Coeur d’Alene travel guide

Coeur d’Alene travel guide

National Airports

The nearest major airport to Coeur d’Alene, Idaho is Spokane International Airport (GEG) in Spokane, Washington, which is approximately 40 miles away. There is also a smaller airport in Coeur d’Alene, called the Coeur d’Alene Airport-Pappy Boyington Field (COE), which primarily serves general aviation and private aircraft.

Trains in Coeur d’Alene

There is no passenger train service to Coeur d’Alene, Idaho. However, Amtrak’s Empire Builder line passes through the nearby city of Spokane, Washington, which is about 30 miles from Coeur d’Alene. From Spokane, travelers can take a bus or rent a car to reach Coeur d’Alene.

Buses in Coeur d’Alene

Coeur d’Alene has a local bus system called Citylink, which serves the city and nearby areas. It operates seven days a week, with reduced service on weekends and holidays. In addition, there are several intercity bus services that serve Coeur d’Alene, including Greyhound and Trailways, which provide connections to other cities and destinations across the country. Some hotels and resorts in the area also offer shuttle services for their guests.

How to get to Coeur d’Alene

Coeur d’Alene can be reached by car, plane, or bus.

By Car: Coeur d’Alene is located in northern Idaho, about 30 minutes east of Spokane, Washington. It can be accessed via Interstate 90, which runs through the city.

By Plane: The nearest airport to Coeur d’Alene is the Spokane International Airport (GEG), which is located about 40 minutes west of the city. Several airlines, including Alaska Airlines, Delta, Southwest, and United, offer flights to Spokane from major cities across the United States. From the airport, visitors can rent a car, take a taxi, or use a shuttle service to get to Coeur d’Alene.

By Bus: Greyhound and Trailways both offer bus service to Coeur d’Alene from various locations across the United States. The buses arrive and depart from the Coeur d’Alene Transit Center, which is located in downtown Coeur d’Alene.

What is the best time to travel to Coeur d’Alene

The best time to visit Coeur d’Alene is during the summer months from June to August when the weather is warm and ideal for outdoor activities. The lake and nearby mountains also offer a beautiful backdrop for summer activities like hiking, boating, and swimming. However, if you are looking for cheaper accommodation rates and fewer crowds, you may consider visiting during the shoulder seasons of spring (April-May) and fall (September-October).

How to get around Coeur d’Alene

Coeur d’Alene is a relatively small city, and many of its attractions are located within walking distance of each other. However, if you need to travel further or would like to explore the surrounding area, there are several transportation options available:

Car: Renting a car is a popular option for visitors to Coeur d’Alene, as it provides flexibility and allows you to explore at your own pace. There are several car rental companies available at the Spokane International Airport, which is approximately a 40-minute drive from Coeur d’Alene.

Bike: Coeur d’Alene has an extensive network of bike trails, which provide an excellent way to explore the city and its surroundings. There are several bike rental shops located in the downtown area.

Bus: The city of Coeur d’Alene operates a local bus service, which provides transportation to various parts of the city. The bus service is called Citylink and operates Monday through Saturday.

Taxi and ride-sharing services: There are several taxi and ride-sharing services available in Coeur d’Alene, including Uber and Lyft.

Water taxi: Coeur d’Alene Lake Cruises operates a water taxi service, which provides transportation across Lake Coeur d’Alene to various destinations, including the Coeur d’Alene Resort and the Coeur d’Alene Public Golf Course.

Accommodations in Coeur d’Alene

Coeur d’Alene has a variety of accommodations to suit different budgets and preferences. Some popular options include:

Coeur d’Alene Resort: This is a luxurious resort located on the shores of Lake Coeur d’Alene. It offers a spa, golf course, multiple dining options, and various activities such as boating, fishing, and hiking.

Best Western Plus Coeur d’Alene Inn: This is a mid-range hotel located in the heart of downtown Coeur d’Alene. It offers comfortable rooms, a restaurant, a fitness center, and an indoor pool.

Roosevelt Inn: This is a historic bed and breakfast located in a Victorian mansion. It offers cozy rooms, a complimentary breakfast, and a hot tub.

Silver Lake Motel: This is a budget-friendly option located just a few blocks from the lake. It offers clean and comfortable rooms at affordable prices.

Camping: There are several campgrounds in and around Coeur d’Alene, including the Blackwell Island RV Park, Beauty Creek Campground, and the Farragut State Park. These options are great for those who enjoy the outdoors and want to save money on accommodations.