28 Best & Fun Things To Do In Spokane (Washington)

Seattle isn’t the only Washington city that starts with an “S” and ends with an “E” worth visiting.

Spokane is another delightful piece of the Pacific Northwest.

It’s got a really great terrain and design.

On the same day, you could feel like a rugged pioneer, bravely exploring new territories as well as a modern hedonist, soaking in all of the delights of a very chic city.

Whether you’re looking for free things to do in Spokane, Washington, or are willing to cheat on your budget, you can find a most excellent time here.

You can have a lot of fun no matter what the weather is or whether you’re inside or outside.

It’s got a big city feel but also a real small-town charm.

There’s something about this city and how it can put a wonderful spell upon its visitors.

These are 28 of the best and most fun things you can experience in Spokane, Washington.

1. John A. Finch Arboretum

For an incredible exploration of trees and plants in Spokane, Washington, visiting the John A. Finch Arboretum is something you must do.

It has thousands of species to see, and different trails to explore.

It’s a complete sensory journey with many things to see.

Look up at the towering trees, and crouch down to appreciate the flowers, especially the lilacs.

Going down the Touch and See Natural Trail is great if you love activities that give you a closer understanding of nature.

The John A. Finch Arboretum is for people looking for Spokane attractions that show just how great this area is, nature-wise.

It’s open every day from 6 a.m. until 10 p.m.

There’s no cost to visit.

Address: 3404 W Woodland Blvd, Spokane, WA 99224, United States

2. Avista Stadium

Situated near downtown Spokane is a terrific stadium.

Avista Stadium is an outdoor park and where the minor league Spokane Indians baseball team plays.

Since opening in 1958, Avista Stadium has been rightfully recognized as a jewel in Spokane’s crown.

Avista Stadium is very well-rounded in terms of setup.

They have skyboxes, a picnic area, and the Banner Back Diamond Club, as well as a play area for kids.

It’s also just great to sit in the stands, hot dog in hand, as you cheer on the team.

Watching a baseball game is one of the top things to do in Spokane, especially at a place like Avista Stadium.

It’s definitely one of the best places to go for fun and engaging experiences in Spokane.

Try to get a picnic basket going when you come as well.

Address: 602 N Havana St, Spokane Valley, WA 99212, United States

3. Northwest Museum of Arts and Culture

If you’ve ever been to the Smithsonian, you know how amazing their curation is.

That’s why going to the Northwest Museum of Arts and Culture is something you must do.

This museum is a Smithsonian affiliate.

It definitely lives up to that great institution’s reputation.

Those interested in Native American culture will be especially taken by the Northwest Museum of Arts and Culture.

No museum has more Plateau Indian works.

Overall, there are more than a million pieces kept at this museum.

The Northwest Museum of Arts and Culture is certainly one of the top 10 museums in all of Washington.

It’s also one of the greatest tourist attractions in the state.

It’s open all days of the week, except Mondays, from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m.

Admission costs $12 for adults, $10 for senior guests, $10 for college students, and $7 for children, between ages six and 17.

Address: 2316 W 1st Ave, Spokane, WA 99201, United States

4. Manito Park

There are lots of amazing parks in this city.

This includes Manito Park, which is in the stunning South Hill neighborhood.

It draws thousands of visitors every year due to its great gardens and all of their astonishing features.

Manito Park has five different garden areas as well as more than 70 acres to explore.

There are numerous beautiful places to visit here, from the Nishinomiya Tsutawaka Japanese Garden to the Gaiser Conservatory, an amazing greenhouse.

You can also see once known as “Duck Pond,” due to the number of winged swimmers taking up residence there.

Manito Park is a marvelous part of Spokane, Washington.

Visit Manito Park if you’re keen on activities that let you really embrace the glory of the world around you.

Manito Park is open every day, from 5 a.m. until 11 p.m.

Address: 1702 S Grand Blvd, Spokane, WA 99203, United States

5. Green Bluff

If you love going to farmers markets, you’ll definitely love going to Green Bluff.

This is one of the most amazing places to go in Washington.

Green Bluff shows the awesome power of farming as a human pursuit.

This isn’t just one great farm.

Instead Green Bluff is a whole collection of them.

Their produce is quite remarkable, with delicious apricots, apples, cherries, and peaches.

You can also take a tour through these grounds, learning more about this amazing farming association, which goes back to 1902.

If someone tells you that visiting Green Bluff is one of the best things to do in Spokane County, they’re not bluffing.

It’s a ton of fun, and you can learn a lot about the agricultural industry.

