Top things to see and do in Sandpoint

This Idaho destination is prime territory for camping and family recreation

Cruising on crystal clear water, lounging on sandy beaches, viewing local wildlife—all of these activities and more are available in the pleasant community of Sandpoint. Here are some of the top things to see and do there.

1) Lake Pend Oreille Cruises

See Idaho's largest lake and take in the idyllic scenery, on one of the Lake Pend Oreille Cruises.  You can choose the excursion that's right for you—there are cruises focused on wildlife viewing, ones offering dinner and drinks or scheduled around fireworks displays.

2) Silverwood Theme Park

Take a short drive from Sandpoint and bring the kids to Silverwood Theme Park. There are rides galore, a water park, live entertainment, dining options and other features at this popular facility.

3) Schweitzer Mountain Resort

More than just a ski resort, Schweitzer also attracts recreationists with  zip-lining, horseback riding, mountain biking trails, a spa and restaurant. Don't forget to visit nearby Bottle Bay Resort and Marina (eight and a half miles east of Sandpoint), for boating and other water sports.

4) Cedar Street Bridge

An innovative shopping experience, Cedar Street Bridge is a public marketplace with all sorts of specialty shops, cart vendors and artisans. This mall has the distinction of being the only marketplace built on a bridge in the entire USA.

5) Kootenai National Wildlife Refuge

Another lovely place located near Sandpoint is the Kootenai National Wildlife Refuge. More than 300 species of wildlife call this area home, and you can take some amazing photos of waterfowl and other animals while traversing the five walking trails. Due to the delicate ecosystem here, no camping is permitted on refuge property, but there are several other campsites available in the vicinity.