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North Idaho Winter Driving
Here in beautiful North Idaho we are lucky to have 4 very distinct seasons. Everybody loves the warmth of Summer, the freshness of Spring, the colors of Fall, and the coziness of Winter. With winter comes SNOW and that can mean snowstorms! Driving in the snow and knowing how to be prepared for winter driving can be a bit stressful. Knowing what to do or even where to start preparation can be one of the biggest hurdles. There are simple preparations that can be done to your vehicle and with your family to get through the longest and coldest season. Check out the winter driving preparation tips below to help avoid winter sneaking up on you and those you love.
Preparation Tips for Winter:
Get a Vehicle Winter Maintenance Check-up Before Winter Hits:
- Don’t wait to check your battery, belts, hoses, radiator, lights, brakes, heater/defroster, and wipers
- Tire shops and mechanics are busiest just before and during winter storms, so get your check-up scheduled NOW
Know How to Drive in the Snow and Ice
- Start your vehicle early and scrape your windows each morning before heading out. It will ensure you will have a clear view of the roadway and keep you warm
- Be smooth and slow in steering, breaking, and accelerating. If you move the tires too quickly, they don’t have time to respond and you will end up sliding.
- Drive for the conditions – that means drive slower, accelerate slower, don’t stop if you can avoid it since accelerating back up may be difficult and leave additional room between you and the vehicle in front of you (Keep in mind that the larger the vehicle the longer it will take for it to stop)
- Do not use cruise control because if your car skids or hydroplanes it accelerates to maintain the vehicles speed which will make it very difficult to remain in control of your vehicle.
- Accelerate from a stop in 2nd gear because there is less torque and you’re less likely to spin the tire.
- Know how to handle a hill, do not power up the hill or stop on your way up.
- Drive in the snow pack next to the road to get more traction if the road is too icy
- Remember that all-wheel drive and 4-wheel drive vehicles do not stop faster or steer better on ice
- Slow down when you approach intersections, off-ramps, bridges, or anything that looks like it may be icy or where you will need to stop
- If you end up behind a snowplow, slow down and give the plow extra room
- Chain-up and removal areas are often where people are out of their vehicles so be sure to slow down and be vigilant in those areas
Practice driving in parking lots to learn how to handle your vehicle in a slide and get to know your breaks, that will help tremendously in a real-world situation.
Have Basic Winter Survival Kit & Basic Winter Travel Gear in Your Vehicle:
- You never know what you will run into when you drive away from your home each winter morning, so it’s best to always be prepared. The checklist below will make sure you have everything you need.
What to Keep in Your Car – Checklist
Know What to do in an Emergency:
- If you start to slide, first thing to do is stay calm! Avoid sudden movements. Do not turn your tires quickly, accelerate or break suddenly, it can cause you to lose traction. Look where you want to go and steer that direction. If you start heading off the road, steer towards things that will cause the least amount of damage, such as an empty field or yard.
- Find a roadside assistance company and plan that works for you. Check with your insurance provider and see if it’s comes with your plan or any possible discounts. Don’t forget to renew the policy! Many individuals let it expire and forget about it until it’s needed.
- There may be a situation where you are stranded, maybe your vehicle broke down or you’ve slide off the road, and you need a tow truck or a ride. It’s good to have phone numbers saved in your phone in case you are at a location where you can’t access the internet. Below is a small list of tow companies and ride options in our area:
- Schaffer’s Towing – (208)667-2330
- Reliable Towing – (208)762-5151
- Cole’s Automotive, Mobile Service, & Towing – (208) 83-3582
- Al’s Towing – (208)265-8697
- Coeur d’Alene Cab – (208) 667-9000
- Collins Taxi – (208) 704-0151
Note: Often with ridesharing options, such as Lyft and Uber, you must sign up and create an account to use their service. If you haven’t already, it would be a good idea for sign up for one, so you have another ride option.
Keep Your Fuel Tank Full:
~ Don’t let it fall below half a tank because condensation can form in the empty portion of the gas tank. In cold weather, that condensation will freeze then collect into icy blockages in your lines and make it difficult to start your vehicle.
