As summer’s warmth gives way to the crisp embrace of autumn, Coeur d’Alene, ID transforms into a vibrant tapestry of colors, inviting locals and visitors alike to revel in the season’s splendor. Seated between stunning mountains and the shimmering shores of Lake Coeur d’Alene, this charming town offers extensive things to do in Coeur d’Alene that celebrate both nature and community.
Whether you’re thinking about renting a house or an apartment in Coeur d’Alene, ID, contemplating buying a home, or just starting to envision your life in this beautiful area, we’ll provide a glimpse of what this town has to offer during the fall season.
1. Have fun at a brews cruise
Start off your Coeur d’Alene bucket list with a brews cruise to have an unforgettable experience that combines an exciting meander around town with the thrill of local craft beers. As you take a ride through downtown, you can sample a variety of brews from nearby breweries, all while soaking in the breathtaking scenery of the surrounding mountains.
Meredith Bennett, blogger at Idaho Wanderer, shares, “I highly recommend booking a tour with Coeur d’Alene Brews Cruise for the perfect weekend outing to unwind, explore, and raise a glass to beautiful Coeur d’Alene, warmly known by locals as CDA.”
Bennett continues, “The guides take you behind the scenes to see the brewing and distilling magic first-hand, all while enjoying delicious tastings. It’s the perfect way to take in the local breweries.”
Whether you’re a beer enthusiast or simply seeking a fun outing, the brews cruise is sure to impress. Plus, the new knowledge you’ll have about the process makes every sip even more enjoyable.
2. Find your annual pumpkin at Grandpa Woody’s Pumpkin Patch
At Grandpa Woody’s Pumpkin Patch, fall feels like stepping back in time to a simpler era. The small family-owned farm is filled with old-fashioned charm, offering visitors a warm and welcoming experience, just like visiting grandma and grandpa’s house.
Enjoy roasting marshmallows over a fire with warm apple cider and visiting the friendly sheep and goats after choosing your pumpkin of the year. Don’t forget to indulge in delicious homemade Greek pastries, while perusing their gift shop that supports the farm animals. If you’re looking for fall things to do in Coeur d’Alene, this farm is a must-visit.
3. Cozy up in Coeur d’Alene Coffee Co.
Coeur d’Alene Coffee Co. is the ideal fall destination for a cup of pumpkin delight. The crisp air carries the aroma of freshly brewed coffee as vibrant autumn leaves paint the landscape outside. Inside, the warm fireplace invites you to sip on a Cider Cloud Brew or a Pumpkin Patch, a tasty chai sweetened with homemade pumpkin sauce.
It’s the perfect spot to unwind with a good book or catch up with loved ones amid the beauty of fall in downtown CDA.
4. Sip the season in
Wine tasting is a delightful journey for the senses, where you can explore a variety of flavors and aromas. Bring the wine to your Idaho home with a tasting class hosted by Sharon Irvine, a certified American Wine Expert and owner of North Idaho Wine Maven.
With options ranging from wine and cheese pairings to exclusive wine dinners with a private chef, there’s no shortage of exciting choices. For both beginners and seasoned enthusiasts, this hands-on experience is guaranteed to enhance your palate and provide an enjoyable fall night in.
5. Stop by the local farmers market
“Fall in Coeur d’Alene is a beautiful time of year, as the long summer days retreat and the days get shorter, we distract ourselves from thinking about the long winter ahead with the Oktoberfest celebrations at restaurants, pubs, and breweries downtown,” adorns Krista Spencer-French at Stylus Wine and Vinyl Bar.
The certified sommelier proceeds to share, “Our local farmers markets have gorgeous produce and baked goods that are perfect for fall meals and celebrations. They also sell beautiful artisanal crafts that are ideal for holiday gift shopping. With the beautiful fall foliage and the lake as a backdrop, CDA is the place to visit in the fall.”
You don’t need a pros and cons list to know that farmers markets are all the rave in these small Idaho towns. Strolling through the vibrant stands, you can find everything from fresh fruits and vegetables to handmade crafts and gourmet treats. The friendly vendors are always eager to share their stories and tips, making it a great opportunity to connect with the community.
6. Ride coasters at Scarywood Theme Park
North Idaho photographer Stephanie Florence at Lens & Light Photography, suggests, “For fans of Halloween and theme parks, Scarywood Theme Park is definitely worth the trip. I love the Timber Terror coaster which you can ride backward in the dark.”
Visiting Scarywood Theme Park during the fall is one of the most exhilarating things to do in Coeur d’Alene. Filled with thrilling rides and spooky attractions, Silverwood Theme Park transforms for Halloween to give guests bone-chilling haunts, hair-raising scare zones, and rides that come alive with eerie twists—it’s the perfect way to get you into that spooky season spirit.
“This year, Scarywood Haunted Nights features ten scare zones and five haunted attractions to keep your blood pumping this Halloween season,” states Tyler Proffet, co-owner of The Scare Factor, an online directory of America’s best haunted houses.
Whether you’re a horror enthusiast or just looking for some spooky fun, Scarywood delivers unforgettable excitement for all. Face your fears and make memories that will haunt you until next season.
