16 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Spokane, WA (2024)

Written by Brad Lane
Updated Dec 23, 2023
We may earn a commission from affiliate links ()

Author Brad Lane lives in the Pacific Northwest and enjoys visiting Spokane.

Spokane is the second-largest city in Washington, located on the eastern side of the state, less than 20 miles from the Idaho border. The Spokane River runs right through the center of this town of approximately 217,000 residents. No other spot exemplifies the beauty afforded to the city by the Spokane River more than Riverfront Park.

Riverfront Park is a crown-jewel public space and a must-visit attraction regardless of the reason for travel. But it's not just the river that adds scenic value to the city. Several other things to do in Spokane also take advantage of eastern Washington's beautiful natural surroundings. From pointed mountains to arboretums where moose roam, exploring the outdoors is one of the top activities in Spokane.

This sizable university city also entices tourists with cultural experiences. Historic hotels, art museums, and Japanese Gardens are just a few of the sightseeing opportunities throughout the city — that, and a bustling downtown district with sidewalk cafés and unique retail opportunities.

Read about the best places to visit with our list of the top things to do in Spokane.

On This Page:

  • 1. Riverfront Park
  • 2. Stroll through Manito Park
  • 3. Feel the Spray at Spokane Falls
  • 4. Explore Riverside State Park
  • 5. Bike the Centennial Trail
  • 6. Drive to the Summit at Mount Spokane State Park
  • 7. Pick Your Own Produce in Green Bluff
  • 8. Hike at Rocks of Sharon, Dishman Hills Conservation Area
  • 9. Engage at the Northwest Museum of Arts and Culture
  • 10. Encounter Wildlife at John A. Finch Arboretum
  • 11. Experience the Martin Woldson Theater at The Fox
  • 12. Step Back in Time at the Historic Davenport Hotel
  • 14. Tour the Gonzaga University Campus
  • 15. Marvel at St. John's Cathedral
  • 16. Catch a Baseball Game at Avista Stadium
  • Where to Stay in Spokane for Sightseeing

1. Riverfront Park

16 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Spokane, WA (1)

Riverfront Park is a defining place to visit at the center of the city. It encompasses over 100 acres of green space and pedestrian trails, as well as dozens of community attractions. Several events and activities also occur at the park throughout the year.

The park was founded in 1974 when Spokane became the smallest city to ever host the World's Fair. The enormous United States Pavilion was the largest structure built for the World's Fair, which was big enough to house trees and represent the country in a crowd of more than 1.5 million people.

Today, the U.S. Pavilion is still a landmark in Riverfront Park, though as planned, the skeleton structure of the Pavilion is all that remains. The Pavilion at Riverfront is fun to walk around and tour, and it features festive light shows year-round on the weekends. It also hosts special light performances on most major holidays.

16 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Spokane, WA (2)

The Pavilion is just the tip of exciting family attractions in Riverfront Park. Nearby, the 1902 Clock Tower is also on display as the last remaining structure from the Great Northern Railroad Depot. Other family attractions include the Looff Carousel, the Numerica Skating Ribbon, and the Providence Playscape. And views of both the upper and lower portions of Spokane Falls are accessible from the park.

The paved 37-mile Centennial Trail leads east and west from the park. Nearby shopping, dining, and unique places to stay, like The Historic Davenport Hotel, are in River Park Square, lining the south side of the park.

Address: 507 N. Howard Street, Spokane, Washington

2. Stroll through Manito Park

16 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Spokane, WA (3)

Manito Park is in the scenic South Hill Neighborhood and has spent the last century cultivating itself as one of the finest botanical gardens in the nation. It comprises five major garden areas, including the notable Nishinomiya Tsutakawa Japanese Garden, and more than 20 acres of blooming flowers on display. These beautiful displays attract over 150,000 visitors a year.

Manito Park also offers 70-plus acres of well-maintained native landscape outside of the specified botanical gardens. Another notable place to visit in the park includes Mirror Pond, with a good chance of spotting some wildlife. The Gaiser Conservatory at the park is a greenhouse that invites year-round visits.

