Coeur d'Alene Idaho

Activities & Recommendations

The city of Coeur d’Alene rests on the northern beach of Lake Coeur d’Alene, thus allowing unique recreational opportunities in the middle of downtown CDA. Lake Coeur d’Alene runs 26 miles in length with 125 miles of shoreline. There is no shortage of things to do in Coeur d’Alene, whether you want to sunbathe on the beach, enjoy local food & drinks, hike the Centennial Trail, raft the Spokane River or listen to live music. If planning a vacation to Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, be sure to work some of these outdoor activities and recommendations into your schedule!

Things to do in Coeur d’Alene

Coeur d’Alene City Park

This City park has a large waterside area with walking trails, a playground, and a sand beach. There is a designated swim area with ample space. Nearby you can find boat tours and rentals available on the lake.

Whitewater Rafting Coeur d'Alene

The vast water volumes of Coeur d’Alene Lake empty into the Spokane River, creating exhilarating whitewater rafting for outdoor enthusiasts. Spokane River Rafting is only 30 minutes from Coeur d’Alene and makes for a great family adventure. Or check out the heart-pumping whitewater rafting on the Clark Fork River, which is just 2 hours away from Coeur d’Alene. You can paddle the most intense whitewater rafting near Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, on either a full or half-day river trip through the Alberton Gorge.

Lake Coeur d'Alene Cruises

A cruise is one of the best ways to boat the lake with friends and family. These cruises offer fun and unique packages depending on the season. For example- Hot Cocoa cruises in the winter and sunset dinner cruises in summer- to name a few. Float by secluded homes and wildlife while learning about Lake Coeur d’Alene’s history.

Hike the Centennial Trail

The North Idaho Centennial trail starts 6 miles east of Coeur d’ Alene. This 24-mile paved trail is great for avid runners, hikers, or just a walk along the shoreside. This trail has an easy access point and leads into Washington, keeping close to the Spokane River for the majority of the route.

Where to Eat in Coeur d’Alene

Our favorite places to dine in Coeur d’Alene after whitewater rafting!

Cedars Floating Restaurant

Nestled where Lake Coeur d’Alene creates the Spokane River is the premier floating restaurant in Idaho. One of the more impressive places to eat in CDA.

Wolf Lodge Inn

Located east of CDA, the Wolf Lodge Steakhouse is an iconic piece of Northern Idaho history. Known for their upscale steaks, wine, local beers, and spirits.

The Best Breweries in Coeur d’Alene

After a day on the river, these are our favorite breweries to visit in Coeur d'Alene!

Daft Badger Brewing

An old painting shop turned brewery offers a creative pub-style menu with a diverse spectrum of beers. This place has a pleasant and relaxed atmosphere to grab a drink.

Trails End Brewery

Trails End brings the simplistic love between craft beers and brick oven pizza—a great local spot for both lunch or dinner plans.

Where to Stay in Coeur d’Alene

Our recommended accommodations after rafting near Coeur d’Alene

Coeur d’Alene Resort

Beautiful & luxurious rooms overlooking Lake CDA. Option for personal in-room fire-pits and balconies. Elegant restaurants and bars conveniently within the resort. Walk right onto the beach and enjoy the instant pleasures of this lake-based town.

The Roosevelt Inn

This Coeur d’Alene bed and breakfast is sure to exceed your expectations. This B&B- founded from an old brick schoolhouse, tells a different story of Coeur d’Alene with each room. Take in all the amenities of downtown CDA within a few minutes’ walk.

Spokane River Whitewater Trip

This route is the most adventurous on the Spokane River! We meet in Peaceful Valley and suit you up with all necessary equipment, including wetsuits when needed. We will instruct you with essential equipment and safety techniques prior to getting you on the river. Before you hit your first set of rapids, the Spokane River provides an abundance of wildlife and plenty of opportunities for swimming and or relaxing. Your guide will navigate you through two Class III rapids.  First up is “Bowl and Pitcher.” This rapid will take you through exciting whitewater while going under Riverside State Park’s wood swinging bridge. Next up is “Devil’s Toenail,” another exciting class III rapid with plenty of splashes and heart-pumping fun! Drinks are provided after the trip. Leave the noise and responsibility behind and allow us to create these live-in-the-moment memories that can be so rare and last a lifetime!

Group Discounts For 10+