Summer is the best time to take a quick little road trip, or just get out and about in your own area. You have the opportunity to appreciate nature a little more, and can learn about local history or relax and get away from the busyness of daily life. Whether you live in or around Coeur d’Alene, ID, or are just visiting, you’ll want to plan your time right to know what places to visit and events to attend while in the area. Read on for our list of the best summer events and activities to have fun in Coeur d’Alene.
Coeur d’Alene National Forest
Getting out and about in the summer in Coeur d’Alene is one of the best things about this area. Even if the family isn’t one for the great outdoors, you can’t miss the majesty of this forest. As one of three forests that make up Idaho Panhandle National Forests, the Coeur d’Alene National Forest is 726,819 acres. Breathe in the fresh air and take a leisurely stroll in the woods or make a weekend and plan a fun camping trip. There are two developed campgrounds: Beauty Lake and Bell Bay.
Camping in Beauty Lake gives both novice and experienced hikers the opportunity to experience Caribou Ridge National Recreation Trail. This moderately challenging 5-mile hike guides you to two breathtaking areas overlooking Lake Coeur d’Alene. Take your camera to catch some great pictures. If you decide on visiting Bell Bay, you’ll find a convenient picnic area with two boat docks. Perfect if you want to row yourself out into the middle of the lake and enjoy the healing powers of being surrounded by water. Other water activities available for visitors are water skiing, tubing, and canoeing.
But if you like to stay grounded, use the opportunity to study some native wildlife and plants. The forest is a great place for birdwatching. Photographers can also try their hand at capturing some birds in flight or nesting.
Kootenai County Farmers’ Market
If you love getting to know an area and want to get a feel for a town, visit a farmers’ market. At the Kootenai County Farmers’ Market, you’ll find tons of fresh produce, flowers, native plants, and a rotating selection of local food produce such as cheese, bread, honey, and jams. The market takes place on Saturdays from May through October at SE Corner Hwy 95 and Prairie Ave. Hayden, ID. On Wednesdays, you’ll find this market in Coeur d’Alene at Sherman Ave. and 5th St.
This market is the perfect spot to get to know the people that keep the town fed and taste the local flavors. You’ll also find local artisans selling their unique and handmade items. There is a vast selection of one-of-a-kind items, from soaps to bracelets, birdhouses, and furniture. For a specific list of fresh items for sale, visit their website or sign up for their newsletter.
You can also check their page for local talent performing during business hours at the market. A visit to the market is a great way to introduce the kids to the value of a healthy diet and supporting the local economy.
St. Joe River Cruise
St. Joe River Cruise is a 6-hour cruise that travels the entire length of Lake Coeur d’Alene to the St. Joe River, the world’s highest navigable river. Price per ticket ranges from $27.25 to $43. They offer a senior discount for cruisers 55 years and older. Children’s ticket prices are $19.25. The boat docks at Independence Point and each luncheon ticket includes a gourmet buffet lunch with a no-host bar for adults, featuring a “build your own Bloody Mary Bar” to keep things light. But if you aren’t hungry, you can just book the scenic cruise as well!
The ride is packed with information about Idaho’s lumber history to excite the history buff in your life. Nature and animal lovers will have the opportunity to watch eagles, osprey, deer, and other native wildlife. The summer is a prime time to enjoy the lush greenery along the banks, warm sunlight reflecting on the water, and the peaceful sounds of nature.
2nd Friday Artwalk in Downtown Coeur d’Alene
Every second Friday of each month, downtown Coeur d’Alene hosts an Artwalk. This free, family-friendly event features both local and nationally acclaimed artists. You and your family can stroll through downtown, and visit supporting galleries, restaurants, and shops. It is the perfect thing to do on a slow summer evening to get some fresh air, exercise, and family bonding.
Riverfront Eats
Riverfront Eats is a Food Truck Series presented by the Greater Spokane Food Truck Association and Riverfront Spokane. Every Tuesday throughout August, you can head down to the Orange Howard St. Bridge and enjoy some local fare. It’s a fun way to have a meal, whether dining alone, on a date, or with family and friends. You can also feel good about eating well, as a portion of the proceeds will go toward free and low-cost programming in Riverfront Park.
There is a rotating array of food trucks scheduled to participate. Some local favorites are Crepe Cafe, Bibby Booth, Mixed Plate, Mary Lou’s, and Big Rod’s. For a detailed schedule of specific participants, check out their website. It runs from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. so you can take advantage and enjoy an afternoon stroll to help you digest.
Our city of Coeur d’Alene is truly the city made for summer. We have a little of everything to keep people and families entertained and help build lasting memories. If you’re in the area and shopping for a new or used car, or need some quick routine maintenance done on your current vehicle, contact us at Wendle Ford. We’ll take care of you and help you make the most of your summer.
We just shared with you some of the best things to do here in the later summer weeks. Did you find our list appealing? Did we miss an event that locals love? If we did, let us know. Leave a message or stop by and we’ll happily add your suggestion to our list.
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