Hotel at a Glance: Blackwell Hotel

Built in 1904 as a private home, the 4-star Blackwell Hotel retains much of its historic charm. Red-maple trees shade the wraparound porch, which is painted a crisp white. Inside, contemporary paintings share wall space with crystal and glass sconces, gleaming wood paneling, and ornate fireplaces. 

• Free continental breakfast with pastries, bagels, and fresh fruit
• Get a good night’s sleep atop Sleep Number or pillow-top mattresses in your spacious guest room.
• Relax under the stars in the outdoor seating area—there are heaters to keep you warm.
• Awards and accolades: The hotel was given a TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence and is part of BedAndBreakfast.com’s premier Diamond Collection.

Coeur d’Alene, Idaho: All-Season Beauty in Idaho’s Panhandle

Once the realm of French fur traders, the city of Coeur d’Alene still maintains its close connection to nature. Much of today’s exploration centers on Lake Coeur d’Alene, a twisting body of water with more than 100 miles of shoreline. Bird-watchers might spot migrating bald eagles feeding on sockeye salmon in Wolf Lodge Bay, and cyclists and hikers like to wend their way along the 24-mile North Idaho Centennial Trail, which runs along the lake’s north shore. There are numerous swimming beaches as well.

The fun doesn’t stop when the weather turns cold. Coeur d’Alene is a winter sports nexus, with four bustling mountain resorts and winter parks within an hour’s drive. Lookout Pass pairs unspoiled mountain trails with terrain parks that test the creativity of freestyle skiers and snowboarders alike. Visitors can take a break from zooming down the powder to visit Raptor Reef, an indoor water park in nearby Hayden that’s open year-round. Another all-season attraction is Coeur d’Alene Cellars, where vintners turn Cascadian grapes into small-batch wines.