Best Things to Do in Coeur d’Alene: A Local’s Guide to Idaho’s Lakefront Gem
Best Things to Do in Coeur d’Alene: A Local’s Guide to Idaho’s Lakefront Gem
Whether you’re visiting for a weekend getaway, road-tripping through the Inland Northwest, or spending a summer vacation on the lake, Coeur d’Alene offers a little bit of everything—scenic hiking trails, waterfront dining, outdoor adventures, and small-town charm.
After spending time exploring the area, these are the attractions and experiences we recommend most.
Quick Guide to Coeur d’Alene
Best Time to Visit
June through September
Ideal Trip Length
Nearest Airport
Spokane International Airport (about 40 minutes away)
Family Friendly
Hike Tubbs Hill
If you only have time for one activity in Coeur d’Alene, make it Tubbs Hill.
Located right next to downtown, this 165-acre natural area offers several miles of trails with stunning views of Lake Coeur d’Alene. The terrain is relatively easy, making it accessible for most visitors.
What makes Tubbs Hill special is how quickly you can leave the busy downtown area and find yourself surrounded by pine trees, rocky shoreline, and quiet lake coves.
Why We Love It:
Free to visit
Incredible lake views
Great sunrise and sunset photography
Time Needed: 1–2 hours
Family friendly
Walk the World’s Longest Floating Boardwalk
The Coeur d’Alene Resort is home to one of the city’s most famous attractions—the floating boardwalk.
Stretching along the shoreline, the boardwalk offers panoramic lake views and serves as a great place for an evening stroll.
On calm summer mornings, the reflections on the lake make for some fantastic photographs.
Pro Tip: Visit early in the morning before crowds arrive
Explore Downtown Coeur d’Alene
The Coeur d’Alene Resort is home to one of the city’s most famous attractions—the floating boardwalk.
Stretching along the shoreline, the boardwalk offers panoramic lake views and serves as a great place for an evening stroll.
On calm summer mornings, the reflections on the lake make for some fantastic photographs.
Some of our favorite stops include:
- Local coffee shops
- Boutique gift stores
- Ice cream shops
- Waterfront parks
Relax at City Park
Located directly on the lake, City Park is one of the most popular gathering places in town.
Features include:
- Sandy swimming beach
- Picnic areas
- Playground
- Walking paths
- Volleyball courts
This is an excellent spot for families or anyone wanting a relaxing afternoon by the water.
Visit McEuen Park
- Large playground
- Dog park
- Open green space
- Lake views
- Public art
This is an excellent spot for families or anyone wanting a relaxing afternoon by the water.
It’s a perfect place to unwind after exploring downtown.
Drive the Lake Coeur d’Alene Scenic Byway
One of the most underrated experiences in the area is simply getting in the car and exploring.
The scenic drive around portions of Lake Coeur d’Alene offers:
- Lake overlooks
- Small communities
- Photography opportunities
- Access to hiking trails
Allow at least half a day if you plan to stop frequently.
Discover Mineral Ridge National Recreation Trail
For hikers looking for something beyond Tubbs Hill, Mineral Ridge offers one of the best viewpoints in North Idaho.
The trail climbs above Beauty Bay and rewards hikers with panoramic views of the lake and surrounding mountains.
Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: Approximately 3 miles roundtrip
Spend a Day on the Water
Summer in Coeur d’Alene revolves around the lake.
Popular activities include
- Kayaking
- Paddleboarding
- Boat rentals
- Jet skiing
- Fishing
Even a few hours on the water can become the highlight of your trip.
Watch Sunset from Independence Point
Few locations offer a better sunset experience than Independence Point.
Located between City Park and the Coeur d’Alene Resort, this small peninsula provides unobstructed lake views and often becomes a gathering place for photographers and visitors as the sun sets.
Bring your camera—you’ll likely leave with some of your favorite photos from the trip.
Where to Stay in Coeur d’Alene
Visitors have plenty of lodging options ranging from luxury resorts to budget-friendly hotels.
- Coeur d’Alene Resort
- One Lakeside
- The Roosevelt Inn
- Hampton Inn & Suites
- Best Western Plus Coeur d’Alene Inn
For RV travelers, several excellent campgrounds and RV parks are located within a short drive of downtown.
Final Thoughts
Coeur d’Alene manages to combine outdoor adventure, waterfront beauty, and small-town charm in a way few destinations can.
Whether you’re hiking Tubbs Hill, exploring downtown, cruising the lake, or simply relaxing on the beach, it’s easy to see why so many visitors fall in love with this corner of North Idaho.
If you’re planning your first visit, start with the attractions above—you’ll experience the very best that Coeur d’Alene has to offer.