COEUR D’ALENE — After four decades of welcoming visitors with thousands of bright red geraniums, The Coeur d’Alene Resort has unveiled a new entry way landscape design to mark its 40th anniversary.
The resort’s entrance, once dominated by a bed of red tango geraniums, referred to by staff as “Geranium Hill,” now features a Pacific Northwest-inspired design complete with waterfalls and pine trees. It was a special touch added by one of the resorts late founder, Duane Hagadone.
“We had thousands of geraniums in this one bed as our front entryway. And that was really special to Mr. Hagedorn,” said Amy VanSickle, the resort’s marketing director.
The resort opened its doors on May 6, 1986, drawing massive crowds from the start. It is estimated 20,000 people lined up at the resort’s entrance.
Resort staff notes the updated landscape reflects a more local image for both visitors and their staff, honoring the authentic Pacific Northwest experience.
For guests who miss the iconic geraniums, the resort will have them planted just in time before Mother’s day.
Since opening, the hotel has significantly impacted Coeur d’Alene’s growth and tourism industry. The property has welcomed approximately 10 million guests over its four-decade history.
“From our founders, Mr. Hagedorn and Mr. Jager. They they saw the opportunity here as being one of the most beautiful places in the country. And they wanted to welcome people here,” VanSickle said.
The resort’s growth over time has created lasting connections within the community. Summer Flink is the reservations and large party booking manager at Beverly’s restaurant inside the hotel. She has worked there for 31 years.
“We kinda have the best of all worlds here. I don’t think there’s anywhere better to live. Plus, we still have a community feel here where you still know everybody. It’s not so large yet that I still know most of the locals here,” Flink said.
The Coerd’Alene Resorts current project that is being worked on, called the Sherman Tower, will be the next renovation opening in May of next year.
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