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Downtown Coeur d'Alene Travel Guide – Coeur d'Alene, Idaho

Downtown Coeur d'Alene Travel Guide – Coeur d'Alene, Idaho

I was born and raised in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, also known as CDA. My parents both went to Coeur d’Alene High School, just like me. My Grandpa built one of the first convenience stores here in town on the downtown main street called Sherman Avenue, as well as one of the first churches. My family maintains deep roots in this little town, and I feel like it was a great place to grow up.

I love writing about my hometown on my little corner of the internet and sharing it with others who have never been. Today I am sharing a Coeur d’Alene travel guide, spilling all the details on how to spend the perfect vacation in downtown Coeur d’Alene. Enjoy!

***UPDATED August 8, 2021***

Where to Stay Near Downtown?

The Coeur d’Alene Resort

First off, where to stay when you visit? This one is a no-brainer. There really is only one great option as far as hotels go – The Coeur d’Alene Resort. The Coeur d’Alene Resort is the pinnacle of downtown Coeur d’Alene. Sitting right on Coeur d’Alene Lake, your stay will involve delightful views with an unrivaled location—centrally located to everything noteworthy in the downtown area.

They recently finished a three-year remodel to the entire resort. The resort now sports cozier mattresses, modern designs, and chic furniture pieces in each room. They’ve up-ed their technology game with high-definition television screens and charging stations for all your devices. There are gas fireplaces and remote controlled drapes. From what it was, they’ve made huge improvements for a pleasant and memorable stay for all of their guests. Book your room here.

There are fun restaurants at the resort that I love dining at when I visit. Beverly’s is great for a fine-dining special occasion type of experience, and don’t miss the gigantic desserts called, “Gooey’s” at Dockside. The ice cream sundaes are Instagram worthy, but I also love the huckleberry cobbler. We love the Whispers Bar for cocktails and late-night appetizers. Don’t forget to hit the shops for some souvenirs like local huckleberry jam or a Coeur d’Alene t-shirt.

Downtown Coeur d'Alene_CityNibbler_Idaho

Besides the indoor pool in the resort that is open to all resort guests, there is also an outdoor pool option available with a small upgrade fee. The outdoor pool is located on the a few miles east on the lake, next to the golf course. During the boating season, you can catch a free ride on the resort’s boat down by the boardwalk (just below Whispers Bar), which will take you over to this area to enjoy the pool or to golf. When you’re done, the boat will take you right back to the boardwalk where you started. In the winter, they heat the pool, making it a large hot tub suitable for the colder temperatures and offer free round trip shuttle service from the resort. When you visit the outdoor pool, you should also enjoy the Floating Green at the Coeur d’Alene Resort Golf Course, and the Floating Green Restaurant for drinks and a gorgeous view (I’d skip the food with better options available, but it could do in a pinch).

Outdoor infinity pool for guests staying at the resort.

Outdoor infinity pool for guests staying at the resort.

A view of the pool from the dock. (Events center located behind it)

A view of the pool from the dock. (Events center located behind it)

The Roosevelt Inn

If you can’t stay at the resort, there is another option. The Roosevelt Inn is a beautiful bed and breakfast fairly close to downtown Coeur d’Alene. (About a 2 min drive or a 7 min walk to the downtown area.) Originally built in 1905, it was an old schoolhouse, and is the oldest schoolhouse that is still standing today in the area. It’s a gorgeous historic building with modern amenities to meet your current needs. Every room is named after a teacher that worked at the school or an important person who impacted the school in some way. Some rooms have a view of Coeur d’Alene Lake. Some rooms are pet friendly. The food includes a welcome dish of bread pudding and glass of rosé, breakfast buffet in the morning, and wine, cheese, and baked goods in the afternoon. It’s a fun option to look into. Book your room here.

105 East Wallace Avenue, Coeur d’Alene, ID 83814

Airbnb Options in CDA

We love staying in Airbnb’s across the country, and even internationally. I think it’s a fun way to see a local living perspective of the area, having a taste of what life would be like there. Coeur d’Alene has several great Airbnb options that are close to the downtown area, completely in walking distance. I wanted to share a couple of my favorites with you.

