Fun Things to Do in Sandpoint Idaho

You'll enjoy all the classic beach and park activities at City Beach, an 18-acre park surrounded by water on most sides. You can lounge on the beach, play volleyball or horseshoes, picnic with the family, or stroll the path that circles the park.

The Shawnodese, a charming 20-passenger boat built specifically for lake cruising, is available for a variety of different cruises. The afternoon sightseeing cruise covers the northern portion of the lake, giving you the opportunity to view scenery and wildlife and to learn about the natural and human history of the area. Child passengers can enjoy the chance to steer the boat, earning honorary captain certificates. Highly recommended.

Located just a short drive from Sandpoint, Schweitzer Mountain Resort is a fabulous place for year-round recreation. In the winter, you'll enjoy downhill skiing as well as many other snow sports, such as tubing and snowshoeing. Summer brings the opportunity for hiking, geocaching, and mountain biking through majestic Idaho scenery. You can enjoy both fine and casual dining at Schweitzer Village; the Chimney Rock Grill serves pasta dishes, seafood, and steaks, as well as a variety of appetizers, salads, and desserts in a pub-style atmosphere. Village lodging options include White Pine Lodge and Selkirk Lodge.

Sandpoint knows how to set the stage for a good time. The city's annual festivals draw people from miles around. Here are some of Sandpoint's best festivals:

• Sandpoint Winter Carnival - January
• Lost in the 50s - cars and music in May
• Festival at Sandpoint - summer concert series in August

After a day on the water or the mountain, nothing feels better than a soothing massage or a spa pedicure. You'll feel like a new person after a treatment - or two! - at these Sandpoint spas.

• The Spa at Seasons - this lakefront spa will leave you feeling soothed and pampered
• Solstice Well Being Spa and Wellness Center - an oasis located in The Selkirk Lodge on Schweitzer Mountain Ski Resort

Wine lovers can enjoy tasting and tours at the award-winning Pend d'Oreille Winery. In addition to a wine bar, the winery also offers a range of housewares and gift items that will appeal to anyone who embraces wine culture. Down the street, Coldwater Creek Wine Bar, with its comfy couches and overstuffed chairs surrounding a central fireplace, has an atmosphere that makes you want to settle in and stay a while. Coldwater Creek Wine Bar offers over 20 different wines by the glass. The Wine Bar’s menu includes salads, fruit and cheese platters, and paninis.

You'll find several fun and unique shops in downtown Sandpoint, all within a few blocks of one another. Artworks features the works of local and regional artists. The showroom for Northwest Handmade Furniture is filled with rustic log furniture and Northwest-style home furnishings. The Cedar Street Bridge is a public market offering a variety of wares, from garden decor to sweet treats.

You don't have to drive too far from Sandpoint to find additional opportunities for fun. Here are a few suggestions:

Silverwood Theme Park - the largest theme park in the Northwest

Kootenai National Wildlife Refuge - year-round wildlife watching in a variety of habitats

Farragut State Park - hiking, boating, camping, and much more

Golf at StoneRidge Resort - northernmost course on the Idaho Golf Trail

Tour the International Selkirk Loop - scenic byway that passes through North Idaho, Southeast BC, and Northeast Washington