The Ultimate Guide to Family-Friendly Vacationing in Saint Maries, Idaho
Saint Maries, Idaho, is the perfect destination for families looking to enjoy a mix of outdoor activities, small-town charm, and plenty of kid-friendly things to do. Set against the stunning backdrop of the St. Joe River, this town offers something for every family member, whether you're interested in nature, history, or simply relaxing. From scenic parks and easy hiking trails to family-friendly restaurants and cultural experiences, this guide will help you make the most of your family vacation in Saint Maries. Here’s a look at the best local attractions and activities—all conveniently close to your home base at 735 Elm Drive, Saint Maries, ID 83861.
Outdoor Family Fun: Parks and Easy Hiking Trails
Saint Maries is an outdoor lover’s paradise, offering plenty of opportunities for family fun in nature. Whether your kids love playing at the park, exploring on a hike, or spotting wildlife, there are plenty of outdoor activities to choose from.
City Park and the Riverwalk Trail
Located just 1 mile from 735 Elm Drive, City Park is an ideal place to start your family adventure. You can get there in under 5 minutes by car or take a leisurely 15-minute walk. The park features large green spaces, picnic areas, and a playground that’s perfect for younger kids. It’s the kind of place where families can relax, eat lunch outdoors, and let the kids burn off some energy.
From City Park, hop onto the nearby Riverwalk Trail, a peaceful and easy trail that runs along the beautiful St. Joe River. The flat terrain makes it perfect for strollers and young children who want to walk or ride bikes. The trail is a great way to take in the scenic views of the river while enjoying a leisurely walk with your family. Keep an eye out for ducks, birds, and even the occasional deer along the water’s edge.
Heyburn State Park
For a bit more adventure, drive about 30 minutes (18 miles) north of 735 Elm Drive to Heyburn State Park, Idaho’s oldest state park. This sprawling park is a fantastic spot for families looking for easy hiking trails, scenic views, and a day of outdoor fun. One of the best family-friendly trails is the Lakeshore Loop Trail, a 3-mile round trip hike with picturesque views of Chatcolet Lake. It’s flat and easy to navigate, making it perfect for families with younger children.
Heyburn State Park also offers opportunities for swimming, canoeing, and kayaking during the warmer months, so pack a picnic and spend the entire day enjoying Idaho’s natural beauty. With designated picnic areas and plenty of space to explore, this park is a must-visit for outdoor-loving families.
Kid-Friendly Cultural Stops: Museums and History
In addition to its natural beauty, Saint Maries also offers educational and cultural activities that will keep kids entertained while learning about the town’s history.
Hughes House Museum
A short 3-minute drive (0.8 miles) from 735 Elm Drive, the Hughes House Museum is a historic home that offers a glimpse into the early 20th-century life of Saint Maries residents. The museum is located in a beautifully preserved home from 1902 and features period furnishings and artifacts from Saint Maries’ logging and timber industry. Children will enjoy exploring the old-fashioned rooms and hearing stories of Idaho’s history. The museum often hosts special events, so be sure to check the local calendar to see if anything is happening during your visit.
Coeur d'Alene’s Old Mission State Park
For families willing to take a short road trip, Coeur d'Alene’s Old Mission State Park is about 55 minutes (45 miles) away by car from 735 Elm Drive. This historic site features Idaho’s oldest standing building, the Mission of the Sacred Heart, which dates back to the 1850s. The park includes a visitor center with exhibits on local indigenous history and the Jesuit missionaries who worked in the area. With plenty of space to explore, kids will enjoy running around the mission grounds and learning about Idaho’s cultural heritage.
Delicious Family Dining Options
When you're looking for easy, delicious meals that everyone in the family will love, these local spots won't disappoint—all just a few minutes from 735 Elm Drive:
The Grapple
Only a 2-minute walk (0.4 miles) from the property, The Grapple welcomes families with a relaxed, casual vibe. Their menu features classic American fare—from juicy burgers, loaded fries, and wings to crisp sandwiches. Parents will appreciate craft brews on tap, including offerings from Two Saints Brewing, St. Maries’ first local brewery. It’s a crowd-pleaser whether you're looking for lunch or dinner. zillow.com+2elmawayfromhome.com+2elmawayfromhome.com+2
Pizza Factory
Just a 2-minute drive (0.5 miles) down Main Street, Pizza Factory is a go-to for takeout or dine-in pizza lovers. They offer build-your-own pies, hearty breadsticks, and kid-friendly options. Perfect for families craving familiar favorites after a day of exploring.
Taco Bout It
A short 3-minute drive (0.8 miles) away, Taco Bout It is a vibrant local food truck specializing in flavorful tacos and burritos made with fresh ingredients. It’s ideal for a casual, budget-friendly meal—quick, satisfying, and fun for the whole family.
Casa de Oro
Located on the St. Maries Golf Course about 4 minutes (1.5 miles) from the house, Casa de Oro dishes up traditional Mexican cuisine in a spacious, family-friendly dining room. Expect generous portions of enchiladas, fajitas, and other favorites, plus margaritas for adults. With multiple seating areas and TVs, it's a great stop when you want a lively, sit-down dinner.
3B Grill & Joe’s Bar
Roughly a mile away on 8th Street (4 minutes drive), 3B Grill serves comfort-food classics—think burgers loaded with toppings and chicken teriyaki rice bowls with house-made sauce. For a more casual atmosphere, Joe’s Bar next door also offers dine-in or take-out options.
Plan Your Family Vacation in Saint Maries Today
With its beautiful parks, easy hiking trails, kid-friendly museums, and delicious local dining, Saint Maries is the perfect destination for a family vacation. Whether you’re spending the day hiking, exploring local history, or simply enjoying a picnic in the park, Saint Maries has something to offer families of all ages. Pack your bags and discover the joy of family-friendly vacationing in this charming Idaho town.