This place would be a great option for larger families. It is a 3 bedroom, 4 bath house that sleeps 7 people. It is beautiful on the inside. The best part is the location. It is close to Sanders Beach, Tubbs Hill, and McEuen Park. Pets are welcome. There is a washer and dryer. It might be the perfect fit for your family when you visit Coeur d’Alene.

If you have an even larger group, I love this place. It is close to The Coeur d’Alene City Park and beach, just a 2 minute walk away. This house sleeps 10 people and is cozy and inviting inside. It has a washer and dryer. It’s located in a quiet neighborhood where you can relax after a long day of exploring downtown.

This place would be a great pick for a smaller group. It is an apartment on the 3rd floor that has been newly remolded. It is in the perfect location, right next to Sherman Avenue where everything is happening. It’s just a short 5 minute walk to all of the best restaurants and coffee shops downtown. With two bedrooms and two bathrooms, it sleeps 4 people.

New to Airbnb? Click here.

Where to Eat in Downtown CDA?

Budget (and a classic) Option – Hudson’s Hamburgers

And now to the most important part of your trip to Coeur d’Alene. . . THE FOOD! You might want to checkout my other Coeur d’Alene blog posts for all of my favorite food stops in the area like my post on The Best CDA Restaurants, and my post for The Best CDA Coffee, and my post on The Best CDA Brunch.

My recommendation for the best budget option in downtown Coeur d’Alene is Hudson’s Hamburgers. It’s been around since 1907. They still make their burgers the same way that they always have. They don’t want to mess with something good. If you go to Hudson’s, I’d say, dine-in. Order a “single cheese with everything on it.” This translates to a single patty cheeseburger with house-made pickles and onions. If you’re extra hungry, just ask for another! Dining in will give you the full Hudson’s experience – sitting at the bar, watching them flip the burgers, listening to the chatter of the locals, applying the spicy ketchup and mustard (you have to try it!). Getting it to-go just isn’t quite the same, but we’ve certainly done it when we want to eat at a nearby park instead. But don’t expect fries here, they don’t have them! More info here.

207 Sherman Avenue, Coeur d’Alene, ID, 83814

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Mid-Level Option- Crafted

For my mid-level restaurant pick, I’d go with Crafted Tap House and Kitchen. Sitting in the ample outdoor seating area at Crafted is quite a treat, especially on Sundays when they have live music. I love the chill vibe and the friendly service. Their beer selection is one of the best in town. I am not a huge beer drinker, but I’ve really enjoyed the ones that I’ve tried at Crafted. (I’ve also enjoyed the jalapeño cocktail, but the rotating tap list is what shines here.) I love their sweet potato fries with the blue cheese fondue and the house-made pretzel with cheese dipping sauce, although it is more like a scone in texture than a pretzel. Their hummus platter is tasty, and the chicken n’ waffles tower was really fun. Really, I’ve enjoyed everything that I’ve eaten here. It’s a great little spot! More info here.

523 Sherman Avenue, Coeur d’Alene, ID, 83814

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Fine-Dining Option- Beverly’s

For my fine-dining option, I’d go with Beverly’s located inside The Coeur d’Alene Resort. Although they could use a good modern remodel in decor, their food is spot on and worth a trip. They have one of the best wine collections in the Northwest, and their orange rolls are to die for. You’ll be pleasantly surprised with the top-notch service and the outstanding views of Coeur d’Alene Lake. Beverly’s gives you an opportunity to get dressed up a little fancy and enjoy a date night out with someone special. Don’t miss their Sunset Dinner from 5-6 PM where they offer a starter and an entreé for only $19.95. More info here.