16 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Spokane, WA (4)

Much of the time spent at Manito is at leisure. It's a fun place to bring a blanket and some snacks to enjoy the nice weather of Eastern Washington. Late spring and summer are arguably the best time to visit, when the park is in full bloom. The Traditional Rose Garden is particularly appealing throughout the summer, as is the nearby Lilac Garden.

Address: 1702 S Grand Blvd, Spokane, Washington

3. Feel the Spray at Spokane Falls

16 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Spokane, WA (5)

Spokane Falls is a must-see natural attraction within Riverfront Park. It consists of lower and upper falls and presents a fast-paced and very audible attraction. While both offer dramatic views throughout the year, the best time to see these heavy-flowing falls is spring, when the snowmelt swells the banks of the Spokane River.

The upper falls are accessible with just a short walk from the Pavilion at Riverfront. A pedestrian bridge crosses the river below the falls, offering fantastic views of the rushing water. Expect to encounter photographers and other interested explorers trying to capture the beauty.

16 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Spokane, WA (6)

The larger lower falls are on the west side of Riverfront Park, with a few different viewpoints available. One of the most popular areas to appreciate the gravity is the landscaped area known as Huntington Park, below the Washington Water Power building. This park features several steps and a pathway lined with interpretive information.

Another area to get a view of the lower falls is the pedestrian sidewalk atop the adjacent Monroe Street Bridge. The newly installed A Place of Truths plaza, next to the Monroe Street Bridge, also has great viewpoints. And for perhaps the best view, the Numerica SkyRide in Riverfront Park offers gondola-style rides that span the river.

Address: 620 W Spokane Falls Blvd., Spokane, Washington

Read More: Top-Rated Waterfalls in Washington State

4. Explore Riverside State Park

16 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Spokane, WA (7)

Riverside is one of the largest state parks in Washington. It's about nine miles northwest of Spokane and is a popular place to explore all year long. The park is separated into different park units along the Spokane and Little Spokane Rivers, located a short drive from one another.

Activities like fishing, white-water kayaking, and swimming are popular in the warmer months at Riverside State Park, while snowshoers and cross-country skiers can be found gliding through the landscape in the winter.

Some of the best camping near Spokane is within the Bowl & Pitcher Area of the park. This scenic area of the park is also home to an iconic short hike that starts at a nearby Suspension Bridge created by the Civilian Conservation Corps in 1934.

16 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Spokane, WA (8)

Some of the wildest hiking, however, is found on the trails or dry riverbeds in Deep Creek Canyon unit of the park. The Nine Mile Recreation Area within Riverside State Park offers a boat dock and rentals. The Lake Spokane unit features additional camping and trails close to the water.

Address: 9711 W. Charles Road, Nine Mile Falls, Washington

5. Bike the Centennial Trail

16 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Spokane, WA (9)

The first segments of the Centennial Trail, also known as the Spokane River Centennial National Recreational Trail, were constructed in 1989, the same year as the state of Washington's Centennial Celebration. It has since grown to be nationally recognized and a central point for recreation in Spokane.

This paved trail stretches for 37 miles from either direction out of the downtown Riverfront Park and is open to any non-motorized transportation. Whether you choose running shoes, bicycles, or roller skis, the path delivers a good dose of eastern Washington landscapes.

The Centennial Trail is built upon former railway routes and old timber company land, providing a flat grade to explore the natural sights. The trail takes on more of a rugged landscape for 15 miles west of Riverfront Park. Scenic views line this western portion of the trail until reaching Riverside State Park at the trail's end.

16 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Spokane, WA (10)

East out of downtown Spokane, the trail meanders through the collegial atmosphere of Gonzaga University before traveling 17 miles to the Washington and Idaho border. The trail continues another 24 miles as the North Idaho Centennial Trail west of the border.