Plan With Your Family:
~ Create a plan that works well with your family in case an emergency happens, especially if you have younger drivers
~Go over it each year before the snow falls
Stay Informed:
~ Be sure to find your local station for traffic reports and emergency messages. Most local stations in your area will have weather alerts, but if you’re specifically looking for a weather channel, click here to find one in your area.
~ Check the weather frequently so you are prepared for its arrival
Check Your Tires:
~ Make sure your chains fit before the first winter storm
~ Have the correct type of tires for the weather
~ Check tire pressure during cold weather. To do so, first find out what the recommended pressure is. Then after your tires have cooled, press the tire gauge directly into the tire vulvae and hold firmly (You should hear no air coming out). Based on what the gauge says, you could either release some air, add some or leave it. Check it frequently though winter.
Check out this video for additional recommendations and visuals to help with the tips listed above:
Click on the Checklists Below for More Information:
Get Ready for Freezing Temperatures & Snowfall
Get Ready for Winter Weather Driving
AND REMEMBER TO ALWAYS BE SAFE OUT THERE!!
Sources: Washington State Dept of Transportation, Take the Winter by Storm, US Forest Service, Osceola Garage, Your Mechanic
Tindall Top 3 – Micro Climates
You’ve probably heard of micro climates before but don’t think twice about it. But, when we’re talking real estate, it may be something you should consider. Find out below what exactly a micro climate is and why they are important when making your real estate decisions.
What Is A Micro Climate?
A micro climate, by definition, is a small-scale area that experiences a different climate than the surrounding area. The micro climate will have a small variation of temperature, snowfall, rainfall, wind or humidity. Although it’s only a small variation, it is noticeably different. They will typically occur due to features in the landscape such as mountains, elevation, and bodies of water.
One example of a micro climate is a forest. Under the canopy of trees it is typically colder, wetter and has different soil compared to the area surrounding the forest. If it wasn’t for this micro climate, many organisms wouldn’t be able to survive. A second example is a large urban area. There are many factors that affect the micro climate in a city, it is typically warmer due to the building materials that absorb heat and the tall buildings alter the wind flow.
Micro climates are essential to support unique ecosystems all over the world. You have likely noticed a micro climate, even if you didn’t know what it was, as you were walking through a mountain meadow, valley, or marsh. They all work together like patches on a quilt to create the climate on the continent and throughout the entire globe.
Do We Have Them?
We do, in fact, have micro climates all over North Idaho. Because we have a higher elevation, are surrounded by mountain & bodies of water and also have valleys, we have many micro climates in a small area. Back in 2005, 27 different micro climates were identified. The biggest and most noticeable micro climate is a snow belt. This is an area where that’s consistently getting more snow than the surrounding area. We have many snow belts in Northern Idaho. Some are naturally occurring due to the higher elevation and proximity to mountain, whereas others are due to higher population in one area which cause the average temperate to rise.
Why It Matters In Real Estate?
Wouldn’t you want to know if you were purchasing a property that will have consistently longer and colder winters. Or one that will have a higher average temperature? This is important and necessary information to have when deciding on a home purchase or the area you’d like to live. That’s where we come in! We know the area and many of the micro climates, we can steer you in the direction you need to live based on the climate you’d like to live in.
Credit: Science.jrank, Cd’A Press
Valentine’s Day The Right Way
Love is in the air and Valentine’s Day is just around the corner! What are you going to do for your sweetie this year? Whether you want to get them something special or do something special, there’s lots of options. We’re here to help make your day exceptional.
Avoid The Same Old Same Old
Do you tend to get your special someone the same thing each and every year? Maybe some roses and a box of chocolates? This is the year to break that trend and avoid the ordinary!! Check out these great gift ideas that are better than flowers and candy. It’s guaranteed to surprise the one you love:
What a Difference a Day Makes Burlap Print – Personalized Family Dates
This personalized gift is a great way to look back on your relationship. From the day you met, first date, got married, and the birth of your children.
Polaroid Camera
What better way to capture each and every moment as they happen? You can treasure those moments forever. Stick them on your fridge, in a photo album or scrapbook.
Spa Set
Bring the spa to her! With several different scent options, you can treat your love from the comfort of their own home.
Date Night Bucket List
Switch up the usual with this date night bucket list. Lots of creative date night ideas, both fun and intellectual. Avoid the dreaded “What do you want to do tonight?” question.
