If you’re wondering what the top attractions and things to do in Spokane are, then this article is for you.
Manito Park
The first on this list is Manito Park. Manito park is a 90 acre green space located in the heart of the South Hill neighborhood. It’s home numerous different styles of gardens such as Duncan garden a 3 acre formal European style garden, Ferris Perennial Garden, a conservatory housing tons tropical plants, rose hill, a Japanese Garden, a lilac garden and tons of other things.
It’s a fantastic park and somewhere you can walk your dog, go for a run or just sit out and enjoy with friends.
Spokane Falls and Riverfront Park
There are tons of cities in the US that have a River Running Through them but only a few can match the aesthetics of the Spokane River crashing through the center of Spokane.
With one of the best urban falls in the nation, Riverfront Park offers a variety of activities from cycling and walking, to attractions such as a 1909 Carrousel, a cable car Over the Falls, a Sculpture walk, Tour Trains, Amusement Rides, as well as seasonal activities like an ice rink in winter. There are a lot of parking spots nearby but it’s best to get there early to guarantee a parking spot.
Some of the region's best annual events are also hosted on this 100 acre green space including Hoopfest, Bloomsday, 4th of July Celebration, Pig Out in the Park and many more.
Centennial Trail
This 40 mile paved, car-free trail bordering the beautiful Spokane River and has something for everyone: running, hiking, cycling, even horseback riding and canoeing. Centennial Trail is the backbone of outdoor recreation in the area and once you visit it’ll be easy to see why.
If you’re looking for a great way to explore the area and take in some of the natural beauty of Spokane then taking a walk or a cycle along the Centennial Trail is something you’re going to want to consider. There are a ton of coffee shops, restaurants and food trucks along the route so you can refuel as you go.
Green Bluff
Green Bluff represents a community of family farms, wineries and more dedicated to providing a wonderful country setting for your enjoyment. Just 15 minutes north of Spokane it has something for everyone, no matter the time of year. If you are looking for fresh produce, odds are one of the Green Bluff farms has it. You can also get local wine and craft beers here too.
Seasonal activities include pick-your-own fruit and annual festivals such as: June Strawberry Celebration, July Cherry Festival, August Peach Festival, September Apple Harvest Festival.
Green bluff is one of the most picturesque and beautiful locations in the area with mountain backdrops and a rustic charm it a great place to visit.
Fox Theater
This theater is located in downtown Spokane in the heart of the entertainment district. The Theater opened in 1931 but was sadly earmarked for demolition. Fortunately in 2007 it was fully restored.
Today the theater is at the heart of Spokane's rich and vibrant performing arts scene, it’s home to the Spokane Symphony, as well as acclaimed entertainers, dancing, musical acts, and theater talents.
Mt Spokane State Park
Located about a 1 hour drive outside Spokane, this 5,883 feet mountain offers year round activities. So if you’re into snowboarding, skiing in the winter or hiking in the summer then this is an area you’re going to want to check out. Mount Spokane is visible from downtown Spokane and provides a beautiful back drop for the city on a clear day.
As with all the state parks there is a cost associated with visiting and costs associated with using the lifts in the skiing season.
Riverside State Park
Not to be confused with Riverfront park, riverside state park is the second largest state park in Washington.
It’s a beautiful place to spend the day exploring. There are plenty of activities to keep you and the family occupied during your stay such as camping, motorcycle and ATV riding, snowmobiling, cross country skiing, horseback riding and a ton of river based activities too.
One of the key places to check out in Riverside state park is the famous bowl and pitcher 2 mile loop which incorporates a swinging bridge and some beautiful rock formations
Remember this is a state park and there is a cost associated with visiting - this is $30 for an annual pass currently.
Kendall Yards
This neighborhood is one of the largest development projects in the city's history and has reclaimed an area formerly occupied by rail yards. The site of Kendall Yards used to be the main entry point of the railroad into Downtown Spokane before they relocated them south of the Spokane River in the 1970s. Since then the area has been completely revitalized and is now one of the coolest places to be in Spokane.
It’s home to bars, restaurants, great views as well as a farmers markets and night market. It’s also accessible from the centennial trail so if you want to explore it that way you can.
It’s a really cool place to hang out and a great place to live too.
The Bars And Restaurants
Spokane has a high density of bars and restaurants. And with lots of competition comes great food and drink and great experiences. It’s easy to eat your way across Spokane enjoying breakfast, lunch and dinner so I highly recommend trying out the local food and drinks scene here in Spokane.
I do plan on reviewing individual bars and restaurants at some point in the future so check back for more soon. But if you want any recommendations in the mean time then please feel free to contact me.
Local Architecture
The last thing I wanted to highlight is the architecture in Spokane. Spokane is a naturally beautiful city and fortunately a lot of builders have tried to honor this by making their buildings beautiful too.
If this is something you’re interested in then take a wonder around Gonzaga University, visit St Johns Cathedral and explore downtown Spokane if you’re looking for beautiful buildings to admire.
Final Thoughts
As with anything everyone will have their unique interests so putting together a top 10 will always disappoint somebody. I personally think it’s better to disagree on the top 10 rather than not have enough things to put on the list though!