It’s only 15 minutes outside of Spokane and is beautiful, sitting at the base of Mt. Spokane.

Address: Spokane, WA, United States

6. The Scoop

Some places specialize in ice cream, and some specialize in waffles.

However, The Scoop is a Spokane eatery that honors both sweet delights.

At this family-owned business, you can enjoy one of the tastiest meals Spokane has to offer.

The Scoop has two locations in the city.

We wouldn’t be surprised if more sprung up, given how much people love it.

They use liquid nitrogen to create their potent ice cream and sorbet flavors.

Plus, their waffles are so good, you won’t be going back to frozen ones anytime soon.

If you want the scoop on what to do in Spokane that’s cheap but also very rewarding, you have to visit The Scoop.

Their locations are in South Hill and Kendall Yards.

There’s also a Scoop food truck, which you’ll hopefully be lucky enough to encounter as well.

Address: 1001 W 25th Ave, Spokane, WA 99203, United States

7. Riverfront Park

You could spend most of your time in Spokane visiting parks and still have a very fun time.

One of the best parks in the city is Riverfront Park.

It’s more than a park.

It’s truly a piece of Spokane, Washington and world history.

Riverfront Park was built in 1974 to make way for the World’s Fair, hosted in Spokane, Washington.

This was the home of the United States Pavillion, where the fair took place.

The Pavillion is still there, as is an IMAX Theater, skating rink, waterfall, and lots more.

Riverfront Park is made up of 100 acres of natural and human-made attractions.

Whatever activity suits you best, you can likely find it at Riverfront Park.

It’s open all days from 6 a.m. until midnight.

Address: 507 N Howard St, Spokane, WA 99201, United States

8. The Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist

This city knows how to take multiple great things and make them into one incredible thing.

That’s the case with the Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist.

Three other churches were combined to create this fantastic cathedral.

St. John himself would likely be touched by this cathedral.

It’s decorated with stunning stained glass, towers, a great pipe organ, and lots more.

It’s been one of the loveliest parts of Spokane since it was established in 1954.

The Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist is an evocative and dazzling piece of the Spokane religious community.

Attending a service here is one of the top experiences you can have in this city.

Come experience the joy and beauty of this church and its parish.

Address: 127 E 12th Ave, Spokane, WA 99202, United States

9. Downtown Spokane

Downtown Spokane has numerous stupendous attractions, ideal for all times of day and all seasons.

Whether you’re looking for a romantic time with a partner or revelry with your friends, you can find it downtown.

You can even enjoy a solo experience and find plenty of great things to do.

Downtown Spokane’s Entertainment District is a real standout.

You can see music at the Knitting Factory Concert House and movies at the AMC theater and the Martin Woldson Theater at The Fox.

Their eateries are also excellent Spokane attractions, with places like Cochinito and Wild Sage showing how serious Spokane, Washington takes their food.

After taking in this entertainment and great food, take a walk alongside the Spokane River.

There’s lots of wonderful sightseeing and things to do in downtown Spokane.

You can have a great time whether you go in with a specific plan or just want to mosey around.

You’ll soon learn how many fun things to do in Spokane, Washington are downtown.

Address: Spokane, WA, United States

10. Mount Spokane State Park

There are more acres in Mount Spokane State Park than there are days in a decade.

All 12,293 of these acres amongst the Selkirk Mountains add up to something transcendent.

It’s pretty near Spokane, only 23 miles northeast, and it would be worth visiting even if it was 100 miles away.

No matter what the season is, this park is worth visiting.

There are cool things to do in summer and winter.

You could go mountain biking in August and snowmobiling in January.

Just make sure you’re being respectful of the animals and other wildlife that live around there, such as the moose that live in the region.

There are eight campsites at the park, so you need to reserve one in a timely fashion if you hope to stay overnight.

The park is open from 6:30 a.m. until dusk in the summer and from 7 a.m. until 10 p.m. in the winter.

Address: 26107 N Mt Spokane Park Dr, Mead, WA 99021, United States

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11. Martin Woldson Theater at The Fox

This downtown Spokane theater is a smorgasbord of entertainment and history within the city.

The Martin Woldson Theater first opened to audiences in 1931 as a movie house.

Since then, its icon status has grown and grown.

This theater isn’t just for movies, either.

Originally, this was known as the Fox Theater and also had vaudeville showcases.

However, it closed in 2000, and it looked like another theater wouldn’t come in its place.

Thankfully, Martin Woldson’s daughter, Myrtle, saved the day.

The Spokane Symphony performs here, sometimes performing live scores of films.