115 S. 2nd St., Coeur d’Alene, ID, 83814

Downtown Coeur d'Alene_City Nibbler_Idaho

Best Ice Cream in CDA

And now. . . for dessert, my favorite part of the day. Abi’s Ice Cream is my favorite ice cream shop in downtown Coeur d’Alene. (Panhandle Cone & Coffee is my favorite ice cream shop in CDA, but it isn’t located downtown. If you want something within walking distance from The CDA Resort, Abi’s is your place. Read this post.) Abi’s is locally owned by a family whose daughter is named Abi. They make everything from scratch including their mix-ins. They use local ingredients and state that their ice cream is allergy free. They make a great huckleberry ice cream. The huckleberry is a berry grown throughout the Northwest in the mountains. Some of my other favorite flavors at Abi’s are Honey Lavender and Malted Toffee Chocolate Chunk. More info here.

112 N. 4th St. Coeur d’Alene, ID, 83814

Downtown Coeur d'Alene_City Nibbler_Idaho

Best Coffee in CDA

Downtown Coeur d’Alene has three great coffee shop options. My favorite is Evans Brothers Coffee Roasters. They are a local roasting company and their coffee is my favorite in town. They sell hand pies from Bean & Pie, an amazing add-on with your latte. Second, there is The Coeur d’Alene Coffee Company. They have a huge space and a nice modern vibe. Their drinks are always delicious and well crafted. Thirdly, is Vault. Vault is maybe the most charming of the three, housed in an old bank that was located on Sherman Avenue. They get creative with their drinks and offer an iced coffee flight. Make sure to check out my best coffee shops in CDA post here.

Evans Brothers – 504 E. Sherman Avenue, Coeur d’Alene, ID, 83814

Coeur d’Alene Coffee Company – 418 E. Lakeside Avenue, Coeur d’Alene, ID, 83814

Vault – 324 Sherman Avenue, Coeur d’Alene, ID, 83814

The Coeur d’Alene Coffee Company

The Coeur d’Alene Coffee Company

Coeur d’Alene Bar Scene

Whispers Lounge

Now for all the details of where to get the best cocktails in Coeur d’Alene. I’ve got you covered. I love Whispers. It is located outdoors, in the back of The Coeur d’Alene Resort behind Dockside. They have heat lamps and fires to warm up near the tables. It is really cozy and inviting and a place you’ll want to stay for a while. Nate and I both loved our cocktails that we ordered. The garlic parmesan popcorn was delicious too and a fun addition to our night. We happened to visit when a group of people were launching floating lanterns up into the sky from the dock as well as fireworks. Can you say magical? More info here.

115 S. 2nd St. #2738, Coeur d’Alene, ID, 83814

The Boardwalk Bar

The Boardwalk Bar is open all summer long, weather permitting. The location and views can’t be beat, overlooking Coeur d’Alene Lake. This is a casual place with cocktails and appetizers. You can find a spiked huckleberry lemonade as well as some fun blended tropical drinks, making you feel like you’re on vacation. (While the cocktails are good, the standout here is the location.) This might be a fun place to stop at before or after a long day at the beach. It’s open from noon to dusk everyday. More info here.

Next to the West Entrance of the CDA Resort Floating Boardwalk

LiveForBlu Gallery and Wine Bar

This wine bar on Sherman is very modern and trendy, showcasing the best wine from the Pacific Northwest. They have the best wine flights in town. Enjoy them while you sit back, relax and gaze upon the beautiful travel photography all around the space. They offer live music on Friday nights. The hospitality and love of wine, art, and travel are what make this place really special. More info here. For more information about all the wine bars in Coeur d’Alene, check out this blog post.

505 Sherman Avenue, Coeur d’Alene, ID, 83814

Studio 107

This wine bar features some of the best global wine selections that Coeur d’Alene has to offer. Trish and Tom do a great job selecting quality wines that show off the terrior of where they are from. You can buy wine by the glass or by the bottle, and I promise that whatever you choose, you’ll be pleased. Really great wine here. Studio 107 also sells local art and jewelry. They do live music on Friday nights. More info here.

