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Spokane, Washington: Waterfalls, Parks, History, Food & Unforgettable Adventures
Planning a trip to Spokane, Washington? Explore waterfalls, parks, gardens, museums, rock shops, family attractions, historic landmarks, scenic viewpoints, restaurants, campgrounds, and RV parks. This complete Spokane travel guide highlights the best things to do in Spokane for outdoor enthusiasts, road trippers, families, photographers, and adventure seekers visiting Eastern Washington.
WASHINGTON TRAVEL
Get Outside And Play USA
7/6/20267 min read
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Discover One of Washington's Most Underrated Destinations
When most people think of Washington State, Seattle usually gets all the attention. But on the eastern side of the state sits a city that surprised me in all the best ways. Spokane blends beautiful parks, roaring waterfalls, outdoor recreation, rich history, great food, and family-friendly attractions into one unforgettable destination.
One minute you're standing beside a powerful waterfall flowing through downtown, and the next you're wandering through botanical gardens, hiking riverside trails, exploring historic landmarks, or enjoying a meal at a local restaurant. Spokane offers a perfect mix of city comforts and outdoor adventure, making it one of Washington's most rewarding places to visit.
Whether you're planning a weekend getaway, road trip stop, or extended vacation, here are some of the places you won't want to miss.
Must-See Attractions
Riverfront Park
The heart of Spokane is Riverfront Park, a beautiful downtown destination built on the grounds of the 1974 World's Fair. Visitors can enjoy scenic walking paths, gardens, public art, playgrounds, and incredible views of the Spokane River. The park is also home to the historic Looff Carousel, SkyRide gondola, and numerous seasonal events throughout the year.
Spokane Falls
Few cities can claim a major waterfall running directly through downtown. Spokane Falls is one of the city's most iconic attractions and becomes especially impressive during spring runoff. Several viewpoints throughout Riverfront Park offer outstanding opportunities for photography and sightseeing.
Manito Park
Often considered one of Washington's most beautiful urban parks, Manito Park features stunning gardens, peaceful walking paths, ponds, and seasonal flower displays. The Duncan Garden, Rose Garden, and Japanese Garden are especially beautiful during spring and summer.
Centennial Trail
Stretching for miles along the Spokane River, the Centennial Trail provides excellent opportunities for walking, jogging, biking, and enjoying some of the area's most scenic river views.
Green Bluff
Located just north of Spokane, Green Bluff is home to numerous family farms offering seasonal fruit picking, pumpkin patches, farm markets, fresh baked goods, and harvest festivals throughout the year.
More Spokane Attractions Worth Exploring
Discovery Playground
Located within Riverfront Park, Discovery Playground is one of Spokane's most popular family attractions. Kids can climb, slide, explore interactive play structures, and burn off energy while parents relax nearby. The playground's unique design encourages creativity, imagination, and outdoor play for children of all ages.
John A. Finch Arboretum
This beautiful 65-acre arboretum showcases thousands of trees and shrubs from around the world. Visitors can enjoy peaceful walking paths, seasonal blooms, wildlife viewing, and quiet places to relax while exploring one of Spokane's hidden natural treasures.
Blue Zoo Aquarium
Blue Zoo Aquarium offers an interactive experience where visitors can get up close with marine life from around the world. Guests can observe colorful fish, sharks, rays, reptiles, and hands-on exhibits that make learning about aquatic ecosystems fun for children and adults alike.
Wonderland Family Fun Center
A favorite destination for families, Wonderland Family Fun Center features mini golf, go-karts, laser tag, bumper boats, arcade games, and plenty of entertainment for all ages. It's the perfect place to spend an afternoon when you're looking for a break from sightseeing.
Nishinomiya Tsutakawa Japanese Garden
Located within Manito Park, this peaceful Japanese garden offers beautifully manicured landscapes, traditional Japanese design elements, koi ponds, bridges, and tranquil walking paths. It's one of Spokane's most relaxing places to slow down and enjoy a moment of quiet reflection.