Address: 9711 W. Charles Road, Nine Mile Falls, Washington

6. Drive to the Summit at Mount Spokane State Park

16 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Spokane, WA (11)

Mount Spokane State Park encompasses a staggering 13,919 acres and over 100 miles of multi-use trails. And the state park entrance is only an hour north of the city. This proximity caters to weekend camping trips and day activities like mountain biking and wildlife viewing.

Mount Spokane is part of the larger Selkirk Mountain Range and one of the tallest peaks in the Inland Northwest. Two other major mountain summits, Kit Carson and Day Mountain, are also within the state park boundaries. All three summits have hiking trails that lead to the top for spectacular views.

16 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Spokane, WA (12)

The Mount Spokane Summit Road is generally open between mid-June and mid-October for those not interested in hiking to the top. The park's limited campsites are also located on Summit Road. At the top, the historic Vista House lives up to its name with an east-facing terrace.

This state park shines with a heavy coat of snow during the winter months. It's home to Mount Spokane Ski and Snowboard Resort, which attracts thousands of downhill enthusiasts each season. And like cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, other types of recreation also attract visitors in the winter.

Address: 26107 N. Mt Spokane Park Drive, Mead, Washington

7. Pick Your Own Produce in Green Bluff

16 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Spokane, WA (13)

Green Bluff is a lovely collection of local farms less than 20 miles north of downtown. This short commute leads to several U-pick and pre-prick opportunities and some of the freshest produce in town. More than 20 farms offer agricultural attractions in Green Bluff, providing year-round reasons to visit.

Summer is certainly one of the most popular times to visit Green Bluff. The fields and orchards are ripe with strawberries, peaches, and pears throughout the hotter months. Apples reign supreme throughout the fall until the pumpkins take over. And in winter, come find your authentic Christmas tree at Green Bluff.

Take some time to explore the Grower Directory before visiting. Several farms dot the countryside of Green Bluff — too many to see in a day. Each farm offers its own seasonal attractions and crops, and each is also independently owned, so hours and seasonal produce vary.

8. Hike at Rocks of Sharon, Dishman Hills Conservation Area

16 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Spokane, WA (14)

Several natural spaces surround Spokane. And thanks to efforts by local landowners and non-profit groups, a network of Conservation Areas surrounds the city. Hiking trails line these natural spaces and offer excellent outlets for getting outside. One of the most fun places to explore is the area known as Rocks of Sharon. It's also one of the best hiking trails near Spokane.

The Rocks of Sharon are a collection of large granite outcroppings in an elevated landscape on the south side of the city. The views from these rocks include miles-long overlooks of the gold and green fields of the Palouse. And the views of these gigantic rocks themselves are awe-inspiring due to their stature.

Two main trailheads lend the most accessibility to Rocks of Sharon: The Stevens Creek Trailhead is the shorter route, while the Iller Creek Trailhead offers a longer trek. Both feature ample parking with portable toilets near the parking area. For the adventurous and those with the appropriate gear, these granite slabs also invite rock climbing adventures alongside a rewarding hike.

Address: 9102 S Stevens Creek Road, Spokane, Washington

9. Engage at the Northwest Museum of Arts and Culture

16 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Spokane, WA (15)

The Northwest Museum of Arts and Culture, or "The MAC", is the largest cultural institution of its kind in the Inland Northwest. It features five underground galleries and rotating exhibits and focuses on regional history, visual arts, and American Indian culture. Its growing permanent collection has more than one million artifacts.

Outside of the exhibits, the Café Mac keeps coffee refilled throughout a visit. The adjacent Campbell House provides tours that have visitors stepping back into a 19th-century Washington lifestyle. The facility has a stacked calendar of events with different classes, workshops, and speakers offered throughout the week.

