Overview
Spokane sits along the Spokane River in eastern Washington, roughly 280 miles east of Seattle and about 20 miles west of the Idaho border. With a population nearing 230,000, it is the second-largest city in Washington and the commercial and cultural hub of a region locals call the Inland Northwest.
The city is defined by its river. The Spokane River drops dramatically through the urban core, creating a series of falls that drew Indigenous peoples and later European settlers to the area. Those falls powered sawmills and flour mills in the late 19th century, and their energy still generates electricity today. The industrial past has given way to a revitalized downtown anchored by Riverfront Park, which was redeveloped for the 1974 World's Fair and has continued to evolve ever since.
Spokane has a four-season continental climate moderated slightly by Pacific air masses. Summers are warm and dry, winters are cold with reliable snowfall, and spring and fall tend to be mild and uncrowded — often the most pleasant times to visit. The city is a practical base for exploring the broader Inland Northwest, including the Palouse wine region, Coeur d'Alene in Idaho, and Mount Spokane.
Before You Go
Spokane is a US domestic destination, so no visa or passport is required for US citizens. International travelers should check the TravelerPulse Visas section and the official US Customs and Border Protection website for entry requirements specific to their nationality.
Climate & Packing
- Summer (June–August): Warm and mostly dry; temperatures regularly reach the mid-80s°F (around 29–32°C). Light layers and sun protection are advisable.
- Winter (December–February): Cold with snow; pack warm layers, a waterproof outer shell, and waterproof footwear.
- Spring/Fall: Variable — layering is the practical approach.
Spokane is a driving city. While downtown is walkable, having access to a car or using rideshare apps will make getting to outlying neighborhoods, parks, and day-trip destinations significantly easier. Confirm current hours and admission fees for attractions directly with venues, as these change seasonally.
Getting There
By Air
Spokane International Airport (GEG) is the main gateway, located approximately 5 miles west of downtown. It serves domestic routes from major US hubs. Verify current routes and schedules with airlines directly.
By Train
Amtrak's Empire Builder route connects Spokane to Seattle to the west and Chicago to the east, with one train per day in each direction. The Spokane Amtrak station is located in the downtown core. Verify current schedules and booking at amtrak.com.
By Bus
Long-distance bus services, including Greyhound and Northwestern Trailways, connect Spokane to regional cities. Verify current schedules and stops directly with carriers.
By Car
Interstate 90 runs east–west through Spokane, connecting it to Seattle (approximately 4.5–5 hours) and to Coeur d'Alene, Idaho (about 30 minutes). US-395 runs north–south through the city.
Getting Around
On Foot
Downtown Spokane, Riverfront Park, and the adjacent University District are reasonably walkable. Many attractions in the core are within a short walk of each other.
Public Transit
SpoTrans (Spokane Transit Authority, or STA) operates bus routes throughout the city and surrounding area. A central plaza near the main library serves as a transit hub. Verify current fares and routes at spokanetransit.com.
Rideshare & Taxi
Rideshare services (Uber, Lyft) are available in Spokane and are often the most convenient option for trips between neighborhoods or out to the airport.
By Car
A rental car is practical if you plan to explore areas beyond downtown, visit wineries in the Palouse, or make day trips to Mount Spokane or Coeur d'Alene. Parking downtown is generally available in surface lots and garages; verify current rates locally.
Cycling
Spokane has an expanding network of bike lanes and paths, including the Centennial Trail, which follows the Spokane River. Bike-share options may be available — verify current operators locally.
Things to See & Do
Riverfront Park
The centerpiece of downtown, Riverfront Park was the site of the 1974 World's Fair (Expo '74) and has been renovated significantly in recent years. The park features views of Spokane Falls, walking paths, an ice ribbon (seasonal), a historic carousel, and the gondola over the falls. Confirm current operating hours and any admission fees on the park's official website.
Spokane Falls
Accessible from Riverfront Park, the upper and lower Spokane Falls are among the largest urban waterfalls in the United States. The views from the Monroe Street Bridge and the park's footbridges are notable. The gondola ride over the falls offers a close-up aerial perspective — verify seasonal availability.
Northwest Museum of Arts and Culture (MAC)
The MAC on West Seventh Avenue houses collections focused on the history and cultures of the Inland Northwest, including significant Indigenous holdings and regional art. Verify current hours and admission fees directly with the museum.