Your Vows as an Art Print
Remember your special day in this unique way. Pick the best line from your vows and put them on display.
Edible Bouquet
Satisfy their sweet tooth with a twist. So gorgeous they’ll never want to eat it… if they can resist.
You Know Them Best
When it comes right down to it, you know your love the best. This is an excuse to treat them… maybe spoil them with a spa day. Keep them grilling with a BBQ Set. Make them laugh with a silly mug. Keep them cozy with a new blanket & pillow or PJ set. Get them a little buzzed with their favorite wine. Keep things smelling fresh with a candle. Help them feel pretty with personalized jewelry. Even if it’s the classic flowers & chocolates, get them what they want.
A Night on The Town
Want to take your sweetie out on the town? Beautiful Coeur d’Alene and the surrounding area is never short on events, even for the day of love. And also some great date night ideas you could do on Valentine’s Day or any other.
Bourbon & Chocolate Paring – On February 14th at The Bee’s Knees from 4-11:30pm
Wine & Chocolate Pairing – On February 14th at The Culinary Stone from 4:30-6pm
Valentine’s Dinner For Two – On February 12th – 16th at The Coeur d’Alene Casino
Valentine’s Day Cruises – On February 14th or 15th boarding at The Boardwalk Marina, Times Vary
Sock Hop 1950’s Dance – On February 14th at Lake City Center from 6-9pm
Sweethearts Ball – On February 14th at The Best Western from 5pm-12am
Mardis Gras Murder – On Feb. 14th & 15th, 21st & 22nd at The Cd’A Cellars at 6:30pm
Ice Skating at River Front Park in Spokane – Make an entire night of it and have dinner at an elegant restaurant downtown, catch a movie, go ice skating, and then stay at a nice hotel.
Pinot’s Palette Date Night – You paint half a picture on a canvas and your partner paints the other half, making one giant gorgeous picture. Don’t forget the drinks.
Ski/Snowboard Day – Enjoy the slopes at any one of the great resorts near us!
There are tons of romantic restaurants in the Coeur d’Alene & Spokane area. Click here for a great list in Coeur d’Alene! And here for a list in Spokane! And many may offer Valentine’s Day specials!
Romantic Getaways
A getaway with the one you love is needed every now and then. And what better time than Valentine’s Day? Celebrate your love together and enjoy a small vacation. You’ll still be close to home, yet in a world of your own.
Western Pleasure Ranch
Located in gorgeous Sandpoint Idaho, this is a must stay. Visitors get to enjoy astounding views of the surrounding mountain ranges and beautifully constructed log cabins. Don’t forget the horseback riding, outdoor activities, and all the history that comes with it.
Blackwell Hotel
The Blackwell Hotel is located in Downtown Coeur d’Alene. It’s full of elegance, history, and many unique touches. First built in 1904, it still has the original artwork. A very romantic place, a must see!
Coeur d’Alene Resort
Located on the North Shore of Coeur d’Alene Lake, it’s become a top place to stay for visitors. At the resort you will never be bored with accommodations like golfing, spa, pool, restaurants, nightlife and more! Check out their lake front rooms today.
Northern Quest Dinner & Movie Plus Resort & Casino
This is a one of a kind experience! Dinner & a movie, then dessert & drinks after the credits roll. Don’t forget the gambling & luxury rooms to stay in. Everything you need in one place.
Davenport Hotel
Located in Downtown Spokane, Historic Davenport Hotel is right in the center of everything. With gorgeous city views, a romantic design, a spa, and even jetted tubs and fireplaces in some rooms you’ll never want to leave! Great balance of modern amenities and a historic charm.
Aspen Meadows Bed & Breakfast
This little bed & breakfast is located just 10 minutes from downtown. Close but away from all the crows. Very peaceful and quite location which makes it perfect for a romantic getaway.
No matter how you choose to spend your Valentine’s Day, make it memorable and celebrate your love!!
Credit: goodhousekeeping.com & countryliving.com & resortsandlodges.com
Idaho Market Update
The number one question we are asked is, “How is the Market?” Our clients and those thinking about making a move here in North Idaho are always interested. Is it a good time to buy? Sell? Build? Invest?
