Things To Do
in Coeur d'Alene
Coeur d'Alene is a charming city located in northern Idaho known for its picturesque setting on the shores of Lake Coeur d'Alene. The city boasts a vibrant downtown area with shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions. Outdoor enthusiasts flock to Coeur d'Alene for its opportunities for hiking, biking, boating, and other recreational activities.
The famous floating boardwalk in Coeur d'Alene is a must-see attraction, offering stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $100 - $300
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $40
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $5
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $150
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $75
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a walk along the scenic shoreline of Lake Coeur d'Alene. Enjoy the fresh air and beautiful views as you take in the natural beauty of the area.
Visit the Coeur d'Alene Resort and consider taking a boat tour to explore the lake further. This is a great opportunity to relax and see some of the most picturesque spots on the water.
Dine at one of the lakeside restaurants offering local cuisine. After dinner, take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront and enjoy the sunset.
Rent a bike and ride the North Idaho Centennial Trail, which offers stunning views along the way. This trail is perfect for both leisurely and more intense biking experiences.
Stop for lunch at a nearby cafe and recharge for the afternoon. Afterwards, head to Tubbs Hill for a hike; the trails are well-marked and offer beautiful vistas.
Enjoy a comfortable evening at a local craft brewery. Sample a flight of beers and take part in the vibrant local social scene.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful natural scenery with lakes, mountains, and outdoor recreational opportunities.
- A friendly and welcoming community atmosphere.
- A range of outdoor activities available year-round, including skiing, hiking, and boating.
- A growing economy with various job opportunities, especially in tourism and services.
- Low crime rates compared to urban areas, contributing to a sense of safety.
- Higher cost of living compared to some other regions in Idaho.
- Limited public transportation options, making a car necessary for most residents.
- Seasonal tourism can lead to overcrowding during peak months.
- Job market can be competitive in certain sectors.
- Harsh winters can be difficult for those unaccustomed to severe weather.
Best Activities in Coeur d'Alene
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the scenic trails and beautiful landscapes in areas like Tubbs Hill and Mineral Ridge.
Enjoy cycling along the Centennial Trail and other bike-friendly paths around the Coeur d'Alene area.
Engage in kayaking, paddleboarding, and boating on Lake Coeur d'Alene or the Spokane River.
Play a round of golf at one of the championship courses in the region, such as the Coeur d'Alene Resort Golf Course.
Experience excellent fishing opportunities on Lake Coeur d'Alene or nearby rivers for a relaxing outdoor adventure.
Tours
Uncover the best of Coeur d'Alene with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Coeur d'Alene
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers beautiful views of Lake Coeur d'Alene and the surrounding area, with numerous photo opportunities along the hiking trails.
Provides a stunning view of the lake and the floating boardwalk, perfect for capturing iconic images of the area.
Features a scenic overlook of Lake Coeur d'Alene and the surrounding mountains, offering great photo opportunities for nature enthusiasts.
Food in Coeur d'Alene
Coeur d'Alene Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A local favorite, huckleberries are a symbol of the region and are often used in desserts like pies. Try the huckleberry pie at Hudson's Hamburgers for a truly authentic taste of Coeur d'Alene.
Must-Try!
This dish highlights the abundance of fresh Pacific Northwest seafood. Find exceptional cedar-planked salmon at the Cedars Floating Restaurant, known for its stunning lakefront setting and delicious seafood dishes.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Open from early spring to late fall, the Coeur d'Alene Farmers Market is a paradise for foodies. Indulge in local produce, artisanal goods, and street food offerings that showcase the region's flavors.
This establishment offers a unique blend of street food and craft beer. Enjoy a variety of gourmet bar bites paired with an extensive selection of local and international brews.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
The Coeur d'Alene tribe plays a significant role in the community, and it's important to show respect for their culture and traditions.
It's customary to greet people with a friendly demeanor, use 'please' and 'thank you', and show courtesy in all interactions.
Maintaining an appropriate distance when speaking to others is important in Coeur d'Alene as it shows respect for personal space.
Safety
Tipping in Coeur d'Alene
Ensure a smooth experience
In Coeur d'Alene, tipping is a common practice in restaurants, bars, and other service-oriented businesses. It is customary to tip around 15-20% of the total bill, depending on the level of service received.
