Spokane, Washington is a vibrant city nestled in the scenic Inland Northwest. Known for its breathtaking natural beauty, rich history, and diverse cultural offerings, Spokane offers a wide range of attractions and activities for visitors to enjoy. Here are some of the best places to visit and things to do in Spokane.
This urban oasis is a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Manito Park boasts stunning gardens, including the Rose Hill, Duncan Gardens, and Nishinomiya Japanese Garden. You can take a peaceful walk amidst the vibrant flowers, relax by the duck pond, or have a picnic on the expansive lawns. The park also has a conservatory filled with exotic plants and a playground for children.
If you’re interested in art, history, and culture, the Northwest Museum of Arts and Culture (MAC) is a must-visit. Located in a beautiful historic building, the museum showcases a diverse range of exhibits, including Native American artifacts, regional history displays, contemporary art collections, and rotating exhibits that cover various topics. The MAC offers a fascinating insight into the region’s heritage.
Just a short drive from downtown Spokane, Riverside State Park is a nature lover’s paradise. Spanning over 10,000 acres, the park offers a plethora of outdoor activities such as hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, fishing, and wildlife spotting. The Bowl and Pitcher area is particularly popular, featuring unique rock formations and stunning views of the Spokane River.
4. Mobius Science Center and Mobius Children’s Museum
These interactive museums provide engaging and educational experiences for all ages. The Mobius Science Center features hands-on exhibits exploring various scientific principles, while the Mobius Children’s Museum offers imaginative play areas and exhibits designed to stimulate children’s curiosity and creativity.
The Centennial Trail traverses diverse landscapes, including urban areas, parks, riverside paths, and natural surroundings. Along the trail, you’ll come across picturesque bridges, historic sites, waterfalls, and abundant wildlife. The trail is well-maintained and offers a combination of paved and unpaved sections.
As you enter the garden, you’ll be immediately transported to a world of tranquility. The garden is designed to create a harmonious balance between natural elements, water features, stone pathways, and meticulously manicured plants. It provides a respite from the hustle and bustle of daily life, inviting visitors to relax, meditate, and appreciate the beauty of nature.
The MAC features a wide array of exhibits that explore various aspects of the region’s history, art, and culture. The museum’s permanent collection includes Native American artifacts, historical objects, fine art, and interactive displays. From the prehistoric past to contemporary art, the exhibits provide a comprehensive overview of the area’s rich heritage.
The Bowl and Pitcher area is situated along the Spokane River Gorge, where the rushing waters of the river have carved out a scenic and rugged landscape. The gorge features towering basalt cliffs that create an impressive backdrop for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
The Bowl and Pitcher area is situated along the Spokane River Gorge, where the rushing waters of the river have carved out a scenic and rugged landscape. The gorge features towering basalt cliffs that create an impressive backdrop for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
The park features a large playground area with a variety of equipment, including slides, swings, climbing structures, and more. Children can enjoy hours of fun and adventure in a safe and inviting environment. Adjacent to the playground, there is also a sprayground that provides refreshing water play during the summer months.
The Moore-Turner Heritage Gardens evoke a sense of nostalgia and harken back to a bygone era. The garden is designed in a formal style, featuring geometric patterns, symmetrical layouts, and meticulously manicured beds. The attention to detail and classic design elements create a serene and charming ambiance.
Seventh Avenue and the lower South Hill was once the neighborhood of Spokane elites. Bankers, senators, businessmen, mining and lumber entrepreneurs, doctors, architects, and lawyers built their mansions along the base of the basalt bluff. Some famous names include the architect, Kirtland Kelsey Cutter, the railroad man, D.C. Corbin, the father of Spokane, James Glover, and hotel owners, the Davenports.
These are just a few of the many fantastic places to visit and things to do in Spokane, Washington. Whether you’re seeking natural beauty, cultural attractions, outdoor adventures, or a taste of the local arts scene, Spokane has something to offer every visitor. So, pack your bags and get ready to explore all that this charming city has in store.
