The city of Spokane lies in eastern Washington and tourists have plenty to do and see while visiting. If you are traveling to Spokane in May don’t forget to visit the Lilac Festival, which is held not only to celebrate the purple flower but also to honor the military. Head to the Northwest Museum of Arts and Culture for an amazing experience of the region’s rich history. The city is also home to the Honor Point Military and Aerospace Museum exhibiting military memorabilia, planes and more. Mobius Children’s Museum and Mobius Science Center are ideal to spend some time if you are visiting with kids. The Southside Family Aquatic Facility is a great place not only for the younger crowd but also for adults. Check out some of the best things to do in Spokane, Washington.
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1. Awaken the history buff in you at Northwest Museum of Arts & Culture
This museum is one of the most important museums in the region. The campus of this museum is also home to the historic Campbell House, which exhibits interesting displays giving a glimpse into the life of the people staying into the house during the late 19th century and early 20th century. Apart from the Campbell House, the museum campus also features an outdoor amphitheater, an auditorium, and a library.
Northwest Museum of Arts and Culture
Address: 316 W 1st Ave, Spokane, WA 99201
Website: Northwest Museum of Arts and Culture
Opening hours: Tue – Sun: 10am – 5pm (closed on Mon)
2. Boost the wine connoisseur in you at Arbor Crest Wine Cellars
If you like wine then a visit to Spokane is incomplete without tasting local wine at Arbor Crest Wine Cellars. Here you can find a number of white and award-winning red wines that you can taste. Cliff House Estate, the headquarters of Arbor Crest Wine Cellars, itself is a fantastic place to admire the city of Spokane from the hilltop. The estate also holds historic significance as it was designed and built by famed architect Royal Newton Riblet.
Arbor Crest Wine Cellars
Address: 4705 N Fruit Hill Rd, Spokane Valley, WA 99217
Website: Arbor Crest Wine Cellars
Opening hours: Mon – Sat: 12pm – 8pm; Sun: 12pm – 8pm
3. Tour the buzzing Downtown Spokane
The bustling Downtown is the ideal place to experience city life. Venture to River Park Square, where you’ll find shopping malls featuring national brands as well as local boutiques. You’ll also find a number of eateries serving various cuisines to satisfy individual tastes and preferences. The lively Downtown Spokane has a number of pubs and bars where you can also try local wines.
Downtown Spokane
Address: Downtown Spokane, Spokane, WA, USA
Website: Downtown Spokane
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4. Soak in some culture at Martin Woldson Theater at The Fox
This theater is located in the heart of the entertainment district of Spokane. Opened in 1931, Martin Woldson Theater at the Fox showed movies continuously for about seven decades before closing down for renovation. It re-opened in 2007 with great fanfare and Tony Bennett performed during the re-opening ceremony. Initially, this theater had a seating capacity of 2300 guests but now it can seat about 1600 people. Don’t forget to admire the restored art deco wall murals and ceiling while visiting this theater.
Martin Woldson Theater at The Fox
Address: 1001 W Sprague Ave, Spokane, WA 99201
Website: Martin Woldson Theater at The Fox
Opening hours: 6am – 12am (daily)
5. Spend a relaxing evening at Riverfront Park
This public park in the beautiful downtown Spokane is set along the Spokane River. One of the prominent features of the Riverfront Park is the Pavilion, a metal frame nearly 150 feet (45.7 m) tall and the iconic clock tower. You can go for a relaxing walk in the park or take kids for a fun ride on the historic Looff Carrousel. Surrounded by shops, restaurants, hotels, and more, Riverfront Park is deemed one of the most-visited places by tourists in Spokane.
Riverfront Park
Address: 1001 W Sprague Ave, Spokane, WA 99201
Website: Riverfront Park
6. Hike through the scenic Centennial Trail
This 60 km (37 miles) long trail runs through Spokane, Spokane Valley and Liberty Lake in Washington. This trail passes through a number of urban areas and forests. You’ll also come across some historic sites such as the Slaughter Camp Monument, Great Northern Railroad depot clock tower and more on this trail. The best time to use this trail is between March and October. If you like biking or hiking, this scenic trail is a must while visiting the region. Although dogs are allowed on this trail they should always be kept in leash.
