15 Things to Do in Spokane You’ll Wish You Knew Sooner

I almost skipped Spokane entirely. A friend talked me into it, and I’m still grateful.

What I found was a city that doesn’t make noise about itself. It just has waterfalls, trails, breweries, farm towns, and a downtown that actually has personality.

There are so many good things to do in Spokane that I had to make a proper list.

This guide covers the spots I keep recommending to people. Popular ones, lesser-known ones, and a few that genuinely surprised me.

Keep reading. You’ll want to start planning before you finish.

Why Visit Spokane?

Spokane has a very easy energy to it. It’s a city with a real downtown, but nature is never far away. You can grab coffee on a busy street and be hiking in a state park within 30 minutes.

The city sits close to mountains, rivers, and forests. That means outdoor options are everywhere. 

And the Spokane River running right through downtown? That’s not something most cities can say.

It works well for couples, solo travelers, and families. Everyone finds something here. There’s no single type of Spokane visitor.

You can visit any season and have a good time. 

Summer brings festivals and hiking. Winter brings skiing. Fall is stunning with the leaf color at Green Bluff. Spring wakes everything up beautifully.

15 Best Things to Do in Spokane

Spokane gives you a solid mix of outdoor activity, culture, food, and local flavor. Here’s my list of the best things to do in Spokane right now.

1. Check Out Riverfront Park

Riverfront Park is the heart of the city. It sits right along the Spokane River, and you can spend hours there without running out of things to see.

The park has walking trails, open green space, and great views of Spokane Falls. It’s family-friendly and very easy to get around on foot.

I’d suggest starting your trip here. It gives you a strong feel for the city’s character right away.

2. Ride the Spokane Falls SkyRide

This is one of those things you don’t expect to find in a mid-size city. The SkyRide is an aerial gondola that takes you directly over the falls.

The views from up there are genuinely impressive. You see the water, the city, and the surrounding area from a completely different angle.

It runs during warmer months, so check the schedule before you visit. It’s worth building your day around.

3. Visit Manito Park

Manito Park is a calm, beautiful spot in the South Hill neighborhood. It has several distinct gardens, including a Japanese garden that’s very well kept.

Spring and early summer are the best times to visit. The rose garden and perennial garden are in full bloom then.

If you want a quiet morning away from the crowds, this is the place. I spent two hours here and didn’t want to leave.

4. Check Out Downtown Spokane

Downtown Spokane is more lively than most people expect. You’ll find independent cafes, good restaurants, local shops, and some great street art.

The architecture is a mix of old and new. Historic buildings sit next to modern ones, and the whole area feels walkable.

Spend an afternoon here. Grab food, walk around, and just take in the vibe. It’s one of the most enjoyable things to do in Spokane for people who like city energy.

5. Tour the Northwest Museum of Arts and Culture

This museum covers regional history and Native American heritage in a way that feels genuinely respectful and well-researched. The collections are broad and interesting.

It’s a great option on a rainy day or when you want a break from being outside. The exhibits rotate, so there’s usually something new to see.

I found the Native heritage section especially worth your time. It’s informative without being overwhelming.

6. Walk or Bike the Centennial Trail

The Centennial Trail follows the Spokane River for miles. It’s flat, well-maintained, and open to both walkers and cyclists.

The views along the trail are consistently good. You get riverbank scenery, trees, and a few quiet stretches where it feels like you’ve left the city entirely.

Rent a bike downtown if you don’t have one. The trail is one of the top outdoor things to do in Spokane, and it’s completely free.

7. Enjoy Spokane Falls Up Close

You don’t need the SkyRide to see the falls. There are ground-level viewpoints right in Riverfront Park that put you close to the water.

The falls look different depending on the season. Spring runoff makes them powerful and loud. Summer brings clearer water and better lighting for photos.

Go early in the morning for the best shots. Fewer people, better light.

8. Visit Spokane Valley Mall

Sometimes you just want a relaxed, low-key day. Spokane Valley Mall is good for exactly that.

It has a solid mix of stores, food options, and entertainment. It’s not a tourist attraction, but it’s useful if you’re traveling with family or need a break from sightseeing.

The mall is about 15 minutes east of downtown. Easy to reach by car.

9. Visit Green Bluff

Green Bluff is a farming community about 20 miles north of Spokane. It’s known for fruit picking, local produce, and farm stands.

Fall is when it really comes alive. Apple and pumpkin season draws a lot of visitors, and the scenery is hard to beat.

If you visit in September or October, put Green Bluff on your list. It’s a very relaxed half-day outing.

10. Experience Spokane Nightlife

Spokane’s after-dark scene is better than most people expect from a city this size. There are live music venues, craft bars, and local breweries spread across downtown.

The area around Wall Street and Riverside Avenue has a good concentration of spots. You’ll find everything from quiet cocktail bars to louder music venues.