Address: 2316 W. 1st Avenue, Spokane, Washington

10. Encounter Wildlife at John A. Finch Arboretum

16 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Spokane, WA (16)

The John A. Finch Arboretum is on 65 acres of woodland hills in southwest Spokane. It's a welcomed place to visit for those looking to get back in touch with Washington's natural side. This botanical showcase is situated alongside the scenic Garden Springs Creek and features more than 2,000 labeled tree and shrub species, as well as seasonal wildflowers,

Admission is always free at the arboretum, and self-guided tours are available. Seasonal activities like the Fall Leaf Festival also take place throughout the warmer seasons of the year. Spring is also a popular time to visit, when the arboretum's magnolias, dogwoods, and daffodils bloom to life.

16 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Spokane, WA (17)

When visiting, keep an eye out for the resident wildlife that likes to call the arboretum home. Several marmots scurry about the natural space, as well as wild turkeys. Moose have also been known to wander through the area, as well as sizable non-venomous bull snakes. Always keep an appropriate distance when encountering any wildlife.

Address: 3404 W. Woodland Blvd, Spokane, Washington

11. Experience the Martin Woldson Theater at The Fox

16 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Spokane, WA (18)

The Fox Theater was the first building to have air conditioning in Spokane. The theater premiered its debut movie in 1931 to a star-studded audience and a packed house. Over the next 70 years, the Fox Theater hosted vaudeville performances, silent films, and, eventually, talking films. For this reason, the Fox was outfitted with plenty of stage space and a full orchestra pit.

In 2000, the Fox Theater showed its last movie and was slated to be razed and replaced by a parking garage. A generous contribution by Miss Myrtle Woldson effectively saved the Fox Theater from demolition and helped renovate the space. Today, it remains a defining cultural establishment in Spokane.

The newly named Martin Woldson Theater at The Fox reopened in 2007 and since then has been the home of the Spokane Symphony. Other fine art performances at the theater include operas and ballets. Performances often take place into the evening, providing a top spot for things to do at night.

Address: 1001 W. Sprague Avenue, Spokane, Washington

12. Step Back in Time at the Historic Davenport Hotel

16 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Spokane, WA (19)

The Davenport Hotel is centrally located in downtown Spokane near Riverfront Park. It's a great home base for exploring the rest of the city. And it stands proudly as a testament to the rich history of the area. This hotel is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and between 1914 and 1985, it set a high bar for luxury accommodations.

Fifteen years after the Davenport Hotel closed for business, new owners took up the task of restoring the hotel to its former grandeur. Renovations not only went into the ritzy interior and feel of the overnight establishment, but efforts were put in place to re-establish the hotel's first-class reputation.

16 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Spokane, WA (20)

When the hotel opened its doors again in 2000, restoration of the ornate woodwork and the always-lit central fireplace in the stunning Grand Lobby secured the Davenport Hotel's place in Spokane's community. And the hotel continues its legacy of superior customer service. Check it out for a decadent blast from the past and a luxurious place to spend the night.

Address: 10 S. Post Street, Spokane, Washington

13. Shred the Slopes at Mount Spokane Ski & Snowboard Park

16 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Spokane, WA (21)

Mount Spokane Ski & Snowboard Park is located entirely within the boundaries of Mount Spokane State Park. This fully automated ski resort offers world-class skiing and snowboarding within an hour of downtown Spokane. With 45 runs of varying difficulty and more than 1,400 skiable acres to explore, you can find new terrain all season long.

The mountain features three different lodges, including the historic Vista House on the summit. Each of the lodges offers the chance to dry some mittens and sip on some hot chocolate. Night skiing also takes place throughout the week. The park also offers a long tubing hill that's popular with younger winter athletes.

Address: 29500 N. Mt Spokane Park Drive, Mead, Washington

Read More: Top-Rated Ski Resorts in Washington State

14. Tour the Gonzaga University Campus

16 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Spokane, WA (22)

Gonzaga University sits on a beautiful 150-acre campus on the north side of the Spokane River, a short walk upriver from Riverfront Park. This private liberal arts university was established in 1887 and has become an integral part of the Spokane community.

Alongside educating thousands of students, it also provides several community outlets - including a fun place to stroll. The campus is striking, with a mix of historic brick buildings and sharply designed newer facilities. The Centennial Trail crosses the Spokane River and connects to campus.

