Top 15 Activities and Attractions in Spokane, WA

Spokane in Washington is an ideal destination for individuals seeking diverse activities that cater to visitors of all ages and preferences.

Nature enthusiasts can appreciate Spokane year-round, as the area features an abundance of hiking trails and parks, in addition to winter activities such as skiing and snowshoeing.

For those traveling with children, Spokane offers an array of engaging options, including specialized children’s museums and classic attractions like antique carousels and refreshing fountains during the summer months.

Music aficionados will find a rich variety of performances in this city, including concerts by the renowned Spokane Symphony and live music events in the lively bars of the Downtown district.

Let us examine the top attractions in Spokane:

1. ROW Adventure Center

One of the exceptional experiences in Spokane is the opportunity to immerse oneself in the splendid natural scenery of this region, and the ROW Adventure Center facilitates this exploration.

The organization offers a range of adventure packages allowing you to explore Spokane’s stunning landscapes, including exhilarating white-water rafting along the picturesque Spokane River.

As you navigate this renowned waterway, you will be treated to breathtaking views of rugged bluffs and woodlands, with opportunities for avid bird watchers to spot local eagles and ospreys.

2. Mobius Children’s Museum

The Mobius Children’s Museum serves as an interactive educational facility where children can explore various subjects, including science, art, and culture.

The focus is on promoting educational experiences in an enjoyable and hands-on setting, featuring diverse galleries with distinct themes tailored for young visitors.

Exhibits include the “Out-of-Hand Art Studio,” where children can create their own artwork, as well as “Geotopia,” which provides geography education through engaging activities.

Additionally, interactive tanks featuring reptiles and insects enhance children’s understanding of global ecosystems.

Performances of dance, music, and storytelling are showcased at the “Globe Theater,” ensuring a well-rounded educational experience.

3. Centennial Trail

For hiking enthusiasts, the 37.5-mile-long Centennial Trail is an essential feature during a visit to Spokane.

The trail commences at the official state line and concludes at the renowned Nine Mile Falls, traversing the scenic landscapes of Spokane.

The pathway parallels Riverfront Park and extends into the countryside to the east and west, allowing hikers to appreciate the diverse flora and fauna along the Spokane River.

During the winter months, the trail is also suitable for snowshoeing and skiing activities.

4. Latah Creek Winery

Latah Creek Winery has been operating since 1982, showcasing their expertise in winemaking.

This family-owned winery has received recognition for its grape blends, employing traditional techniques to achieve distinguished results.

For connoisseurs, guided tours of the winery culminate in a visit to the tasting room, where patrons have the opportunity to sample the diverse offerings available.

Among their signature blends is the renowned Merlot, along with a selection of white wines, including Chardonnay, catering to a variety of palates.

5. Manito Park

Manito Park encompasses 90 acres of lush greenery in the South Hill area of Spokane, earning its status as a beloved destination among locals throughout the year due to its variety of recreational options.

Visitors can relax with a serene picnic on expansive lawns, or engage in sports such as baseball in designated areas.

The park boasts diverse flora and fauna, making it a popular spot for birdwatching enthusiasts.

Themed gardens, including a dahlia garden and a Japanese garden, as well as ornamental ponds and a glass conservatory housing tropical plants, create a picturesque environment.

During winter, visitors can partake in snow activities like sledding, which is another favored pastime.

6. Northwest Museum of Arts & Culture

The Northwest Museum of Arts & Culture is a valuable resource for those seeking to understand the rich history of the region, particularly its Native American heritage.

Within the museum, visitors can explore five distinct galleries featuring various cultural and historical exhibitions, including art pieces, antiques, and period memorabilia.

Guided tours are available, which also encompass the neighboring Campbell House, a historic landmark dating back to 1898, offering insights through photographs, historical maps, and antique literature related to the region’s history.

7. Spokane Falls

The Spokane Falls are a stunning natural feature located within the urban environment of downtown Spokane.

This waterfall attraction consists of two distinct sections, namely the Upper Falls and Lower Falls, both featuring dams that contribute to the city’s electricity supply.

Dating back to 1890, these dams represent a significant historical landmark, with protected areas designated by the city to preserve the natural beauty of the falls for future generations.

8. The Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist

The Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist is a remarkable architectural complex, formed by the union of three smaller churches over the years.

The existing cathedral structure, constructed in 1954, is fashioned from local sandstone and rises to a height of 180 feet above Spokane.

Known for its intricate decorative features, including exquisite stained glass and detailed stonework, the cathedral also houses a significant pipe organ, boasting over 4,000 pipes.

9. Mount Spokane Ski & Snowboard Park

Located a little more than 20 miles from the Spokane city center, Mount Spokane State Park offers extensive opportunities for winter sports.

Featuring chairlifts that transport visitors to nearly 6,000-foot elevations, the park is perfect for skiing and snowboarding during winter.

Unique offerings include nighttime skiing activities and snow tubing, alongside rustic lodgings for those wishing to extend their stay.

The summit also hosts the Vista House, a historic establishment since the early 1930s, providing hearty meals to skiers and visitors alike.

10. Downtown Spokane

For those newly navigating the city, Downtown Spokane offers an ideal introduction to this remarkable region.

The area encompasses the Entertainment District, home to theaters, concert venues, bars, and restaurants.

Another area of interest is the Cork District, known for its breweries and wineries, along with numerous attractions such as live music performances and seasonal festivals.

11. John A. Finch Arboretum

The John A. Finch Arboretum is a must-visit site for nature enthusiasts, featuring 65 acres of diverse flora.

Founded in honor of a notable local businessman, the arboretum boasts over 2,000 varieties of trees, plants, and flowers, including a significant collection of lilacs.

Nature trails guide visitors through the various species, with the interactive Touch and See Nature Trail allowing guests to engage closely with the vibrant scents and colors present.

Guided tours are available for those interested in learning more about the arboretum’s shrubs and collections.

12. Avista Stadium

Avista Stadium serves as the home ground for the Spokane Indians, a minor league baseball team that practices and plays here throughout the season.

Established in 1958, the stadium accommodates nearly 7,000 spectators.

For a premium experience, skyboxes are available, along with picnic areas for a relaxed dining experience.

A designated “Kids Zone” provides younger visitors with an engaging play area during events.

13. Riverfront Park

Riverfront Park is celebrated as one of America’s most cherished parks, encompassing 100 acres of prime land, including its own island.

The park features meadows and wildwood areas, perfect for exploration and hiking. It also houses cultural and historical sites, such as a clock tower from 1902 and a Looff Carrousel from 1909. For younger visitors, attractions include the Rotary Fountain for summer play and a vintage red wagon.

For a leisurely experience, the Spokane Falls SkyRide offers aerial views of the idyllic landscape.

14. Spokane Symphony

The Spokane Symphony offers an opportunity to enjoy live orchestral performances by talented musicians at the Martin Woldson Theater.

Founded in 1945 under a different moniker, the symphony has remained a cultural cornerstone of Spokane.

The Spokane Symphony hosts regular concerts in the city and also performs at various events, including park concerts and holiday celebrations in collaboration with the Spokane ballet company.

15. Green Bluff

Green Bluff refers to a collection of farms in the Spokane area, which is recognized as a thriving agricultural community in the United States.

For those interested in tasting local produce, a visit to one of these farms is highly recommended, showcasing a variety of fruits, including strawberries, apples, cherries, peaches, and apricots.

The farming association, which dates back to 1902, offers a glimpse into the area’s agricultural history, with farm tours available to experience this dynamic industry firsthand.