Photo credit: Coeur d\’Alene Resort
Bet you never knew the North Pole is in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho! Celebrate this holiday season while in the Eastern Washington/Northern Idaho area with a family Fantasy Cruise to the North Pole, hosted by the Coeur d’Alene Resort.
These 40 minute cruises offer spectacular views of the many floating holiday light displays decorating lovely Lake Coeur d’Alene. The most memorable point in the journey, at least for the kids, lies across the lake, as the boat momentarily pauses by Santa’s workshop, where the big man himself awaits amid a magical snowfall (although in Coeur d’Alene, chances are certainly good for the real deal)! Best of all, in the spirit of the season, children are FREE!
When my family and I attended this cruise several years ago, cookies and hot cocoa were served to all the kids in the boat en route, and holiday music was played. The atmosphere was festive, and my three-year-old had a great time!
Note: Be sure to bundle up! Even a mild night can feel chilly on the lake, and while the boat has an interior section, kids will want to spend time on deck to view the light displays. Expect wait time on the dock as well.
Distance from the nearest interstate: Right off I-90.
Hours: Departures are scheduled at 5:30 pm, 6:30 pm, and 7:30 pm nightly November 27th-January 2nd. (A special fireworks cruise kicks the season off on Nov. 26th!)
Ticket Prices:
Adults – $15.95
Seniors (65 yrs. & over) – $14.95
Children (12 yrs. & under) – Complimentary
Room rates: If you decide to make a trip to ‘Idaho’s North Pole’ an overnight (highly recommended!), The Coeur d’Alene Resort is offering several Fantasy Cruise packages, starting at $155.
Dining options: Our family’s favorite area restaurant is Tito Macaroni’s with their make-your-own-pizza for kids (210 Sherman Ave).
Website: http://www.cdaresort.com/activities/holiday_lights
Directions: Fantasy Cruises depart from the Coeur d’Alene Resort dock, located at the back of the resort (just ask in reception). The resort is located at 115 S. 2nd St., Coeur d’Alene. From I-90, take the Northwest Blvd. exit and drive into the city. Turn left on Sherman Ave. and right on 2nd.
