Things To Do
in Sandpoint
Sandpoint is a picturesque city located in northern Idaho, nestled between the shores of Lake Pend Oreille and the Selkirk Mountains. Known for its stunning natural beauty, it offers a variety of outdoor activities including skiing, hiking, and boating, making it popular among nature enthusiasts. The vibrant downtown area features a charming selection of shops, galleries, and restaurants, contributing to its welcoming community atmosphere.
Sandpoint also hosts several cultural events and festivals throughout the year, showcasing the local arts and traditions.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $100 - $250
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $40
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $6
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $5
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $75 - $150
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $75
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your morning with a leisurely stroll along the Sandpoint Boardwalk, taking in views of Lake Pend Oreille. Enjoy breakfast at a local café, sampling some freshly baked pastries.
In the afternoon, take a scenic drive to Schweitzer Mountain for a hike and stunning views of the surrounding area. Pack a picnic to enjoy at one of the beautiful lookout points.
As the sun sets, return to downtown Sandpoint and dine at one of the waterfront restaurants. End your day with some live music at a local venue.
Wake up early and grab a hearty breakfast at a local diner. Then, head out for a kayaking adventure on Lake Pend Oreille for some fun and fitness.
After kayaking, have lunch in a charming lakeside café and relax for a bit. Spend the afternoon exploring the nearby trails, either hiking or mountain biking.
After freshening up, enjoy a wonderful dinner at a bistro downtown. You might also want to check out a local brewery for some unique craft beers.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural scenery with mountains and lakes
- Strong sense of community and friendly locals
- Variety of outdoor recreational activities, including hiking, skiing, and boating
- Vibrant arts and cultural scene, with local festivals and events
- Low crime rate contributing to a safe living environment
- Limited job opportunities, especially in specialized fields
- Higher cost of living compared to some surrounding areas
- Severe weather conditions in winter, including heavy snowfall
- Limited access to healthcare facilities and services
- Potential for seasonal tourism impacting local infrastructure and resources
Best Activities in Sandpoint
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the breathtaking trails around Sandpoint, including scenic routes in the Selkirk and Cabinet Mountains suitable for all skill levels.
Enjoy biking along the scenic routes, including the scenic Bay Trail and the surrounding forested paths offering stunning lake views.
Experience the beauty of Lake Pend Oreille by kayaking or paddleboarding, with rentals available to explore its clear waters.
Try your hand at fishing in Lake Pend Oreille or the surrounding rivers, where you can catch a variety of fish including trout and bass.
In the winter, head to Schweitzer Mountain Resort for skiing and snowboarding, with various trails and breathtaking views.
Observe local wildlife in their natural habitat, including deer, eagles, and other birds, especially in areas like the Boundary County Wildlife Refuge.
Set up camp at one of the local campgrounds or parks, such as Farragut State Park, for a night under the stars surrounded by nature.
Partake in various water sports including jet skiing, wakeboarding, and sailing on Lake Pend Oreille during the warmer months.
Take a scenic drive around Lake Pend Oreille or through the surrounding mountains for stunning views and photo opportunities.
Join local outdoor events and festivals, including the Sandpoint Winter Carnival and the annual ArtWalk, to engage with the community and enjoy the atmosphere.
Tours
Uncover the best of Sandpoint with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Sandpoint
Visit one of these nice places.
A scenic waterfront area offering stunning views of Lake Pend Oreille and the surrounding mountains, perfect for sunrise and sunset photography.
A beautiful beach area that features wide open views of the lake, great for capturing picturesque sunsets and local wildlife.
Offers panoramic views of the Selkirk and Cabinet mountain ranges, as well as Lake Pend Oreille; accessible via hiking in summer or skiing in winter.
This park provides several vantage points along the bay, making it ideal for both nature photography and stunning water reflections.
A 1.6-mile bridge that offers breathtaking views of the lake and surrounding landscape, especially beautiful during the fall foliage.
A quieter spot that provides exceptional views of the lake and mountains, perfect for peaceful photography and capturing nature.
With numerous trails and viewpoints, this park is ideal for photographing diverse landscapes and lake views among the trees.
Food in Sandpoint
Sandpoint Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Freshly caught salmon served grilled or smoked, often accompanied by seasonal vegetables and local grains. A must-try dish at The Dock Restaurant & Bar.
Must-Try!
Fluffy pancakes made with local huckleberries, popular for breakfast. Try them at the must-visit Cafe Zydeco.
Crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, often served as a side or appetizer. Available at almost every local pub, but a standout can be found at the Sandpoint Brewing Company.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Open during the summer months, this vibrant market showcases local produce, artisan bread, and homemade jams. It’s a great place to sample the local flavors and meet the farmers.