Mobius Discovery Center
Designed to inspire curiosity and creativity, Mobius Discovery Center features hands-on exhibits focused on science, technology, engineering, art, and math. Children can explore, experiment, build, and learn through interactive activities that make education fun.
Northwest Museum of Arts and Culture
The largest cultural institution in Eastern Washington, the Northwest Museum of Arts and Culture features exhibits highlighting regional history, Native American heritage, art collections, and traveling exhibitions. It's an excellent place to learn about the people, cultures, and stories that shaped the Inland Northwest.
Mirabeau Springs
Mirabeau Springs offers a peaceful natural setting where visitors can enjoy walking trails, wetlands, wildlife viewing, and beautiful scenery. The springs provide an excellent opportunity to experience Spokane Valley's natural beauty without venturing far from the city.
Mirabeau Point Park
Adjacent to Mirabeau Springs, Mirabeau Point Park features walking trails, scenic viewpoints, open green spaces, and access to the Spokane River. The park is popular for hiking, photography, birdwatching, and enjoying a relaxing afternoon outdoors.
Martin Woldson Theater at The Fox
Known simply as The Fox, this beautifully restored Art Deco theater is one of Spokane's architectural gems. Home to the Spokane Symphony, the venue hosts concerts, performances, and special events throughout the year while showcasing stunning historic design.
Splash Down Family Water Park
When summer temperatures rise, Splash Down Family Water Park becomes a favorite destination for families. Water slides, splash areas, pools, and attractions provide hours of fun and a refreshing way to cool off during Spokane's warmer months.
Vista House
Perched high above Spokane, Vista House offers panoramic views of the city, surrounding landscapes, and beautiful sunsets. The historic structure provides one of the area's most scenic viewpoints and is a favorite stop for photographers.
Edwidge Woldson Park
Located near downtown Spokane, Edwidge Woldson Park combines beautifully landscaped grounds with impressive views of the city skyline. Walking paths, gardens, and open green spaces make it a peaceful place to relax while enjoying Spokane's urban scenery.
Historic Landmarks Worth Visiting
Monroe Street Bridge
One of Spokane's most recognizable landmarks, the Monroe Street Bridge offers beautiful views of the Spokane River and falls below while showcasing the city's historic architecture.
Great Northern Clock Tower
Standing proudly within Riverfront Park, the Great Northern Clock Tower serves as a reminder of Spokane's railroad history and remains one of the city's most photographed landmarks.
The Davenport Hotel
Opened in 1914, the Davenport Hotel remains one of Spokane's architectural treasures. Even if you're not staying overnight, stepping inside to admire the elegant lobby and historic details is well worth the visit.
Browne's Addition Historic District
This charming neighborhood features beautiful historic homes, tree-lined streets, museums, and a glimpse into Spokane's early history.
Outdoor Adventures
Riverside State Park
Just minutes from downtown Spokane, Riverside State Park offers hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, fishing, camping, and spectacular scenic overlooks. As Washington's second-largest state park, it's a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts.
Mount Spokane State Park
During summer, visitors enjoy hiking, wildlife viewing, mountain biking, and scenic drives. Winter transforms Mount Spokane into a popular skiing and snowboarding destination.
Spokane River Recreation
The Spokane River provides opportunities for kayaking, paddleboarding, fishing, photography, and peaceful riverside walks throughout the city.
Family-Friendly Activities
Ride the SkyRide over Spokane Falls
Take a spin on the historic Looff Carousel
Feed the famous Garbage Goat in Riverfront Park
Explore playgrounds and splash areas
Visit local museums and science exhibits
Walk across scenic bridges overlooking the falls
Enjoy seasonal events and festivals throughout the year
Rock Shops & Crystal Stores Worth Exploring
If you're anything like me, a road trip through Washington isn't complete without stopping at a good rock shop. Spokane has several excellent stores where you can browse crystals, fossils, gemstones, minerals, jewelry, and one-of-a-kind geological treasures. Whether you're a serious rock hound, a crystal collector, or simply curious about the natural world, these shops are worth adding to your Spokane itinerary.
