Your Coeur d’Alene Day Trip: Quick Facts
Ready to escape Spokane for a day of lakeside bliss? Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, is your perfect getaway—a stunning resort town less than an hour’s drive away. Imagine crystal-clear water, a charming downtown packed with unique shops, and scenic trails with breathtaking views. This comprehensive 2025 guide covers everything you need to know for the ultimate Spokane to Coeur d’Alene day trip.
| Factor | Details |
|---|---|
| Distance | ~33 miles (53 km) from Spokane, WA to Coeur d’Alene, ID |
| Driving Time | 35-45 minutes (without traffic) |
| Estimated Day Cost | $50 (Budget) to $150+ (Mid-Range) per person |
| Best Time to Visit | Summer (June-Aug) for lake fun; Fall (Sept-Oct) for fewer crowds & foliage |
How to Get from Spokane to Coeur d’Alene
Getting to your lakeside escape is incredibly easy. The short and scenic drive is by far the most popular and convenient way to make the trip, giving you complete freedom to explore at your own pace.
By Car (The Best Option)
The journey couldn’t be more straightforward. Simply hop on Interstate 90 (I-90) East in Spokane and drive directly to Coeur d’Alene. The drive itself is about 33-35 miles and takes around 35-45 minutes in normal conditions. For downtown access, take one of the city-center exits. Be aware that on sunny summer weekends, traffic can add an extra 15-30 minutes to your travel time, so it’s wise to head out a little early.
Parking in Coeur d’Alene
This is a critical part of planning your summer visit! Parking can be competitive, especially on weekends. Here are your best bets:
- Metered Street Parking: Plentiful throughout downtown but strictly enforced. Most meters accept cards or payment via a mobile app.
- Public Paid Lots: Several lots are available. The large public parking garage near McEuen Park is a fantastic and central option. Expect to pay around $1-2 per hour.
- Pro Tip: On a summer Saturday, try to arrive before 10:00 AM to easily find a convenient parking spot without circling the block.
Other Transportation Options
While driving is ideal, a couple of other options exist. Here’s how they stack up:
| Method | Travel Time | Approx. Cost (One-Way) | Convenience & Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Personal Car | 35-45 mins | ~$5 (Gas) | Highest. Complete freedom and flexibility. The ideal choice for a day trip. |
| Bus (NW Stage Lines) | 45-55 mins | $15 – $25 | Medium. An affordable option, but the fixed and limited schedule may restrict your day’s activities. |
| Rideshare (Uber/Lyft) | 35-45 mins | $50 – $80+ | Low. Very expensive for a round trip. Not recommended unless you’re splitting the cost with a large group. |
Top 5 Things to Do on Your Coeur d’Alene Day Trip
Once you’ve arrived, a world of lakeside adventure awaits. Here are the five must-do activities to make your day trip unforgettable.
-
Stroll or Hike Tubbs Hill
Description: A pristine 120-acre natural park nestled right beside downtown. The main 2.2-mile loop trail hugs the shoreline, offering one stunning lake view after another. It’s the perfect way to stretch your legs and soak in the scenery.
Cost: Free
Time: 1-2 hours
Insider Tip: For the best continuous lake views, walk the main loop counter-clockwise. Keep an eye out for small, secluded beaches accessible from the trail—they are perfect for a quiet moment away from the crowds. -
Explore Lake Coeur d’Alene
Description: The magnificent lake is the city’s heart and soul. The best way to experience it is to get out on the water. Take a 90-minute scenic boat cruise from the Coeur d’Alene Resort, rent a kayak or stand-up paddleboard, or simply go for a swim at a public spot like Sanders Beach.
Cost: Free to view; ~$30-$40 for a cruise; ~$25+/hr for rentals.
Time: 1.5-3 hours
Insider Tip: During the peak summer months of July and August, book your scenic cruise online in advance. The most popular departure times can sell out quickly! -
Relax at McEuen Park
Description: This is not your average city park. McEuen Park is a massive, modern marvel adjacent to the lake and Tubbs Hill. It boasts a huge playground, an impressive splash pad that kids love, a dedicated dog park, and acres of beautiful green lawns perfect for relaxing.