The Jundt Art Museum is one campus resource often used by community members, featuring works from across the globe. The McCarthey Athletic Center is also a popular place for students and fans, home to the renowned Gonzaga Bulldogs basketball team.

And Gonzaga isn't the only campus in town. The private Christian Whitworth University also calls Spokane home, as well as the for-profit Carrington College. Eastern Washington University, out of Cheney, also has a campus in Spokane, on the other side of the river from Gonzaga.

Address: 502 East Boone Ave, Spokane, Washington

15. Marvel at St. John's Cathedral

16 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Spokane, WA (23)

Regardless of religious practices, St. John's Cathedral on 12th avenue in Spokane is quite the sight to see. Construction first began on St. John's Cathedral in 1925, and it remains one of the few examples of classic Gothic architecture in the United States. The church is also well known for its beautiful organ, consisting of over 400 pipes.

While it's possible to admire the pointed arches and ribbed vaults from outside the cathedral, guided tours are available for all patrons Friday, Saturday, and after service on Sunday, so visitors can fully enjoy this architectural attraction. Concerts from the imposing carillon of the cathedral are heard on Sundays before the regularly scheduled 10:30 am service.

Address: 127 East 12th Avenue, Spokane, Washington

16. Catch a Baseball Game at Avista Stadium

16 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Spokane, WA (24)

If you happen to be in the Spokane area between June and September, Avista Stadium should be on the top of your list of fun things to do. As the home ballpark for the minor-league Spokane Indians baseball team, Avista Stadium provides access to America's favorite pastime at an affordable price.

Avista Stadium was built from scratch in under four months in 1958 and has grown and experienced large renovations over the years. If anything has remained the same, it's in the general excitement and summer feel of attending a baseball game.

Special game nights at Avista Stadium include a festive opening night and several fireworks celebrations.

Address: 602 N. Havana Street, Spokane, Washington

Where to Stay in Spokane for Sightseeing

Spokane has several hotels to choose from. A cluster of great hotels are downtown and within walking distance of the city's best attractions. Many of these downtown hotels come at a premium but provide great value. More affordable hotel options in Spokane lie to the north and east of the downtown district.

Luxury Hotels:

  • The most luxurious hotel in Spokane is The Historic Davenport. This four-star hotel is centrally located in downtown and has been offering first-class service for over 100 years.
  • The hotel's sister property, The Davenport Grand, is the only other four-star hotel in the city.

Mid-Range Hotels:

  • For a more affordable hotel in the city's center, the downtown Oxford Suites is centrally located with budget-friendly rates.
  • Another great mid-range hotel is the Hilton Garden Inn Spokane Airport.
  • To the north, the Quality Inn Oakwood provides another budget-friendly place to stay that doesn't skimp on cleanliness and service.

Map of Attractions & Things to Do in Spokane, WA

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

16 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Spokane, WA (25)

Other Cities in Washington: On the west side of the state, the city of Seattle stands proudly as the cultural capital of the Pacific Northwest. More towards the center of the state, the fertile valley surrounding Yakima also provides cultural appeal. For some collegiate interest and outstanding views of the San Juan Islands, the city of Bellingham is on the Washington coast and home to Western Washington University.

16 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Spokane, WA (26)

More to Explore in Washington: Some of the best places to visit in Washington include Olympic National Park, the San Juan Islands, and Riverfront Park in Spokane. To explore Washington's wilder side, our guide to Washington State and National Parks will have you exploring somewhere beautiful. For some extra charm, the top small towns in Washington State offer cozy vacation opportunities.

16 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Spokane, WA (2024)

FAQs

What is Spokane best known for? ›

Spokane is the economic and cultural center of the Spokane metropolitan area, the Spokane–Coeur d'Alene combined statistical area, and the Inland Northwest. It is known as the birthplace of Father's Day, and locally by the nickname of "Lilac City".

Is Spokane, WA worth visiting? ›

Spokane is creative by nature. The city is a meeting place for artists, performers, curators, and musicians, and offers plenty of museums, theaters, and historic buildings to explore.