It’s one of our favorite discussions. Real Estate is dynamic and markets are always changing. There are numerous factors that impact the the Real Estate Market here locally. Digging deeper and staying abreast of the key factors that effect our local market is our job. Considering national and local trends along with evaluating key factors will have an impact on how we answer that question… How is the Market? It all depends on what you want to achieve.
At Windermere, we are fortunate to have our own Chief Economist, Matthew Gardner. He is an amazing resource and here is his report on our Idaho Market.
“In Northern Idaho, Shoshone County experienced a 17.9% increase in sales over the third quarter of 2018. There was a modest increase in Bonner County and a very slight contraction in Kootenai County.” Matthew Gardener
Interested in knowing how this market will effect you in one of North Idaho’s 5 Counties (Kootenai, Shoshone, Bonner, Boundary or Benewah) for buying, selling, investing or building? Connect with us her or find us on one of our social sites and we will be happy to discuss our market and how it will impact your Real Estate goals.
John & Tracey Tindall Professional Agents
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www.johnandtracey.com |
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John & Tracey Professional Agents |
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JohnandtraceyCDA |
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Tracey Tindall |
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Our Blog |
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Keeping it Real Estate with John & Tracey |
Johntindall@windermere.com 208-818-2365
traceytindall@windermere.com 208-818-2365
Windermere, Coeur d’Alene Realty
1000 Northwest Blvd
Coeur d’Alene Idaho 83814
North Idaho Winter Driving Preparation
Here in beautiful North Idaho we are lucky to have 4 very distinct seasons. Everybody loves the warmth of Summer, the freshness of Spring, the colors of Fall, and the coziness of Winter. With winter comes SNOW and that can mean snow storms! Driving in the snow and knowing how to be prepared for winter driving can be a bit stressful. Knowing what to do or even where to start preparation can be one of the biggest hurdles. There are simple preparations that can be done to your vehicle and with your family to get through the longest and coldest season. Check out the winter driving preparation tips below to help avoid winter sneaking up on you and those you love.
Preparation Tips for Winter:
Get a Vehicle Winter Maintenance Check-up Before Winter Hits:
~ Don’t wait to check your battery, belts, hoses, radiator, lights, brakes, heater/defroster and wipers
~ Tire shops and mechanics are busiest just before and during winter storms, so get your check-up scheduled NOW
Know How to Drive in the Snow and Ice
~ Start you vehicle early and scrape your windows each morning before heading out. It will ensure you will have a clear view of the roadway and keep you warm
~ Be smooth and slow in steering, breaking and accelerating. If you move the tires too quickly, they don’t have time to respond and you will end up sliding.
~ Drive for the conditions – that means drive slower, accelerate slower, don’t stop if you can avoid it since accelerating back up may be difficult and leave additional room between you and the vehicle in front of you (Keep in mind that the larger the vehicle the longer it will take for it to stop)
~ Do not use cruise control because if your car skids or hydroplanes it accelerates to maintain the vehicles speed which will make it very difficult to remain in control of your vehicle.
~ Accelerate from a stop in 2nd gear because there is less torque and you’re less likely to spin the tire.
~ Know how to handle a hill, do not power up the hill or stop on your way up.
~ Drive in the snow pack next to the road to get more traction if the road is too icy
~ Remember that all-wheel drive and 4-wheel drive vehicles do not stop faster or steer better on ice
~ Slow down when you approach intersections, off-ramps, bridges or anything that looks like it may be icy or where you will need to stop
~ If you end up behind a snow plow, slow down and give the plow extra room
~ Chain-up and removal areas are often where people are out of their vehicles so be sure to slow down and be vigilant in those areas
Practice driving in parking lots to learn how to handle your vehicle in a slide and get to know your breaks, that will help
tremendously in a real world situation
Have Basic Winter Survival Kit & Basic Winter Travel Gear in Your Vehicle:
~ You never know what you will run into when you drive away from your home each winter morning, so it’s best to always be prepared. The checklist below will make sure you have everything you need.
What to Keep in Your Car – Checklist
Know What to do in an Emergency:
~ If you start to slide, first thing to do is stay calm! Avoid sudden movements. Do not turn your tires quickly, accelerate or break suddenly, it can cause you to loose traction. Look where you want to go and steer that direction. If you start
heading off the road, steer towards things that will cause the least amount of damage, such as an empty field or yard.
