Budget-Friendly Fun in Coeur d’Alene
Coeur d’Alene: the name conjures images of sparkling blue waters, majestic mountains, and luxurious resorts. But don’t let the “resort town” reputation fool you! A vacation in Coeur d’Alene doesn’t have to mean emptying your wallet. In fact, one of the biggest draws of this magnificent lake town is its abundance of natural beauty. The Inland Northwest is renowned for a plethora of outdoor activities, many of which are completely free or incredibly affordable. From scenic hiking trails and pristine beaches to charming neighborhoods and vibrant events, Coeur d’Alene Idaho offers a wealth of experiences that won’t break the bank.
So if you’re looking for a memorable getaway that combines stunning scenery, outdoor adventure, and affordability, look for further than North Idaho. In this article, we’ll guide you through some of the best budget-friendly activities and ways to discover the magic of this beautiful region without overspending.
Embrace the Great Outdoors
Coeur d’Alene is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Here are just a few examples of affordable activities to get you started on planning your next excursion:
Explore the Centennial Trail: This paved trail stretches for miles along the Spokane River, offering stunning views of the lake and mountains. The whole thing totals nearly 1,000 miles, but our slice of it is still perfect for jogging, biking, or even just leisurely strolling with the family. And the best part? It’s completely free!
Hike to Your Heart’s Content: Lace up your hiking boots, grab some jerky, and hit the trails! Coeur d’Alene boasts a variety of hiking options for all different skill levels, from mellow loops to challenging climbs. Tubbs Hill and Mineral Ridge are two of the most popular choices in town, offering breathtaking views and a chance to achieve natural solitude so close to town. If you’re feeling more adventurous, head to the mountains for even more opportunities to really get away from it all. There really is nothing like clean mountain air.
Go Jump in a Lake: We’ve got several, actually! Cool off and enjoy the refreshing waters of Lake Coeur d’Alene, Hayden Lake, or Lake Pend Oreille. With several public beaches and access points all throughout, swimming is a free and fun way to take advantage of what the area has to offer. And let’s be honest, a good old swimmin’ hole will beat a public pool any day of the week.
Pitch a Tent: For a truly budget-friendly getaway, especially one that’s all about nature, you can’t go wrong with one of our many campgrounds. Lost Moose in Cataldo, Beauty Creek in Wolf Lodge, Mokins Bay by Hayden Lake, and the many campgrounds of Farragut State Park, there are tons of great choices! Don’t want to stray too far from the comforts of modern living? That’s okay, since there are RV parks or campgrounds with RV hookups scattered all across Kootenai County, too.
Explore the City’s Charm
After you’ve reconnected with nature, the city of Coeur d’Alene has plenty of options to entice you back to civilization. But there’s more to the city than just its towering resort with its luxury spas and fine dining. Here are some ideas to soak up the city’s atmosphere, without having to crack open the piggy bank:
Wander Through the Farmer’s Market: The Coeur d’Alene Farmers’ Market is a staple of the city, and a must-visit spot in the summer months. There are actually several different ones to choose from. The 5th Street Market is downtown every Wednesday in the summer, and is probably the most well known. But there are also the Kootenai County Farmers’ Markets, Wednesdays at Riverstone on Main Street and Saturdays on Prairie Avenue in Hayden. They are all vibrant hubs of local produce, crafts, and delicious food. The markets are a great way to support local businesses, seek out unique treasures, and enjoy the lively atmosphere.
Immerse Yourself in Art on the Green: If you’re visiting the first weekend of August, don’t miss Art on the Green, an outdoor art festival that showcases the work of talented local artists. With free admission, it’s a fantastic chance to take in the art scene, enjoy live music and entertainment, and maybe even pick up a fun souvenir or two. What’s more, Art on the Green is also paired with its sister event, the Coeur d’Alene Street Fair. From the grass of City Park, keep heading east towards the Coeur d’Alene Resort and you’ll find that all of Sherman Avenue is taken over by this absolutely massive annual event. Fair warning though: with so much to see and do and taste and smell… Just because admission is free doesn’t mean it’ll be easy to keep this one under budget! So much cool stuff!!
Discover Local Art and Culture: Coeur d’Alene has a thriving arts and culture scene year-round though, so don’t be too disappointed if you miss the big fairs. With numerous galleries like Emerge and The Art Spirit, and museums like the Museum of North Idaho and The Northwest Tattoo Museum, there is still plenty to see all year long. Many of these venues offer low or no cost admission, and some hold their own events throughout the year, making them another affordable way to experience the city’s cultural side.
And this is just a taste of what the city has to offer! There’s an every-growing list of events new and old, so keep an eye on the community calendar at https://www.cdainsider.com/calendar and see what’s happening when you’re in town. From concerts in the park and the seasonal ice rink to fireworks-filled holiday celebrations and community festivals, there’s always something new happening in town!
Savor the Flavor
Coeur d’Alene’s culinary scene is as diverse and vibrant as it’s sublime surroundings. But the upscale offerings aren’t your only options, and just because the price tag might be lower doesn’t mean the quality has to suffer. Here are some suggestions of ways to fill your stomach without emptying your wallet:
Local Gems: It’s no secret that the Gem State is full of hidden gems of all kinds, including local cafes and eateries that serve up mouthwatering meals at reasonable prices. These hidden gems offer cozy atmospheres, friendly service, and menus that show off the region’s local tastes. Check out places like Franklin’s Hoagies for breakfast and lunch, Hudson’s Hamburgers famous burgers, Rustic for pizza by the slice, or Juniors Cocina Mexicana for the best Mexican food around! And all of them deliver great food at great prices.
Food Truck Feast: Coeur d’Alene has a booming food truck scene, offering up a wide selection of styles and flavors. From tacos and burgers to gourmet grilled cheese and sushi (you’ve got to eat at Raw Dead Fish. Seriously, that’s the name!), there’s something to tempt every palate. Food trucks can often be a more affordable option to traditional sit-down restaurants, they can provide a fun and convenient casual dining experience.
Picnic Perfection: Just hit up one of the farmers’ markets and can’t wait to get back to eat your finds? Then don’t wait! Our parks, beaches, and waterfront areas all make for great alfresco eating opportunities. Soak up the sun and the scenery, pack a lunch or just make it take out, and relax while eating outside.
Live Music and Entertainment: Ready to enjoy a night out without the hefty price tag? Lots of our restaurants and bars offer live music and entertainment, often with no cover charge. You can enjoy the music scene or play some games while savoring delicious food and drinks in a lively atmosphere. Check out these local favorites for your nightlife entertainment:
The Crown & Thistle - pub trivia and beer choir
The Cork & Tap - live music
Crafted Tap House - turtle races. No, really.
The Blue Shell - pinball, arcade machines, and a library of board games
With its wide range of affordable choices, Coeur d’Alene offers something for every taste and budget. Whether you’re craving a quick bite or planning a meal for a special occasion, you’re sure to find something to satisfy your hunger and your bank account.
Affordable Fun for Everyone!
As you can see, Coeur d’Alene isn’t just for the high-rollers and the most extravagant travelers. Our beautiful region offers myriad affordable activities, attractions, and experiences that ensure everyone can have a good time without having to stretch the finances.
Are you looking for outdoor adventure? cultural immersion? Tranquil escape? You’re in luck, because Coeur d’Alene can do it all. So, what are you waiting for? Go ride a bike, jump in the lake, stroll downtown, have a drink, and sleep under the stars. The Inland Northwest is waiting for you, and the lake is calling your name!
For more information on things to do in Coeur d’Alene, visit the official website:
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