503 Sherman Avenue, Coeur d’Alene, ID, 83814

Iron Horse and Crickets

While Iron Horse and Crickets are personally not my cup of tea, many people enjoy them. Iron Horse is always hoppin’ on the weekends, and has been since 1972. It’s definitely the busiest bar in town. They are proud of the fact that they, “always get people the drunkest.” You’re bound to meet some fun people when you go and have a memorable evening. More info here. Crickets is another place that’s been around forever and is popular with the younger crowd. They proudly serve oysters on their menu. It’s always busy, especially on the weekends. More info here. While both of these places seem mediocre as far as food goes, they are a fun place to stop for a good time on the weekend with your friends.

Iron Horse- 407 E. Sherman Avenue, Coeur d’Alene, ID, 83814

Crickets- 424 E. Sherman Avenue, Coeur d’Alene, ID, 83814

The Crown and Thistle Pub

My husband and I lived in London for a year when we were first married. The Crown and Thistle reminds me of our days spent in London. It’s a cute little British pub offering all the British food and drinks that you could want. It makes you feel like you stepped into England for the day, and I love it. They have fish n’ chips, bangers and mash, a full English breakfast, and all the English draft ales on tap that you could want. More info here.

107 N. 4th St.

Outdoor CDA Activities

Hike Tubbs Hill

You can’t go to Coeur d’Alene and not hike Tubbs Hill. Tubbs Hill is an easy 2.5 mile hike good for all skill levels. The entrance to the hike is to the left of The Buoy Lakeside Restaurant and just east of the resort. (This restaurant is great for drinks and a view, but I’d say grab lunch elsewhere unless you’re in a pinch.) Hiking Tubbs Hill is a fun family activity. There is a main trail that is easy to follow. There are smaller trails that take you down to the lake or further up the mountain. There are a few little beaches that can be fun to swim at or visit and put your feet in the water. If you’re looking for an adventure, many people jump off the rocks into the lake. There are some smaller jumps and some pretty good size ones. Not all cliffs are suitable, and you should be very careful before you jump. If you don’t hike Tubbs Hills for anything else, hike it for the great views of Coeur d’Alene Lake. You can’t get much prettier than this.

The trail does not return to the starting point. Many people turn around and come back the way they came. However, if you want to finish the trail, it’s easy to make it back to where you started. The other end of the trail is by Sanders Beach and the 11th Street Boat Marina. If you continue to walk west, through the neighborhood a bit, you will land right at The Coeur d’Alene Public Library, McEuen Park, the dog park, and if you walk through the grassy field, you will be right back to where you started again, the beginning of Tubbs Hill.

208 S. 3rd St. Coeur d’Alene, ID 83814

Downtown Coeur d'Alene_CityNibbler_Idaho

Walk the Floating Boardwalk

Walking the boardwalk is another must-do activity when in Coeur d’Alene. Coeur d’Alene has the longest floating boardwalk in the world. The boardwalk is part of The Coeur d’Alene Resort, but it is free and open to anyone, not just resort guests. The boardwalk starts on one side of the resort and ends on the other side. You can walk the whole thing in 15 minutes if you walk quickly, 25 minutes if you stop and take your time. The views from this boardwalk are incredible. You can see Tubbs Hill, the Coeur d’Alene Resort, and Coeur d’Alene Lake.

On Saturdays in the summertime, there is a fun music and bar scene that you don’t want to miss. The Marina Cantina is located right on the boardwalk (the side closest to Tubbs Hill), and is a great place to chill with a drink. There are happy hour specials and live music from 4 - 7 PM. I got the most delicious mango mojito there, while Nate enjoyed a beer. They have a full bar with many options to please any guest. Also, about mid-way through the floating boardwalk there are a bunch of tables and chairs. I love bringing cards or board games to this area, snacks too, and making a night of it. It is the perfect place to hang out while enjoying great views of the lake.

