Casino at Best Western Kootenai River Inn, Bonners Ferry, ID

Gold being discovered in the East Kootenays of British Columbia brought people from everywhere in 1863. One of the people that came was Edwin Bonner, a merchant, from Walla Walla, Washington. He was the man that installed a ferry from the Wildhorse Trail across the Kootenai River in 1864. Richard Fry came along in 1875 and leased the business, but the name stayed the same and that is how the name of Bonners Ferry, Idaho received its moniker.

The area of Bonners Ferry still enjoys the beauty of the Kootenai River and the mountains. They are in the upper part of Idaho so the Canadian border is very close. Attractions include a wildlife refuge, recreation areas, ski resorts and golfing.

A casino is located at the Best Western Kootenai River Inn. The hotel is located at 7169 Plaza Street in Bonners Ferry, ID. Every room has private balconies that provide views of the surrounding countryside. Free internet access comes with each room as well as free long distance. The rooms have king sized beds and a forty two inch LCD television with a satellite connection and HBO. Guests can order room service from 7:00 am to 9:00 pm and also fix a cup of coffee or tea with the coffeemaker.

There are several rooms that are available for guests. Some have river views or Jacuzzi tub that overlooks a fireplace, the Kootenai River and the Selkirk Cabinet Mountain Range. Families can book the Executive Suite with two separate rooms and pocket doors for privacy. These rooms have a sectional sofa, fireplace and dining table with chairs.

Small pets are welcome at the hotel. There is a fee of twenty five dollars a night. Check in is at 3:00 pm and check out is 11:00 am. Triple A gives the hotel a rating of three diamonds.

The indoor heated pool also has a hot tub in the same area. The exercise room is open from 7:00 am to 11:00 pm for the guests. The room has a stationary bike, stair stepper, and treadmill. A steam room and the Kootenai Spa offers massage services. There is a barber and beauty shop on site. Children of all ages will enjoy the game room with arcade and video games. Besides the casino Bingo is held on Wednesday nights at 4:00 pm.

Dining at the hotel will be at the Springs Restaurant and Lounge. They are open daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner. The chairs in the area are made for a comfortable dining experience. There is an outside patio for dining that provides great views of the Kootenai River and mountains.

The hotel offers packages so that guests can enjoy the Kootenai Spa, choose from breakfast, lunch or dinner and then play at the Kootenai Casino. They have four hundred and ninety six slot machines or Digital 21 for the guest's entertainment. There is plenty to do in the hotel or outside recreational activities when guests stay at the Best Western Kootenai River Inn.