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

Exterior view of the Museum Of North Idaho
Photo by Antony-22 distributed under a CC BY-SA 4.0 license.
Exterior view of 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

A section of Coeur D'alene, Idaho in winter
Photo by Timothy Eberly on Unsplash
A section of Coeur D'alene, Idaho in winter

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

Coeur d'Alene sunset
Photo by Ty Downs on Unsplash
Sunset in Coeur d'Alene Idaho

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

A view of the lake and Tubbs Hill in the background in Coeur D'alene, Idaho
Photo by Abigail Loney on Unsplash
A view of the lake and Tubbs Hill in the background in Coeur D'alene, Idaho

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
Evening after an event in Coeur d’Alene Idaho
Photo by Jenna Ellis on Unsplash
Evening after an event in Coeur d’Alene Idaho

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

A child's scooter and bicycle sit on the shores of Lake Coeur d'Alene near the resort marina
Kirk Fisher via Shutterstock
A child's scooter and bicycle sit on the shores of Lake Coeur d'Alene near the resort marina

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

Coeur d'Alene Lake
Photo by Jason Schuller on Unsplash
Lake in Coeur d'Alene Idaho

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:

Lake Coeur d’Alene Cruises

  • Address: 115 S 2nd St, Coeur d'Alene, ID 83814

Coeur d' Alene Adventures

  • 208-918-2082

Row Adventure Center

  • Address: 418 E. Coeur d'Alene Ave. Coeur d'Alene, ID 83814

8 Take The Family To Silverwood Theme Park

An Aerial View of Coeur d'Alene, Idaho from over Lake Coeur d'Alene
Rotorhead 30A Productions via Shutterstock
An Aerial View of Coeur d'Alene, Idaho from over Lake Coeur d'Alene

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.

9 Tee Off At Coeur d’Alene Golf Club

The floating green in Coeur d'Alene Golf Resort, Idaho
Photo by Hudson Brown on Unsplash
The floating green in Coeur d'Alene Golf Resort, Idaho

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

Fall into winter in Coeur d'Alene, Idaho
Photo by Jason Buscema on Unsplash
Fall into winter in Coeur d'Alene, Idaho

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

A bench in Mineral Ridge overlooking a water body
Photo by Sarah Peters on Unsplash
A bench in Mineral Ridge overlooking a water body

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

Welcome sign for Farragut State Park
Photo by Tony Webster distributed under a CC BY 2.0 license.
Welcome sign for 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.

Related: 8 Idaho State Parks To Add To Your Scenic Bucket List

13 Hang Out At McEuen Park

Coeur d'Alene Resort viewed from the NW
Photo by Ken Lund distributed under a CC BY-SA 2.0 license.
Coeur d'Alene Resort viewed from the NW

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

Trail bridge over Lake Coeur d'Alene
Photo by Robert Ashworth distributed under a CC BY 2.0 license.
Trail bridge over Lake Coeur d'Alene

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

A busy summer day along the sandy beach of the lake at Independence Point, Coeur d'Alene
Kirk Fisher via Shutterstock
Lake in Coeur d'Alene, Idaho in summer

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.

Related: Explore Idaho's Capital City: The Ultimate Travel Guide To Boise & Things To Do

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

The Coeur d'Alene Resort, on Lake Coeur d'Alene, from Tubbs Hill
Photo by Jason Buscema on Unsplash
The Coeur d'Alene Resort, on Lake Coeur d'Alene, from Tubbs Hill

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

Related: Traveling From Idaho? This State Is The Best Road Trip Destination

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, Idaho With top View
Wollertz / Shutterstock
Coeur d' Alene, Idaho With top View

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

Aerial view of  The Coeur d'Alene Resort, Coeur d'Alene, United States
Photo by Matthew Lancaster on Unsplash
Aerial view of  The Coeur d'Alene Resort, Coeur d'Alene, United States

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

The Coeur d'Alene Resort:

  • 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

Blackwell Boutique Hotel:

  • 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

One Lakeside:

  • 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

Tamarack RV Park:

  • 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

Camp Coeur d'Alene

  • 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

Wolf Lodge Campground:

  • 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

Lake Coeur d'Alene Inn:

  • 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

Related: Idaho The Potato State: Why Not Sleep In A Hotel Shaped Like One?

19 Tips For Visiting Coeur d’Alene

Fountain in lake at Coeur d'Alene, ID
Photo by Steve Smith on Unsplash
Fountain in lake at Coeur d'Alene, ID

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.

Related: Drive Mesa Falls Scenic Byway & See Idaho's Most Stunning View

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

 The main street Sherman Avenue near 4th street in the historic lakeside downtown of Coeur d'Alene, Idaho
Kirk Fisher via Shutterstock
The main street Sherman Avenue near 4th street in the historic lakeside downtown of Coeur d'Alene, Idaho

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.