7. Bask in the fall foliage
Known as one of the best places to live in Idaho, Coeur d’Alene is a breathtaking spectacle in the fall, with vibrant hues of red, orange, and yellow painting the landscape. “One of the best fall things to do in Coeur d’Alene is hiking Tubbs Hill and seeing the beautiful changing foliage,” recommends Nicola Manning, marketing manager at Barrel 33 Sandpoint.
The fall leaves transform the region into a stunning tapestry of colors, drawing nature lovers and photographers from near and far. As the days grow shorter, the golden light of autumn enhances the landscape, creating picture-perfect moments that capture the essence of this enchanting season.
“You can’t beat the fall season when planning a trip to visit CDA,” shares Jennifer Bailey, events coordinator and social media content creator at Blackwell Boutique Hotel. To fully appreciate and take in the season, Jennifer suggests taking a nice easy walk, hike, or bike ride along Centennial Trail to Higgins Point, a breathtaking natural area with a beautiful view of the shores of Lake Coeur d’Alene.
8. Bike the terrain
Biking during the fall is one of the top things to do in Coeur d’Alene, as the crisp air and bright leaves create an autumnal backdrop. The trails wind through stunning landscapes, with leaves crunching under your tires and the brilliant colors of autumn surrounding you.
Darrell Dlouhy, co-owner of Daft Badger Brewing, Coeur d’Alene’s first brewpub, shares, “One of the top biking trails in the nation, Trail of the Coeur d’Alenes, is a 73-mile bike trail that follows the Coeur d’Alene River which feeds our picturesque lake.”
The breathtaking views are just one of the many perks of biking, as you also have the chance to encounter diverse wildlife along the trails. Dlouhy continues, “More often than not, you might encounter a moose on the trail or in the wetland nearby. On a recent ride, I saw six moose in a 10-mile stretch.”
9. Take a journey off the beaten path
“One of my favorite fall things to do in Coeur d’Alene is to make a trip to Green Bluff, a cooperative of farms located in a nearby town,” proposes Andrea Nagel, a blogger at Stuck in North Idaho, an adventure blog featuring local activities in North Idaho.
“Each year they host the Apple Festival, ripe with apple and pumpkin picking, fresh ciders and pies, and our personal favorite, pumpkin donuts. Nothing puts me in the fall spirit more than the beautiful drive surrounded by fall colors and a festive atmosphere,” shares Nagel. “Each farm offers something different including activities for families (mazes and hayrides) and unique breweries, wineries, and a meadery that supports a local animal rescue.”
Visiting local farms in the Pacific Northwest is a delightful way to experience the region’s rich agricultural heritage. Whether you’re looking for fresh ingredients or a fun family outing, the local farms offer a unique and memorable fall experience.
10. Spot bald eagles
Idaho is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a diverse array of activities year-round. From hiking and biking along scenic trails to kayaking and paddleboarding on beautiful lakes, there’s no shortage of ways to immerse yourself in nature. “Coeur d’Alene is a stunning outdoor haven, surrounded by lush forests, shimmering lakes, and endless hiking trails, offering boating, camping, and scenic beauty at every turn.” Joe Santiago at Real Estate Photography of Coeur d’Alene states.
In late November and early December, this area draws wildlife enthusiasts and photographers from around the globe, providing them a rare chance to observe hundreds of bald eagles in their natural habitat.
“The eagles come here yearly to feast on the spawning bright red Kokanee Salmon. On any given day during this time of fall, you can see hundreds of these majestic birds,” says Jennifer Bailey at Blackwell Boutique Hotel. “One day in December 2023, there was a record of 409 eagles.”
Seeing bald eagles in their natural habitat is truly awe-inspiring, as these majestic birds soar gracefully in the sky. Experiencing this iconic symbol of freedom in the wilderness of Idaho fosters a deep appreciation for wildlife and the importance of preserving their habitats.
11. Experience a farm adventure
Visiting local farms in Coeur d’Alene during the fall and winter festivities is an engaging and exciting way to celebrate the seasons. From pumpkin patches and corn mazes in the autumn to holiday markets featuring fresh produce and handmade gifts in the winter, each farm offers a unique experience filled with seasonal charm. Families can enjoy hayrides, festive decorations, and the joy of picking their own produce.
“There are some great farm things to do in Coeur d’Alene this fall. Prairie Home Farm, Grandpa Woody’s Pumpkin Patch, and Taking Root Flower Farm all have fun fall events taking place,” recommends the Panhandle Farm Corridor Team.
Ready for the holiday season to come a little faster? The Panhandle Farm Corridor Team assures, “Coming up in November is Cable Creek Christmas Tree Farm for Christmas trees and wreaths.” These upcoming events make North Idaho the perfect place to embrace the spirit of the season in the heart of the community.
Fall things to do in Coeur d’Alene to celebrate the season
From picturesque hikes adorned with golden leaves to cozy events that capture the spirit of the season, there’s no shortage of ways to immerse yourself in the beauty of fall. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker, a nature lover, or simply looking for a cozy weekend escape, Coeur d’Alene has more than what Idaho is more commonly known for, it has something special waiting for you that promises an unforgettable experience to capture the essence of the season.
Source: rent.com