Irv's Jewelry Rocks & Gifts
Location: 11907 E. Trent Ave., Suite 2, Spokane Valley, WA
One of the area's best-known rock shops, Irv's specializes in minerals, gemstones, crystals, lapidary supplies, prospecting equipment, jewelry, and geological treasures. It's a favorite stop for local collectors and visitors alike, offering everything from beginner-friendly specimens to unique pieces for experienced rock hounds.
Christie's Crystal Cabinet
Location: Spokane Area
This crystal-focused shop features gemstones, minerals, geodes, polished stones, and beautiful display specimens from around the world. It's a fun stop for anyone who enjoys browsing colorful crystals and learning more about the fascinating formations created by nature.
Misty Eyed Crystals
Location: 4750 N. Division Street, Suite 2030, Spokane, WA
Known for its welcoming atmosphere and impressive selection, Misty Eyed Crystals offers crystals, gemstones, handcrafted jewelry, palm stones, and unique gifts. Whether you're looking for a special keepsake or simply enjoy exploring mineral collections, there's plenty to discover here.
Wonders of the World
Location: 621 W. Mallon Avenue, Suite 412, Spokane, WA
Located inside Spokane's historic Flour Mill, Wonders of the World is part crystal shop, part fossil gallery, and part treasure hunt. Visitors will find minerals, fossils, geodes, gemstones, jewelry, and natural history items from around the globe. Every visit feels a little different, making it a fun stop for travelers and collectors alike.
Local Rock Hound Tip
If your Spokane adventure includes a drive west along I-90, consider making a stop near Vantage and the Ginkgo Petrified Forest area. The region is famous among Washington rock hounds for its fascinating geological history, petrified wood, dramatic landscapes, and opportunities to learn more about the ancient forces that shaped the Pacific Northwest.
Local Restaurants Worth Trying
Frank's Diner
A Spokane institution housed inside a historic railcar, Frank's Diner is known for hearty breakfasts, generous portions, and classic comfort food.
The Onion
A longtime local favorite serving burgers, sandwiches, soups, and casual Northwest fare.
Clinkerdagger
Offering beautiful views of the Spokane River, Clinkerdagger combines excellent food with one of the city's best dining locations.
Wild Sage Bistro
Known for locally inspired cuisine and creative menu options, Wild Sage Bistro remains one of Spokane's most popular dining destinations.
David's Pizza
A family-friendly Spokane favorite serving pizza, pasta, and classic comfort foods for decades.
Campgrounds & RV Parks
Riverside State Park Campground
RV and tent camping available
River access
Hiking trails nearby
Restrooms and showers
Spokane KOA Journey
Full-hookup RV sites
Family-friendly amenities
Convenient location near city attractions
North Spokane RV Campground
Full hookups
Pull-through sites
Easy access to downtown Spokane and surrounding attractions
Best Time to Visit Spokane
Spring
Waterfalls are at their most impressive, gardens begin blooming, and temperatures are ideal for exploring.
Summer
Perfect for festivals, hiking, river activities, outdoor dining, and family adventures.
Fall
Colorful foliage, harvest festivals, Green Bluff farm activities, and crisp temperatures make autumn a favorite season.
Winter
Skiing, snowboarding, holiday lights, and fewer crowds create a completely different Spokane experience.
Day Trips From Spokane
Mount Spokane State Park
Lake Coeur d'Alene
Turnbull National Wildlife Refuge
Steptoe Butte State Park
Palouse Falls
Final Thoughts
Spokane is one of those places that quietly leaves a lasting impression. The combination of rushing waterfalls, scenic parks, historic landmarks, outdoor recreation, and welcoming local businesses creates an experience that feels both exciting and relaxed at the same time.
Whether you're chasing waterfalls, exploring hiking trails, searching for unique rock shops, discovering local restaurants, or simply enjoying a scenic road trip across Washington, Spokane offers something for every kind of traveler. It's a destination that proves some of the Pacific Northwest's best adventures are often found where you least expect them.
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