Downtown Coeur d'Alene Winter and Holiday 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 winter travel guide, spilling all the details on how to spend the perfect vacation in downtown Coeur d’Alene during the winter months. It’s a magical place to be during the holidays. Enjoy!
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. In the winter months, I love relaxing by the large fireplace in the hotel lobby. It’s the perfect place to warm up and relax.
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.
CDA Resort Outdoor Hot Tub Experience
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 a few miles east on the lake, next to the golf course. During the winter months, you can catch a free ride on the resort’s shuttle bus which will take you over to this area to enjoy the infinity pool, which is turned into a hot tub during the winter months. This is a really fun experience that you won’t want to miss. When you visit the outdoor pool, you should also see the famous and iconic floating green at the Coeur d’Alene Resort Golf Course, and go to 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.
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.
CDA Thanksgiving Weekend
Downtown Coeur d’Alene during Thanksgiving weekend is magical. I have yet to find a city that does it as well! Here is a list of the special events that happen that weekend that you need to know about!
Holiday Parade on Sherman Ave.
The day after Thanksgiving, there is a holiday parade on Sherman Avenue in downtown CDA. The parade is full of local entries, some more exciting than others, but the holiday cheer is strong and the feeling of a close knit community to prevalent. Santa makes his debut and often throws candy to the excited children lining the street. There are carolers and holiday songs playing in your ears and many opportunities for hot cocoa. It’s usually freezing (bring those hand warmers!) and really crowded, but I’d say it’s still worth it. Come early to get front row parade spots! The parade begins at 5 PM.
Lighting Ceremony and Fireworks
After the parade finishes, head towards The Coeur d’Alene Resort for the holiday lighting ceremony, featuring over 1 million lights. Join in with the classic holiday carol singing of “Silent Night,” and “Jingle Bells,” while you hold a candle provided by the resort. There is a countdown to welcome in the Christmas season, everyone counting down together in sync. At the end of the countdown, the whole downtown area of CDA is illuminated with holiday lights. It’s a magical moment! Sherman Ave, the resort, and all around the lake— all are completely decked out with lights. There is a giant lit up wreath on the resort with the current year written big across the front. The end of the ceremony is the highlight of the whole evening, with a fireworks show and holiday carols. The lightening ceremony begins at 6 PM right after the parade.
Festival of Trees
inside of the resort is the Festival of Trees. It usually runs a few days after Thanksgiving and is an event that you don’t want to miss. (When I was young, you’d often see me performing at this event in my school choir or dance team!) This event is the largest fundraiser for the Kootenai Health Foundation and has been running for years. The trees are gorgeous and so creatively decorated, each more unique than the next. Santa is there for the children to enjoy. There isn’t a hired photographer, but you are free to take pictures with him as you please with your phone. And let me say, he is one of the best Santa Clause’s that I’ve ever encountered. His looks and personality is spot on. He really plays the role well! (This year, 2021, the Festival of Trees is going to be virtual, due to the rising cases of COVID in the area.)
The Coeur d’Alene Resort
Walk the Boardwalk
Want to see the lights a little closer? Head down and see the holiday lights along the floating boardwalk of the CDA Resort. It’s a nice walk and the views are fantastic. Make sure to grab a hot cocoa before you go! You can grab one inside of the plaza shops at the small coffee nook, or head down Sherman to one of the better coffee shops, like Evans Brothers, or Vault. There is also a place in the resort that offers Starbucks coffee right across from the lobby fireplace. It’s not the best coffee ever but it does the trick when you need something to warm you up.
Dockside
Make a reservation at Dockside for dessert, a fabulous way to end the night! Right now they have a special Thanksgiving ice cream sundae called, “The Gobbler,” with salted caramel ice cream, oatmeal cookie chunks, caramel sauce, and a turkey shaped cookie on top. In December, watch for their specialty Christmas ice cream sundae. If you are traveling with kids, they are sure to love, “The Gooey Monster” sundae, a Cookie Monster themed dessert that is massive and easily shareable between 2-3 people. My personal all round favorite is the peanut butter cup sundae, but I also have a special love for the huckleberry cobbler.
115 S. 2nd St.
(Pro Tip: My family has often gotten a room at the resort on the night after Thanksgiving. We request a room that is facing the lighting ceremony with a balcony off of the main room. We watch all the festivities from our balcony without fighting the crowds. It’s a fun way to spend the evening and a great way to create family holiday memories with a little less chaos and a little more warmth.)
CDA Resort Floating Boardwalk, setting up for the holiday lights.
The Holiday Season
Holiday Lake Cruises
Don’t miss the largest on the water holiday light display in America! They offer lake cruises, “Journey to the North Pole,” that you can do with the whole family. I’ve done this for many years and it is always a great time. I’d highly recommend doing it at least once! The boat cruises around the lake with great views of the holiday light display around the resort and CDA lake. It takes you across the lake over to Santa’s toy workshop, where you can see Santa Clause and Mrs. Clause themselves. If you’re lucky, they just might read your child’s name off the nice list out loud over the big speaker. (Parents, be sure to tell them your child’s name ahead of time to create this magical moment for your child!) And when you’re there, delight in a holiday firework show that is sure to be a hit. They sell hot cocoa and other snacks on the boat, but feel free to bring your own food as well. Dress warm and bring your camera! Price- Adults $26.50, Children $11.50
The CDA Lake cruise boats.
