Fortunately, its character has improved as Sandpoint has made a name for itself as an active, outdoorsy town in the Inland Northwest with a reputation for culture and art, and a variety of local and national hotels to fit every traveler's needs.
When Is the Best Time to Visit Sandpoint, ID?
With all of its natural beauty, there is an abundance of outdoor activities to enjoy in Sandpoint. In fact, the town's motto, “What a beautiful pace,” exemplifies both its splendor and its laid-back small-town vibe. The best time for winter sports enthusiasts to visit is from early December to late March, when an average of 61 inches of snow falls in the area, allowing for skiing, snowboarding, snowmobiling, and other cold-weather pastimes. Visitors in January will enjoy the lowest rates, making it the best time to engage in snow-related activities.
For those who enjoy more temperate weather, summer in Sandpoint is hard to beat. From June through August, temperatures rarely reach above the low 80s with almost no humidity, resulting in comfortable weather for all visitors and perfect for water sports, fishing, hiking, or horseback riding. July is the height of the season for both tourists and hotel rates, so perhaps consider a visit in spring or fall instead. Just be sure to pack an umbrella, as cooler temperatures may be accompanied by an increased chance of rain.
Below is a chart of the current pricing seasonality of hotels and motels in Sandpoint, ID:
Sandpoint by Star Rating
Below are 3 charts demonstrating mean nightly cost trends by star rating class in Sandpoint, ID. You can use these charts to calculate the best seasons to book a room in Sandpoint for your upcoming travels.
What Are the Best Hotels in Sandpoint, ID?
Any hotel search in Sandpoint, Idaho begins with the Selkirk Lodge at the state's largest ski resort, the 2,900-acre Schweitzer Mountain Resort. This independently-owned retreat is considered by many to be an outstanding family-friendly resort that also happens to host some of the best skiing in Idaho. From the top of the Selkirk Mountains, Schweitzer overlooks the town of Sandpoint and offers stunning views of Idaho, Washington, Montana, and Canada. In the summer, the ski resort becomes a prime location for mountain biking, ziplining, and even picking huckleberries, the state fruit of Idaho.
Amenities such as ski-in/ski-out access, flat-screen televisions with DVD players, memory foam beds with down comforters, complimentary Wi-Fi, free underground heated parking, and two restaurants, tennis, and spa services on-site make Selkirk Lodge an enjoyable hotel, regardless of the season.
Sandpoint's cozy, tucked-away location may not lend itself to a full-blown luxury hotel experience, but if you're flying into Spokane, Washington, on your way to Sandpoint, consider the Centennial Hotel. Fronting the Spokane River, this hotel is just 10 minutes from Spokane International Airport and offers luxury-type amenities such as premium bath products, an outdoor pool, and pillowtop beds, for a price that won't break the bank.
In the Spokane City Center, another option is the Doubletree by Hilton, just 12 minutes from the airport. The outdoor seasonal pool, Eforea Spa, and Doubletree's famous warm chocolate chip cookies make for an indulgent stay on your way to Sandpoint.
What Are Some Affordable Hotel Options in Sandpoint, ID?
3 Star Average Prices: $167.29
For those watching their travel budget, Sandpoint has a variety of options. One great choice for budget-conscious travelers is the Hotel Ruby, which combines the quaint atmosphere of a boutique hotel with modern amenities such as free breakfast, heated indoor pool, a 24-hour fitness center, and even complimentary bicycles, all in a local shopping district at a reasonable price. The onsite Farmhouse Kitchen and Silo Bar serves meals made from scratch, so you'll be set whether you're fueling up for a day on the slopes or relaxing after an afternoon of biking the scenic loop.
Also located in the shopping district and near Liberty Pier and Sandpoint City Beach Park, Fairbridge Inn & Suites reflects the area's rustic vibe while offering a complimentary breakfast buffet, free parking, and a downtown shuttle. Each room features custom, handcrafted log furniture, and some suites house up to four beds to accommodate the entire family.