~ Find a roadside assistance company and plan that works for you. Check with your insurance provider and see if it’s comes with your plan or any possible discounts. Don’t forget to renew the policy! Many individuals let it expire and forget about it until it’s needed.
~ There may be a situation where you are stranded, maybe your vehicle broke down or you’ve slide off the road, and you need a tow truck or a ride. It’s good to have phone numbers saved in your phone in case you are at a location where you can’t access the internet. Below is a small list of tow companies and ride options in our area:
- Schaffer’s Towing – (208)667-2330
- Reliable Towing – (208)762-5151
- Cole’s Automotive, Mobile Service, & Towing – (208) 83-3582
- Al’s Towing – (208)265-8697
- Coeur d’Alene Cab – (208) 667-9000
- Collins Taxi – (208) 704-0151
Note: Often with ridesharing options, such as Lyft and Uber, you must sign up and create an account to use their service. If you haven’t already, it would be a good idea for sign up for one so you have another ride option.
Keep Your Fuel Tank Full:
~ Don’t let it fall below half a tank because condensation can form in the empty portion of the gas tank. In cold weather, that condensation will freeze then collect into icy blockages in your lines and make it difficult to start your vehicle.
Plan With Your Family:
~ Create a plan that works well with your family in case an emergency happens, especially if you have younger drivers
~ Go over it each year before the snow falls
Stay Informed:
~ Be sure to find your local station for traffic reports and emergency messages. Most local stations in your area will have weather alerts, but if you’re specifically looking for a weather channel, click here to find one in your area.
~ Check the weather frequently so you are prepared for its arrival
Check Your Tires:
~ Make sure your chains fit before the first winter storm
~ Have the correct type of tires for the weather
~ Check tire pressure during cold weather. To do so, first find out what the recommended pressure is. Then after your tires have cooled, press the tire gauge directly into the tire vulvae and hold firmly (You should hear no air coming out). Based on what the gauge says, you could either release some air, add some or leave it. Check it frequently though winter.
Check out this video for additional recommendations and visuals to help with the tips listed above:
Click on the Checklists Below for More Information:
Get Ready for Freezing Temperatures & Snowfall
Get Ready for Winter Weather Driving
AND REMEMBER TO ALWAYS BE SAFE OUT THERE!!
Sources: Washington State Dept of Transportation, Take the Winter by Storm, US Forest Service, Osceola Garage, Your Mechanic
Tindall Faves: Burgers
The all-American classic: the burger. A lakeside town tucked in next to the Rockies is just the place you’d expect to have a great burger scene, and Coeur d’Alene does not disappoint.
Nosworthy’s Hall of Fame
Once again, Nosworthy’s is our favorite all around establishment. They are known for their burgers and they deliver every time. Everything is made to order, handcrafted goodness on a bun. The Mootz Sister and King Kong are some of our favorites. For a keto friendly meal, try the Hoss burger with no bun. It’s excellent! Be sure to come hungry too, as these burgers are quite the meal. We can’t say enough good things about Nosworthy’s. We love the food; we love the people there; and we just can’t get enough of our casual, old school Coeur d’Alene gathering spot!
Hudsons
Hudsons has been around for over 100 years. Their food is tasty and simple; they don’t need any extra flair! Their location in downtown Coeur d’Alene is quaint and comfortable. Their bar allows customers to watch as they hand slice pickles and onions for each burger. A double cheeseburger, taken to-go and eaten in the park is the perfect choice to fulfill those summer burger cravings. Despite being a very burgercentric restaurant, they also offer some great breakfast options and phenomenal pies for those with a sweet tooth! There’s a reason they’ve been voted top 10 across America for burgers…they are simply the best!
Messy Burger
Located in Spirit Lake, Messy Burger has a great take on burgers. They provide big, bold flavors in their small little location on main street. The staff is always friendly and great at giving suggestions for what to order (there are A LOT of choices!) Their Drunken Cowboy and Southwest Mess are some of our favorite burgers there. Grab a burger with fries and fry sauce and take it to go, or dine outside at their outdoor picnic table seating. There’s a reason this place is rated #1 for quick bites in Spirit Lake!
