Things To Do
in Post Falls

Post Falls is a growing riverfront city in northern Idaho just east of Coeur d'Alene and near Spokane. Set along the Spokane River, it offers a welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere with parks, outdoor recreation, and a relaxed small-town vibe. The town blends growth with easy access to forests, rivers, and nearby cultural amenities.

Outdoor enthusiasts will find hiking, boating, and scenic river views just minutes from the city center.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Exploring Historic Center
morning
:

Start your day with a coffee at a local café nestled in the heart of Post Falls. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll around the historic district, admiring the charming architecture and learning about the town's rich history. Don't forget to stop by the Post Falls Museum to delve deeper into the area's past.

afternoon
:

Enjoy a lunch at a quaint bistro featuring regional cuisine, where you can savor the flavors of the Pacific Northwest. Post-lunch, explore the local shops and boutiques, where you can find unique crafts and souvenirs. Spend some time at the nearby Falls Park, taking in the beautiful views of the Spokane River and the magnificent waterfalls.

evening
:

As the sun sets, head to a local brewery for a tasting of handcrafted beers brewed right in Post Falls. Enjoy a casual dinner with friends or family at a nearby restaurant, where you can indulge in hearty dishes that highlight local ingredients. Conclude your evening with a relaxing walk along the riverfront, enjoying the tranquil sounds of nature.

day 2
Beach and Water Sports
morning
:

Kick off your day with breakfast at a lakeside café, soaking in the stunning views of the water. Afterward, rent a kayak or paddleboard and glide across the waters of the nearby Liberty Lake, feeling the refreshing breeze on your face. Don't miss the opportunity to spot local wildlife as you enjoy your morning on the water.

afternoon
:

After a thrilling morning, take a break for lunch at a picnic area by the beach, surrounded by nature. Later, dive into some water sports like jet skiing or wakeboarding, where you can challenge yourself and have fun on the waves. The afternoon sun creates perfect conditions for a relaxing swim in the crystal-clear waters.

evening
:

As dusk approaches, set up a cozy campfire on the beach and roast some marshmallows for s'mores. Enjoy the warmth of the fire while sharing stories and laughter with your group. Wrap up your day by watching the sunset paint the sky with beautiful colors over the lake, creating a perfect end to a fun-filled day.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$12-15
🥗Meal for two at mid-range restaurant$30-50
🏨Hotel (mid-range, per night)$100-180
🚗Gasoline (per gallon)$3.50-4.50
🛍️Groceries (weekly basic cart)$50-70

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Strong outdoor recreation and river access
  • Friendly, small-town feel with family-friendly amenities
  • Good base for day trips to Coeur d'Alene and Spokane
  • Smaller nightlife scene compared to larger cities
  • Some services and attractions require a short drive to nearby towns
  • Winters can bring snow and ice on roads

Places to Visit in Post Falls

Visit one of these nice places.

Falls Park and Spokane River Overlook

A prime spot to capture the river’s flow and the waterfall with multiple angles from the park and bridges.

Q'emiln Park Overlook

Riverside vantage with greenery and water views; great at sunrise or golden hour.

Centennial Trail Viewpoints

Long riverfront trail sections that offer linear perspectives, bridges, and light along the water.

Downtown Post Falls Waterfront and Bridges

Urban riverfront shots with the falls backdrop and reflections of the city lights at dusk.

Culinary Guide

Food in Post Falls

Post Falls sits in the Inland Northwest’s farm-and-river country, offering hearty American fare, fresh water fish, farm-to-table options, and a growing craft-beer scene. Expect casual spots that emphasize local ingredients and generous portions, with vegetarian options increasingly common across eateries.

Post Falls Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Spokane River Trout

Freshwater trout prepared simply with lemon, herbs, and light butter, often featured in riverside menus.

Must-Try!

Huckleberry Pie

A classic Idaho dessert; many bakeries feature a flaky crust and a tart, forest-fruit filling.

River-Style Salmon Chowder

Creamy chowder with local salmon and river-caught fish, offered at seafood-leaning or coastal-inspired spots.

Beef and Idaho Potato Plates

Hearty, locally sourced beef with Idaho potatoes, common in casual diners and family‑style eateries.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Post Falls Farmers Market

Seasonal market featuring local produce, breads, honey, baked goods, and ready-to-eat treats.

