Fort Sherman Chapel
Coeur d'Alene's oldest church, built 1880 by the U.S. Army. Served as first school, library & meeting hall.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant temperatures for events
Fort Sherman Chapel
Best Time
Pleasant temperatures for events
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Coeur d'Alene's oldest church, built 1880 by the U.S. Army. Served as first school, library & meeting hall.
"You can feel the history of the place as you walk through. Absolutely gorgeous craftsmanship!"
Book Events Early
Available for weddings & events, seats 80-100. Proceeds fund maintenance.
Consider the Weather
Limited AC; very hot days can be uncomfortable. Best for cooler seasons.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Historic Architecture
Step back in time in this beautifully preserved 19th-century chapel, a testament to early American frontier life.
Community Hub
Experience the chapel's legacy as the region's first church, school, library, and meeting hall.
Event Space Charm
A picturesque venue for intimate weddings and events, offering a unique, historic backdrop.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the History
Event Venue Considerations
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Events Early
Available for weddings & events, seats 80-100. Proceeds fund maintenance.
Consider the Weather
Limited AC; very hot days can be uncomfortable. Best for cooler seasons.
Feel the History
Immerse yourself in the chapel's rich past as the region's oldest structure.
Proximity to Downtown
Conveniently located near downtown Coeur d'Alene hotels and reception venues.
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Events Early
Available for weddings & events, seats 80-100. Proceeds fund maintenance.
Consider the Weather
Limited AC; very hot days can be uncomfortable. Best for cooler seasons.
Feel the History
Immerse yourself in the chapel's rich past as the region's oldest structure.
Proximity to Downtown
Conveniently located near downtown Coeur d'Alene hotels and reception venues.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Fort Sherman Chapel for its immense historical significance and charming, quaint atmosphere, often describing it as a 'sweet' and 'beautiful' venue perfect for intimate events. The palpable sense of history and its role as the region's oldest church are frequently highlighted. However, some guests note that the chapel can become very hot on warm days due to limited air conditioning.
"Christmastime wedding with ALL the sweet, Hallmark-movie, small-town vibes?! Don't mind if I do. This tiny chapel is the SWEETEST. It's close to downtown CDA and tons of hotel options for your guests, as well as lots of places to host receptions after the event.
I've only ever photographed a wedding here in December, but I'm sure it would make a sweet spot for any time of year (you might want to hold off on a 100-degree mid-August event; I don't think there is AC indoors!)."
Hannah Acheson
"We were there for my cousin's wedding. Beautiful setting. Cute chapel. So much history. The only complaint I would have is it was very hot in there. I know they did the best they could for such a hot day. There were a few window type air conditioners. If my hubby & I decide to renew our vows I'd love to have the vow renewal there. So quaint. Wonderful memories were made at Fort Sherman Chapel."
Cathy Lock
"Great little church for a wedding. This is an old beautiful church so an extremely hot day is not the day. Overall a great experience."
Cody Huckins
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Fort Sherman Chapel is located in Coeur d'Alene, Idaho. While specific public transport details are scarce, it's noted for its proximity to downtown, suggesting it's accessible by car or ride-sharing services. Many visitors arrive by car, as seen in general travel vlogs about the area. +1
The chapel is situated in Coeur d'Alene, a town known for its scenic beauty and downtown area. Its historical significance makes it a point of interest, and it's often mentioned in conjunction with other local attractions. +1
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Fort Sherman Chapel is primarily an event venue, particularly for weddings. While not a typical ticketed attraction, access for general visits might be limited outside of scheduled events. It's best to check for any public visiting hours or event schedules. 
Operating hours are primarily dictated by event bookings. The chapel is available for weddings and small events, with proceeds going to its maintenance fund. It's advisable to contact the venue directly for specific visiting times or event information.
The rental fee for Fort Sherman Chapel for events is approximately $300. This fee contributes to the Chapel Fund, which supports the maintenance and preservation of this historic building.
While the chapel is a popular wedding and event venue, its historical nature suggests it may be open for viewing at certain times. Community reviews highlight the experience of feeling the history within the chapel, implying some level of access.
🎫 ⛪ Onsite Experience
Built in 1880 by the U.S. Army, Fort Sherman Chapel is Coeur d'Alene's oldest church. It also served as the region's first school, library, and meeting hall, making it a cornerstone of local history.
The chapel can accommodate between 80 to 100 people, with seating provided by approximately 15 pews. This makes it suitable for intimate weddings and small gatherings.
Reviews indicate that air conditioning is limited, with some window units present. This can make the chapel quite warm on extremely hot days, so visitors and event planners should be aware of this.
Fort Sherman Chapel is a popular venue for weddings and small events. Its historic charm and intimate setting make it a sought-after location for ceremonies and gatherings.
Visitors frequently mention feeling the palpable history as they walk through the chapel, noting its beautiful craftsmanship and the sense of stepping back in time.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during a time when there are no events to allow for a more relaxed exploration. Discussing the chapel's past as a school and library can make the visit more engaging for younger visitors. Its proximity to downtown Coeur d'Alene also means families can easily combine a visit with other kid-friendly activities in the area.
💍 Couples & Wedding Planners
Planners will appreciate its convenient location near downtown Coeur d'Alene, offering ample accommodation and reception venue choices for guests. However, it's crucial to factor in the limited air conditioning when scheduling a wedding, particularly for summer ceremonies. Opting for a spring, fall, or winter wedding can ensure a more comfortable experience for everyone.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into History
+1Today, the chapel is preserved to allow visitors to experience its historical ambiance. The architecture and interior design reflect the craftsmanship of the late 19th century, offering a tangible connection to the past. Many visitors remark on the strong sense of history they feel upon entering, appreciating the preservation efforts that keep this piece of local heritage alive.
While its primary function now leans towards being a venue for special events, the chapel's historical narrative remains its most compelling feature. It's a place where the echoes of soldiers, students, and community members from over a century ago can still be felt, making it a unique destination for those interested in local history and heritage.
Events at Fort Sherman Chapel
Many couples are drawn to the chapel for its 'Hallmark-movie' vibes, especially during the holiday season. Its proximity to downtown Coeur d'Alene is a significant advantage, offering easy access to numerous hotel options for guests and a variety of venues for reception celebrations. This convenience, combined with the chapel's picturesque setting, makes it a popular choice for those planning their big day.
However, potential renters should be mindful of the chapel's amenities. Reviews indicate limited air conditioning, with only a few window units available. This means that on extremely hot days, the interior can become quite warm. While efforts are made to keep guests comfortable, it's a factor to consider when planning an event, particularly during the summer months.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit