If you’re wondering what it’s like living in Spokane, WA, you’ll come to find a wide variety of activities and attractions for visitors to enjoy. From outdoor adventures to cultural experiences, there’s certainly something to discover in this beautiful city. Whether you’re looking for an apartment for rent in Spokane or searching for a home in the area, there are countless beautiful, fun, and exciting things to explore. We’ll highlight 12 popular things to do in Spokane, ranging from exploring the city’s stunning natural beauty to immersing yourself in its rich cultural scene.
1. Visit Riverfront Park
Riverfront Park spans over 100 acres and boasts several unique attractions, including Spokane Falls, a 100-foot waterfall, and the Numerica SkyRide, an enclosed cabin ride that takes visitors on a panoramic journey above the falls. Visitors can also take a ride on the Looff Carrousel, a historic carousel featuring hand-carved horses and a Wurlitzer organ. In addition, the park features numerous walking trails, picnic areas, and playgrounds.
2. Catch a concert at Spokane Pavilion
If you’re a music lover, catching a concert at the Spokane Pavilion is a fun thing to do in Spokane. Located in Riverfront Park, the Spokane Pavilion is a state-of-the-art outdoor venue that can accommodate up to 5,000 spectators. The venue hosts a wide variety of musical acts, including big names like Machine Gun Kelly, The Head and the Heart, and Lord Huron. The pavilion’s open-air design provides an intimate setting for concert-goers to enjoy their favorite music under the stars.
3. Take a stroll through Spokane Falls
Located in the heart of downtown Spokane, Spokane Falls is a majestic waterfall that spans over 100 feet. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll along the riverfront and enjoy the stunning views of the falls across several pathways and bridges. In addition, there are several observation decks located throughout the area. Spokane Falls is considered the 2nd largest urban waterfall in the United States.
4. Explore Manito Park
Exploring Manito Park is located in the South Hill neighborhood and spans over 90 acres, featuring several unique gardens, a conservatory, and a duck pond. The park’s rose garden is one of its most popular attractions, featuring over 150 varieties of roses and a stunning fountain at its center. Visitors can also explore the Japanese garden, which features a traditional tea house and a koi pond, or wander through the lilac garden, which boasts over 100 varieties of lilacs. The park’s Gaiser Conservatory is home to a variety of tropical plants, and visitors can also explore the park’s numerous walking trails, picnic areas, and playgrounds.
5. Go for a hike in the Dishman Hills Natural Area
Going for a hike in the Dishman Hills Natural Area is an excellent fun thing to do in Spokane to experience the area’s natural beauty. The natural area spans over 530 acres and features several miles of hiking trails that wind through the hills and valleys of the area. Hikers can explore a variety of habitats, including grasslands, forests, and wetlands, each of which provides a unique opportunity to see local wildlife such as birds and small mammals.
6. Grab a beer at No-Li Brewhouse
A Gonzaga University student favorite, No-Li Brewhouse offers a variety of delicious beers, including their signature Wrecking Ball Imperial Stout and their popular Big Juicy IPA. The brewery’s taproom features a full menu of delicious pub fare, including burgers, sandwiches, and salads. Most recently, No-Li opened their Bier Hall, inspired by the traditional beer halls found in Germany.
7. Catch a game at Spokane Arena
If you’re a sports fan, catching a game at the Spokane Arena is a must-do fun thing in Spokane. The arena is home to the Spokane Chiefs, a WHL team. With seating for up to 12,000 spectators, the Spokane Arena provides a lively and exciting atmosphere for sports fans.
8. Catch a local event like Hoopfest or Bloomsday
Attending a local event such as Hoopfest or Bloomsday is a great way to experience the unique culture of Spokane. Hoopfest is the largest 3-on-3 basketball tournament in the world and takes place annually in June, while Bloomsday is a 12-kilometer road race held each May that attracts thousands of runners from all over the world. Both events are deeply rooted in Spokane’s local community and offer a chance to experience the city’s vibrant energy.
9. Peruse the Kendall Yards Night Market
Located in the beautiful Kendall Yards neighborhood, the Kendall Yards Night Market is an outdoor market held on Wednesday evenings from May through September, featuring a diverse selection of local vendors selling everything from fresh produce to handmade crafts and artisanal food products. Visitors can also enjoy live music, food trucks, and a variety of other entertainment options throughout the evening.
10. Walk or Bike the Centennial Trail
The Centennial Trail is a 37-mile-long paved path that runs from the Idaho state line to Nine Mile Falls, passing through the heart of downtown Spokane. The trail follows the Spokane River and provides stunning views of the river, waterfalls, and lush greenery. The trail also provides access to several popular attractions, including Riverfront Park, Spokane Arena, and Gonzaga University.
11. Pick apples at Green Bluff
Home to a dozen apple orchards, visiting Green Bluff is a fun thing to do in Spokane where visitors can pick their own apples straight from the tree. Visitors can choose from a variety of apple types, including Honeycrisp, Gala, and Granny Smith. In addition to picking apples, visitors can also enjoy other seasonal activities such as pumpkin patches and hayrides. Green Bluff is also home to a number of wineries, breweries, and farm-to-table restaurants, making it a great destination for a day trip or weekend getaway.
12. Go skiing at a local resort
Spokane is home to several ski resorts, including 49° N Mountain Resort and Mount Spokane Ski & Snowboard Park, each offering ski runs for all skill levels. The resorts also provide a range of amenities, including equipment rentals, lessons, and dining options, making it easy and convenient for visitors to enjoy a day on the slopes. Mount Spokane also offers night skiing options available most Wednesdays to Saturdays during the winter season.
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