Downtown Coeur d'Alene_CityNibbler_Idaho

Rent a Boat on Coeur d’Alene Lake

It seems like the main reason people visit Coeur d’Alene is to play on the lake. The best way to play on the lake is by going boating. I grew up having a boat and going on friends’ and neighbors’ boats. It’s always a good time. If you come to Coeur d’Alene with your own boat, great! But if you don’t own one but would still like to go boating while your’e in town, look into renting one. There are two options that I recommend for renting a boat on Coeur d’Alene Lake. The first is KJ Water Sports. They offer a variety of ski/wake boat rentals, pontoon boat rentals, jet ski rentals, and they are very professional and easy to work with. Secondly, Resort Boat Rentals through The Coeur d’Alene Resort is another great option. If you’re staying at the resort, this might be an easy option because they are located on the floating boardwalk. They offer Cobalt Sports Boats, pontoon boats, jet skis, and paddle boards.

Rent a Jet Ski on Coeur d’Alene Lake

For jet ski rentals, I’d recommend checking out Jet Ski Island. Their prices are affordable and the owner is really friendly and great to work with. He has a floating business near the CDA marina with jet skis tied to the side. It’s first come first served, so call the day that you are hoping to go out to see if he has availbility. He will come and pick you up near the CDA City Beach and boat you back to his place on the lake. It’s a fun experience and something that I’d totally recommend on your trip to CDA. The CDA Resort also offers jet ski rentals. More info here.

Swim at the Beaches

Coeur d’Alene City Beach

The Coeur d’Alene City Beach has a great beach just to the right of The Coeur d’Alene Resort. This is the “it place” to be in the summertime for all ages. Everything is happening here. Many people would argue, this is the beach where the fun is at. Because it’s such a fun place, it can be very crowded, despite the long stretch of beach. The closer you are to the resort, the more crowded it is, and the further you are from the resort, the less crowded it is. Despite the crowds, it’s a fun place to be and spend the day. You can rent water toys like paddle boats from the nearby dock as well as single and double kayaks, and paddle boards. More info about rentals can be found here. There are currently no lifeguards.

The Dike

Further away from the resort, closer to North Idaho College, you’ll find, “The Dike.” It is called, “The Dike,” because it is the area that connects the lake with the Spokane River. It’s a place that is more popular with the locals than the tourists, often being full of families who have set up “camp” and are hanging out for the entire day. It is typically less crowded than the Coeur d’Alene City Beach. There are pine trees and signs of nature everywhere, giving it more of a camping type of feel. You’ll see families of ducks swimming by. There are small grills for the public to use for barbecuing. Boats are passing by of people who are done boating for the day and are headed home. Like the Coeur d’Alene City Beach, you can also rent water toys through the North Idaho College. They have kayaks, paddle boards, canoes, and sailboats. More info about rentals can be found here. There are no lifeguards at this beach.

Sanders Beach

Sanders Beach is popular with the locals, especially the locals who live in the nearby neighborhood. There are two sections of Sanders Beach. The first area closest to the 11th Street Marina is a pretty small space but closest to downtown and the end of the Tubbs Hill hike. If you head east, you’ll find some private beaches. If you keep heading east, there is another stretch of public beach that is much larger than the first. For either, park along the street and walk down. Sanders Beach as a whole is often less crowded than the beaches closer to the resort. (However recently it seem to be getting more busy.) The lake water at Sanders seems to be cleaner and clearer than other parts of the lake because less people are in it. The downside of Sanders is that the sand is full of sticks, rocks, pine needles and sometimes, unfortunately, pieces of glass. Despite this, it’s still a great place to spend the day, and it definitely has its perks.

(Pro tip: Pick up burgers and milkshakes nearby from Roger’s Ice Cream & Burgers, 1224 Sherman Ave, Coeur d’Alene, ID 83814, and eat at the beach.)

The Coeur d’Alene City Beach

The Coeur d’Alene City Beach

Go Parasailing

At the Coeur d’Alene City Beach area, there is another fun option to do on the water – parasailing at Coeur d’Alene Parasail. You launch and land right from the boat, riding alone or with a friend. I went on my 17th birthday and again in my 20’s, and it was really fun both times. The recommended age is 4 and up. Make a reservation online before you go. You don’t even have to get wet if you don’t want to. The views are incredible, and I’d say it’s worth every penny. Get more info here.

