Visiting Spokane: Plan Your Trip

Spokane, a river city in the heart of the Inland Northwest

In eastern Washington State, Spokane combines the amenities of a regional city with a surprising closeness to nature. The Spokane River runs through its centre, cascading over powerful falls just steps from offices, cafés and performance venues. The city is less dense and, at first glance, less dramatic than Seattle, but its laid-back pace, tree-lined avenues and access to the outdoors make it a pleasant destination for a few days.

Spokane is a good base for exploring the Inland Northwest, a region of forests, lakes, plateaus and small towns. The city also makes for an urban stop, with historic buildings, museums and an evolving food scene. In spring and summer, the riverbanks and parks play a central role in local life; winters can be cold and snowy, but regional ski areas draw mountain enthusiasts.

For a first visit, allow two or three days: one day around Riverfront Park and downtown, another for neighbourhoods or museums, and then time for an excursion if you have a car. Spokane sprawls well beyond its central core, so your choice of accommodation and transport will have a significant effect on the character of your stay.

Must-see sights

Start at Riverfront Park, a large public space set around the river and Spokane Falls. Trails, bridges and viewpoints let you see the water from several angles; the roar is especially impressive when the flow is strong in spring. The park occupies the site of the 1974 World's Fair and also features recreational facilities and public art. Take time to follow the riverbanks rather than just cutting across the park.

Nearby, the Spokane Falls SkyRide offers a gondola ride over part of the falls, depending on current conditions and operations. It’s a distinctive way to take in their scale, but the views from the park’s walkways are a rewarding experience in their own right. Downtown also retains brick buildings and façades dating from the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The Davenport Hotel, a landmark building with elaborate architecture, reflects Spokane’s ambitions during its railway-era boom.

To round out your visit, the Northwest Museum of Arts and Culture has collections relating to art, regional history and the Indigenous peoples of the area. The historic Campbell House, associated with the museum, offers a closer look at the life of an affluent family at the turn of the 20th century. Architecture enthusiasts can also look out for works by Kirtland Cutter, the architect who left a lasting mark on the local built environment. Check opening hours and access details before setting out, especially outside the peak season.

Choose a neighbourhood to suit your stay

Downtown is the easiest choice for a first visit without a car. You’ll be close to Riverfront Park, restaurants, performance venues and a wide range of hotels. The atmosphere varies from street to street: commercial avenues are lively during the day, while the areas around dining and entertainment venues tend to pick up in the evening. It’s a good base if you plan to spend most of your stay downtown, but less convenient if you want to explore the surrounding landscapes every day.

West and northwest of downtown, Browne’s Addition stands out for its historic homes, mature trees and residential feel. It’s a pleasant area for a stroll and an appealing option if you prefer a quieter setting while remaining relatively close to the urban core. Across the river, Kendall Yards has a newer feel, with housing, public spaces and places to eat. You can walk to downtown via pedestrian routes, but check the exact distance from your accommodation to the bridges and transit stops.

Farther east, the university area and neighbourhoods around Gonzaga University are convenient for campus events and family visits. Residential, leafy South Hill appeals to those seeking a more peaceful setting, but you may need a car or have longer journeys. Before booking, compare walking distances to attractions, transit access and parking options rather than relying on the listing’s use of “Spokane” alone.

Where to stay and what type of accommodation to choose

For a short stay focused on the falls, museums and downtown restaurants, a hotel in the city centre will reduce travel and make evenings out without a car easier. You’ll find a range of comfort levels, from business hotels to historic and contemporary properties. Travellers arriving by train, coach or plane who want to avoid renting a car may appreciate the central location, but should check connections from their arrival point and which services are actually included in the booking.

Browne’s Addition and Kendall Yards are better suited to visitors seeking a neighbourhood atmosphere, with holiday rentals and smaller-scale accommodation available depending on availability. These areas can offer a more residential setting, but options are less consistent than downtown. For a family trip or longer stay, compare whether a kitchen, laundry facilities and parking are available rather than assuming they are included in the listed rate.

Accommodation near the airport or along major roads can be convenient if you arrive late, leave early or plan to explore the region by car. However, these locations are less suited to sightseeing on foot and may require more trips into the centre. When comparing hotels, look at cancellation policies, possible fees, parking and the actual distance to the places you want to visit. Rates and availability vary with dates and local events.