Seasons of CDA
Seasons is one of the most upscale locations on our list. With live music, a large bar, and a beautiful interior, Seasons is firing on all cylinders. Their menu is quite diverse, with burger and non-burger options. All sauces for their burgers are made in house (we recommend their carmelized onion tarter!).Our favorite is the wonderful Kobe beef burger that is excellent with and without the bun. With a convenient location right in the heart of downtown, and fresh local ingredients, it’s a no-brainer!
Photo by: Penny’s Pit Rathdrum
Penny’s Pit
If you are not looking you can drive right by this gem. Penny’s Pit is located in Rathdrum in a little strip mall next to a gas station. Based on the location, you might have some doubts, but trust us; this place is an absolute must-visit. Their burgers, sandwiches and really, anything you might like to order are out of this world. This very tiny establishment, run by a husband and wife team, makes all their food to order with fresh and tasty ingredients. Their portions are massive, so don’t worry about leaving hungry. It’s hard for us to pick favorites because we love everything on the menu, but some of the standouts to us are the Sinatra with gorgonzola cheese, the James Dean, and the Naked Lady (for our keto friends.) You truly can’t go wrong with anything you might order. Don’t miss out on this hidden gem!
How is the North Idaho Market?
How is our local Real Estate Market? What can we expect for our market for the rest of the year? WHat are the indicators to watch ?
Windermere’s Chief Economist, Matthew Gardner shares his insights in the Gardner Report.
ECONOMIC OVERVIEW
Following a trend that started last fall, job growth in Idaho continues to moderate. The addition of 18,400 new jobs year-over-year represents an annual growth rate of 2.5%. This is to be expected at this point in the economic cycle, but it’s worth noting that the current rate of job growth remains well above the national average of 1.6%.
In May, the state unemployment rate was 2.8%, marginally lower than the 2.9% rate of a year ago. The state remains at full employment, though it is interesting to note that the employment rate remained below 3% even as the labor force rose 2%, suggesting that the economy remains very robust as there are still job openings to accommodate new workers.
Tindall Faves: Breakfast
When it comes to starting off your day right, Coeur d’Alene has you covered. Not only do we have a great coffee scene, which we highlighted in a previous Tindall Faves, they also have some incredible breakfast options. All possessing a classic, hometown feel, these breakfast stops are sure to leave you full and happy, without making too much of a dent in your wallet!
Nosworthy’s Hall of Fame
It truly does not get any better than Nosworthy’s. Whether we’re looking for a filling breakfast to start off the day, a burger for lunch, or a big schooner of beer, Nosworthy’s is always our top choice. It has a true home-town feel, with sports memorabilia filling the walls, friendly service, and huge plates to fill up on when we’re really hungry. Their outdoor seating makes it a great place for outdoor breakfast during summer mornings, or a drink in the fresh air at night. Our favorites are the King Kong burger, Schweitzer omelett, and jojo’s with dip. Their diverse menu choices and consistent quality make them a perfect any-time go-to. We can’t recommend them enough!
The Garnet
The garnet is small, quaint and unique. When you go inside, it feels like you’re at grandma’s, and their food follows in their environment. They have a great menu with plenty of options for everyone. One of their shining stars is their homemade bread. With toast accompanying most breakfast options, it’s the perfect compliment to a salty, traditional breakfast, especially with their homemade lemon curd and raspberry jam! Everything they do never fails to impress. Try their classic breakfast or their trout for a rustic and satisfying start to your day!
Jimmy’s Down the Street
There’s a reason Jimmy’s Down the Street has been featured on the popular television show Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives. With a large menu and classic cafe decor, Jimmy’s Down the Street knocks it out of the park in the “busy cafe” category. The staff are always helpful and accommodating, with the owner often visiting each table to ensure the satisfaction of his customers. Their corned beef hash is a must-have, and their gigantic cinnamon rolls are the perfect finish to a big breakfast. Enjoy their ample parking and fast service for a pleasant breakfast or lunch.
Le Peep
Le Peep is a great breakfast option with a unique environment. Their patio overlooks the Spokane River in Riverstone, making it the perfect place to sit outside and look out over the water while enjoying a great meal. We love to boat here during the summer and tie up at their dock. They have a large menu with lots of options, some of our favorites being their mexican breakfast, and any of their scrambles. Their locally sourced ingredients and big portion sizes just make these that much better. They also have some of the best gluten free options in town! If you’re looking for a tasty breakfast with a view, this is the place to visit!
