Lessons Learned From My Trip to Coeur d’Alene, Idaho

There is so much to love about Coeur d’Alene, Idaho. This beautiful city in the panhandle is known for its mesmerizing scenery, resort-like vibe, and the breathtaking Lake Coeur d’Alene. While I have visited CDA dozens of times, I still vividly remember my first visit. It was a simple day trip where we spent time by the lake and at Coeur d’Alene Resort. I remember being in complete awe of the places we visited, but I felt like there was so much I was missing — and I was! If I could redo my first day trip to Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, the following activities would be on my bucket list.

Take a lake cruise

During my first visit, I spent time near the lake, but I’d like to explore more via a lake cruise. Lake Coeur d’Alene Cruises offers all types of public cruises, from seasonal cruises to daily cruises that are only 90 minutes long. Depending on the time of year of my visit, I’d love to take a daily cruise, an eagle-watching cruise, or even a dinner or brunch cruise. There are plenty of options to consider.

Hike Tubb’s Hill

There are several bucket-list-worthy hiking trails in the Coeur d’Alene area, but one trail that I’d recommend tackling first is Tubbs Hill. This is a popular loop trail that is approximately two miles in length. You gain nearly 300 feet in elevation, but the trek is quite easy and family-friendly. This trail is the perfect hike for your first time in CDA, as there is a little bit of everything here — forests, bridges, parks, and exquisite lake views.

Ride the Coeur d’Alene Carousel

If visiting between May and September each year, I strongly recommend you add the Coeur d’Alene Carousel to your itinerary. This historic carousel was located at CDA’s Playland Pier from 1942 to 1974. It was then removed, but in 2017, more than 40 years later, it was restored and opened to delight individuals of all ages once again. This carousel is a 1922 Spillman Junior built in New York.

Drive along the Lake Coeur d’Alene Scenic Byway

Lake Coeur d’Alene Scenic Byway is one of the best scenic drives in northern Idaho — it’s absolutely stunning. This drive is approximately 36 miles and takes you near the lake, forests, and mountains, and gives you the chance to explore some of the natural beauty that draws individuals from all around the country. This scenic drive in the panhandle is also a great way to spot the many animals that call CDA home, such as eagles, deer, elk, and moose.

Visit many of the bakeries throughout the city

One thing I love about CDA is the many bakeries around town. I love baked goods, and I did not take advantage of the many nearby shops during my first visit, which is something I regret. Bakeries like Woops! Bakeshop, Bakery By The Lake, and Back Pocket Bakery are just a few of my recommendations in this lake town.

The above five activities are simple, take very little time, and can easily be incorporated into any day trip in Coeur d’Alene. These are just a few things that make this Idaho city worth a visit. But if you're looking for more things to do in the area, be sure to visit our itinerary planner for additional recommendations!