There’s something special about packing up the car, rolling down the windows, and hitting the road with the people you love. We recently took a quick family trip from Missoula, Montana to Athol, Idaho, and packed a ton of fun into just a few days. We’ve made this commute MANY times, but this one felt extra special. Here’s a look at our adventure where we’ll share all our favorite stops big and small and offer ideas to add to your travel itinerary. The best part about this trip is that you can make the exact same trip in reverse from Athol to Missoula uniting Idahoan’s and Montanan’s alike!
Day 1: Roadside Favorites and Hotel Fun
We started our trip with excitement (and coffee), thank you Loose Caboose Coffee, one of my personal favorite local coffee spots in Missoula. Our first stop was the Montana Valley Bookstore in Alberton. It’s small, cozy, and full of treasures, one of those places where time just seems to slow down a bit and carries the sweet scent of nostalgia.
Next up was lunch at Winki’s Diner, where we had burgers, fries, and the best chicken strips ever. Seriously, if you’re ever passing through, it’s a must-stop.
After that, we stretched our legs at the St. Regis Travel Center, browsed all the fun product and memorabilia, checked out the trout exhibit, grabbed a huckleberry shake and made our way to the 50,000 Silver Dollar Bar. It’s a fun and funky stop with lots of hilarious oddities like samurai swords, geodes, bear claw necklaces, jackalopes and more. It always feels like a mix of history and road trip charm. One of our family’s favorite games to play is to see who can find the silliest item. Keep reading for a picture of the winner during this visit!
By the evening, we arrived at Triple Play Resort in Hayden, our home base, for the next few nights. The girls were instantly excited as we explored everything the hotel had to offer, arcade games, indoor mini golf, and of course, Raptor Reef, the indoor water park.
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Day 2: A Day in Coeur d’Alene
The next morning, we headed into Coeur d’Alene, one of our favorite little cities to visit. We started the day slow with coffee and pastries at Vault Coffee, then made our way to the Boardwalk for a morning walk along the lake. It was sunny, breezy, and absolutely beautiful. We loved watching the parasailers that were out and flying high that day.
From there, we wandered into shops downtown. We always make a point to stop at Figpickles Toy Emporium, which feels like stepping into a magical world of toys, and then over to Mrs. Honeypeeps Sweet Shop for some treats.
We headed back to the hotel around lunchtime. Pro tip: pack food if you’re staying at Triple Play! The rooms have mini kitchens, which made it easy (and affordable) to whip up a quick lunch and snacks without leaving the room.
After a bit of rest, we jumped right back into the fun. The girls absolutely loved the arcade and mini golf. Another great option when staying here would be to hit up Raptor Reef, we had a full day of waterpark fun planned for the following day so we skipped the reef this visit but have absolutely loved it in the past!
Day 3: All Day at Silverwood
We woke up early and made our way to Silverwood Theme Park right when the gates opened. First stop: Victorian Coffee House for some much-needed caffeine and explored Mainstreet. Then we made a beeline to Boulder Beach to claim a good spot. We lucked out and found a shady nook in the Emerald Forest, perfect for setting up our “home base” for the day.
The rest of the morning was all water fun, slides, wave pools, and a few lazy laps around the river where we enjoyed some delicious drinks from, The Cove. The kids were in heaven and honestly, so were we.
For lunch, we grabbed food from Rapids Grill, then changed into dry clothes and explored the rest of the park. One of our favorite stops was the Candy Shop, where we stocked up on sweets and found some weird and wacky items (yes, including a pickle-flavored sucker).
We finished the day at Critter Camp, a favorite for the kids with its fun rides and gentle thrills. And just before heading out, we hopped on the 5 o’clock Train Ride and Show. It was hands-down one of the best parts of the day. Our girls were glued to the edge of their seats the whole time. The storytelling, the characters, the little surprises, it was truly fantastic.
Day 4: Slow Start and Scenic Stops
Our last morning was relaxed and slow. We slept in a bit, enjoyed the continental breakfast at the hotel, and packed up for the drive back to Missoula.
Of course, we couldn’t resist a few final stops on the way home. First, we visited the Cataldo Mission, the oldest building in Idaho. The girls were fascinated, and it was such a peaceful and beautiful place to walk through.
Our final stop was at Elmer’s Fountain, a hidden gem off the road where we stretched our legs, filled our water bottles, and soaked in the quiet forest surroundings and natural springs. It was the perfect end to our little adventure.
Road Trip Tips & Tricks for Families
We’ve learned a few things over the years of traveling with kids, and this trip reminded us just how helpful the little stuff can be. Here are a few of our favorite road trip tips:
- Pack a Cooler & Snacks
Bringing a cooler stocked with drinks, fruit, and lunch options saves time, money, and meltdowns. Especially handy when your hotel has a mini kitchen!
- Hit the Road Early
Getting an early start helps avoid traffic, and it gives you extra time to explore your favorite stops without rushing.
- Build in Wiggle Room
Some of our favorite memories come from unexpected stops like bookstores or roadside fountains. Don’t over-schedule, leave room for fun detours.
- Stay Somewhere with Activities On-Site
Places like Triple Play are great because the fun doesn’t stop when you check in. Arcades, mini golf, and pools help burn off energy after long drives.
- Make a “Car Kit”
Pack essentials like wipes, paper towels, hand sanitizer, small trash bags, and extra clothes. You’ll thank yourself later.
- Let the Kids Help Plan
Letting your kids choose a stop or snack (or even just pick the music) makes them feel involved and keeps the energy positive.
- Capture the Little Moments
It’s not always the big attractions that stand out. Snap photos of gas station snack breaks, funny store oddities (see the lobster slides we found), or sidewalk dance parties.
Closing Vacay Thoughts
This trip served as a reminder that you don’t need a huge vacation or plane tickets to make memories. Just a few days, some snacks, and a good playlist can lead to some of the best moments with the people who matter most. Be sure to follow me @a.mom.in.montana on Instagram to follow along with more of our family adventures locally and beyond, you’ll discover that finding all the little hole in the wall places is kind of our jam. Be sure to tag me if you take this trip with your family, I’d love to see it!
MEET THE CONDUCTOR
My name is Sydney Love. I am married, the mother of two sweet girls, and have one adorable border collie named Tucker. I love reading, writing, running, hiking, going on micro adventures and spending quality time with my friends and family. Family is EVERYTHING to me. All of my extended family resides in Washington and Idaho, and my immediate little family of 4 resides here in Montana- though it sometimes feels like we also live in Washington because we visit so frequently. I have been visiting Silverwood since 1995, if you can believe it! I took my first roller coaster ride on the Corkscrew with my late grandfather at the ripe age of 6 years old and I’m still convinced that he screamed louder than I did. It is such a cherished memory that I will never forget and carry with me always.
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