3 Days of Family Fun in Coeur d’Alene
Day 1: Lake Adventures & Downtown Exploration
Morning: Tubbs Hill Hike & Swim
Start your day with a scenic 2.2-mile hike around Tubbs Hill, a 165-acre natural area offering panoramic views of Lake Coeur d’Alene. The trail is family-friendly, and along the way, you’ll find small beaches perfect for a refreshing swim or a picnic.
Lunch: Picnic at City Park
Head to City Park, adjacent to Tubbs Hill, for a lakeside picnic. The park features the Fort Sherman Playground, a large wooden play structure shaded by trees, ideal for kids to burn off some energy.
Afternoon: McEuen Park Splash Pad & Carousel Ride
Just a short walk from City Park, McEuen Park offers a splash pad, expansive playground, and open spaces for relaxation. Afterward, take a ride on the historic Coeur d’Alene Carousel, a beautifully restored merry-go-round that delights visitors of all ages.
Evening: Stroll Along the World’s Longest Floating Boardwalk
Conclude your day with a leisurely walk along the Coeur d’Alene Resort’s floating boardwalk, the longest of its kind at 3,300 feet. Enjoy stunning lake views, and perhaps catch a beautiful sunset to end your day.
Estimated Expenses:
- Meals: $100
- Activities: $50
- Total: $150
Day 2: Silverwood Theme Park & Boulder Beach Water Park
All Day: Silverwood Theme Park & Boulder Beach Water Park
Spend the day at Silverwood Theme Park, located about 20 miles north of Coeur d’Alene. As the largest theme and water park in the Northwest, it boasts over 70 rides, including roller coasters and a variety of water slides at the adjacent Boulder Beach Water Park.
Dinner: On-Site Dining or Return to Coeur d’Alene
Enjoy dinner at one of the park’s family-friendly restaurants, or head back to Coeur d’Alene to explore local dining options along Sherman Avenue.
Estimated Expenses:
- Park Admission (Family of 4): $200
- Meals: $100
- Total: $300
Day 3: Pontoon Boating & Historical Exploration
Morning: Pontoon Boat Rental on Lake Coeur d’Alene
Rent a pontoon boat from CDA Pontoons to explore Lake Coeur d’Alene. Options include:
- Deluxe Tritoon Rental: From $400 for 4 hours
- Performance Tritoon Rental: From $450 for 4 hours
- Premium Tritoon Rental: From $550 for 4 hours (cdapontoons.com)
Afternoon: Historic Downtown Walking Tour
Join a 1.5-hour walking tour with a local historian through the streets of Coeur d’Alene and learn about the city’s early history, including the impacts of the mining and lumber industries, steamboats, and hydroplane races on Lake Coeur d’Alene. (Visit Coeur d’Alene)
Evening: Visit the Museum of North Idaho
Explore exhibits showcasing the region’s history, including the Coeur d’Alene Tribe, steamboats, and the timber industry.
Estimated Expenses:
- Pontoon Rental: $450
- Walking Tour: $45
- Museum Admission: $30
- Meals: $100
- Total: $625
Budget Summary
| Item | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Day 1 Activities & Meals | $150 |
| Day 2 Park & Meals | $300 |
| Day 3 Activities & Meals | $625 |
| Total Estimated Expenses | $1,075 |
This itinerary leaves room in your budget for accommodations, additional meals, souvenirs, or other activities you might choose to add. Enjoy your adventurous family getaway in Coeur d’Alene!