You can also see opera and ballet performances here.

Seeing a performance at The Martin Woldson Theater at the Fox is what to do for a cultural experience in Spokane.

They’ve got all kinds of things to see, including ones that make old things seem new again.

Come here at night, and you’re in for an excellent evening.

Address: 1001 W Sprague Ave, Spokane, WA 99201, United States

12. Gonzaga University

You might mainly know Gonzaga University from filling out your March Madness bracket, but there’s more to them than basketball.

A top way to spend time in Spokane is to pay Gonzaga University’s campus a visit.

It’s great if you’re looking for educational and enjoyable free things to do in Spokane.

It could also be good to visit if you have any important decisions to make about higher education.

Gonzaga University is also good to visit if you’re doing a sightseeing tour of Spokane, Washington.

It was founded in 1887 and sits blissfully along the Spokane River.

There’s also no trouble getting downtown from Gonzaga University.

Gonzaga University is one of the top points of interest anywhere in Washington, a beautiful campus that’s nurtured so many great minds for more than 100 years.

Go on a tour and learn as much as you can about this amazing school.

Make plans to check out Gonzaga University today.

Address: 502 E Boone Ave, Spokane, WA 99258, United States

13. Clear Lake

The waters at Clear Lake might not be entirely see-through, but that doesn’t change how good of a place for stuff to do this is.

When you’re visiting Clear Lake, you’ll have ample opportunities to appreciate the wonders of water.

Air rarely feels quite as fresh as it does when you’re near Clear Lake.

The size of this lake means lots of opportunities for activities.

Go fishing at Clear Lake, and you have a real chance to hook a trout or bass.

Take out a boat to go fishing, waterskiing, or just appreciate the calm and hues of the lake.

Clear Lake is a sheer wonder in Spokane.

You can have fun with activities that make you scream in delight or just sigh in satisfaction.

Quality time in Spokane this weekend should definitely involve going to Clear Lake.

Address: S Clear Lake Rd, Washington, United States

14. Centennial Trail

You don’t need to be past or approaching your 100th birthday to check out this trail.

Centennial Trail was built in 1984 in honor of Washington turning 100 years old.

The full name is the “Spokane River Centennial National Recreational Trail,” and it’s adored among the fine people of Spokane.

You can try to explore all of the Centennial Trail, but at 37 miles long, that can be a petty intense.

However, things like rollerblades and bicycles can alleviate the time.

The trip starts at Riverfront Park and allows for anything but motor vehicles.

Centennial Park deserves a 100 when it comes to great outdoor attractions in Spokane.

Even if you can only travel a few miles, you should still find it to be a very special experience.

In fact, it might be the best time you have there.

Address: Along Spokane River, Spokane, WA, United States

15. Spokane Falls

Waterfalls are so amazing, it’s a little hard to believe they’re in our reality, and not just confined to our imaginations.

The Spokane Falls are another can’t-miss Spokane sight.

Both the Upper and Lower Falls are equally magnificent.

Not only did the falls add aesthetic value to the city, but they also were vital to the overall development of the city.

Each of the falls has dams, and these dams provide the citizens with electricity.

As you view these in downtown Spokane, you can also smile at how these falls are helping keep the lights on at your hotel.

You should speak highly of Spokane Falls after visiting because seeing it is one of the most fun things to do in Spokane.

Points of interest like these falls give this city such vibrance.

It’s what to see if you love waterfalls and nature overall.

Address: Monroe Street, Spokane, WA, United States

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16. Wild Sage Bistro

Wild Sage Bistro is a lovely restaurant located in an ideal spot in downtown Spokane.

However, it’s more going for it than just its location and decor.

The Wild Sage bistro menus give you a Spokane fine dining experience that you’ll cherish for years.

Both meat and seafood are showcased spectacularly at Wild Sage Bistro.

They’ve got duck leg confit, Vancouver king salmon, and a great burger.

There are also excellent non-meat options like a chickpea burger and salads.

Wild Sage Bistro is for people scouting out places to visit for great food and atmosphere.

Eating there at night can further contribute to the delight.

Get your best suit or dress on and book a table at Wild Stage Bistro.

Address: 916 W 2nd Ave, Spokane, WA 99201, United States

17. The Historic Davenport Hotel

The Historic Davenport Hotel is both a great hotel and another Spokane icon, as well as a very important part of the hospitality industry as a whole.

A night spent at the Historic Davenport Hotel is one spent near history.

When the Historic Davenport Hotel first opened in 1914, it was the very first American hotel to have air conditioning.