Go on a Thursday or Friday night for the best energy. Weekends get busy but lively.

11. Take a Day Trip to Mount Spokane State Park

Mount Spokane is about 30 miles northeast of the city. In winter, it’s a ski destination. In summer and fall, it’s all about hiking and views.

The summit trail gives you a panoramic look at the surrounding region. On a clear day, you can see for a long way.

It’s one of the best day trips from the city, and I’d recommend it to anyone who wants to get outside properly.

12. Check Out Local Breweries

Spokane has a solid craft beer culture. There are several breweries worth visiting, and most of them have taprooms open to the public.

No-Li Brewhouse is one of the most popular. It sits right on the river and has a big outdoor space. Orlison Brewing and Humble Abode are also worth trying.

Do a small brewery crawl if you have an afternoon free. It’s one of the more fun things to do in Spokane for adults.

13. Visit the Spokane Public Market

The Spokane Public Market brings together local food vendors, handmade goods, and small businesses under one roof. It’s a good place to try local food and pick up something to take home.

The vendors rotate, so the experience changes depending on when you go. It has a community feel that big chain stores simply can’t match.

Check their schedule online before visiting. Hours and vendor lineups can vary.

14. Attend a Local Festival or Event

Spokane hosts events throughout the year. Lilac Festival in May is one of the biggest. Hoopfest, the world’s largest 3-on-3 basketball tournament, takes place every June.

There are also art shows, outdoor film nights, and seasonal food events scattered throughout the year. These give you a feel for the local culture that regular sightseeing doesn’t.

Check the city’s events calendar when planning your trip. Timing your visit around an event makes the whole trip more interesting.

15. Visit Riverside State Park

Riverside State Park is one of the largest urban parks in the country. It covers over 10,000 acres along the Spokane River.

You can hike, camp, go horseback riding, and explore Bowl and Pitcher, a section of the park with dramatic rock formations and a suspension bridge.

It’s very close to the city but feels completely removed from it. A morning here is hard to beat.

Best Time to Visit Spokane

Spring (April to May) is a great time to visit. The city is fresh, Manito Park blooms beautifully, and the crowds haven’t arrived yet.

Summer (June to August) is the most popular season. Hoopfest, outdoor festivals, hiking, and long sunny days make it the peak time for things to do in Spokane.

Fall (September to October) brings cooler weather and the Green Bluff harvest season. The leaf color across the city is genuinely impressive.

Winter (November to March) is for skiers and those who don’t mind the cold. Mount Spokane gets good snow, and the city has a quieter, more local feel.

If I had to pick the best month, I’d say June. The weather is excellent and the city is at its most active.

Tips for Visiting Spokane

Spokane is a pretty easy city to get around, but a little planning goes a long way. Here are some tips that will make your trip smoother.

• Rent a car if you can. Public transit exists but is limited. A car gives you access to Green Bluff, Mount Spokane, and Riverside State Park without hassle.
• Walking works well downtown. Riverfront Park, downtown shops, breweries, and the falls are all within walking distance of each other.
• Biking is a solid option too. Rentals are available, and the Centennial Trail is built for it.
• Book accommodation early in summer. Spokane fills up during Hoopfest and Lilac Festival weekends.
• Eat local. Skip the chains and try places like Ruins, Santé Restaurant, or the vendors at the Public Market.
• Pack layers. The weather can shift quickly, especially in spring and fall.
• Respect trail etiquette. Step aside for faster hikers and bikers. It’s a small thing that matters.

Spokane locals are friendly and helpful. If you’re unsure about something, just ask. People here genuinely like their city and are happy to point you in the right direction.

Conclusion

Spokane doesn’t need to sell itself. It just shows up and delivers.

I’ve pointed you to the best things to do in Spokane, but honestly, the city does the rest. You just have to show up with a loose plan and an open mind.

So pick your dates. Book that stay. Pack your layers.

Spokane is waiting, and it’s better in person than anything I’ve written here.

Drop a comment below if you’ve been, or tell me which spot you’re most excited to visit. I’d love to hear it.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best things to do in Spokane for first-time visitors?

Start with Riverfront Park, the Spokane Falls SkyRide, and Manito Park. Add a walk through downtown and a stop at the Northwest Museum of Arts and Culture for a solid first visit.

Is Spokane worth visiting?

Yes, absolutely. It has great outdoor access, a lively downtown, good food, and a relaxed pace that makes it easy to enjoy.

What are some free things to do in Spokane?

Riverfront Park, the Centennial Trail, Manito Park, and Riverside State Park are all free to visit. The falls viewpoints cost nothing either.

How many days do you need in Spokane?

Two to three days is enough to see the highlights. Add a fourth day if you want to do a day trip to Mount Spokane or Green Bluff.

What are fun things to do in Spokane at night?

Head to downtown for live music, craft breweries, and cocktail bars. The area around Riverside Avenue has the best concentration of nightlife spots.