Top 15 Attractions and Activities in Lewiston, Idaho

At the junction of the Snake and Clearwater Rivers, straddling the state border of Idaho and Washington, Lewiston is a city with a diverse economy anchored in industries such as timber, paper, and ammunition. The majestic Snake River is navigable at this point, allowing Lewiston to hold the distinction of being the furthest inland port east of the West Coast, in addition to being the only seaport in Idaho.

This area has historically been home to the Nez Perce people, who resided in this region when Lewis and Clark passed through in October 1805 during their famous expedition. Moreover, Lewiston serves as the gateway to Hells Canyon, the deepest river gorge in the United States, which is only accessible via water. Additionally, the Lewis-Clark Valley is gaining recognition in the wine industry, having recently achieved the designation of AVA (American Viticultural Area).

1. Hells Gate State Park

Located along the southern banks of Lewiston, Hells Gate State Park encompasses a beautiful 960-acre expanse of riverside nature, perfect for activities such as camping, hiking, mountain biking, fishing, and kayaking. The park, primarily featuring flat terrain shaped by Ice Age floods approximately 15,000 years ago, also houses remnants of a village belonging to the Nez Perce people, as indicated by the depressions from pit houses located just south of the campground.

Visitors should also explore the southern edge of the park where stunning curved basalt formations rise dramatically from the cliffs facing the river. Additionally, the northern end of the park offers kayak rentals during the summer months from Hells Gate Marina, which also serves as the launching point for jet boat excursions to Hells Canyon, highlighted in the following section.

2. Hells Canyon

Lewiston is a short distance from Hells Canyon, the most profound river gorge in the United States, situated approximately fifty miles upstream along the Snake River. With depths approaching 8,000 feet, road access to the canyon is largely non-existent. Fortunately, several operators are available to provide guided boat tours along the Snake River, creating unforgettable experiences. Notable providers include Snake River Adventures, Beamers Hells Canyon Tours, and Snake Dancer Excursions, which utilize jet boats to traverse the river’s rapids, showcasing some of the Northwest’s most secluded landscapes.

On either a full-day or half-day tour, participants can enjoy ample opportunities to relax, hike, swim, appreciate the scenery, observe wildlife, and engage in fishing activities.

3. Clearwater and Snake River National Recreation Trail

This trail grants nearly 20 miles of accessible riverbank for pedestrians and cyclists along the Clearwater and Snake Rivers. The Clearwater and Snake River National Recreation Trail connects portions of Hells Gate State Park via the Lewiston Levee Parkway Trail, crosses three bridges, extends into Asotin on the Washington bank, and follows six miles along the Clearwater River.

On this journey, expect magnificent views of the undulating Palouse landscape surrounding Lewiston and the opportunity to spot various wildlife, including numerous Canada geese. Furthermore, there are numerous picnic benches and spots available for refreshing dips in the water.

4. Lewis-Clark Valley Wine Region

This region boasts sandy soils, rolling hills, crisp winters, and an extended warm ripening season, essential for producing exceptional wines. The initial vines were introduced in the Lewis-Clark Valley in 1872, leading to a flourishing yet short-lived wine industry. The area’s latent potential gained recognition at the beginning of the 21st century, culminating in the establishment of numerous vineyards on both sides of the Snake River.

Notably, in 2016, the Lewis-Clark Valley was awarded AVA status, marking a significant milestone for its wine industry. Visitors can explore various wineries in the countryside or join tours organized by local companies such as Twisted Vine Wine Tours. Several brands even operate tasting rooms directly in Lewiston and Clarkston, allowing residents and visitors to sample local wines without venturing far afield.

5. Downtown Lewiston

Efforts to enhance the downtown area of Lewiston have yielded a vibrant locale, featuring unique local shops not found elsewhere. The historic architecture, tree-lined streets, flower beds, and outdoor dining experiences along Main Street invite visitors to leave their vehicles and enjoy leisurely strolls to explore shops and sights.

Occasionally, panoramic views of the surrounding hills frame the cityscape, revealing charming storefronts with vintage awnings and notable heritage sites, such as the Liberty Theatre, established in 1921. For those who appreciate quality coffee, Blue Lantern Coffee House is highly recommended. Additionally, the Lewiston Farmers’ Market operates at the corner of Main and Mill Street each Sunday, coinciding from July to September with a weekly concert series.

6. Lindsay Creek Vineyards

Beginning your exploration of the Lewis-Clark Valley’s wine offerings at Lindsay Creek Vineyards is an excellent choice. Located a few miles east of Lewiston, this vineyard has cultivated an expansive area averaging 15 acres since its inception in 2007. The winemakers transitioned from wheat farming and obtained relevant qualifications from Washington State University, utilizing their agricultural knowledge to produce high-quality wines. Visitors are welcome on Fridays and Saturdays to enjoy tastings of various selections, including Riesling, GSM (Grenache, Syrah, and Mourvèdre), Malbec, Merlot, and inventive red blends.

