Spokane Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Spokane with our comprehensive tour guide that includes top attractions, hiking routes, food scene, local culture, safety tips, transportation options, and nearby destinations.


Introduction to Spokane

Spokane, nestled in Palouse region of Washington state, is a hidden gem of Pacific Northwest. Surrounded by natural beauty, there’s no place like Spokane that features various cultural and outdoor activities for everyone. It’s a perfect destination for solo travelers, couples, and families with kids.

In this travel guide, we’ll explore the list of top places to visit in Spokane, best hiking and biking routes, food and drink scene, where to stay, local culture and customs, safety tips, transportation options, and nearby destinations. Let’s get started!

List of Places to Visit in Spokane

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Spokane offers various cultural and historical attractions that you wouldn’t want to miss. The city features several museums and historical places that showcase its rich history and heritage. Some of the top attractions are:

Northwest Museum of Arts and Culture

The Northwest Museum of Arts and Culture, also known as MAC, is a fascinating place to learn about the art, history, and culture of the Inland Northwest region. The museum features the works of local artists and exhibits about the region’s Native American history and culture.

Bing Crosby House Museum

Bing Crosby, a legendary singer and actor, was born in Spokane. The Bing Crosby House Museum showcases memorabilia of his life and career. The museum is a must-visit for any fan of music or film history.

Riverside State Park

Riverside State Park is a haven for outdoor lovers. The park covers over 14,000 acres and features a variety of outdoor activities, like hiking, biking, fishing, and wildlife watching. The park also includes the historic Bowl and Pitcher area, which has been featured in many films and TV shows.

Natural Attractions of Spokane: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Spokane is famous for its natural beauty. The city offers several scenic views and outdoor activities that cater to every taste.

Spokane River Centennial Trail

The Spokane River Centennial Trail is a 37-mile trail that runs along the Spokane River and offers scenic views of the river, gorges, and waterfalls. The trail is perfect for walking, running, and biking.

Mount Spokane State Park

Mount Spokane State Park is a great place for day hikes and camping. The park offers several trails, with varying difficulty levels, and stunning views of the surrounding area. The park is also home to many wildlife species, like moose, elk, and deer.

Manito Park and Botanical Gardens

Manito Park and Botanical Gardens is a beautiful park in Spokane with several themed gardens, like a rose garden, Japanese garden, and Duncan garden. The park also features a conservatory with tropical plants, a duck pond, and playgrounds for kids.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Spokane

Spokane offers several hiking and biking routes that cater to all fitness levels and interests. Some of the best hiking and biking trails in Spokane are:

  • Dishman Hills Natural Area: a network of trails that cater to hikers and bikers.
  • Centennial Trail: a 37-mile-long trail that runs along the Spokane River.
  • Fish Lake Trail: a 9-mile-long trail that runs through forests and meadows.
  • Iller Creek Conservation Area: a trail system that offers stunning views of the Spokane Valley.
  • Beacon Hill: a popular trail that offers scenic views of the Spokane Valley.

Best Things to Do in Spokane: Activities and Tours

Spokane offers several activities and tours that cater to all interests and budgets. Some of the best things to do in Spokane are:

  • Spokane Ghost Tours: explore the city’s haunted history with a spooky walking tour.
  • Spokane Wine Tour: discover local wineries and breweries with a guided tour.
  • Spokane Symphony: enjoy live music performances at the historic Martin Woldson Theater.
  • Spokane International Film Festival: watch independent films from across the globe at this annual event.

Week-Long Itinerary for Spokane

Day 1: Walk around downtown Spokane, visit Riverfront Park, and go on a gondola ride.

Day 2: Explore the Northwest Museum of Arts and Culture and grab lunch downtown.

Day 3: Hike Mount Spokane and have a picnic at the summit.

Day 4: Visit Manito Park and Botanical Gardens and grab dinner in the South Perry neighborhood.

Day 5: Go on a wine tour to the local vineyards and breweries.

Day 6: Visit Riverside State Park and go on a hike or a bike ride.

Day 7: Relax and enjoy the sights and sounds of Spokane.

Food and Drink Scene of Spokane

Spokane is famous for its locally-sourced food and locally-brewed beer. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Chicken-Fried Steak: a dish that originated in the American West, Spokane-style chicken-fried steak is served with country gravy and potatoes.
  • Wild Huckleberry Jam: a sweet and tangy jam made with wild huckleberries found in the region.
  • Applewood-Smoked Bacon: Spokane is known for its locally-smoked bacon, which is used in many dishes.

Local Beverages

  • No-Li Brewhouse: a local brewery that offers several craft beers, like Big Juicy IPA and Spin Cycle Red.
  • Townshend Cellar: a local winery that produces award-winning wines, like T3 Red and Syrah.
  • Roast House Coffee: a local coffee roaster that offers a variety of blends and single-origin coffee.