An annual event that features various food stalls selling huckleberry-infused treats, from ice cream to pastries, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Sandpoint residents value friendliness and community. A warm smile and a simple 'hello' can go a long way in creating positive interactions.
Sandpoint is known for its natural beauty. Show respect for local parks, lakes, and wilderness areas by following rules, staying on trails, and being mindful of littering.
Engaging with local shops and restaurants is appreciated by the community. Prioritizing local establishments not only supports the economy but also fosters relationships with residents.
Safety
Tipping in Sandpoint
Ensure a smooth experience
In Sandpoint, tipping practices generally align with standard U.S. customs. It is customary to tip service workers such as restaurant staff, bartenders, and delivery drivers. The typical tip ranges from 15% to 20% of the total bill, depending on the quality of service. For exceptional service, patrons may choose to tip more. In other service industries, such as hospitality or personal care, tipping may also be appreciated but can vary based on the service provided.
Payment practices in Sandpoint include a variety of options for consumers. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in restaurants, shops, and services. Many establishments also accept mobile payment options such as Apple Pay and Google Pay. Cash is still a valid form of payment, though it's becoming less common in many places. Additionally, local businesses may have specific payment practices, and some may offer discounts for cash payments. As in many U.S. cities, sales tax is applied to most purchases.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring (March to May) is a beautiful time to visit Sandpoint as the snow begins to melt and flowers bloom. Expect mild temperatures, with highs around 60°F to 70°F. This season is great for hiking, biking, and enjoying the reawakening of nature.
Summer (June to August) is the peak tourist season in Sandpoint, featuring warm temperatures averaging 70°F to 85°F. Expect plenty of outdoor activities such as boating, swimming, hiking, and various festivals. The long days allow for ample time to explore the area's stunning lakes and mountains.
Fall (September to November) showcases stunning autumn colors in the surrounding forests and mountains. Temperatures begin to cool down, ranging from the mid-50s to 70°F early in the season. It’s a great time for photography, hiking, and enjoying harvest festivals.
Winter (December to February) transforms Sandpoint into a winter wonderland, perfect for skiing and snowboarding at nearby resorts. Expect cold temperatures, often below freezing, and heavy snowfall. Cozy lodges and winter sports activities attract visitors looking for a snowy retreat.
Sandpoint at Night
Hiking in Sandpoint
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic hiking trail featuring beautiful views of Lake Pend Oreille and rugged terrain, perfect for adventurous hikers.
An accessible hike that offers stunning panoramas of the surrounding mountains and forests, suitable for all skill levels.
A relatively easy hike along the water's edge with options for both walking and biking, ideal for families.
A moderate hike that meanders through lush forests and offers occasional views of the creek, great for wildlife spotting.
A challenging trail that provides breathtaking views of the Selkirk Mountains, recommended for experienced hikers.
Aiports
How to reach Sandpoint by plane.
The largest airport in the region, located approximately 80 miles southwest of Sandpoint, offering numerous domestic and some international flights.
Located about 150 miles southeast of Sandpoint, this airport serves as a hub for regional domestic flights.
About 120 miles southeast of Sandpoint, this airport provides access to various domestic destinations and some international flights.
Situated around 250 miles southwest of Sandpoint, this airport offers flights to several major cities, mainly on the West Coast.
Located about 150 miles south of Sandpoint, serving both domestic and limited international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group in Sandpoint, typically comprising a significant majority of the population.
The second largest demographic group, representing a growing segment of the community.
A smaller demographic group, including individuals of various Asian descents.
A minority demographic group within Sandpoint, comprising a small percentage of the population.
Another minority group, often with historical ties to the region.
Includes multiple ethnicities and races that do not fall into the aforementioned categories.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular team sport played indoors, with various local leagues and school teams in Sandpoint.
An exciting high school sport, with strong community support and local rivalries.
Increasingly popular, with youth leagues and recreational teams available for various age groups.
A classic American pastime, played by youth leagues and local adult recreational teams.
Not a competitive sport, but extremely popular in Sandpoint due to the scenic trails and outdoor activities.
A beloved leisure activity given Sandpoint's proximity to lakes and rivers, offering excellent fishing spots.
Popular among locals, with numerous trails catering to different skill levels in and around the Sandpoint area.
A winter favorite, with nearby ski resorts like Schweitzer Mountain attracting many enthusiasts.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Sandpoint.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants in Sandpoint offer vegetarian dishes, particularly at Cafe Zydeco and Mamasita’s, where you can find a variety of salads and plant-based meals.
Though not as common, there are vegan-friendly options available, especially at dedicated cafes that focus on health foods, like The Green Spoon.
Several establishments have gluten-free menus, including The Dock Restaurant & Bar and some items at the Sandpoint Brewing Company. Always check with staff for specific requirements.