Spokane Travel Guide: Things to Do, Best Time to Visit & Itinerary
Experience the unique blend of roaring urban waterfalls, rich history, and stunning nature in Washington's sunniest city. From the legacy of Expo '74 to the pine-covered trails of Riverside State Park, Spokane offers a distinct four-season escape.
Few cities in America can claim a roaring waterfall right in the center of their downtown, but Spokane wears this geological wonder as its crown jewel. The city, the second largest in Washington, rests in the transition zone between the arid high desert and the lush Rocky Mountains, creating a landscape of basalt columns, ponderosa pines, and river gorges. It is a place where urban grit meets outdoor grace, offering travelers a laid-back alternative to the coastal bustle of Seattle.
Historically a gathering place for the Spokane Tribe who fished the falls for salmon, and later a railroad boomtown, Spokane reinvented itself in 1974 by becoming the smallest city to ever host a World’s Fair. That environmental expo reclaimed the riverfront from industrial railyards, leaving behind a legacy of green space and architectural icons that define the city today. Whether you are here for the famous 3-on-3 basketball tournament, the blooming lilacs, or simply to sip craft beer by the river, Spokane welcomes you with genuine Inland Northwest hospitality.
Seasonal Weather Guide
Plan your perfect getaway with our detailed seasonal forecast.
The Lilac City Legacy
Spokane is defined by its neighborhoods, each with a distinct personality. From the historic mansions of Browne’s Addition, built by mining magnates in the late 19th century, to the trendy, post-industrial vibes of Kendall Yards, the city rewards exploration. The vibe here is unpretentious; flannel is appropriate dinner wear, and locals are fiercely proud of their proximity to nature. You are never more than a 15-minute drive from a trailhead, a ski lift, or a quiet stretch of river.
Culturally, the city punches above its weight. The Fox Theater, an Art Deco masterpiece restored to its 1931 glory, hosts the Spokane Symphony, while the Bing Crosby Theater honors the city’s most famous hometown crooner. The culinary scene has also exploded in the last decade, moving beyond steak and potatoes to embrace farm-to-table ethics, largely fueled by the rich agricultural output of the nearby Palouse region.
Things to Do
Unforgettable experiences await you.
SkyRide Over the Falls
A 15-minute gondola ride that glides past Art Deco city hall and drops down over the roaring Huntington Park natural area and the spectacular Lower Falls.
Cycling the Centennial Trail
A 40-mile paved recreational trail that follows the contours of the Spokane River, perfect for biking, jogging, or a leisurely walk starting from downtown.
Tasting Tour of Green Bluff
A collective of family-owned farms just north of the city offering u-pick fruit, breweries, meaderies, and fresh baked goods in a scenic rural setting.
Northwest Museum of Arts and Culture (The MAC)
The region's premier museum featuring exhibits on the Spokane Tribe, the Ice Age Floods, and local art, situated in the historic Browne's Addition neighborhood.
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The Icons You’ll Want to See
Riverfront Park - The 100-acre heart of the city. Home to the giant Red Wagon slide, the Garbage Goat, and the mesmerizing U.S. Pavilion light shows. (0 mi from downtown, Free entry).
Spokane Falls - Best viewed from Huntington Park or the pedestrian suspension bridges. The flow is most dramatic in spring runoff, typically May and June. (0 mi from downtown, Free).
Manito Park - A 90-acre South Hill treasure featuring five distinct gardens, including a Nishinomiya Tsutakawa Japanese Garden and a European-style formal garden. (2.5 mi from downtown, Free).
The Centennial Trail - A 40-mile paved path stretching from Nine Mile Falls to the Idaho border. The downtown section offers easy walking access to river views. (Accessible from downtown, Free).
Green Bluff - A loop of small family farms north of the city offering u-pick crops, corn mazes, and breweries. Essential for fall visits. (15 mi from downtown, Prices vary by farm).
Essential Guide
Everything you need to know.
Must-Visit Spots
Local Cuisine
Where to Stay
Travel Tips
Insider Tips
Planning Your Visit
Getting to Spokane is straightforward via Spokane International Airport (GEG), located just 15 minutes west of downtown. While the downtown core is walkable and connected by skywalks (great for winter), renting a car is highly recommended if you plan to visit Green Bluff, Mt. Spokane, or the surrounding lakes. The city grid is easy to navigate, though the South Hill’s winding roads can be confusing for first-timers.
Pack layers regardless of the season. Summer days are hot but nights cool down rapidly, and winter requires heavy coats and boots with good traction. If you are visiting in winter, 4-wheel drive is a plus, though the city plows main arterials quickly. Don’t forget to bring sunglasses, Spokane isn’t called the “Sunny Side of Washington” for nothing.