Cost: Free
Time: 1 hour
Insider Tip: This is the ultimate picnic spot. Grab some takeout from a downtown restaurant (like a sandwich from Paul Bunyan) and enjoy your lunch with an unbeatable view of the lake and surrounding mountains. -
Wander Downtown & Sherman Avenue
Description: Sherman Avenue is the vibrant main street of Coeur d’Alene. It’s lined with unique local boutiques, fantastic art galleries, souvenir shops, and inviting restaurants. The whole area has a fun, walkable, resort-town feel that’s a joy to explore.
Cost: Free to browse.
Time: 1-2 hours
Insider Tip: Don’t just stick to Sherman! The side streets, particularly 4th and 5th, are home to more hidden gems, including cozy cafes and local shops. -
Walk or Bike the North Idaho Centennial Trail
Description: This beautiful paved trail traces the shoreline of the Spokane River and Lake Coeur d’Alene. It’s flat, accessible, and perfect for a leisurely walk, a jog, or a bike ride with incredible water views the entire way.
Cost: Free (bike rentals are available nearby for a fee).
Time: 30 mins – 2 hours
Insider Tip: A great, easy-to-access section starts right at McEuen Park. Head west along the waterfront towards the Coeur d’Alene Resort for some of the most scenic and photogenic spots on the trail.
Sample Itinerary: How to Spend a Perfect Day in Coeur d’Alene
Feeling overwhelmed by the options? Follow this simple schedule for a well-rounded and fantastic day trip that hits all the highlights.
- 9:00 AM – 10:30 AM: Morning Hike on Tubbs Hill
Arrive in Coeur d’Alene, secure a good parking spot, and head straight for Tubbs Hill. A morning hike is the best way to experience it before the summer heat and crowds build up. - 10:30 AM – 12:30 PM: Downtown Discovery
After your hike, you’ll be right at the edge of downtown. Spend the next couple of hours wandering along Sherman Avenue, popping into the unique shops and art galleries. - 12:30 PM – 1:30 PM: Lakeside Lunch
Time to refuel! Grab a delicious gastropub meal at Crafted Tap House + Kitchen or experience a local institution with a classic burger from the cash-only Hudson’s Hamburgers. - 1:30 PM – 3:30 PM: Lake Time!
This is your prime window for water activities. Choose your adventure: hop on a 90-minute scenic cruise to learn about the lake or rent a paddleboard for an hour of fun on the water. - 3:30 PM – 5:00 PM: Park Relaxation & Sweet Treat
Wind down your afternoon with a stroll through the beautiful McEuen Park. If you have kids, the splash pad is a must. Afterwards, treat yourself to an ice cream or coffee from a local cafe. - 5:00 PM onwards: Dinner or Drive Home
Either enjoy an early dinner with a view at a waterfront restaurant like Cedars, or begin the easy 40-minute drive back to Spokane, filled with memories of a perfect day.
What to See Between Spokane and Coeur d’Alene?
While the drive on I-90 is short and direct, there are a couple of worthwhile stops if you have extra time and want to explore the route.
- Post Falls, ID: Just before you reach Coeur d’Alene, you can stop at Falls Park. It’s a great spot for a quick 20-minute walk to see the impressive dam and the Spokane River gorge.
- The Centennial Trail Connection: For serious cyclists, the 37-mile North Idaho Centennial Trail technically connects Spokane to Coeur d’Alene. While it’s not feasible for a walking day trip, it’s a fantastic point-to-point ride for those with the right gear and stamina.
- Liberty Lake, WA: This is a lovely suburban community with its own lake and trails, but it’s more of a residential area than a primary tourist stop on the way to Coeur d’Alene.
Where to Eat: Best Restaurants in Coeur d’Alene
From cash-only burger joints to fine dining on the water, CdA’s food scene has something for every taste and budget.
Budget-Friendly ($)
- Hudson’s Hamburgers: An absolute must-try local legend since 1907. The menu is simple (hamburgers, cheeseburgers) and it’s cash-only, but the experience is priceless.
- Paul Bunyan Natural Foods: Perfect for grabbing healthy and delicious deli sandwiches, wraps, and snacks to-go for your picnic in the park.
