The 8 Best Outdoor Patios for a Cocktail in Coeur d'Alene

Boardwalk Bar

If you want the absolute best views of Lake Coeur d'Alene, this is your spot. Located right on the water at the CDA Resort, the Boardwalk Bar puts you directly over the lake. You can enjoy a drink on the patio, in the grass, or take it to go and walk around the boardwalk!

• The Vibe: Casual, scenic, and quintessential CDA.
• Local Tip: This is a dog-friendly spot, so feel free to bring your pup along for the views. If you're with a group, go for one of their famous cocktail buckets to share!

Bardenay

Located in the heart of Riverstone, Bardenay is a Northwest distillery with a massive cocktail menu featuring their own handcrafted spirits. Their patio overlooks the Riverstone pond, offering a more peaceful, manicured setting away from the downtown hustle.

• The Vibe: Sophisticated but casual; great for a sun-soaked happy hour.
• Local Tip: Since they are a distillery, try a classic G&T or a lemon drop made with their house-distilled spirits. The food menu is also excellent for happy hour tapas or a full dinner on the patio.

Terraza Waterfront Grill

For a modern, upscale experience with a Latin flair, Terraza is a must-visit. Situated right along the Spokane River in Riverstone, the patio offers beautiful water views and a high-end resort feel.

• The Vibe: Chic, vibrant, and effortlessly cool.
• Local Tip: They are known for their unique and creative craft margaritas. Can't decide? Order a margarita flight to sample a few different flavors.

Whispers

Whispers offers two distinct ways to enjoy the lake. You can hang out on the full-service lower patio which features a complete food and craft cocktail menu, or head up to the Lakeview Terrace for an elevated, panoramic view of the water with a more limited drink selection.

• The Vibe: Relaxed luxury with some of the best sunset views in town.
• Local Tip: The lower patio is perfect for a full meal, while the Terrace is the "secret spot" for a pre-dinner glass of wine or a quick spirit-and-soda.

Moose Lounge

Sometimes you just want to be in the middle of the action. The Moose Lounge is a staple of downtown Sherman Avenue. Their outdoor seating puts you right on the sidewalk, making it the premier location for soaking up the downtown energy.

• The Vibe: High-energy, casual, and the best people-watching in the city.
• Local Tip: The Moose is dog-friendly, making it a great pit stop during a downtown walk. Grab a cold drink, snag a seat by the railing, and enjoy the parade of shoppers and summer tourists.

Capone's Pub on the Green

For a change of pace, head over to the Ponderosa Golf Course. This Capone's location features a sprawling patio that overlooks the greens. It's a great spot to hide out from the lake crowds while still enjoying the sun.

• The Vibe: Sporty, laid-back, and family-friendly.
• Local Tip: This patio is also dog-friendly, so your four-legged friend can join you for a post-round drink. You don't have to be a golfer to hang out here; it's incredibly entertaining to watch the amateurs tackle the course on a busy afternoon.

Twigs Bistro

As a fresh addition to the downtown scene, Twigs is perfectly positioned for your post-park relaxation. Their dog-friendly sidewalk seating is just steps away from the beautiful McEuen Park.

• The Vibe: Modern, upscale yet casual.
• Local Tip: Timing is everything here—make sure to drop by for their great happy hour to score excellent deals on discounted craft cocktails and delicious appetizers.

315 Cuisine

If you want to escape the crowded downtown sidewalks without traveling far, this is the spot. Located within easy walking distance of downtown, 315 boasts a lush outdoor patio and garden that feels like an enchanted, private backyard.

• The Vibe: Intimate, romantic, and effortlessly elegant.
• Local Tip: They are famous for their award-winning martinis and craft cocktails, which pair beautifully with a few small plates out in the garden.

Whether you're a local looking for a new weekend ritual or a visitor trying to find the perfect sunset patio, Coeur d'Alene has a bar for every vibe. Remember to stay hydrated, tip your servers well (summer is their busiest season!), and enjoy every bit of the North Idaho sunshine. Cheers!