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

Spokane offers several accommodation options that cater to every budget and interest:

  • The Historic Davenport Hotel: a luxurious hotel located in the heart of downtown Spokane.
  • Ruby2: a budget-friendly hotel located in the heart of downtown Spokane.
  • Montvale Hotel: a boutique hotel located in the historic Montvale Hotel building.

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

Here are some of the souvenirs and local products that you can bring home from your trip to Spokane:

  • Wild Huckleberry Jam: a sweet and tangy jam made with wild huckleberries found in the region.
  • Spokandy Chocolates: a local chocolate company that produces delicious handmade chocolates.
  • Red Wagons: a symbol of Spokane’s history, red wagons are available in several stores and souvenir shops in the city.

Local Culture and Customs of Spokane

Spokane has a distinct culture and customs that you’ll experience during your trip. Here’s what you should know:

  • People in Spokane are friendly and open-minded. Don’t be afraid to strike up a conversation with locals.
  • Spokane has a rich Native American history and culture. Show respect towards their traditions and customs.
  • Spokane has a laid-back and relaxed lifestyle. Take your time and enjoy the sights and sounds of the city.

Best Time to Visit Spokane

The best time to visit Spokane is during the summer months of June to August. The weather is warm and sunny, and there are several outdoor festivals and events during this time. However, if you’re looking for a winter wonderland experience, visit Spokane during December to February. The Christmas lights in Riverfront Park are a must-see.

Do’s and Don’ts of Spokane

Here are some do’s and don’ts that you should keep in mind during your trip to Spokane:

Do:

  • Do explore the city’s natural beauty by going on a hike, bike ride, or horseback riding.
  • Do try locally-sourced food and drinks.
  • Do respect the local culture and customs.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter or vandalize public property.
  • Don’t disrespect the Native American traditions and customs.
  • Don’t forget to tip your servers and bartenders.

Safety and Health

Safety in Spokane

Spokane is a relatively safe city for tourists. However, like any city, it’s important to take precautions to ensure your safety. Here are some safety tips to keep in mind:

  • Avoid walking alone at night in secluded areas.
  • Keep your valuables in a safe place.
  • Be aware of your surroundings and trust your instincts.

Health in Spokane

Spokane has several hospitals and medical centers that provide quality healthcare services. However, it’s important to carry travel insurance to cover medical expenses in case of an emergency.

Getting to Spokane: Transportation Options and Logistics

Spokane is easily accessible by air, bus, or car. Here are some transportation options to consider:

Airports Near Spokane

Spokane International Airport is the primary airport serving the city. It’s located about 5 miles west of downtown Spokane and offers several domestic and international flights.

Bus Stations Near Spokane

Greyhound and Amtrak are the major bus stations serving Spokane. They offer several daily routes to and from the city.

Other Options

If you prefer driving to Spokane, the city is easily accessible via Interstate 90 and Highway 395. If you’re traveling from Seattle, take Exit 277 off I-90 and continue east for about 280 miles.

How to Get Around in Spokane

Spokane has several transport options for getting around the city. The best ways to get around are:

  • Spokane Transit Authority (STA): The public transportation system in Spokane that provides bus services throughout the city.
  • Taxis and ride-hailing services like Lyft and Uber.
  • Rental cars are available at the airport and in several locations throughout the city.

Where to Go Next from Spokane: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Spokane is a great starting point for exploring the Pacific Northwest region. Here are some nearby destinations that you can visit:

  • Coeur d’Alene: a charming resort town located in the nearby Idaho Panhandle, famous for its scenic beauty and outdoor activities.
  • Mount Rainier National Park: a popular national park located in Washington state, known for its stunning views and hiking trails.
  • Seattle: the largest city in the Pacific Northwest region, known for its iconic landmarks, like the Space Needle and Pike Place Market.

Conclusion

Spokane, with its natural beauty, diverse culture, delicious food, and rich history, is a destination that you shouldn’t miss. We’ve covered all the essential information in this comprehensive travel guide for Spokane, from top attractions and hiking routes to food and drink scene, local culture, safety tips, transportation options, and nearby destinations. We hope this travel guide will help you plan your trip to Spokane and make the most of your visit.

Downtown Spokane from Riverfront Park Downtown Spokane from Riverfront Park Monroe Street Dam on the Spokane River Monroe Street Dam on the Spokane River Downtown Oasis - Riverfront Park Downtown Oasis - Riverfront Park runners participating in the Bloomsday race runners participating in the Bloomsday race Interior of Historic Davenport Hotel Interior of Historic Davenport Hotel