates at the Baymont by Wyndham start from $70 per night
- Amenities: Free breakfast, indoor pool, mobile check-in
- Address: 2209 Sherman Ave, Coeur d'Alene, ID 83814
- Room rates at the Lake Coeur d’Alene Inn start from $90 per night
- Amenities: Complimentary Wi-Fi, Microwave and Kitchenette, Coffee Maker
- Address: 219 E Coeur D'Alene Lake Dr, Coeur d'Alene, ID 83814
Ramada by Wyndham Coeur d'Alene:
- Room rates at Ramada start from $70 per night
- Amenities: Free breakfast, indoor pool. Hot tub, fitness center
- Address: 2303 N 4th St, Coeur d'Alene, ID 83814
19 Tips For Visiting Coeur d’Alene
Coeur d’Alene is a beautiful city in northwest Idaho in the state’s panhandle region with a population of around 55,000 people. Lake Coeur d’Alene is used for a litany of watersport activities like kayaking, boating, and swimming, particularly during the summer months. Golfing, hiking, and wine tasting are also high on the list of best things to do here.
The lake is arguably one of the most beautiful spots in Idaho.
While Lake Coeur d’Alene is the main area for activities, there are 55 lakes within driving distance of the city for visitors to check out, and the city is surrounded by the Coeur d’Alene mountains and offers great hiking, biking, and snow sports during the winter months.
In terms of getting to Coeur d’Alene, the nearest international airport, Spokane International Airport, is about a 40-minute drive away. The airport is served by major airlines, and on arrival, travelers can arrange a shuttle to Coeur d’Alene or rent a car.
The city is located on the I-90 and US Highway 95, so is easily accessible by car. Greyhound buses also offer services to Coeur d’Alene.
20 How To Spend A Perfect Day In Coeur d'Alene
To kick off the perfect day in Coeur d’Alene, head to Elmer’s Restaurant for a hearty breakfast to fuel travelers up for a great day of activities. Then it's time to head out on a hike and spend a few hours taking the Pulaski Tunnel Trail. Head back to the city for a great sandwich in Meltz Extreme Grilled Cheese, and now it's time to enjoy the lake.
Take a boat cruise on Lake Coeur d'Alene, or maybe go fishing for some trout. Schedule some time to relax in the Coeur d’Alene Resort with a spa treatment or a round of golf. Explore the sites in the beautiful downtown area before heading to Cedars Floating Restaurant for a delicious meal in a unique setting with some local wine.