7. Nez Perce County Historical Society & Museum

The Nez Perce County Historical Society & Museum provides a fascinating glimpse into the diverse historical narratives of the region, situated near the confluence of the Snake and Clearwater Rivers. Exhibits exploring the area’s volcanic geology, the Lewis and Clark Expedition, navigation on the Snake River, the Nez Perce people, the Camas Prairie Railroad, and the early development of Lewiston as a settlement are on display. The museum features compelling artifacts, specimens, informative signage, and interactive elements for children, including puzzles and vintage appliances such as a 19th-century typewriter.

8. Basalt Cellars Winery

Located in Clarkston within an industrial park and framed by the magnificent north bank of the Snake River, Basalt Cellars Winery has gained acclaim since its establishment in 2003. The winery sources grapes from premier vineyards in Washington State as well as its estate in the Lewis-Clark Valley AVA. The tasting room operates Monday to Saturday, and seasonally on Sundays, offering a selection of red varietals such as Malbec, Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Syrah, and Cabernet Sauvignon, alongside superb blends. White wine aficionados can explore offerings like Riesling, Cabernet Blanc, and Viognier, as well as rosés, including Dolcetto and GSM blends.

9. Locomotive Park

Just off Main Street (US 12), Locomotive Park is instantly recognizable due to the impressive steam locomotive, Engine 92, which is permanently installed on the west side of the park. Engine 92 was the last logging locomotive used by Potlatch Forest Industries and was purchased by the city after its retirement to serve as a display piece. Children are encouraged to explore this historic engine and ring its bell.

In the holiday season, Locomotive Park becomes a popular destination for its festive light displays, where visitors can admire the enchanting illuminations, take photos at various installations, and enjoy the warmth of a large fireplace.

10. Lewis and Clark Discovery Center

The Lewis and Clark Discovery Center, which opened at Hells Gate State Park in 2005 to commemorate the 200th anniversary of the Lewis and Clark Expedition, features both indoor and outdoor exhibits that highlight the historical journey of these explorers through present-day north central Idaho and Nez Perce territories. Inside, a 30-minute film titled “Lewis & Clark: From the Mountains to the Sea” is screened hourly, starting at 9 AM. Externally, an interactive two-acre interpretive plaza alongside the Snake River showcases a remarkable installation by the artist Rip Carswell.

11. Asotin County Family Aquatic Center

Crossing over the Snake River into Clarkston will lead you to this family-friendly aquatic center with a pirate theme. The main attraction during the summer is the outdoor water park, complete with several slides, a lazy river, a large adventure pool, a zero-depth wave pool, and ample space to relax in the sun. Inside, there is a 25-yard, eight-lane lap pool accompanied by play areas designed for children, as well as a high-capacity hot tub, therapy pool, concessions, and a fitness center equipped with weights and cardio machines.

12. Chief Looking Glass Park

Adjacent to Hells Gate State Park on the Asotin side of the Snake River, Chief Looking Glass Park offers a tranquil retreat by the water, located at the southern terminus of the Clearwater-Snake National Recreational Trail. The park features picturesque views across the river towards the gentle rolling hills of Idaho. Visitors will find expansive grassy areas, mature trees, amenities for tennis and basketball, a boat launch, and a small beach perfect for summer dips in the Snake River, though swimming footwear is advisable due to rocky terrain.

13. Clearwater Canyon Cellars

Recognized as Idaho Winery of the Year by Wine Press Northwest, Clearwater Canyon Cellars features a tasting room at their estate situated in the serene Lewiston Orchards area to the southeast of the city. The winery sources grapes from six nearby vineyards, all located within 20 miles of Lewiston. Visitors can taste a variety of wines, including Carménère, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec, Syrah, Albariño, and Chardonnay, all while engaging with the winemakers to learn about their craft and stroll among the storage tanks and barrels.

14. Riverport Brewing Co

Located next to Basalt Cellars in Clarkston, Riverport Brewing Co is a popular craft brewery that has been delighting patrons since 2008, at an ideal location benefiting from the rich agricultural landscape of the Palouse. The welcoming taproom and outdoor deck allow visitors to fill growlers, select pints, or enjoy a flight of beers to sample the brewery’s offerings. A diverse selection of IPAs, lagers, porters, blondes, and seasonal brews are always available, as well as wines from Basalt Cellars. Riverport frequently collaborates with local food trucks and hosts live music events.

15. Dogwood Festival

Every spring, the dogwood trees in Lewiston come to life, displaying vibrant pink blossoms. Throughout April, these flowers gently drift to the ground, creating a beautiful pink carpet along the city streets. Since 1985, Lewiston has celebrated this annual event with a month-long festival, which attracts tens of thousands of visitors. The festival’s schedule features various activities, including an AKC dog show, a river run, concerts, theatrical performances, exhibitions, wine and beer tastings, sports tournaments, an artisans’ fair with over 100 vendors, an auto show, and much more.