Mid-Range ($$)
- Crafted Tap House + Kitchen: A lively gastropub with a massive selection of craft beers and incredible gourmet burgers and tacos. A local favorite.
- Fire Artisan Pizza: Serving up creative, delicious wood-fired pizzas in a fun, modern setting right on Sherman Avenue.
Upscale Dining ($$$)
- Beverly’s: Located at the top of The Coeur d’Alene Resort, this is the spot for a special occasion. It offers impeccable service, a world-class wine list, and panoramic lake views.
- Cedars Floating Restaurant: For a truly unique experience, dine at this iconic restaurant that actually floats on Lake Coeur d’Alene. Famous for their steaks and cedar plank salmon.
Planning Your Visit: Insider Tips for 2025
- Arrive Early in Summer: To secure a good parking spot and avoid the biggest crowds, aim to be in Coeur d’Alene by 10 AM, especially on a Saturday in July or August.
- Book Activities in Advance: For boat cruises or water sport rentals during peak season, it’s always a good idea to book online a few days ahead to guarantee your spot.
- Check the Event Calendar: Major events like the Ironman triathlon (June) or Art on the Green (August) can bring huge crowds and road closures. A quick search of the city’s event calendar can save you a headache.
- Stay Hydrated: The summer sun reflecting off the lake can be surprisingly intense. Bring a reusable water bottle and fill it up throughout the day.
- No Time Zone Change: Don’t worry about resetting your watch! Although you are crossing state lines from Washington to Idaho, both Spokane and Coeur d’Alene are in the Pacific Time Zone.
What to Pack for Coeur d’Alene
- Comfortable walking shoes (you’ll be doing a lot of it!)
- Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat
- Swimsuit and a quick-dry towel (if you plan to swim)
- Reusable water bottle
- Camera or smartphone for all the photo ops
- A light jacket or sweater (evenings by the lake can get cool)
- Cash (for places like Hudson’s and some parking meters)
Estimated Day Trip Budget Breakdown
Your day trip can be as affordable or as luxurious as you want it to be. Here’s a sample breakdown per person:
| Expense | Budget Traveler | Mid-Range Traveler |
|---|---|---|
| Transportation (Gas) | $5 | $5 |
| Parking | $0 – $5 | $5 – $15 |
| Food & Drink | $20 – $30 | $50 – $80 |
| Activities | $0 (Free activities) | $30 – $50 (Cruise/Rental) |
| Souvenirs/Misc. | $0 | $20+ |
| TOTAL (per person) | ~$30 – $40 | ~$110 – $170 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the best month to visit Coeur d’Alene?
It depends on what you’re looking for! July and August are the best for hot weather and all lake activities. September is arguably the sweet spot, with beautiful weather, warm water, and fewer crowds. For a magical experience, visit from November to January for The Coeur d’Alene Resort’s incredible Holiday Light Show.
How long is the drive from Spokane to Coeur d’Alene?
The drive is quick and easy, typically taking 35 to 45 minutes to cover the 33 miles on Interstate 90 East.
How do you spend a day in Coeur d’Alene?
A perfect day involves a mix of nature and town life. Start with a morning hike on Tubbs Hill, explore the shops downtown, enjoy a lakeside lunch, and spend the afternoon on the water with a boat cruise or by relaxing at the expansive McEuen Park.
Is Coeur d’Alene walkable?
Absolutely! The core downtown area, McEuen Park, Tubbs Hill, and the main waterfront are all very compact and pedestrian-friendly. Once you park your car for the day, you likely won’t need it again until you’re ready to head home.
TLDR: Your Perfect Coeur d’Alene Day Trip
In a hurry? Here’s the snapshot for an amazing day trip in 2025:
- Getting There: Drive 40 minutes east on I-90 from Spokane. Arrive by 10 AM in summer for easy parking.
- Morning (9AM-12PM): Hike the 2.2-mile loop around Tubbs Hill for incredible lake views.
- Midday (12PM-3PM): Grab lunch downtown (Hudson’s for classic, Crafted for craft beer/burgers) then take a 90-minute scenic boat cruise on the lake.
- Afternoon (3PM-5PM): Wander the shops on Sherman Avenue and relax at McEuen Park.
- Don’t Forget: Sunscreen, comfortable shoes, and your camera!