When to Visit
Choose the perfect time for your adventure.
Peak Season: Summer (June - August)
Pros
- Guaranteed sunshine and warm evenings
- Full access to all outdoor trails and water activities
- Vibrant downtown events and markets
- Riverfront Park attractions fully open
Cons
- Accommodation prices are at their highest
- Smoke from regional wildfires can occasionally impact air quality
- Crowds at popular spots like Green Bluff and Manito Park
- Temperatures can occasionally spike over 95°F
Shoulder Season: Fall (September - October)
Pros
- Stunning autumn foliage in Manito Park
- Pleasant, mild temperatures for hiking
- Green Bluff harvest events are in full swing
- Fewer tourists than summer
Cons
- Days get shorter rapidly
- Nights can be surprisingly chilly
- Some water activities shut down
- Unpredictable rain showers
Off-Peak: Winter (November - March)
Pros
- Lowest hotel rates of the year
- Excellent skiing at Mt. Spokane just 45 minutes away
- Cozy atmosphere in downtown coffee shops and breweries
- Beautiful holiday light displays in Riverfront Park
Cons
- Driving conditions can be hazardous due to ice/snow
- Gray skies are common for extended periods
- Some outdoor attractions are closed
- Extreme cold snaps are possible
From the thundering power of the spring runoff to the quiet magic of snow-dusted pines in winter, Spokane is truly a year-round destination. Whether you are seeking an adrenaline-filled outdoor adventure or a relaxing weekend of wine tasting and history, the capital of the Inland Northwest is ready to surprise you.
Sample Itineraries
The Classic Spokane Weekend
A perfect blend of downtown urban exploration, river views, and historic charm.
Day 1: The Heart of the City
- Morning: Start your trip with a hearty breakfast at Frank’s Diner in the train car for around $35. Afterward, walk two blocks to enter Riverfront Park to feed the Garbage Goat and ride the historic Looff Carrousel ($3 per ride).
- Afternoon: Walk across the suspension bridges to view the Upper Falls, then take the SkyRide ($12 per person) for an aerial view of the Lower Falls. Enjoy a casual lunch at the eclectic Atticus Coffee & Gifts ($25) and browse their local books.
- Evening: Cross the river to Kendall Yards via the Centennial Trail for dinner at Veraci Pizza ($40). Watch the sunset over the gorge from the bluff before heading back to your hotel.
Day 2: Blooms and History
- Morning: Drive or rideshare up the South Hill to Manito Park (free entry). Spend 2 hours walking through the Duncan Garden, the Japanese Garden, and the Gaiser Conservatory.
- Afternoon: Head to the historic Browne’s Addition neighborhood to visit the Northwest Museum of Arts and Culture (MAC) and tour the Campbell House ($12 entry). Grab a late lunch at The Elk Public House ($30), a local institution famous for its corn pasta salad.
- Evening: Conclude your trip with a fine dining experience at Clinkerdagger ($100+), requesting a table by the window to see the illuminated skyline and rushing river while enjoying their signature prime rib.
Nature & Harvest Adventure
An outdoor-focused itinerary best enjoyed in late summer or early fall, featuring hiking and farm tours.
Day 1: River Rocks and Pines
- Morning: Drive to Riverside State Park and hike the Bowl and Pitcher loop (2 miles), crossing the swinging bridge over the churning river. You will need a $10 day pass or Discover Pass.
- Afternoon: Head back to town for lunch at No-Li Brewhouse ($40), sitting on their riverside patio. Rent kayaks nearby to paddle a calm stretch of the Spokane River ($30/hour).
- Evening: Enjoy a relaxed dinner at Zola ($50), a bar with live music and furniture made from repurposed amusement park rides.
Day 2: The Green Bluff Loop
- Morning: Drive 25 minutes north to Green Bluff. Start with coffee and pastries at a local farm stand like Harvest House ($15).
- Afternoon: Spend the afternoon fruit picking (cherries, peaches, or apples depending on season) and visit Big Barn Brewing for a farmhouse ale ($14 for a tasting flight). Lunch at a food truck on the loop ($25).
- Evening: Return to Spokane and dine at Wild Sage Bistro ($80), enjoying high-end regional cuisine like huckleberry-glazed salmon.
Day 3: Mountain Views
- Morning: Drive up to Mt. Spokane State Park. Drive to the summit of Vista House for photos, or hike the Trail 140 loop for expansive views of Idaho and Canada.
- Afternoon: Descend the mountain and stop at the historic St. George’s School area to see the Little Spokane River. Grab a late lunch at The Flying Goat ($35).
- Evening: Wrap up with a casual walk through the Perry District, grabbing a treat at The Grain Shed or a drink at Perry Street Brewing ($20).
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