Play at the Parks

The Coeur d’Alene City Park

The Coeur d’Alene City Park is a great stop for people traveling to Coeur d’Alene with kids. I grew up playing here in this gorgeous outdoor space with the giant trees and lush grass. When I was 10 years old or so, the old playground’s rickety equipment was removed and the community came together to build this wooden playground structure. My dad helped build it, and my mom helped prepare lunch for the people who were volunteering. It was a memorable time for me as a child. Now, I enjoy taking my son, Jimmy, here to play.

Besides this playground area, this is a great park for your kids to go and run around. We like to play outdoor games here like hide-and-seek and tag. Volleyball nets are often set up for a fun game with friends. The basketball area is a good size with several different courts. There are picnic tables sprinkled throughout, so we often pack a picnic lunch beforehand and make a day out of it. There is a gazebo area too with grills, but if you don’t get there first you’ll miss out. It’s a popular little place for families and seems to always be occupied.

Downtown Coeur d'Alene_City Nibbler_Idaho

McEuen Park

The McEuen Park playground is another must-stop when visiting Coeur d’Alene with kids. This playground is so colorful and fun, with slides coming out this and that way and things to climb everywhere you turn. There is a smaller toddler play area and lots of swings, including baby swings. We have nicknamedl it, “The Colorful Park.” Jimmy loves playing here. Make sure to make a stop on your trip if you’re traveling with kids!

(Pro tip: Pick up drinks and snacks at Bakery By the Lake, 601 E. Front Avenue STE 104, Coeur d’Alene, ID, 83814, It’s right across the street from the park. They have grab-n-go type things like baked goods, bottled drinks, and coffee. They also serve sandwiches, pizza, and other lunch items.)

(This winter, the city of Coeur d’Alene has announced that they are opening an ice skating rink at McEuen Park!)

Downtown Coeur d'Alene_CityNibbler_Idaho

Play at the Splash Pad

Also in McEuen Park, right next to the colorful playground structure is a splash pad area. This area is perfect for young kids to play at on a hot summer day. There are so many fun structures that spray water at you and dump water on your head. Your child is sure to have a ball when they come here and will also get cooled off! There are bathrooms in the nearby wooden building and a covered patio area with picnic tables.

Downtown Coeur d'Alene_CityNibbler_Idaho

Golf the Floating Green

If you’re a golfer or have ever wanted to try golfing, this is a very popular thing to do while in the area. The Coeur d’Alene Resort Golf Course is a beautiful place to golf, right on Coeur d’Alene Lake. What makes it so unique is that the 14th hole is located right in the middle of the lake. It’s called, The Floating Green. The golfers take a boat out to get to it. I haven’t golfed here myself but know many people who have including close family members. They all rave about it, saying it is one of the most memorable things they have ever done in Coeur d’Alene. Standard course fees during July/August 2020 ranged from $170-$250. You can also book Stay & Play packages, combining staying at the resort and a round of golf for two people which may be less expensive than booking separately. More info here.

900 S. Floating Green Dr. Coeur d’Alene, ID 83814

(Pro Tip: For the best view in CDA, dine at The Floating Green Restaurant near the golf course. While the food and drinks are hit and miss, you can’t get better views! Check out my blog post, “Best Outdoor Dining,” for more info.)

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Go Zip-Lining

Timberline Adventures is the place to go zip-lining in Coeur d’Alene. Their office is located in The Coeur d’Alene Plaza Shops, where you start and finish your adventure. The actual zip-lining takes place 12 miles east, overlooking the Coeur d’Alene Lake. My nephew did this for his birthday and said, “It was really scary but really fun!” They offer four different tours, costing around $100 give or take, depending on what tour you decide on. Get more info here.

