Coeur d'Alene Love on Valentine's Day

We know that any day is a good day to tell your favorite people you love them, but Valentine's Day sure makes a good excuse to say it a little extra!

Remember, Valentine's Day isn't just for S.O.'s - make it a Galentine's Day with your bestie, a Pal-entine's Day with your bros (too cheesy?), or a special Family Day. Whoever you've got, make sure you tell 'em you're thankful for them. It can sometimes be a little tough to come up with fun ideas for the day, however, so we're here to give you a little boost.

Nothing says "I love you" like a latte. Trust me, I could have gone a lot further with the alliterations in that last sentence, but I'll spare you. Coffee is a great way to show someone you're thinking of them, and many of our local shops do fun themed drinks and specials for the day of love. Grab it for someone as they start their day or help them caffeinate on their lunch break. Strada is now on Grubhub, so you can have them deliver any time of the day! White Pine at 814 has a whole "For the Love" menu, Vault Coffee has their "Heart BEET Latte" for those who feel adventurous - but healthy - with their drink choices (guys, it's pink!), and Coeur d'Alene Coffee Co. is doing their February Giving Project so you can spread a little extra love to those in our community who need it. A coffee date can be a great way to spend some extra time with anyone! 

Food is a love language. And we've got a ton of local eateries to suit anyone's taste. Try something different with some curry at The Mango Tree or sushi at Syringa. Fire Artisan Pizza has a trendy and romantic atmosphere that won't break the bank since it's easy to share, and Collective Kitchen has deliciously unique dishes. But, let's be real, the best way to show someone you care is breakfast. Try the brunch at Honey Eatery right on Sherman or get cozy and homestyle at the Blue Plate Cafe in Hayden. Can't get a babysitter but you still want to go out? Tomato Street is the Cd'A classic for families - because who doesn't want to color on the tables?! The list goes on and on with fantastic locally owned restaurants all over town - pick your favorite or try something new!

The snow is really here! A snowy walk down by Coeur d'Alene Lake can be very pretty and romantic if you're bundled up. Make it just like the movies by going ice skating on the Ice Ribbon in Spokane's Riverfront Park, or just have fun and be goofy sledding in the fresh powder on your favorite hill! Even though the snow is a little late, it sure is beautiful! Check out this video by Andy of our little town in the powder:

Make it a day trip. Who also thinks that long car rides can be the best quality time with someone? If you're looking for a change of scene, a quick drive to Sandpoint (about 60 minutes) or Moscow (about 90 minutes) lets you try a whole new set of places to see and things to do. Both locations have adorable downtowns with local vibes all their own, yet maintain their Idaho roots. A quick internet search will set you up with lots or restaurants, coffee shops, and artisan storefronts to explore.

Congratulations to the winners of our Ultimate Valentine's Day giveaway! For all the rest of us who weren't so lucky, the items in the giveaway are not exclusive, they are available, and they make fantastic gifts for Valentine's Day! We won't be offended if you totally copy our gift package idea for your favorite person. Almost all those products can be found within a few blocks of each other on Sherman Ave; Mountain Madness Soap Co. and Collective Kitchen are just right down the street from where you can pick up an Inland Candle and CDA gear from us! Abide Culture Coffee and Bean & Pie will be at multiple events this weekend (Feb 9 and 10) for you to pick up their yummy products - check out our last blog post for details on where to find them! The best part: you can pick out all the specific flavors and designs that you know your special person will love, and you're supporting local!

Make it a night with the fam. If you can't get a babysitter right on Valentine's Day, make it a fun night for the whole family! Show your kids how to share love with others by doing something thoughtful and special all together. Making V-Day crafts for each other and decorating the house can be simple and affordable go-to's for including the kiddos in the fun. Or, bring them in on picking a gift for your spouse; they may surprise you with some great ideas! A dinner and game night can go a long way for building memories and celebrating each other. Parents, just don't forget to have your own date night later on :) 

Valentine's Day can mean as much or as little as you choose to make it, and we love making it a special day to tell some people we love 'em. It helps that we live in a great community with amazing people to love! We hope these ideas spark some ideas of your own for spending time with the special people in your life. Have fun and love local!