Spokane, Washington: Best Things to Do – Top Picks

Are you ready to explore Spokane, Washington? This vibrant city in the Pacific Northwest has something for everyone. From beautiful landscapes to a thriving arts scene, Spokane will captivate you. Let’s find out the top things to do in Spokane for an unforgettable visit.

• Spokane is known as the ‘Lilac City’ and offers a unique blend of natural beauty, outdoor activities, and vibrant arts and culture.
• The city’s four distinct seasons provide a variety of experiences, from hot, dry summers to snowy winters.
• Spokane is located near the Idaho border, about a 4-hour drive from Seattle, making it an accessible destination for Pacific Northwest travelers.
• The city is home to numerous parks, rivers, lakes, galleries, theaters, and music venues, catering to nature lovers and art enthusiasts alike.
• Spokane’s rich history and diverse cultural heritage are showcased through various museums and historical sites.

Riverfront Park is a vibrant oasis in the heart of Spokane. It has a rich history and iconic attractions. It’s a 100-acre urban park that was once an old railyard.

Now, it’s a beloved recreational and cultural hub. It offers a wide range of experiences for everyone.

The centerpiece of Riverfront Park is the majestic Spokane Falls. The Spokane River cascades through the city here. Visitors can see the falls’ power from many spots in the park.

The Numerica SkyRide Gondola offers a 15-minute ride. It takes you 200 feet above the falls for an amazing view.

The park is home to the 1909 Looff Carrousel. It’s a National Historic Landmark with 54 hand-carved animals. These include horses, dragons, a giraffe, and a tiger.

In warmer months, the park’s Pavilion hosts events. These include live music and outdoor movies, adding to the park’s lively atmosphere.

The park’s Garbage Goat is a unique attraction. It’s a vacuum-powered sculpture from the 1974 World’s Fair Expo. It eats small pieces of litter.

The Riverfront Park clock tower is another landmark. It’s a remnant of the Great Northern Railroad depot. It has watched over the park for over a century.

Riverfront Park is a true gem in Spokane. It offers natural beauty, historic charm, and modern attractions. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful stroll, a family-friendly adventure, or a lively cultural experience, this park has something for everyone.

Manito Park is a hidden gem in Spokane’s South Hill neighborhood. It covers 78 acres of native and cultivated landscapes. Plus, it has 20 acres of botanical gardens. This place is a peaceful escape from the city’s noise.

The Nishinomiya Tsutakawa Japanese Garden is a highlight. It has calm ponds, pagodas, and beautiful bonsai trees. The Duncan Garden is loved by photographers and picnickers for its colorful flower beds and neat hedges.

Rose Hill is famous for its roses. It was named the top rose garden in the nation in 2007. It has over 2,300 rose bushes in a stunning display.

At Mirror Pond, you can rent canoes and kayaks in summer. The park has walking and cycling trails. These trails, like the Lilac Garden and Ferris Perennial Garden, are great for exploring.

Manito Park welcomes over 150,000 visitors every year. The Friends of Manito have given over $900,000 to the park. In 2009, it was named the “Best of Attractions – Spokane, Washington” by UpTake.com.

“Manito Park is a true oasis of natural beauty and tranquility in the heart of Spokane. It’s a place where you can escape the hustle and bustle of the city and immerse yourself in the serene surroundings.”

Manito Park is a must-see for anyone in Spokane. It combines natural wonders with carefully designed gardens. With its history, awards, and commitment to nature, it’s a true treasure in Spokane’s parks.

In the heart of Spokane, the Northwest Museum of Arts and Culture (MAC) stands out. It’s a Smithsonian-affiliated gem that lets visitors dive into the area’s rich history and art. This top Spokane museum showcases Native American history, historic homes, and changing art collections. It celebrates the diverse communities that make Spokane vibrant.

At the MAC, discover the stories of the Inland Northwest’s indigenous people. See ancient traditions, beautiful artworks, and their impact on the region. The museum offers interactive displays and thoughtful curation. It’s a deep dive into the area’s First Peoples, fostering understanding and appreciation.

Visit the Campbell House, a grand historic home in Spokane’s past. Now part of the MAC, it offers tours of its Victorian-era beauty. These tours take you back to the lives of Spokane’s early 20th-century elite, sparking nostalgia and wonder.

The MAC’s galleries are always changing, showcasing various art collections. From local to international talents, each visit is unique. Recent shows include Downton Abbey costumes and DreamWorks Animation art, showing the museum’s commitment to engaging programming.

For both locals and visitors, the Northwest Museum of Arts and Culture is essential. It shines a light on Spokane’s cultural heritage, inviting you to explore its history, art, and community.

Riverside State Park is just minutes from downtown Spokane. It’s a huge outdoor playground for those who love adventure. With over 60 miles of trails, it’s a great place to explore nature.

Whether you hike, bike, or just love nature, there’s something for everyone. The park has forests and rock formations that make for amazing adventures. You can hike, bike the Centennial Trail, or ride horses. And you might see wildlife along the way.