210 Sherman Avenue #131, Coeur d’Alene, ID, 83814

Indoor CDA Activities

Shop the Sherman Avenue Shops

Sherman Avenue holds so many memories for me. Stores have come and gone, including my Grandpa’s store, Woolworths. It was located where Sherman Square Park now stands. My mom always has a story to tell as we stroll Sherman, and I’m happy to listen. Sherman Avenue is often changing and growing. It seems like every time I visit, there is something new to explore.

Some of My Favorite Shops –

  • Figpickles Toy Emporium – This is a toy store full of really fun and unique (and some educational) toys for all ages. I’m always surprised what I find when I stop. They have a little four-seater carousel in the back, and you get a free ride with an in-store purchase. Also, if you want a fun CDA souvenir for the kids, make sure to pick-up a copy of Mudgy & Millie, a children’s book that is set in downtown CDA. (Currently, the entrance is only through the Plaza Shops.)

  • Lucky Monkey – This is a cute women’s clothing store. I have found some really cute things here including jewelry and beanies. They have great casual dress options and purses.

  • Mountain Madness Soap Co. – They sell every type of soap imaginable there as well as bath bombs. They even have soaps shaped like the state of Idaho and others made with huckleberries.

  • Coeur d’Alene Clothing – This is the best place for stylish CDA attire. I found a cute hat there that says, “Coeur d’Alene” on the front and have also loved a lot of their tank tops and jewelry options.

  • Christmas at the Lake – This is a store with everything Christmas-themed that you could ever want. Maybe pick up a Coeur d’Alene ornament to hang on your holiday tree this year?

  • Migliore Olive Oil – This store is for all the cooks out there. They have a variety of flavored olive oils and vinegars, as well as other fun foodie finds you’ll want to try.

  • Garment District This is a really cute women’s boutique. I bought a dress here in the past as well as jewelry and hats.

  • Mix It Up – This is an adorable home goods store that you don’t want to miss. I’m always tempted to buy things that I find there but then remember that I have no more room in my suitcase.

  • Coeur d’Alene Corner Store – If you find yourself thirsty or needing a little snack, this is a good place to stop. A small convenience store with common drink options like Coke, Lemonade, or bottled water. It does the trick on a hot summer day.

  • Magpie – This store is adorable and full of fun and unique gifts. They have beautiful jewelry and home decor. You won’t be able to leave here without buying something.

Jimmy riding the carousel at Figpickles.

Jimmy riding the carousel at Figpickles.

Shop the CDA Resort Plaza Shops

If you didn’t get enough shopping in from Sherman Ave, you can also check out the shops in the Coeur d’Alene Resort Plaza. The stores in the plaza seem to be always changing, while keeping a handful of classics. There are some great boutiques as well as some classy souvenir shops. It’s worth a look, and there is air conditioning and bathrooms which is always a plus. Some of these shops are also accessible through Sherman Avenue but many of them are only accessible by going inside of the plaza. More info here.

Ride the Carousel

This carousel isn’t like your typical carousel ride. The fun isn’t just about the ride or about which horse you choose. The Coeur d’Alene carousel has a game built into it, and this game keeps Jimmy totally entertained, wanting to ride it over and over again. At only $2 a ride, I’m all for it. They have a machine that spits out different colored plastic rings. As the children ride by, they grab the rings from the holder and throw it into a bin. It’s a game, and the children love it. But the best part is, if you’re lucky enough to get a golden ring, you get a free ride. But just make sure to hold onto the golden rings and not throw them into the bin! More info here.

439 W. Fort Grounds Dr. Coeur d’Alene, ID 83814

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Solve an Escape Room

If you’re into puzzles and solving riddles, maybe an escape room would be a fun idea for you. Coeur d’Alene has an escape room called Escape Game right on Sherman Ave across the street from Hudson’s Hamburgers. They typically have three or four different games going on at one time, so there are lots of different options to choose from. Only $25 per person. More info here.

202 Sherman Avenue, Coeur d'Alene, ID 83814

I hope you have enjoyed reading about downtown Coeur d’Alene and how to spend time there on your vacation. The downtown area really is special. Leave me a comment below if you have any questions! I’d love to hear from you.

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