I finally revisited the Museum of North Idaho last weekend after over 15 years!
I have lived in North Idaho for most of my life. It’s an amazing area with a rich (though not always positive) history. I remember moving here when I was about six years old, and one of our first excursions was the local museum, where we could learn more about the local history.
Having moved here from Southern California, we knew nothing about the history. My dad did, but that’s because he grew up here.
After our one visit to the museum, we never really came back. I think it was a combination of being too busy and not feeling like there was anything new to see.
But if you’ve read my blog at all, you’ll know how much I value new experiences, and finding them in old places!
So, now that MONI is fully reopened in a new location, we decided to go check it out!
The “Remodeled” Museum of North Idaho
I said remodel in the title, but they actually fully moved to a different location. The old building was rotting, moldy, and just overall in terrible condition.
So, the city moved a house with some important history from Sherman Avenue (the main street downtown) to a location near the main park. Really, it was only like a block or two. From there, they remodeled the house, fixed it up, and built a new basement underneath.
What was before a boring brown building with only one story now has three stories in a very nice historical residence!
The house used to belong to JC White, who was instrumental in constructing some of the first railroads and steamboats used in Coeur d’Alene and the surrounding area. You can learn more about him in the museum!
The Museum of North Idaho Experience
Like I said, the museum has three floors, each providing a different experience. There are stairs to reach every floor, but the house also has an elevator built into it. If mobility is an issue, you’ll still be able to see everything! I didn’t see any access ramps on the outside, but I’m sure they’re there!
We visited during their grand reopening weekend, which coincided with Easter. Upon entering, you’ll encounter the gift shop and ticket counter. It’s not a bad price: $6 for adults, $5 for those aged 65+, $2 for children 4-12, and free for kids under 4.
Also, to expand on the pricing: if you’re planning to visit other history museums around Idaho, such as the Bingham County Historical Museum, I’d recommend getting the membership pass, even for a short time. This ensures that you get the best overall price! (I interned at the Bingham County museum in Blackfoot for a year while I was in college. It’s a great place to visit!)
There are also museum volunteers on each floor who can answer questions and provide more information, if you need it.
Downstairs
The main permanent exhibit is downstairs, and is full of information about the local tribes, the history of CDA, Fort Sherman, the railroads, logging, mining, and even fire fighting!
I actually learned a lot from this exhibit that I didn’t expect, like how 4th of July Pass, located near the Montana border, got its name! (I could tell you, but that would spoil it!)
One of the cool things they have on display is a steamboat steering wheel like the ones they used to travel across the lake and its rivers. In front of it is a video that makes you feel like you’re actually steering! You can ring the bell, too!
Another thing I learned is that there are a lot of Norwegian immigrants in this area. The organization Sons of Norway spread here as a result, and still hosts local events!
Upstairs
You’ll find the temporary exhibits on the upper floor of the museum. When we visited, the exhibit showcased local art, especially from native artists. The intricacy and quality of native beadwork always amazes me!
Alongside the clothing and beadwork, the museum showcased handmade wooden dioramas, metalwork, and more!
This is also the floor where the Museum of North Idaho keeps its records. Various books that cover the area’s history line the shelves. There’s also a desk and computer, but that’s not for public access as far as I’m aware.
The Ground Floor and Gift Shop
Even as a local, I considered purchasing several things from the gift shop! They have socks, jewelry, huckleberry themed merchandise, and old maps. These maps displayed various things from railways to mines, but they all seemed like they’d be really cool to put on display.
If you like gift shops, this museum won’t disappoint!
Conclusion
If you’re a tourist, you’ll find so many other places to visit after your time at the Museum of North Idaho. Everything from the Cataldo Mission to Fort Sherman (or what remains of it at least) to the Hiawatha Trail and nearby historical towns like Kellogg!
This is why, last week, I talked about using museums like quest boards. You can learn about so many other adventures to go on and places to visit just from a trip to a museum!
Not to mention that just outside the museum, you’ll see the library, McEuen Park, Tubbs’ Hill, the CDA Resort and Boardwalk (the longest one in the world!), and so much more!
I think at some point in the future, I’ll probably write a longer post about all the fun things to see and do in CDA and around North Idaho. Stay tuned for that, and I’ll link it here when that happens!
I love visiting and revisiting different places around my hometown. I always find something new, even if I’ve been there many many times. Coeur d’Alene is so full of adventure and things to do! Watersports, hiking, camping, luxury resorts, and historical tours can all be found here!
If you have any questions, comments, or concerns, make sure to comment below or contact me directly!
Thank you for reading!
