In Spokane, Washington, you'll find a mix of famous landmarks and hidden treasures waiting to be discovered. From the breathtaking Spokane Falls downtown to the lively arts scene on Riverside Avenue, there's something for everyone.
Explore the tranquil gardens of Manito Park or delve into the fascinating history at the Northwest Museum of Arts and Culture. Whether you're seeking outdoor adventure, cultural immersion, or unique experiences, these 20 things to do in Spokane promise an unforgettable escape.
Riverfront Park in Spokane offers a diverse array of attractions and activities across its 100-acre expanse. Visitors can enjoy iconic features like the Looff Carrousel, SkyRide, Pavilion, and Skate Ribbon, and amenities such as basketball courts, a skate park, and interactive playgrounds.
Additionally, the park also hosts regular events, including open-air concerts and live performances, while providing stunning views of the Spokane River and its famous falls.
The Northwest Museum of Arts & Culture showcases regional history, American Indian culture, and visual art. With five exhibition galleries featuring unique cultural materials and collections from the region, including the largest known collection of Plateau Indian art and artifacts, the museum offers enriching experiences for visitors.
Moreover, guided tours provide insights into Spokane's history and American Indian culture, attracting over 100,000 visitors annually, including numerous students.
The Martin Woldson Theater at The Fox is a well-known venue for a wide range of shows and events, especially those featuring the Spokane Symphony. It hosts diverse performances like classical Masterworks, Pops, and special events.
Also, visitors can enjoy orchestral concerts, film festivals, and other cultural experiences at this historically significant location. The theater's mission is to enrich, inspire, and transform lives through music, community engagement, and education, making it one of Spokane attractions
The Spokane River Centennial Trail is a nearly 40-mile paved path from Sontag Park in Nine Mile Falls, Washington, to the Washington/Idaho state line, continuing another 24 miles into Idaho as the North Idaho Centennial Trail.
Popular for walking, jogging, and cycling, it offers scenic river views and access to diverse landscapes. Loved by locals and visitors, it's an ideal choice for outdoor exploration and recreation along the Spokane River.
Riverside State Park, offers outdoor activities like rock climbing, hiking, boating, and fishing at Lake Spokane. It's one of the most beautiful places and a haven for nature lovers with the scenic Centennial Trail leading to the lake and the Spokane House Interpretive Center delving into local history.
The park's main campground, Bowl and Pitcher provides a picturesque camping spot with modern amenities. With its diverse range of activities, the state park is one of the best places for outdoor adventures.
The Mobius Discovery Center combines a children's museum and science center into one, offering interactive experiences focused on science, technology, engineering, art, and math (STEAM). With hands-on exhibits promoting safety, math skills, sensory play, and animal exploration, visitors of all ages can engage in experiential learning.
Additionally, the center also hosts educational workshops, field trips, birthday parties, camps, and adult events, which makes visiting, one of the best things to do in Spokane Washington.
Wandermere Lake offers a serene retreat for outdoor enthusiasts. Renowned for the nearby Wandermere Golf Course, this 10-acre lake also provides a delightful swimming spot. With its inviting stretch of sand and a prohibition on motorized boats, it promises a tranquil experience.
Beyond swimming, visitors can enjoy various recreational amenities such as play equipment, hiking trails, shelters, and barbecue areas. Whether you're seeking a leisurely swim or a day of outdoor relaxation, the lake offers the perfect setting.
The Campbell House in Spokane is a historic mansion and museum providing insights into early 1900s life. The house showcases a large dining room, a den styled in Middle Eastern decor, service areas, and four upstairs bedrooms.
Here, visitors learn about the Campbell family and the changes in business, community life, and technology around 1910. Operating as a museum, the tour starts in the Campbell Carriage House, formerly used for the family's carriage and later an electric automobile.
The ROW Adventure Center offers outdoor activities such as bike and paddle board rentals, white water rafting, kayaking, and fly fishing trips. Specializing in adventures like whitewater rafting, biking, sea kayaking, and fly fishing, they provide 1-day rafting trips.
Additionally, they organize fly fishing trips in areas like St. Joe, Coeur d'Alene, Clark Fork, and Spokane, making it a go-to destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
Spokane Falls, one of the best places to visit in Spokane is a waterfall and dam in the downtown area, easily accessible and surrounded by developed areas. Visitors can view the upper and lower falls and enjoy the mist while exploring.