Manito Park
A large public park in the South Hill neighborhood, Manito features formal rose and lilac gardens, a Japanese garden, a duck pond, and a conservatory. The gardens are free to visit (verify any conservatory fees locally) and are at their best in late spring and early summer.
Outdoors & Recreation
- Mount Spokane State Park: About 30 miles northeast of the city; offers skiing in winter and hiking and mountain biking in warmer months.
- Centennial Trail: A multi-use paved trail running roughly 37 miles along the Spokane River from the Idaho border through the city.
- Turnbull National Wildlife Refuge: Located south of the city near Cheney; a significant stopover for migratory birds and a quiet spot for wildlife watching.
Arts & Culture
The Spokane Symphony performs at the Martin Woldson Theater at the Fox, a restored 1930s movie palace downtown. The Spokane Civic Theatre and Interplayers Theatre offer local stage productions. Check current schedules and ticketing with each venue.
Food & Drink
Spokane's food scene has grown substantially over the past decade, with a concentration of independent restaurants, farm-to-table concepts, and a well-established craft brewery scene.
Neighborhoods to Explore
- Downtown & the Perry District: The Perry Street corridor on the South Hill has become a hub for independent cafes, restaurants, and shops.
- Kendall Yards: A newer mixed-use development just north of the river with restaurants, a weekly summer market, and river views.
Craft Beer & Cider
Spokane has a strong craft brewing culture. Several breweries operate taprooms in and around downtown. Verify current locations and hours locally, as the scene changes regularly.
Coffee
The Pacific Northwest coffee culture extends firmly to Spokane. Multiple independent roasters and cafes operate throughout the city. Thomas Hammer Coffee is a locally rooted brand with several locations — verify current locations.
Local Produce
The Spokane Farmers Market (typically operating on Saturdays in warmer months at Riverfront Park — verify current schedule) showcases regional produce, including fruit from the Wenatchee and Okanogan valleys and grains from the Palouse.
Shopping
Spokane's shopping ranges from a large regional mall to independent boutiques in walkable neighborhoods.
- Spokane Valley Mall and Northtown Mall are the city's major enclosed malls, with national retailers. Verify current hours and tenants locally.
- Downtown Spokane has a mix of independent shops, galleries, and boutiques along Main Avenue and adjoining streets.
- The Perry District (South Hill) and Garland District (north Spokane) are smaller neighborhood commercial strips with independent retailers and antique shops worth exploring.
- Washington State has no personal income tax, but the state sales tax applies to purchases — verify the current rate locally.
Practical Information
Emergency Services
For any emergency in the United States, dial 911. This connects to police, fire, and ambulance services.
Electricity
The US uses 120V / 60Hz electricity with Type A and Type B outlets. International travelers may need an adapter and/or voltage converter for their devices.
Tipping
Tipping is customary in the US. A standard tip at sit-down restaurants is 18–20% of the pre-tax bill. Tips for taxi and rideshare drivers, hotel housekeeping, and other service workers are appreciated but discretionary.
Connectivity
Mobile coverage from major US carriers (Verizon, AT&T, T-Mobile) is generally reliable in Spokane and along major routes. Free public Wi-Fi is available in Riverfront Park and many cafes and libraries. International visitors should verify roaming plans with their carrier before travel.
Pharmacies & Medical
Chain pharmacies (Walgreens, Rite Aid, CVS) are distributed throughout the city. Providence Sacred Heart Medical Center and MultiCare Deaconess Hospital are among the major hospitals. For non-emergency medical needs, urgent care clinics are available — verify locations and hours locally.
Safety
Spokane is generally a safe city for travelers exercising standard urban precautions. Downtown and tourist areas are well-trafficked, particularly during daylight hours.
As with many mid-sized American cities, some neighborhoods experience higher rates of property crime. Keep valuables out of sight in parked cars and be aware of your surroundings in unfamiliar areas, particularly late at night.
Spokane occasionally experiences episodes of poor air quality due to wildfire smoke, primarily in July and August. During smoke events, outdoor activities may be affected and people with respiratory conditions should take precautions. Check the Air Quality Index (AirNow.gov) during summer visits.
In winter, driving conditions can become hazardous with ice and snow. If renting a car, ensure it is equipped for winter driving, and check road conditions through the Washington State DOT (wsdot.wa.gov) before traveling.