Tindall Faves: Coffee
One of the things Coeur d’Alene does best is coffee. For a smaller town, we boast an impressive lineup of roasters and coffee shops. If you’ve been following us on Instagram at all, you know that one of our favorite sayings is “coffee is for closers.” Because we love it so much, we thought we’d make a list of our favorite places in town to grab a cup! Whether you’re a resident, visitor, or looking to move here, this list should give you a great start!
Evans Brothers Coffee Roasters
Conveniently located in downtown Coeur d’Alene, Evan’s Brothers truly shines as one of the best coffee shops in town. The quality of their coffee beans not only contributes to incredible pour-over quality, but also gives their espresso and lattes a unique and pleasant flavor. They are true coffee enthusiasts. However, their expertise doesn’t stop a coffee roasting. They have created some of the most refreshing summer drinks available, as well as the best turmeric chai latte one could dream of. Their location downtown makes it easy to grab a drink and find a bench at McEuen Park (just a two minute walk away!) to soak up the sun. We love this spot for business meetings or just an environment to get our creative juices flowing. With their pleasant staff, meticulous attention to detail with their coffee, and overall low-key environment, Evans Brothers is one of the best in class. Also visit their dog-friendly Sandpoint location!
Terre Coffee & Bakery
Despite the large amount of coffee chains in Coeur d’Alene, Terre has managed to stand out of the bunch as perhaps the best multi-location shop in town. They have three locations spread throughout Coeur d’Alene and Post Falls, making it very convenient to grab a cup wherever you are around the area. There is ample parking at each of their locations, setting them apart from some of the coffee shops downtown. No matter the location, they have a great system that tracks customer loyalty without the hassle of a punch card or loyalty card. Their friendly staff will serve you with a smile inside the shop, or in their speedy drive through. If their amazing coffee wasn’t enough, they also provide perhaps the best pastry and breakfast options for any coffee shop around. My favorite here is their americano with steamed cream and breakfast bagel sandwich. If you’re looking for something sweet, try their gigantic cinnamon roll and honey maple latte for a great treat!
Coeur d’Alene Coffee Company
Located inside one of downtown’s coolest buildings, CDA Coffee Company has mastered the art of creating a pleasant and productive environment. Within the spacious Innovation Den, CDA Coffee Company is an open and comfortable place to grab a coffee with friends, read a book, or get some work done. Along with the wonderful feel of their shop, they also have an innovative and unique seasonal drink menu, complimented by their in-house coffee roasting. We love their vanilla lattes and fresh-daily pastries (especially their muffins.) They are also conveniently located near some great restaurants, shops, and parks. Whether you’re warming up by the fire place in the winter, or soaking in the sun on their patio in the summer, CDA Coffee Company is a must-visit!
BONUS:
Lean Bean Coffee
In a town filled with espresso stands, it’s tough to stand out. By their incredible consistency and friendly staff, Lean Bean has done just that. We love this place for a quick drive through that has everything you need. It’s our go-to for buying coffee for the office. Not only do they deliver great drinks at breakneck speed, but they also provide delicious breakfast options if you’re having a busy morning and need to grab something fast. They have everything: from zipfizz to granitas to coffee, and number of delicious sandwich options. Our favorite is their Cali Bagel on a jalapeno bagel + bacon. Whenever I need to grab a quick breakfast, it’s my first choice. Their loyalty program is also one of the best around, as they have loyalty cards that track points, rather than punching cards and forgetting or losing them all the time. This place has it all. Catch their happy hour every day from 4-6pm!
Valentine’s Day with Your Special Someone
Love is in the air and Valentine’s Day is just around the corner! What are you going to do for your sweetie this year? Whether you want to get them something special or do something special, there’s lots of options. We’re here to help make your day exceptional.
Avoid The Same Old Same Old
Do you tend to get your special someone the same thing each and every year? Maybe some roses and a box of chocolates? This is the year to break that trend and avoid the ordinary!! Check out these great gift ideas that are better than flowers and candy. It’s guaranteed to surprise the one you love:
What a Difference a Day Makes Burlap Print – Personalized Family Dates
This personalized gift is a great way to look back on your relationship. From the day you met, first date, got married, and the birth of your children.