The falls hold historical significance, once a site for a Spokane people village. Located mainly on Havermale Island, the park offers recreational activities like hiking, biking, and picnicking. It's a must see attraction in Spokane Washington.
Cat Tales Zoological Park is a nonprofit wildlife rescue center and sanctuary for exotic animals. It offers a haven for rescued and retired animals, including big cats, bears, wolves, and more. Visitors can enjoy up-close encounters and explore the "Cats of the World" museum and nature store.
Additionally, there are opportunities for up-close big cat and black bear feeding adventures. This zoological park provides a unique chance to learn about animal welfare.
Green Bluff, just 15 minutes north of Spokane is a cluster of family-owned farms offering seasonal activities like fruit picking, wine tasting, and Christmas tree cutting. Depending on the time of year, visitors can pick strawberries, cherries, peaches, apples, pumpkins, or Christmas trees.
Additionally, visitors can enjoy wine tasting at Wildland Cooperative. It is one of the unique things to do in Spokane to enjoy fresh air, fresh fruit, and seasonal delights.
Mt. Spokane Ski & Snowboard Park offers winter activities like skiing and snowboarding. With 1,700 skiable acres, 52 runs, and 2,000 feet of vertical skiing, it's the region's sole nonprofit ski area.
Moreover, year-round recreation like Nordic skiing, snowshoeing, and hiking make it popular. The park's trails and Selkirk Lodge enhance the winter experience, drawing individuals and families seeking adventure and outdoor fun.
The Cathedral Church of St. John the Divine in Spokane is a stunning example of Gothic architecture and serves as the Episcopal Diocese of Spokane's cathedral. It's open to visitors during weekly office hours and Sundays for worship.
With its beautiful exterior and interior featuring stone and stained glass, it's a sight to behold. The cathedral hosts various diocesan activities and public events and welcomes visitors to explore the grounds.
Manito Park is a sprawling 90-acre public park in the South Hill neighborhood. It features five gardens, a conservatory, a duck pond, playgrounds, and scenic trails. Popular attractions include the Nishinomiya Tsutakawa Japanese Garden, Duncan Garden, Rose Hill, Lilac Garden, and Ferris Perennial Garden.
Visitors can enjoy leisurely walks, picnics, and guided garden tours in this tranquil setting, making it budget-friendly and a favorite spot for nature enthusiasts and outdoor relaxation.
The Monroe Street Bridge is a historic landmark designed by Spokane City Engineer John Chester Ralston, along with architects Kirtland K. Cutter and Karl G. Malmgren. Built of steel for pedestrian and streetcar traffic, visitors can walk across it to enjoy views of the Spokane River and the city.
Also, the north side of the bridge provides the best view of Spokane Falls. As part of the Centennial Trail, spanning 37 miles through Spokane, the bridge offers a glimpse into the city's history and architecture.
Taking a brewery tour in Spokane is a fun way to explore the city's craft beer scene. Visitors can visit different breweries such as Wander Spokane, Bellwether Brewing Company, Whistle Punk Brewing, No-Li Brewhouse, and Black Label Brewing, learn about the brewing process, and taste a variety of beers.
The tours offer insights into ingredients, equipment, and beer styles, all while enjoying the lively brewery atmosphere.
Mount Spokane offers excellent stargazing opportunities thanks to its dark skies. The Spokane Astronomical Society hosts star parties at Fishtrap Recreation Area, about 33 miles southwest of Spokane, providing a dedicated space for stargazing enthusiasts.
Additionally, some remote areas like Colville National Forest, with limited light pollution, are also great for stargazing. Visitors interested in stargazing at Mount Spokane can join a star party or explore the area's dark skies on their own, and immerse in the stars.
The Spokane Valley Mall presents a rich shopping adventure boasting more than 100 specialty stores, encompassing renowned brands such as Macy's, JC Penney, H&M, and an array of others.
Visitors are invited to peruse through a diverse selection of merchandise, spanning from apparel to sporting goods, housewares, and electronics. Moreover, the mall hosts a food court alongside numerous dining establishments, catering to both quick bites and leisurely meals.
The Wonderland Family Fun Center has something for everyone with its wide range of attractions and activities. Visitors can enjoy two 18-hole mini-golf courses, laser tag, go-karts, bumper boats, an arcade, and a rock wall, and enjoy with their friends and family.
This place is a popular choice for family entertainment, known for its fun and engaging atmosphere for all ages. Spending a day here is one of the fun things to do in Spokane Washington.
