Cheney Travel Guide

Discover Cheney, Washington - a hidden gem in the Pacific Northwest. This guide provides visitors with everything they need to know when planning their trip to Cheney, from top attractions to where to stay and what to eat.


Introduction to Cheney

Nestled in the rolling hills of the Palouse region of Eastern Washington, Cheney is a small, yet vibrant college town that offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural attractions. Known for its charming downtown area, historic landmarks, and outdoor recreation opportunities, Cheney is a hidden gem that is waiting to be explored.

List of Places to Visit in Cheney

No matter what your interest, there is something for everyone in Cheney. Here is a list of the top attractions to visit while in town:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Eastern Washington University (EWU) Campus: Located in the heart of Cheney, the EWU campus is home to historic buildings and beautiful green spaces.
  • Cheney Historical Museum: The museum features exhibits that tell the story of Cheney’s history, including the region’s Native American heritage, pioneer settlement, and agricultural roots.

Natural Attractions of Cheney: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Turnbull National Wildlife Refuge: A wildlife haven spanning over 18,000 acres, Turnbull offers hiking trails, wildlife viewing areas and opportunities for fishing, hunting and boating.
  • Salnave Park: The park offers beautiful vistas and picnic areas.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Cheney

Cheney offers a variety of scenic trails for hiking and biking:

  • Fish Lake Trail: A 9-mile trail that connects Cheney and Spokane.
  • Iller Creek Conservation Area: A 4.8-mile hike that features stunning views of the Palouse region.
  • Ben Burr Trail: A paved 1.6-mile trail that takes riders through Spokane’s scenic South Hill Neighborhoods.

Best Things to Do in Cheney: Activities and Tours

  • Take a walking tour of Cheney’s historic sites and buildings.
  • Attend an outdoor concert at Salnave Park.
  • Explore the wineries and vineyards of the Palouse region with a guided tour.

Week-Long Itinerary for Cheney

Day 1: Explore Cheney’s historic downtown and visit the Cheney Historical Museum.

Day 2: Hike the Fish Lake Trail and enjoy a picnic at the wildlife viewing areas at Turnbull National Wildlife Refuge.

Day 3: Take a guided tour of the Palouse region’s wineries and vineyards.

Day 4: Attend an outdoor concert at Salnave Park and visit the nearby Gelato Shoppe for a sweet treat.

Day 5: Rent a bike and explore the Ben Burr Trail through Spokane’s South Hill neighborhood.

Day 6: Visit the Eastern Washington University campus and take a tour of the historic buildings.

Day 7: Spend the day kayaking, fishing, or boating at Silver Lake, just a few miles outside of Cheney.

Food and Drink Scene of Cheney

Cheney’s food and drink scene features local restaurants and bars that showcase the best of the Pacific Northwest.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Palouse Salad: A refreshing mix of chopped apples, walnuts, and dried cranberries on a bed of mixed greens.

Local Beverages

  • Eastern Washington is known for its wine industry, and Cheney is home to several wineries and tasting rooms. Be sure to try a glass of Malbec or Syrah from Latah Creek Winery.

Where to Stay in Cheney: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Willow Springs Motel: A cozy, family-run motel that offers comfortable rooms and friendly service.
  • Holiday Inn Express: A modern hotel chain with a pool and complimentary breakfast.

What to Buy in Cheney: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Palouse Wineries and Vineyards merchandise.
  • Cheney Historical Museum souvenirs and books about the region’s history.

Local Culture and Customs of Cheney

Cheney’s culture involves a deep appreciation for its past, nature and the slower pace of life. The people value outdoor recreation and environmental conservation efforts. Visitors are encouraged to respect these values during their stay.

Best Time to Visit Cheney

Cheney experiences a four-season climate, with cold winters and hot summers. The best time to visit is between May and October when the weather is optimal for outdoor activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Cheney

Do:

  • Take a walking tour of Cheney’s historic districts.
  • Visit the wineries and vineyards of the Palouse region.

Don’t:

  • Disrespect the natural beauty of the region by littering or polluting.
  • Ignore the historic landmarks and buildings that presents the unique story of Cheney.

Safety and Health

Safety in Cheney

Cheney is a safe community with a low crime rate. Visitors are encouraged to follow basic safety precautions, including locking up valuables and not leaving personal belongings unattended in public areas.

Health in Cheney

Visitors are advised to take basic health precautions such as staying hydrated and using insect repellant in outdoor areas.

Getting to Cheney: Transportation Options and Logistics

  • Spokane International Airport: Cheney is just 15 miles southwest of this airport which serves major airlines connecting with cities across the U.S.
  • Bus station: The Greyhound bus station is located in Spokane.

Other Options

  • Renting a car gives the visitors more flexibility in getting to Cheney and exploring the surrounding areas.

How to Get Around Cheney

Getting around Cheney is easy by car or foot. Bike rentals are available at several local shops, and several trails are bike-friendly.

Where to Go Next from Cheney: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Spokane: Just 30 minutes away from Cheney, Spokane is a vibrant city that boasts scenic parks, museums, and a plethora of restaurants.

Conclusion

Cheney, Washington offers a unique experience for travelers who seek to explore the history of the Pacific Northwest and the beauty of the Palouse region. From its historic downtown to scenic trails and award-winning wineries, Cheney is an excellent destination for visitors of all kinds.

Aerial view of Cheney Aerial view of Cheney