Polaroid Camera
What better way to capture each and every moment as they happen? You can treasure those moments forever. Stick them on your fridge, in a photo album or scrapbook.
Spa Set
Bring the spa to her! With several different scent options, you can treat your love from the comfort of their own home.
Date Night Bucket List
Switch up the usual with this date night bucket list. Lots of creative date night ideas, both fun and intellectual. Avoid the dreaded “What do you want to do tonight?” question.
Your Vows as an Art Print
Remember your special day in this unique way. Pick the best line from your vows and put them on display.
Edible Bouquet
Satisfy their sweet tooth with a twist. So gorgeous they’ll never want to eat it… if they can resist.
You Know Them Best
When it comes right down to it, you know your love the best. This is an excuse to treat them… maybe spoil them with a spa day. Keep them grilling with a BBQ Set. Make them laugh with a silly mug. Keep them cozy with a new blanket & pillow or PJ set. Get them a little buzzed with their favorite wine. Keep things smelling fresh with a candle. Help them feel pretty with personalized jewelry. Even if it’s the classic flowers & chocolates, get them what they want.
A Night on The Town
Want to take your sweetie out on the town? Beautiful Coeur d’Alene and the surrounding area is never short on events, even for the day of love. And also some great date night ideas you could do on Valentine’s Day or any other.
The Chocolate Affair – On February 8th at the Resort Plaza Shops from 5-8pm
Valentines Bazaar – On February 9th at Garden Plaza in Post Falls from 11am-3pm
Love on the Lake Dinner and Cruises – On February 14th boarding at The Boardwalk Marina at 5pm or 7:30pm
Valentine’s Chocolate Fountain Buffet – On February 14th at the Coeur d’Alene Resort at 4pm
Valentine’s Day Acoustic Dinner – On February 15th at Cruisers Bar & Grill from 7-11pm
Sweetheart’s Ball – On February 15th at The Best Western from 5:30-9:30pm
Ice Skating at River Front Park in Spokane – Make an entire night of it and have dinner at an elegant restaurant downtown, catch a movie, go ice skating, and then stay at a nice hotel.
Pinot’s Palette Date Night – You paint half a picture on a canvas and your partner paints the other half, making one giant gorgeous picture. Don’t forget the drinks.
Ski/Snowboard Day – Enjoy the slopes at any one of the great resorts near us!
There are tons of romantic restaurants in the Coeur d’Alene & Spokane area. Click here for a great list in Coeur d’Alene! And here for a list in Spokane!
Romantic Getaways
A getaway with the one you love is needed every now and then. And what better time than Valentine’s Day? Celebrate your love together and enjoy a small vacation. You’ll still be close to home, yet in a world of your own.
Western Pleasure Ranch
Located in gorgeous Sandpoint Idaho, this is a must stay. Visitors get to enjoy astounding views of the surrounding mountain ranges and beautifully constructed log cabins. Don’t forget the horseback riding, outdoor activities, and all the history that comes with it.
Blackwell Hotel
The Blackwell Hotel is located in Downtown Coeur d’Alene. It’s full of elegance, history, and many unique touches. First built in 1904, it still has the original artwork. A very romantic place, a must see!
Coeur d’Alene Resort
Located on the North Shore of Coeur d’Alene Lake, it’s become a top place to stay for visitors. At the resort you will never be bored with accommodations like golfing, spa, pool, restaurants, nightlife and more! Check out their lake front rooms today.
Northern Quest Dinner & Movie Plus Resort & Casino
This is a one of a kind experience! Dinner & a movie, then dessert & drinks after the credits roll. Don’t forget the gambling & luxury rooms to stay in. Everything you need in one place.
Davenport Hotel
Located in Downtown Spokane, Historic Davenport Hotel is right in the center of everything. With gorgeous city views, a romantic design, a spa, and even jetted tubs and fireplaces in some rooms you’ll never want to leave! Great balance of modern amenities and a historic charm.
Aspen Meadows Bed & Breakfast
This little bed & breakfast is located just 10 minutes from downtown. Close but away from all the crows. Very peaceful and quite location which makes it perfect for a romantic getaway.
No matter how you choose to spend your Valentine’s Day, make it memorable and celebrate your love!!
Credit: goodhousekeeping.com & countryliving.com & resortsandlodges.com
