Need a scenic mountain town escape with lakeside views, skiing, and artsy charm? Head to Sandpoint! Tucked into northern Idaho on the shores of Lake Pend Oreille and surrounded by the Selkirk Mountains, Sandpoint is an outdoor lover’s paradise with a welcoming downtown. Whether you’re boating, hiking, skiing, or catching live music, Sandpoint offers four-season adventure with small-town heart.
Sandpoint, ID Highlights:
- For Adventurous Travelers: Ski or snowboard at Schweitzer Mountain Resort – One of the Northwest’s top ski destinations, just 20 minutes from town.
- For History Buffs: Visit the Bonner County History Museum – Learn about the region’s logging, railroad, and indigenous heritage in a beautiful park setting.
- For Shoppers: Explore boutiques in downtown Sandpoint – Find outdoor gear, local art, books, and unique gifts in walkable downtown shops.
- For Couples: Take a sunset cruise on Lake Pend Oreille – Romantic views of the lake and surrounding mountains from the water.
- For Families: Play at City Beach Park – Sand beach, picnic areas, and calm waters perfect for swimming and lakeside fun.
Best Time to Visit Sandpoint, ID
The best time to visit Sandpoint depends on your interests: summer (June–September) is ideal for lake fun, hiking, and festivals, while winter (December–March) offers skiing and snowboarding at Schweitzer. Fall and spring bring fewer crowds and beautiful scenery for quiet getaways.
How to Get to Sandpoint, ID
- If you are traveling by car: Sandpoint is located on US-95 and US-2, about 1.5 hours northeast of Spokane, WA, and 45 minutes north of Coeur d’Alene.
- By Train: Amtrak’s Empire Builder stops in Sandpoint, connecting to Seattle, Portland, Minneapolis, and Chicago.
- By Air: Spokane International Airport (GEG) is the nearest major airport, about 80 miles southwest of Sandpoint.
Where to Stay in Sandpoint, ID
- Schweitzer Mountain Resort Lodging – Ideal for winter visitors with ski-in/ski-out options and summer mountain activities.
- Best Western Edgewater Resort – Lakeside location within walking distance of downtown shops and City Beach.
- Talcum Inn – Cozy and locally owned, this charming inn offers comfortable rooms and a homey feel near downtown.
Best Things to Do in Sandpoint, ID
1. Schweitzer Mountain Resort
Enjoy exciting skiing in winter or explore affordable summer mountain adventures.
Nestled in the Selkirk Mountains of Bonner County, the Schweitzer Mountain Resort is a popular ski resort in northern Idaho. The resort’s ski area covers 2,900 acres and the 92 named runs are serviced by 10 lifts. Everything you need for an enjoyable skiing vacation is right on your doorstep including a variety of accommodation and dining options. Winter activities include down-hill skiing, Nordic skiing, tubing, terrain parks and floodlit twilight skiing. In summer visitors come to Schweitzer Mountain Resort to enjoy scenic lift rides, mountain biking, hiking, trail-running and horse-back riding. The resort offers ski lessons for all ages.
Schweitzer Mountain Resort, 10000 Schweitzer Mountain Road, Sandpoint, ID 83864, Phone: 208-263-9555
2. Panida Theatre
Discover unusual indie films or enjoy exciting live performances in a historic venue.
The historic Panida Theatre first opened its doors to the public in 1927, featuring Vaudeville shows and movies. At that time the theatre was the finest in Idaho and famous for its Spanish Mission interior and lush furnishings and fittings. Local audiences were treated to a succession of comedy shows, local dance performances, performance theatre and music concerts. After major renovations in 1985, the theater continues to be a hub for cultural activities in Sandpoint. Visitors are encouraged to check the theater website for details of up-coming productions and make a point of attending a performance or event while they are visiting Sandpoint.
Panida Theatre, 300 N. 1st Ave, Sandpoint, ID 83864, Phone: 208-263-9191
Activities and Attractions for Couples and Singles:
3. Bonner County Historical Museum
Explore affordable exhibits and discover unusual local history in an easy setting.
Located in Lakeview Park, the Bonner Historical Society and Museum has been collecting, protecting and showcasing local Bonner County history for nearly 50 years. The museum started off with just a small collection of rocks and fossils but over the years the county residents have donated thousands of historic artifacts to the museum. Visitors are invited to come an learn about the early days in Bonner County by spending an hour or two exploring the remarkable collections which now number in excess of 1 million artifacts. These are divided into permanent and temporary exhibits, all of which demonstrate the life and times of early Bonner County settlers and the Native Americans who preceded them.
