Top 5 Things to do on Lake CDA – The Coeur d’Alene Resort
Lake Coeur d’Alene is a beautiful place, but summertime is when this North Idaho gem really shines. I love traveling back to Coeur d’Alene to see family and friends during any season, but I always make sure I plan a trip in the summer so I get to enjoy Lake Coeur d’Alene in all its glory.
From cruising on the water with Lake Coeur d’Alene Cruises to enjoying the 4th of July festivities, there’s always something fun going on. We’ve compiled our top five things to do on Lake Coeur d’Alene this summer. Whether you’re a visitor looking to make the most of your trip or a local searching for new ways to enjoy your home, you’ll be sure to find something fun and exciting on this list!
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4th of July We can’t talk about summer on Lake Coeur d’Alene without covering one of the biggest bashes of the year! Fourth of July in CDA is a must-attend event — there’s so much going on downtown! Start your day with the Fourth of July City Parade, which begins at 10 a.m. on Sherman Avenue. That evening, head to Steaks N’ Sparklers on the spacious lawn of the Coeur d’Alene Resort, with an All-American Steak Dinner Buffet from 7-9 p.m., including live entertainment from Smash Hit Carnival! Round out the perfect Independence Day with the 4th of July VIP Fireworks Cruise or the 4th of July Family Fireworks Cruise — I promise, it’s the best seat in the house for the fireworks show! No jostling for seats or trying to find the best view. Instead, enjoy a two-hour luxury cruise with premium views and awesome food. Tickets and more information here!
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Enjoy the scenery Get out on the water and enjoy all the Lake Coeur d’Alene has to offer with a cruise! Ships leave daily for a variety of cruises, which are perfect for large groups, families or even small children. I remember going on these cruises with my grandparents as a little girl when they’d come to visit, and it was so fun to show off our beautiful home, and even learn a little bit about the history, geography and gorgeous architecture on the water. Daily cruises include a 90-minute Scenic Cruise, Sunday Brunch Cruise, Sunset Dinner Cruise, Spokane Dinner Cruise and St. Joe River Cruise, as well as special event cruises throughout the summer.
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Get in the water Once the temperatures rise and the sun beats down on North Idaho, one of the best ways to beat the heat is to get in Lake CDA! There are plenty of ways to enjoy the crystal clear waters of our mountain lake. For those who just need to dip their toes, head to the long City Beach north of the Coeur d’Alene Resort. For the more adventurous folks, why not try your hand at stand-up paddle-boarding (known as SUP) or rent a jet ski! Rentals are easily accessible on the lake, and places like the Boardwalk Marina have all the supplies you need for a memorable day.
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Rock out to some of the best bands: One event you won’t want to miss this summer is the Bands on Boats Summer Cruise Series from Lake Coeur d’Alene Cruises. This rockin’ event is coming back for another year, and for good reason! Lake Coeur d’Alene Cruises teams up with renowned area bands to put on epic concerts throughout the summer that are actually ON the water! It’s a great time, great view and great music. This year’s bands include Kelly Hughes Band, Helles Belles, Too Slim and the Traildraggers, Shane Clouse — Stomping Ground, Smash Hit Carnival and Ryan Larsen Band. Personally, I won’t be missing Smash Hit Carnival — they have a great variety of music, and I always get a great workout from dancing the night away! Get your tickets soon because these concerts are bound to sell out.
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Grab a sweet treat:
If you know me at all, you know my love for the Gooeys at Dockside! I have such a sweet spot for these sweet treats. These larger-than-life ice cream sundaes are the perfect way to cool down in the summertime (I recommend the Butterfinger Hot Fudge Gooey!) If ice cream isn’t you’re thing, check out Whispers, the waterfront lounge in the base of the CDA Resort, where you can grab a cold one of your choice and relax on the outdoor patio overlooking the water. Check out some of the other eateries downtown CDA for more fun summer treats.
How do you celebrate summer in Coeur d’Alene? What’s your trick to staying cool and taking it all in? Let me know in the comments, and I’ll be sure to check out your suggestions!
