An exciting guide to must-visit destinations for activities and entertainment
By Elizabeth Ray
North Idaho into Spokane, Washington, are brimming with exciting destinations and activities perfect for families, adventure seekers, and those looking to explore the unique charm of the Inland Northwest — whether you’re a local or visitor. From thrilling theme parks and serene mountain retreats to engaging educational centers and adventurous zip line tours, this region offers an array of experiences to suit every interest. Take a peek at some of the most fun and engaging destinations you can find throughout North Idaho and Spokane.
Axe Force One
For a unique and exciting experience, visit Axe Force One in Spokane. This indoor axe-throwing venue provides a safe and fun environment where visitors can learn the art of axe throwing. Trained coaches are on hand to teach proper techniques and ensure safety. Axe Force One is perfect for group events, date nights, or simply a fun outing with friends. The venue also offers a variety of games and challenges to keep the experience engaging and competitive.
Blue Zoo Aquarium
Spokane’s Blue Zoo Aquarium offers an interactive and educational experience for all ages. The aquarium features a wide variety of marine life, including sharks, stingrays and colorful fish. Visitors can enjoy hands-on experiences such as touching stingrays and feeding fish. Blue Zoo also hosts educational programs and presentations, making it a great destination for learning about marine ecosystems and conservation. With its engaging exhibits and family friendly atmosphere, Blue Zoo Aquarium provides a delightful day of exploration and discovery.
Escape Game Coeur d'Alene
Escape Game Coeur d'Alene offers an immersive and challenging experience for those who enjoy puzzles and teamwork. This escape room venue features a variety of themed rooms, each with its own unique storyline and set of puzzles to solve. Participants must work together to find clues, solve riddles and escape the room within a set time limit. Escape Game Coeur d'Alene is perfect for team-building events, family outings and group activities. The intricate designs and compelling narratives ensure an engaging and memorable adventure for all participants.
Flight 509 Family Entertainment Center
Fun takes flight at Spokane’s newest attraction, Flight 509 Family Entertainment Center. Opened in spring of 2024, it’s quickly become a popular destination for indoor fun and adventure. From laser tag and bumper cars to the ninja warrior course and ropes course, mini bowling, arcade, VR and more, Flight 509 is perfect for visitors of all ages, providing a safe and exhilarating environment for active play.
Flying Squirrel Trampoline Park
Flying Squirrel Trampoline Park in Spokane is an indoor entertainment center featuring wall-to-wall trampolines, foam pits and various obstacle courses. This family friendly venue offers activities such as dodgeball, basketball dunking and freestyle jumping. For younger children, there is a designated Kid’s Zone with smaller trampolines and soft play areas. Flying Squirrel also hosts birthday parties and special events, providing a fun and active environment for kids and adults alike.
Mobius Discovery Center
Located in downtown Spokane, the Mobius Discovery Center is a hands-on science museum designed to engage and educate children of all ages. The center features interactive exhibits that cover topics such as physics, biology and engineering, encouraging kids to explore and learn through play. Highlights include a water table, a climbing wall, and a variety of science demonstrations. The Mobius Discovery Center also offers educational programs and workshops, making it an excellent destination for school field trips and family visits.
Northern Quest Resort & Casino and Summer Concert Series
Northern Quest Resort & Casino in Airway Heights, just outside Spokane, is more than just a gaming destination. This luxurious resort offers a wide range of amenities including a full-service spa, world-class dining options, and a variety of entertainment venues. During the summer, the resort hosts an impressive concert series featuring top national and international artists across various genres. The outdoor concert venue provides an intimate setting where guests can enjoy live music under the stars. Whether you’re looking to test your luck at the casino, relax in the spa, or catch a live performance, Northern Quest promises a memorable experience.
Schweitzer Mountain Resort
Schweitzer Mountain Resort, located in Sandpoint, is a year-round destination offering a plethora of activities. During the winter, the resort is a haven for skiers and snowboarders with over 2,900 acres of skiable terrain. In the summer, Schweitzer transforms into an outdoor adventure paradise. Visitors can enjoy mountain biking on scenic trails, take a ride on the scenic chair lifts, or test their skills on the trampoline jumper and climbing wall. The resort also features a thrilling zipline experience, providing breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and Lake Pend Oreille. Schweitzer’s diverse activities and stunning landscapes make it a must-visit destination in North Idaho. And don’t miss their summer events, including Summer Community Day, Race the Wolf and Northwest Winefest.
Silver Mountain Resort
Located in Kellogg, Silver Mountain Resort is a year-round destination offering a wide range of activities. In the winter, the resort is popular for skiing and snowboarding, with over 1,600 acres of terrain. During the summer, visitors can enjoy mountain biking, hiking, and scenic gondola rides. One of the resort’s standout features is the indoor water park, Silver Rapids. This massive facility includes water slides, a lazy river and a wave pool, providing endless fun for the whole family. Silver Mountain’s combination of outdoor adventure and indoor water fun makes it a unique and versatile destination.
Triple Play
Triple Play Family Fun Park in Hayden, Idaho, is a premier entertainment complex offering a variety of activities for all ages. The park features go-karts, mini-golf, bumper boats, and a large arcade. One of the main attractions is Raptor Reef Indoor Water Park, a 25,000-square-foot facility with water slides, a wave pool, and a children's play area. Triple Play also includes a bowling alley and laser tag arena, ensuring there’s something for everyone.
Silverwood Theme Park
Silverwood Theme Park in Athol is the largest theme park in the Pacific Northwest. The park features over 70 rides and attractions, including roller coasters, water slides and live entertainment shows. Highlights include the thrilling wooden coaster Tremors and the high-speed steel coaster Aftershock. In addition to the rides, Silverwood offers a variety of dining options and souvenir shops. Adjacent to the theme park is Boulder Beach Water Park, which provides a refreshing escape with its wave pools, lazy river and water slides. Silverwood’s combination of amusement rides and water attractions makes it a must-visit destination for thrill-seekers and families alike.
Timberline Adventures
Timberline Adventures in Coeur d'Alene offers a thrilling zip line experience through the treetops of the scenic Coeur d'Alene Mountains. The course includes several zip lines, suspension bridges and a treehouse platform, providing an exhilarating adventure for all participants. Timberline Adventures emphasizes safety and provides all necessary equipment and instruction. In addition to zip lining, the company offers guided nature hikes and eco-tours, allowing visitors to explore the natural beauty of the area. Whether you’re seeking an adrenaline rush or a serene nature experience, Timberline Adventures delivers an unforgettable outdoor adventure.Whether you’re looking to immerse yourself in nature, enjoy thrilling rides, or engage in hands-on learning, this region offers countless opportunities for fun and exploration.