Centennial Trail
Website: Centennial Trail
7. Visit the majestic Spokane Falls
Named after Spokane City, Spokane Falls comprises of the Upper Falls and Lower Falls. The Lower Falls supports the Monroe Street Dam, which generates hydropower for Spokane. The Lower Falls is also well-integrated in downtown Spokane and you can enjoy the stunning and mesmerizing views of falls from the Riverfront Park. You can also catch a spectacular glimpse of the Spokane Falls from the Monroe Street Bridge.
Spokane Falls
Address: Spokane Falls, Spokane, WA 99201, USA
8. Enjoy a picnic at Manito Park
Originally, the park was called Montrose Park but was renamed Manito Park in 1903. Set in Spokane’s South Hill neighborhood, this 90-acre (36.42 hectares) park is one of the best public parks in the city. This spacious park has playgrounds where you can take your kids. If you want to find peace then just sit back and relax in the manicured lawns or next to the ponds while watching the ducks and geese swim by. Manito Park also has a walking area, biking paths, and a cafe.
Manito Park
Address: 1702 S Grand Blvd, Spokane, WA 99203
Website: Manito Park
Opening hours: 5am – 11pm (daily)
9. Soothe your soul at Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist
Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist has been the place of worship and prayer in Spokane for over eight decades. Made of cut stone, the church is also one of the most iconic and beautiful buildings in Spokane. The Gothic-style stained windows of the church depict scenes from the Book of Revelation, Genesis and more. Guided tours of the Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist is available to the general public on Fridays, third and fourth Saturdays and Sundays.
Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist
Address: 127 E 12th Ave, Spokane, WA 99202
Website: Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist
10. Get adventurous by booking a Mica Moon Zip Tours
Adrenaline junkies visiting Spokane will love an adventurous experience organized by Mica Moon Zip Tours. Most tours are for about three hours and the trail to the starting point halfway up to Mica Peak itself is very scenic. The zipline course has been designed in a way that provides spectacular views of the mountain forest and its wildlife. You’ll get a discount of 10 percent if your group size is 10 people or more.
Mica Moon Zip Tours
Address: 23403 E Mission Ave #111, Liberty Lake, WA 99019
Website: Mica Moon Zip Tours
Opening hours: Mon – Fri: 9am – 5pm; Sat: 9am – 8pm (closed on Sunday)
11. Breathe in some fresh air at John A. Finch Arboretum
Discover varied landscapes along with cultivated and native plants and trees in this arboretum established in 1949. This well-maintained arboretum is a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and spend some time with your family surrounded by nature. The Girl Scout council in the area also owns and maintains the unique Touch and See Nature Trail for the blind in the arboretum. The braille signs and a cotton rope along this trail help blind people to enjoy the beauty of nature.
John A. Finch Arboretum
Address: 23403 E Mission Ave #111, Liberty Lake, WA 99019
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
12. Go snowboarding or skiing through Mount Spokane State Park
Covering an area of about 14000 acres (5665 hectares), this state park is one of the largest in Washington. Mount Spokane State Park is open throughout the year and you can enjoy nordic skiing, snowmobiling, snowboarding, horseback riding and more. This state park also has about 128 km (80 miles) of the trail making it a paradise for mountain bikers. If you are traveling with friends why not book one of the eight campsites in the state park.
Mount Spokane State Park
Address: 26107 N Mt Spokane Park Dr, Mead, WA 99021
Website: Mount Spokane State Park
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
13. Witness spectacular performance at Spokane Symphony
Spokane Symphony forms an integral part of music lovers in Spokane. It was originally called Spokane Philharmonic when incorporated in 1945 but in 1962 it was renamed to Spokane Symphony. For decades this 70-piece orchestra has been bringing cultural enrichment to the people and performs nearly 70 concerts in a year listened to by over 150000 music lovers. Most of the Spokane Symphony concerts are held at Martin Woldson Theater at The Fox.
Spokane Symphony
Address: 1001 W Sprague Ave, Spokane, WA 99201
Website: Spokane Symphony
14. Catch a marvelous game of baseball at Avista Stadium
If you are looking for an entertaining evening in Spokane catch a game at Avista Stadium. Avista Stadium, the home of the Spokane Indians, is a baseball park with a seating capacity of more than 6800 people. Built in 1958, Avista Stadium is well-maintained and is in excellent condition. This ballpark has a number of food options including, Thai, subs, barbecue, pizza and more, all served at a reasonable price.
