Spokane sits in eastern Washington along the Spokane River, just 20 miles from the Idaho border. Spokane is home to Gonzaga and Whitworth Universities. Spokane is a fairly large city with a small-town feel. The downtown area has plenty of shopping, dining, and entertainment. Spokane was the site of the 1974 World’s Fair (Expo ’74) and the Riverfront Park holds onto symbols from the event.
Spokane has many lakes and rivers in the area that outdoor enthusiasts flock do, especially during the summers. Rafting, fishing, boating, and kayaking are popular activities. Winters are less popular, but Mount Spokane Ski and Snowboard Park offers some cold-weather fun.
City leadership has valued park space since the early 1900s. Spokane was an early leader in setting up a city-wide park system. Manito Park is a beautiful park with trails and a Japanese garden. It is one of the best experiences in Spokane. If you’re looking for some exercise, take a bike ride down the Centennial Trail.
Spokane has an up-and-coming beer scene with about two dozen microbreweries. A couple of solid choices are Bellwether Brewing and Perry Street Brewing. The Spokane Valley offers some winery options. A few of our favorites include Barrister and the Arbor Crest Winery. The city doesn’t have a lot of options for distilleries, but Dry Fly is great.
Spokane was ranked the 4th most depressing winter in the country. So, you know, it probably wouldn't be our recommended time to visit. If you are in town, perhaps check out a Gonzaga home basketball game.
Spokane is much dryer than the coastal Washington cities. Spring is dry and mild.
Summer is definitely the time to visit. Daily high temps are in the low 80s. The weather is dry and sunny. It is perfect for the outdoors recreation or just enjoying a drink on a bar patio.
Early fall is a good time to visit, as the area gets a lot of color with the changing of the leaves.