The park also has lots of other activities. You can fish in the Spokane River or try water sports like kayaking. It’s close to Spokane, making it a favorite spot for both locals and tourists.

For a deeper outdoor experience, try camping at Riverside State Park. You can camp, make s’mores, and listen to birds sing. It’s a top spot for outdoor fun and nature lovers.

Just outside Spokane, Green Bluff is a magical place with over 20 family-owned farms and orchards. It’s a chance to dive into local agriculture with seasonal fruit picking, farm-to-table meals, and family events all year.

Fruit picking is a big draw in Green Bluff. Farms like Knapp’s U-Pick Farm, Siemers Farm, and Hidden Acres Farm let you pick apples, pears, and more. It’s a fun summer and fall activity for families and friends.

Green Bluff is also known for its farm-to-table culture. You can enjoy fresh, local food at on-site eateries or buy farm-fresh products to take home. Places like Big Barn Brewing and Twilight Cider Works offer a taste of the region’s best.

Fall in Green Bluff is filled with family fun. There are harvest festivals, pumpkin patches, and apple cider tastings. It’s a great place for a day of fun, celebrating the harvest.

Green Bluff Spokane is a true gem for u-pick farms and local agriculture. It’s perfect for a family outing, a farm-to-table meal, or exploring the seasons. This place will delight and inspire you.

Spokane, Washington, is a lively city with a rich sports and entertainment scene. Fans enjoy the Spokane Indians baseball games and the Spokane Symphony Orchestra’s shows. There’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Sports fans love the Spokane Indians at Avista Stadium. They have themed nights and fireworks. Gonzaga University’s basketball games also draw big crowds. The Spokane Arena hosts sports, concerts, and shows for up to 12,000 people.

The city’s culture is just as vibrant. The Martin Woldson Theater at The Fox hosts the Spokane Symphony Orchestra. Places like the Northern Quest Resort & Casino and the Spokane Comedy Club offer concerts and comedy. These spots keep the entertainment going all year.

Spokane has something for everyone, whether you love sports or the arts. The city’s events, from sports to symphony, promise a memorable visit.

Spokane’s sports and entertainment scene offers a wide range of experiences. From live sports to cultural performances, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re into sports or the arts, Spokane has it all.

Spokane, Washington, is a lively city with lots of outdoor fun. The Spokane River Centennial Trail is a top spot for adventures. It’s a 40-mile path along the Spokane River, great for runners, walkers, and cyclists.

The trail goes through Washington and Idaho, with 18 marked trailheads. You can start your journey at many points. As you walk or bike, you’ll see stunning views of the Spokane River and its wildlife.

The trail has been open for nearly 30 years. It’s open from March to October, from dawn to dusk. This lets people enjoy it during the best seasons.

The Centennial Trail is perfect for biking or hiking. It’s well-kept and easy to get to. It runs through Riverside State Park, which is over 9,000 acres.

For a unique view, try the Numerica Skyride. It’s a 15-minute ride in a covered cabin. You’ll see the best views from March to June.

The Centennial Trail is a must-see for nature lovers in Spokane. It’s great for hikers, cyclists, or anyone who loves a walk. There’s something for everyone on this trail.

Downtown Spokane is a treasure trove of shopping and dining. It’s home to River Park Square mall and a mix of big names like Nordstrom and Apple Store. You’ll also find unique spots like Auntie’s Bookstore and Boo Radley’s.

Downtown Spokane is a food lover’s paradise. It’s filled with restaurants, cafes, and food trucks. Summer events like Riverfront Eats highlight the city’s local cuisine. The Spokane Farmers Market offers fresh produce and handmade goods, giving you a real taste of Spokane.

Spokane has something for everyone. Whether you want to shop, eat, or just enjoy the downtown vibe, you’ll find it here. Explore the heart of Spokane and discover its best downtown restaurants and Spokane shopping spots.

“Downtown Spokane is a treasure trove of local gems, from independent boutiques to mouthwatering eateries. It’s a place where you can truly immerse yourself in the city’s vibrant culture and flavor.”

If you love craft beer and wine, Spokane is a paradise for you. The city has a self-guided ale trail with over 426 breweries in Washington. No-Li Brewhouse is a standout, known nationwide. It gives back to the community with its earnings.

Bellwether Brewing Co. stands out by using natural herbs instead of hops. This adds a special touch to their beers.

Spokane’s wineries are mostly in downtown, making it easy to visit several in one day. Places like Arbor Crest Wine Cellars offer Northwest wines. They’re located in the historic Cliff House.

The Spokane Winery Association helps plan your wine tasting. They provide maps and info on the best wines in the area.

Spokane’s craft brewery and winery trail is a must-visit for beer and wine lovers. You’ll find everything from new spots like The Grain Shed Taproom to favorites like Uprise Brewing Co. and No Drought Brewing Co. There’s a wide range of local flavors and unique offerings.