Bonner County Historical Museum, 611 S. Ella Avenue, Sandpoint, ID 83864, Phone: 208-263-2344
4. Pend D’Oreille Winery
Savor romantic wine tastings or enjoy affordable flights in a cozy atmosphere.
At Pend D’Oreille Winery, the immensely satisfying job of producing fine wines rests in the capable hands of Sandpoint native Jim Bopp. Jim is dedicated to producing a range of outstanding wines which can hold their own with the best in the country. The grapes used in the production of his exciting range of wines are sourced from prestigious vineyards all across the northwest. The winery currently produces varietals including Chardonnay, Syrah, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, and Pinot Gris. You can taste a selection of their wines at their downtown tasting room where regular events are hosted. If you think you have what it takes you can join their Blend Your Own Bistro party each April.
Pend D’Oreille Winery, 301 Cedar Street, Sandpoint, ID 83864, Phone: 208-265-8545
Where to Eat in Sandpoint, ID
- Trinity at City Beach – American bistro with lakefront dining and a great weekend brunch.
- Baxters on Cedar – Cozy downtown restaurant offering steak, seafood, and creative comfort food.
- Evans Brothers Coffee – Beloved local roaster with artisan espresso drinks and a laid-back vibe.
If you are interested in local events:
- Festival at Sandpoint (August) – Outdoor music festival featuring national artists in a stunning lakeside setting.
- Winter Carnival (February) – Celebrates winter with a parade, live music, parties, and outdoor activities.
- Sandpoint Farmers Market (May–October) – Lively market with fresh food, handmade goods, and community spirit.
If you are looking for unique day trips within 30 Minutes of Sandpoint, Idaho:
- Hope (20–25 min) – Quiet lakeside village known for boating, dining, and views of the Cabinet Mountains.
- Dover (10–15 min) – Charming riverside community with marina, walking trails, and peaceful waterfront lodging.
- Pack River Flats Wildlife Area (30 min) – Birdwatching, fishing, and hiking in a quiet, scenic preserve.
- Lake Pend Oreille Scenic Byway – Enjoy panoramic drives and pull-off points around one of Idaho’s largest and deepest lakes.
- Round Lake State Park (25–30 min) – Small, quiet park with forest trails, canoe rentals, and tranquil fishing spots.
Frequently Asked Questions:
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Where is Sandpoint located?
- Sandpoint is located in the extreme north of Idaho, close to the Canadian border.
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What outdoor activities can visitors enjoy in Sandpoint?
- The town provides easy access to a large variety of fun outdoor activities all year round.
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What winter activities are available in Sandpoint?
- During the winter, visitors flock to the Schweitzer Mountain Resort to enjoy all kinds of winter sports.
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What summer activities can visitors enjoy in Sandpoint?
- In summer, the snowy wonderland transforms into an excellent recreation area for hiking, biking, and scenic lift rides.
- Hikers can explore the Mineral Point Trail 82 or the Serenity Lee Trail, and families can relax on the Sand Point City Beach.
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What historical sites can visitors explore in Sandpoint?
- You can learn all about the early history of the area at the Bonner County Historical Museum.
- Take a trip down memory lane at the historic Panida Theatre.
At a Glance:
Best Time to Visit
Places to Stay
Tips for Visiting
Spring (March-May) – Mild temperatures and blooming wildflowers.
Best Western Edgewater Resort – A cozy lakeside stay with stunning views.
Explore Lake Pend Oreille – Go boating, fishing, or take a scenic cruise.
Summer (June-August) – Warm and ideal for outdoor adventures.
Lodge at Sandpoint – A charming boutique lodge with lakefront access.
Relax at City Beach – Enjoy sandy shores, swimming, and picnicking by the lake.
Fall (September-November) – Crisp air and stunning autumn foliage.
Schweitzer Mountain Resort – A perfect spot for mountain getaways and outdoor activities.
Hike the Mickinnick Trail – A rewarding hike with breathtaking views of Sandpoint.
Winter (December-February) – Snowy and great for winter sports.
Talus Rock Retreat – A secluded, luxurious retreat for a cozy winter stay.
Go skiing at Schweitzer Mountain – Enjoy top-rated slopes and stunning mountain scenery.
Plan Your Trip