Climate Guide

Weather

Post Falls experiences an Inland Northwest climate with hot, dry summers and cold, snowy winters. Spring and fall are mild with transitional weather. Precipitation is moderate, with most of the yearly rain and snow occurring in the shoulder seasons.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A friendly hello or handshake is common. Be polite and patient in line with service staff and shops.

Public conduct

Maintain a relaxed, friendly demeanor, keep noise reasonable in residential areas, and respect local rules in parks and protected areas.

River safety

Do not stand on or climb structures near the water; follow posted safety signs and wear a life jacket for water activities.

Safety Guide

Safety

General safety is good in town. Stay aware near the river currents, follow road safety rules in winter driving conditions, and lock vehicles in public areas. Have emergency numbers handy (dial 911 for emergencies).

Tipping in Post Falls

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

In restaurants, a standard tip is 15-20% of the bill before tax. For shorter service or takeout, 10-15% is common. Tipping for hotel staff, guides, and taxi drivers is appreciated.

Payment Methods

Cash and credit/debit cards are widely accepted; contactless payments are common in most shops and restaurants.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Warm days with lots of outdoor activities along the Spokane River. Expect afternoon thunderstorms occasionally and plenty of daylight for long golden hours.

Fall

Crisp air and colorful foliage along park trails and river routes. Ideal for sunset photography and fewer crowds.

Winter

Cold with potential snowfall. Outdoor activities are possible with proper gear; indoor venues and cafés provide cozy options.

Spring

Milder temperatures with blooming trees and riverside greenery. Variable weather—pack layers and a light rain jacket.

Nightlife Guide

Post Falls at Night

Post Falls has a modest nightlife scene with a few local bars, pubs, and brewpubs. Expect casual, family-friendly venues with occasional live music on weekends. For larger-scale nightlife or craft breweries, neighboring Coeur d'Alene and downtown Spokane offer more options within a short drive.

Hiking in Post Falls

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Tubbs Hill (Coeur d'Alene area)

Iconic urban hike with lake and city views; a short, popular trail just across the river from Post Falls.

Canfield Mountain Trail

Steeper climb with rewarding ridge-top views near Coeur d'Alene; suitable for more experienced hikers.

Spokane River Centennial Trail (section near Post Falls)

Flat to moderate trail along the river; great for long, scenic walks and easy hiking.

Airports

How to reach Post Falls by plane.

Spokane International Airport (GEG)

Major regional gateway about 25-40 miles west; convenient for domestic and some international flights; easy access via I-90.

Coeur d'Alene/Pappy Boyington Field (COE)

Regional airport near Hayden; serves general aviation and some limited commercial flights; a practical option for fast access to the area.

Getting Around

Walkability

Downtown and riverfront areas are walkable with pleasant river views, but many attractions and parks are spread out requiring short drives or bike/rideshares. The Centennial Trail provides a continuous pedestrian and bike route along the river, while some neighborhoods are more car-dependent.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

White (Caucasian)

Largest demographic group in the area with a mix of family households and retirees.

Hispanic/Latino

A growing community represented in local businesses and cultural events.

Native American / Alaska Native

Smaller percentage with historical ties to the broader inland Northwest region.

Two or more races

Growing population contributing to local diversity.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Skiing and Snowboarding

Nearby Schweitzer Mountain offers winter sports with scenic inland Northwest backdrops.

Water Sports

Boating, kayaking, and fishing on the Spokane River and nearby Lake Coeur d'Alene.

Golf

Several local courses offer relaxing rounds amid forested settings.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic is generally light to moderate, with peak periods on I-90 and US-95 during commute times. Winter driving can be affected by snow and ice; plan extra travel time in snowy conditions. Public transit is available but limited compared to larger cities, so a car is convenient.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Post Falls.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Most places offer vegetarian options such as salads, veggie sandwiches, roasted vegetables, and plant-based mains; ask for without meat stocks and dairy substitutions when needed.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Nearest major healthcare is in Coeur d'Alene at Kootenai Health, with additional urgent care and clinics in Post Falls and nearby communities. For emergencies, Spokane area hospitals are also accessible by car or ambulance.

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