Dinner at The Dam Bar & Restaurant isn’t just a meal—it’s the beginning of a great summer evening in North Idaho. Nestled on the banks of the Spokane River at Red Lion Templin’s Hotel in Post Falls, The Dam offers more than gorgeous riverside views and excellent food. It’s perfectly positioned as a launch point for exploring the surrounding area.
Whether you’re wrapping up a date night, entertaining out-of-town guests, or making the most of a weekend, here are some top ways to keep the good times going after you’ve finished your meal.
1. Stroll the Centennial Trail at Sunset
Just steps from The Dam Bar, the Centennial Trail stretches along the Spokane River, offering a scenic, paved path ideal for a post-dinner walk or bike ride. As the sun begins its slow descent to the horizon, the river reflects the soft colors of dusk, and the breeze off the water makes for a perfect wind-down. Bring a camera; it’s one of the most photogenic walks in town.
2. Catch Live Music or a Local Event
Post Falls and nearby Coeur d’Alene both host a variety of summer events, including:
- Live on the Lawn at Templin’s: Red Lion’s own riverfront property occasionally features live local bands or acoustic sets on the grass near the marina. It’s laid-back, family-friendly, and a great excuse to linger with a drink in hand.
- Music in the Park: Just a few minutes away across the river at Q’emiln Park, the city of Post Falls hosts free summer concerts in the evenings. Bring a blanket and enjoy tunes ranging from blues to country.
- Coeur d’Alene’s Live After 5: On Wednesday nights during summer, downtown Coeur d’Alene turns up the energy with live music, food vendors, and craft beer at McEuen Park.
3. Take a Sunset Cruise on Lake Coeur d’Alene
Just 15 minutes from The Dam Bar, Lake Coeur d’Alene Cruises offers evening and sunset tours that showcase the lake’s natural beauty. Board a boat, sip a cocktail, and glide across the water as the sun sinks behind the mountains. It’s romantic, relaxing, and a local favorite.
4. Grab a Scoop at a Local Creamery
After dinner, head over to Rogers Ice Cream and Burgers in downtown Post Falls for a yummy shake or to Panhandle Ice Cream in Coeur d’Alene for a handcrafted scoop. Ice cream is the kind of treat that feels just right for North Idaho’s long summer evenings.
5. Explore Downtown Coeur d’Alene
If you have time to venture east, downtown CDA offers charming shops, galleries, and lakefront paths perfect for a leisurely evening’s entertainment. Browse stores, watch street performers, or stop in at a local tasting room or brewery for a nightcap. It’s lively without being overwhelming. If you want a quieter evening, take a stroll along the lake on Coeur d’Alene Lake Drive, which has magnificent views of the sunset over the lake.
6. Relax at the Marina or Firepit at Red Lion Templin’s
Sometimes, the best plan is no plan. After dining at The Dam Bar & Restaurant, walk down to the private marina at Red Lion Templin’s. Watch boats drift in and out, or grab a chair near the hotel’s firepit area and enjoy the sounds of the river. You don’t need an itinerary to enjoy where you are.
7. Q’emiln Park and the Post Falls Dam
If you haven’t explored it yet, Q’emiln Park is right across the river and worth a stop. Or stay on this side of the river and visit Post Falls Dam. The area features trails, a beach, and views of the Dam. It’s one of the most underrated places to unwind in the evening, especially as the crowds thin and the golden hour lights up the trees.
Your Evening Starts at The Dam
The Dam Bar & Restaurant is more than a dining destination—it’s the perfect starting point for a memorable night in Post Falls or Coeur d’Alene. Whether you’re in the mood to explore, relax, or catch a bit of culture, you don’t have to go far to find something worth doing.
So next time you find yourself sitting on the patio at The Dam, savoring the last bite of Bananas Foster or sipping a Huckleberry Lemondrop, slow down and take your time. The night’s just getting started.
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