Resort Holiday Special
The Coeur d’Alene Resort is the perfect place to stay during the holidays. The decorations are magical and so well done. You’ll be feeling the Christmas spirit everywhere you turn. They offer a fun family deal for the holidays called, “Santa’s Family Getaway.” Call the resort for more details! Here is what is included:
2 adult tickets to the Holiday Lake Cruise
$30 breakfast credit at Dockside or via room service
Cookies and milk delivered to your hotel room by Santa’s elves
An invite to the evening children’s holiday fireside story time in the CDA Resort lobby
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
Mid-Level Option- Crafted
For my mid-level restaurant pick, I’d go with Crafted Tap House and Kitchen. Crafted has these large igloos setup in their outside dining area during the winter months that you can sit inside when you dine. Each igloo is warmed with a fireplace making it a cozy and fun winter dining experience. If you have a large group, you get an igloo all to yourself, otherwise expect to share an igloo with another party or two. I love the chill vibe and the friendly service. Their beer selection is one of the best in town. I’ve really enjoyed the beer 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
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
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 winter flavors at Abi’s are peppermint and golden chai. More info here.
112 N. 4th St. Coeur d’Alene, ID, 83814
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 with a cozy warm fireplace. 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, especially during the holidays with seasonal specialty lattes like, “The Grinch.” 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
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 (they have an indoor section too!) 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. Starting during the holidays, they have igloos that you can sit in and enjoy your food and drinks. They are decorated with red and green, looking festive and full of holiday cheer. Each party gets their own individual igloo (they are smaller and more intimate than at Crafted). Reservations are a must and they are quite pricy, especially on the weekends. There is also a minimum bill charge required. I’ve loved all the drinks that i’ve gotten here. The garlic parmesan popcorn was delicious too and a fun addition to our night. More info here.
115 S. 2nd St. #2738, Coeur d’Alene, ID, 83814
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.
Indoor CDA Winter 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.) They do free gift wrapping!
Lucky Monkey – This is a cute women’s clothing store. I have found some really nice things here including jewelry and beanies. They have great casual dress options and purses. Maybe get some Christmas shopping done here?
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. They offer seasonal soaps too for the holidays.
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. If you go anywhere on Sherman during the holidays, you need to make sure to stop here. Maybe pick up a Coeur d’Alene ornament to hang on your 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. Another perfect gift idea.
Garment District – This is a really cute women’s boutique. I bought a dress here in the past as well as jewelry and hats. Get those last minute gifts for the women in your life here!
Mix It Up – This is an adorable home goods store that you don’t want to miss. They have a bit of everything here.
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.
The toy 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 are bathrooms inside which is always helpful. Even if you don’t want to shop, at least go inside the shops to see the holiday decor. It is decorated with Christmas trees and lights, making it a fun place to roam and look around. 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.
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
Outdoor CDA Winter Activities-
Go Ice Skating
An ice skating rink opened this year at McEuen Park in downtown CDA called CDA on Ice. I couldn’t be more thrilled about this! This is a great family friendly activity to do when you’re visiting for the winter months. The rink even lights up! Each skate session is 90 minutes long and includes skate rentals and lockers. The session times are: 10:00 AM, 11:45 AM 1:30 PM, 3:15 PM, 5:00 PM, 6:45 PM and 8:30 PM. Ages 3-12 are $12 and 13 and up are $16. There is a snack shack, a DJ booth, private heated igloos, and party spaces for special occasions. I think this is the perfect addition to my hometown, making it even more magical in the winter. More info here.
504 E. Front St.
Walk the Floating Boardwalk
Like a mentioned earlier, walking the boardwalk is another must-do activity when in Coeur d’Alene no matter the weather. 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. Grab some coffee or hot cocoa before you go to keep you warm!
Go Skiing and Snowboarding
Wanting to do some skiing or snowboarding while your’e in the area? The best place for winter sports is definitely Schweitzer in Sandpoint, Idaho. It is about an hour drive north from Coeur d’Alene, maybe a bit more in the winter. They offer classes for ages 6 and up. More info here. A second option to checkout for winter sports is Silver Mountain Resort in Kellogg, Idaho, but it is much smaller and generally not as good as Schweitzer in my opinion.
10,000 Schweitzer Mountain Rd., Sandpoint, ID
See the Eagles
You can easily see bald eagles around CDA lake during December and January. We often go towards the east side of the lake near Beauty Bay to see them. Wolf Lodge Bay is a good spot too. You can watch them hunting for fish in the lake or sitting in their giant nests in the pine trees. Whatever you catch them doing, they are fascinating to watch. Bring a pair of binoculars to safely see them up close. They are such beautiful creatures, especially behind a snow dusted setting.
I hope you have enjoyed reading about downtown Coeur d’Alene in the winter and how to spend time there on your vacation. The downtown area really is special, especially during the holidays. Leave me a comment below if you have any questions! I’d love to hear from you.
