Vibrant inland city known for its riverfront parks, cultural attractions, historic architecture, outdoor recreation, and scenic falls that flow through the downtown core.
Fees vary for attractions, museums, parks, events, tours, and recreational activities
How to Get There
From Coeur d'Alene, Idaho (34 mi): Take I-90 West across the Idaho-Washington state line and continue directly into downtown Spokane.
Overview
The City of Spokane is the largest urban center in eastern Washington and serves as a gateway to the mountains, lakes, and outdoor landscapes of the Inland Northwest. Founded along the Spokane River, the city grew rapidly as a transportation, mining, timber, and agricultural hub. Today, visitors discover a dynamic destination where natural beauty and city life exist side by side. At the heart of downtown, Riverfront Park surrounds the dramatic Spokane Falls, creating one of the few major urban waterfall experiences in the United States. The city's walkable core is filled with public art, historic buildings, theaters, restaurants, and attractions that showcase its unique character and heritage.
Spokane's appeal extends far beyond its downtown skyline. The region offers extensive opportunities for hiking, cycling, skiing, paddling, and golf, while cultural institutions such as museums, galleries, and performance venues contribute to a thriving arts scene. Historic districts preserve the architectural legacy of the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries, while nearby destinations such as Mount Spokane, Riverside State Park, and numerous lakes provide year-round recreation. Whether visitors are drawn by outdoor adventure, cultural experiences, sporting events, or the beauty of the Spokane River, the city offers a welcoming and diverse Pacific Northwest experience.
Things to Do
Explore Riverfront Park
Riverfront Park is Spokane's premier downtown attraction and one of the city's most recognizable landmarks. Originally developed for Expo '74, the park features scenic walking paths, public art, gardens, river viewpoints, and direct access to Spokane Falls. The Spokane River flows through the center of the park, creating a unique blend of urban and natural scenery.
See Spokane Falls
Spokane Falls is the centerpiece of downtown Spokane and one of the largest urban waterfalls in the United States. The falls can be viewed from several overlooks, suspension bridges, and observation areas throughout Riverfront Park. Spring runoff often provides the most dramatic water flow and photography opportunities.
Ride the Numerica SkyRide
The Numerica SkyRide offers visitors a unique aerial perspective of Spokane Falls and the Spokane River. The enclosed gondolas descend toward the river gorge, providing some of the closest and most impressive views available anywhere in the city.
Visit the Historic Looff Carousel
Built in 1909 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the Looff Carousel is one of Spokane's most treasured attractions. The beautifully restored carousel features hand-carved wooden animals and remains a favorite destination for visitors of all ages.
Discover Spokane's Public Art and Expo '74 Legacy
Throughout Riverfront Park, visitors can explore sculptures, historical landmarks, and exhibits that celebrate Spokane's role as host of the environmentally themed 1974 World's Fair. Notable attractions include the Garbage Goat sculpture, the Expo Pavilion, and numerous public art installations.
Explore Manito Park
Manito Park is one of Spokane's most beautiful green spaces, offering botanical gardens, a Japanese garden, rose gardens, walking paths, and seasonal floral displays. The park is a favorite location for relaxing walks, photography, and outdoor recreation.
Walk or Bike the Centennial Trail
The Centennial Trail follows the Spokane River and provides miles of paved pathways for walking, running, and cycling. The trail connects many of Spokane's parks and scenic waterfront areas while offering excellent river views.
Tour the Historic Davenport Hotel
The Davenport Hotel is a Spokane landmark known for its historic architecture, elegant interiors, and role in the city's history. Visitors can admire the restored public spaces, dine onsite, or simply experience one of the Pacific Northwest's most famous historic hotels.
Visit Spokane's Brewery and Winery Scene
Spokane features a growing collection of craft breweries, urban wineries, tasting rooms, and locally owned restaurants. Visitors can sample regional beers and wines while exploring downtown and surrounding neighborhoods.
Take a Day Trip to Nearby Outdoor Attractions
Spokane serves as an excellent base for exploring eastern Washington and northern Idaho. Popular nearby destinations include Mount Spokane State Park, Lake Coeur d'Alene, Palouse Falls State Park, and Grand Coulee Dam.
Top Attractions and Trails
Spokane Falls Viewing Walk
Length: Approximately 1 mile round trip
Elevation Gain: Minimal
Difficulty: Easy
This walk connects several overlooks, suspension bridges, and viewing platforms around Spokane Falls. Visitors can experience multiple perspectives of the waterfalls while learning about the history and significance of the Spokane River.
Riverfront Park Walking Loop
Length: Approximately 2 miles
Elevation Gain: Minimal
Difficulty: Easy
This route showcases many of Riverfront Park's major attractions, including Spokane Falls, the Looff Carousel, the Expo Pavilion, public art installations, and scenic river viewpoints.
Centennial Trail - Downtown Spokane Segment
Length: Variable distance
Elevation Gain: Minimal
Difficulty: Easy
Following the Spokane River through downtown, this popular trail offers scenic waterfront views, access to parks, and opportunities for walking, running, and cycling along one of the region's most important recreational corridors.
Sources: Visit Spokane official visitor information describing Spokane Falls, Riverfront Park, Numerica SkyRide, the historic Looff Carousel, and key attractions throughout downtown Spokane.
Spokane Falls Visitor Information
Riverfront Park Visitor Information
Additional information verified through the City of Spokane Riverfront Park sightseeing resources covering Spokane Falls history, viewpoints, park attractions, and visitor experiences.
City of Spokane Riverfront Park Sightseeing Guide
This article uses material from the Wikipedia articles and official tourism pages for the City of Spokane, which are released under the Creative Commons Attribution-Share-Alike License 3.0.
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