Who is a famous woman from Spokane? ›

Julia Sweeney

Actress and comedian Julia Sweeney is another significant name among famous people in Spokane. She is best known for her role on 'Saturday Night Live. ' Born and raised in Spokane, her experiences in the city shaped her unique comedic voice.

Why do people go to Spokane? ›

Welcome to Spokane, Washington

Experience the vibrant seasons of Spokane, where downtown charm meets outdoor adventure. Discover renowned urban and state parks, indulge in delicious cuisine, and embrace the best of the Pacific Northwest.

What is Spokane known for food wise? ›

Spokane has a thriving foodie scene with African, Asian, Italian, and classic American fare.

What makes Spokane special? ›

The Spokane river attracted settlers for its hydroelectric potential as well as its rugged beauty and life-sustaining qualities. Spokane was primarily known for its natural resources: farms, forests, fur, and mines, as well as being a railroad hub for shipping.

What are Spokane people called? ›

The Spokan or Spokane people are a Native American Plateau tribe who inhabit the eastern portion of present-day Washington state and parts of northern Idaho in the United States of America.

What is the nickname of Spokane? ›

Spokane is the second largest city in Washington, while Seattle is the largest. Spokane's nickname is the "Lilac City" because of how many of those flowers grow in the area.

What is Spokane sister city? ›

Spokane has one of the earliest Sister City relationships. In 1961, Spokane formalized an agreement with Nishinomiya, Japan, which continues to this day. Our other Sister Cities include: Jilin City, China (since 1987) Limerick, Ireland (since 1990)

Why are there so many Russians in Spokane? ›

The reasons, I discovered, are the same ones that have brought immigrants to these shores since the dawn of the nation: freedom from religious persecution, economic opportunity, ties to family already in America and attraction to a place that reminded them of the home they had left behind.

What is an interesting fact about Spokane? ›

The word “Spokane” comes from the Salish language spoken by the tribe and means “Children of the Sun” or “Sun People.” 2. Spokane's nickname is the Lilac City. The origin of this nickname can be traced back to the early 20th century when the Spokane Garden Expo showcased an abundance of lilac blooms.

Why is it called 5 Mile Spokane? ›

In 1879, the first white settlers were recorded on the prairie. The name Billymeechum was changed to Five Mile Prairie in 1880. The name Five Mile Prairie was established to signify the distance from Spokane Falls in Downtown Spokane.

What is great about Spokane? ›

Access to outdoor opportunities

Whether you are looking to hike, bike, ski, fish, climb, or simply enjoy nature, Spokane has it all. The city is surrounded by beautiful lakes, rivers, and mountains, providing endless opportunities for outdoor recreation.

What are three facts about Spokane? ›

Fun Facts About Spokane
  • Spokane derives its name from the Spokane Tribe, an indigenous community that has inhabited the region for centuries. ...
  • Spokane's nickname is the Lilac City. ...
  • Spokane is the birthplace of Father's Day.

Why is Spokane called the lilac city? ›

The idea to promote Spokane as “The Lilac City” came in the early 1930s when the local garden club was encouraged by community leaders to plant lilac bushes throughout the City. By 1938, there were 144 in Manito Park. The annual Spokane Lilac Festival has been a spring tradition since 1938.

References

Top Articles
Latest Posts
Recommended Articles
Article information

Author: Manual Maggio

Last Updated:

Views: 6170

Rating: 4.9 / 5 (69 voted)

Reviews: 92% of readers found this page helpful

Author information

Name: Manual Maggio

Birthday: 1998-01-20

Address: 359 Kelvin Stream, Lake Eldonview, MT 33517-1242

Phone: +577037762465

Job: Product Hospitality Supervisor

Hobby: Gardening, Web surfing, Video gaming, Amateur radio, Flag Football, Reading, Table tennis

Introduction: My name is Manual Maggio, I am a thankful, tender, adventurous, delightful, fantastic, proud, graceful person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.