Dining between Northwest traditions and contemporary cuisine

Spokane’s food reflects the resources and customs of the Inland Northwest: regional farm produce, meat, craft beer and seasonal ingredients. Menus change throughout the year, with a welcome emphasis on fruit and vegetables grown in eastern Washington. If you want to taste something local rather than a standardised menu, look for places that clearly highlight their producers or seasonal dishes.

Downtown has the most convenient dining options after a day of sightseeing. You’ll find a variety of cuisines, cafés and bars, while Kendall Yards also has places popular for a meal or a drink with river views. Residential neighbourhoods offer a more local experience and can be good for brunch or a relaxed dinner. For an evening out, make a reservation where possible, particularly on weekends or when there’s a performance or game on.

The region is known for its apple production and Washington State wines; craft breweries are also a visible part of local culture. Try a regional beer or pair a meal with a wine from eastern Washington if you like. Specialties vary from restaurant to restaurant, so rather than seeking one signature Spokane dish, look for short menus, seasonal produce and restaurants that best capture the Inland Northwest.

Getting to Spokane and getting around

Spokane International Airport serves the region and lies west of downtown. To reach your hotel, compare taxis, rideshare services, public buses and private transfers based on your arrival time, luggage and destination. A transfer booked in advance can make a late arrival or group trip easier; public transport is often less expensive, but you’ll need to check connections and travel time. Don’t assume a service runs around the clock.

Spokane’s train station is served by Amtrak’s Empire Builder route, which connects the region with the Midwest and the northwestern United States, among other destinations. Intercity coaches are another option, with routes and schedules that may vary by day. If you arrive by train or coach, check the distance between your terminal, hotel and attractions: downtown is fairly easy to explore on foot, but the city as a whole is spread out.

The Spokane Transit Authority bus network serves downtown and several neighbourhoods, but it won’t always replace a car for excursions or trips to outlying areas. A rental car is useful for exploring lakes, parks and nearby towns; compare airport pickup arrangements, hotel parking and what your itinerary actually requires. Downtown, walking and cycling may be enough for a day, depending on the weather and your mobility.

Outdoor activities, culture and excursions around the city

For a day outdoors without leaving Spokane, follow the river trails or explore the city’s green spaces. The Centennial Trail runs alongside the Spokane River over a long-distance route, suitable for a walk or a bike ride on a section of your choice. Local parks also have paths and viewpoints; check the terrain and distance before setting out, as some routes are more challenging than they look on a map.

Culture lovers can combine the Northwest Museum of Arts and Culture with an evening performance or sporting event, depending on the schedule. Spokane hosts college and professional teams, as well as concerts and performances. Dates and venues change, so build your plans around an event only after confirming the details with the venue or ticket seller. A walking tour or an activity focused on local history and architecture can add context to a first exploration of downtown.

For a trip beyond the city, consider Lake Coeur d’Alene in Idaho to the east, or the scenery of the Spokane Valley and nearby wine-growing areas. These destinations are separate from Spokane and are best treated as excursions, not walkable neighbourhoods. Access to lakes, trails and wineries depends on the season and your mode of transport. A car makes these outings easier; an organised excursion may suit you if you’d rather not drive, but check the departure point and how much time is spent travelling.

When to go and how to plan your visit

Summer generally offers the best days for walks along the water and trips to the lakes, but accommodation and some activities may also be in greater demand. Spring brings out the power of the falls, along with changeable weather. Autumn brings cooler temperatures and pleasant colour in the green spaces. In winter, expect cold conditions, possible snowfall and slower journeys; the season may appeal to travellers combining a city break with mountain activities in the region.

For a two-day itinerary, spend the first day at Riverfront Park, the falls and the historic centre, then visit a museum or Browne’s Addition the next day. With a third day, choose between an excursion to a lake or an outing focused on the region’s scenery and flavours. Avoid criss-crossing the city too often: grouping visits by area will leave more time to enjoy the riverbanks and meals.

Book accommodation first if your stay coincides with a busy period, an event or summer travel. Then check museum opening hours, seasonal activity conditions and tickets for performances you don’t want to miss. If you plan to rent a car, compare pickup and drop-off options with your arrival times. Finally, leave some breathing room in your schedule: Spokane’s river and outdoor spaces invite you to slow down rather than race from one sight to the next.

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