Avista Stadium
Address: 602 N Havana St, Spokane Valley, WA 99212
Website: Avista Stadium
15. Satisfy your shopaholic soul at River Park Square
River Park Square, a shopping center in downtown Spokane, is a great place to visit for shopaholics. Here you’ll find international brands like Apple, GAP, Urban Outfitters and more. Don’t forget to visit ‘From Here’ a retail shop at River Park Square selling goods made by local artists. River Park Square also features a number of dining options where you can satisfy your food craving. If you have a sweet tooth ensure to visit the Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory in this shopping center.
River Park Square
Address: 808 W Main Ave, Spokane, WA 99201
Website: River Park Square
Opening hours: Mon – Sat: 10am – 8pm; Sun: 11am – 6pm
16. Drop by Bing Crosby Collection at Gonzaga University
Mr. Bing Crosby played football for #Gonzaga. #Spokane
Posted by Bryan Baker on Saturday, 21 September 2019
Spokane is also the place where iconic American actor and singer Bing Crosby spent his early life. The house where Crosby lived is now a part of Gonzaga University in Spokane and features the Bing Crosby Collection, which includes over 200 memorabilia related to the singer. If you are in a large group, you can call the museum to conduct a tour of the Bing Crosby Collection at Gonzaga University.
Bing Crosby Collection in Gonzaga University
Address: 508 E. Sharp Avenue Spokane, WA 99258
Website: Bing Crosby Collection in Gonzaga University
Opening hours: Mon – Fri: 12pm – 4pm; Sat: 1pm – 4pm (closed on Sun)
17. Challenge your friends at North Bowl
This 10-pin bowling destination with a cool atmosphere is the perfect place to spend some fun time with friends. Music and laser lights in the alley will definitely bring great bowling experience to bowlers of all ages. When hunger strikes North Bowl has a restaurant area where you can satisfy your taste buds. Ensure to check out late-night bowling deals and other packages on offer to make the best of your visit here.
North Bowl
Address: 125 W Sinto Ave, Spokane, WA 99201
Website: North Bowl
Opening hours: 11am – 12am (daily)
18. Tap into your musical side at The Bartlett
Looking to experience some quality nightlife with friends in Spokane? The Bartlett in downtown Spokane with its classic and simple atmosphere is the place to hang out. The bar here offers a variety of spirits, nice beer, and craft cocktails. The Bartlett is also one of the best places in the city, where you can listen to some of the top music bands in Spokane as well as the entire country.
The Bartlett
Address: 228 W Sprague Ave, Spokane, WA 99201
Website: The Bartlett
19. Fine-dine at the infamous Wild Sage Bistro
Have a romantic dinner with your partner at Wild Sage Bistro serving award-winning comfort food. Wild Sage Bistro uses local ingredients, which ensures that the freshness and quality are maintained at all times. Rated as one of the top dining spots in Spokane, Wild Sage Bistro also serves a gluten-free menu. This restaurant also has a wide variety of wines, cocktails, a nice selection of whiskey, spirits, and beer to compliment your meal.
Wild Sage Bistro
Address: 916 W 2nd Ave, Spokane, WA 99201
Website: Wild Sage Bistro
Opening hours: Sun – Thu: 4pm – 9pm; Fri – Sat: 4pm – 10pm
20. Laugh your heart out at Spokane Comedy Club
Head to Spokane Comedy Club if you are looking to spend an evening full of fun and laughter. This venue presents local and touring stand-up comedians who ensure you laugh till you cry. You must be 21 years or over to visit this venue and seating is on a first-come basis. Spokane Comedy Club has a bar serving bottled and craft beer.
Spokane Comedy Club
Address: 315 W Sprague Ave, Spokane, WA 99201
Website: Spokane Comedy Club
Opening hours: Wed – Sat: 7pm – 12am (closed from Sun – Tue)
21. Go river-rafting on the Spokane River (from USD 79.0)
If you are a river rafting fan then don’t miss to take a rafting tour of Spokane River while visiting Spokane. After the safety brief, get on-board the raft before and enjoy the scenic beauty along the river. This tour is perfect for families and children over three years are also allowed. This tour lasts for about three hours and you’ll also get bottled water. You can choose from two departure times of 10 am and 2 pm.
Scenic Rafting on the Spokane River
Duration: 2 to 3 hours
Spend some fun time in Spokane
Spokane is a great holiday destination for travelers looking for a relaxed holiday in a city. Visit the Riverfront Park and enjoy the beauty of nature, go hiking or indulge in shopping, Spokane has it all.
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