In Coeur d'Alene, the accepted forms of payment are cash, credit/debit cards, and mobile payment methods. Most businesses, including restaurants, shops, and hotels, readily accept credit and debit cards for transactions.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is a great time to visit Coeur d'Alene, with mild temperatures, blooming flowers, and the start of outdoor activities such as hiking and biking. The famous Coeur d'Alene Resort Golf Course also opens in the spring, making it a popular time for golf enthusiasts.
Summer is peak season in Coeur d'Alene, with warm weather perfect for enjoying the beautiful lake and outdoor recreational activities. The town comes alive with festivals, events, and bustling waterfront activities. Visitors can also enjoy water sports, boat cruises, and scenic hikes during this time.
Fall brings stunning foliage colors to Coeur d'Alene, making it a picturesque time to visit. The weather remains pleasant, and outdoor activities like hiking and mountain biking are still popular. Additionally, the famous Floating Green at the Coeur d'Alene Resort Golf Course is particularly beautiful surrounded by fall colors.
Winter transforms Coeur d'Alene into a cozy winter wonderland with the surrounding mountains becoming a playground for skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing. The town is beautifully decorated for the holidays, and visitors can enjoy festive events, ice skating, and the magical Journey to the North Pole cruise on Lake Coeur d'Alene.
Coeur d'Alene at Night
Hiking in Coeur d'Alene
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic area with several trails offering beautiful views of Lake Coeur d'Alene and surrounding landscapes.
Trails lead through forested areas with a variety of terrain, ideal for hiking and mountain biking.
A moderate hike featuring beautiful lake views and opportunities for wildlife watching.
A large area with trails that provide stunning views of the bay and surrounding nature.
A flat, easy trail along the slough, perfect for a leisurely walk and bird watching.
Aiports
How to reach Coeur d'Alene by plane.
The largest airport serving Coeur d'Alene, located approximately 40 miles away in Spokane, Washington. It provides numerous domestic and international flights.
Located about 110 miles from Coeur d'Alene, in Hailey, Idaho, this airport primarily serves the Sun Valley area and offers limited commercial flights.
Situated about 80 miles from Coeur d'Alene, this airport serves the Pullman and Moscow areas, offering regional flights.
Approximately 130 miles from Coeur d'Alene, this airport offers flights primarily to regional destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The predominant demographic group in Coeur d'Alene, typically constituting a majority of the population.
A growing demographic group that represents a significant portion of the population in the area.
This group includes indigenous peoples of the region, contributing to the cultural diversity of Coeur d'Alene.
A smaller but notable demographic group, including individuals of East Asian, Southeast Asian, and South Asian descent.
A minority demographic group in Coeur d'Alene, reflecting broader national trends.
Individuals identifying with two or more racial backgrounds, representing increasing diversity in the region.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular team sport played indoors and outdoors in Coeur d'Alene, enjoyed by both youth and adults.
A widely played team sport in Coeur d'Alene, attracting many young players and recreational leagues.
With access to lakes and swimming pools, swimming is a favored summer activity for residents.
Coeur d'Alene boasts several golf courses, making golf a popular sport among locals and visitors.
Running and jogging are popular activities, with many trails and parks available for exercise.
Biking is a favored pastime with scenic routes and trails around Coeur d'Alene and nearby areas.
Given its proximity to water bodies, fishing is a beloved activity for many residents.
The region offers beautiful trails, making hiking a popular outdoor sport among locals.
Ice hockey has a strong following, with local teams and hockey rinks catering to enthusiasts.
Tennis is played recreationally and competitively in courts throughout the city.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Coeur d'Alene.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants in Coeur d'Alene offer vegetarian and vegan-friendly dishes, with a focus on fresh produce and creative plant-based cuisine. Check out the Garnet Café for exceptional vegetarian and vegan breakfast and brunch options.
Visitors with gluten sensitivities will find accommodating options throughout Coeur d'Alene. From gluten-free pizza at Fire Artisan Pizza to the diverse menu at Syringa Japanese Cafe & Sushi Restaurant, there are plenty of choices to satisfy gluten-free requirements.