Not only that, but it was also the first to have housekeeping carts and a pipe organ.

In 2002, it went under major renovation.

However, the classic charm is still there.

You don’t have to book a room to enjoy the Historic Davenport Hotel.

There’s also a lounge as well as a spa and bar.

Go here if seeking awesome places to see with historical significance in Spokane.

Address: 10 S Post St, Spokane, WA 99201, United States

18. Latah Creek Winery

Wineries are popular attractions throughout the country, and Spokane has a great one in the form of Latah Creek Winery.

It’s not a place that just sprung up in the wake of other successful wineries.

They’ve been around since 1982, and they continue to excel at their craft.

Situated in Spokane Valley, Latah Creek is both award-winning and family-run.

They have a great variety of grapes, giving lots of depth to their wines.

You’ll have a chance to try these during your tour, when you visit the tasting room.

Chardonnay, Merlot, and other varieties of wine are all made beautifully at Latah Creek Winery.

A day trip out here is a truly great way to spend time.

Latah Creek Winery’s tasting room is open every day from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m.

Address: 13030 E Indiana Ave, Spokane Valley, WA 99216, United States

19. Queen of Sheba

You might not have the chance to actually visit Ethiopia.

However, you can get a real taste of it when you’re in Spokane.

Queen of Sheba is a great restaurant showcasing how great the flavors of Ethiopian cuisine.

At Queen of Sheba, you can find lamb, beef, poultry, and vegetarian and vegan items.

Try their wonderful side dishes too, like iyeb, a buttermilk cheese.

You should be looking for places to visit that will expand your cultural awareness, and Queen of Sheba can definitely provide it.

You might not be the Queen of Sheba but that you can still have a great meal there under any status.

This is your chance to see how diverse and delicious Ethiopian cuisine is.

Their hours are from Tuesdays until Thursdays from 11:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m, and on Fridays and Saturdays, they open at 11:30 a.m. and close at 9 p.m.

Address: 621 W Mallon Ave #426, Spokane, WA 99201, United States

20. River Park Square

Close to Riverfront Park is another excellent Spokane site that starts with “River.”

At River Park Square, you can shop to your absolute heart’s content and do some high-end dining and drinking.

To feel like a real Spokane urbanite, come to River Park Square.

The shopping is excellent for all their great brands, letting you really class up your wardrobe.

Shopping can stir up an appetite, and you’ll have lot of places to choose from, whether you want a full course meal or just a quick munch.

You’ll also be in close proximity to the Spokane River.

River Park Square delivers on Spokane’s reputation for prestige and excitement.

There’s lots to do and plenty of things to see.

Go to River Park Square with a generous budget and a terrific attitude, and you’ll have a riveting time.

Address: 808 W Main Ave, Spokane, WA 99201, United States

21. ROW Adventure Center

If your idea of an adventure is seeing a summer blockbuster, you need to try the activities with ROW Adventure Center.

These are experiences that introduce you to stunning sights and demonstrate how Spokane is one of the most beautiful places in the United States.

Get an experience booked with ROW Adventure Center if you’re going to be in town this weekend.

ROW Adventure Center should blow you away with its experiences.

They have fishing, biking, kayaking, and even whitewater rafting options.

While you’re navigating down a powerful river, you’ll also see beautiful birds, such as eagles.

Vacation spots should have marvelous things to see all around you.

ROW Adventure Center lets you see the fun of the world and how you should seize the day as much as possible.

For fun things to do in Spokane, you should definitely book a trip with ROW Adventure Center tonight.

Address: 209 S Washington St, Spokane, WA 99201, United States

22. Barrister Winery

If you’re doing a winery tour through the Pacific Northwest this weekend, you should also check out Barrister Winery.

Part of the Davenport Arts District, Barrister Winery recently celebrated its 20th birthday.

Given how excellent their wines are, it’s pretty surprising they’re still that young.

This is one of the biggest points of interest in Spokane not just for the wines but also for the space itself.

The building is more than 100 years old, and it’s aged much like a good wine.

Not only can you can enjoy the fruits of the tasting room, but there’s also a lovely art gallery.

There’s lots more to love about Barrister Winery, such as their events, like Wednesdays at the Winery, a weekly outdoor music experience in the summer.

It’s also more than ideal for a wedding or another life-changing event.

Barrister Winery is perfect when you’re looking for places to visit that make you feel luxurious and relaxed.

Address: 1213 West Railroad Avenue, Spokane, WA 99201, United States

23. First Interstate Center for the Arts

Another one of the Spokane attractions built for the World’s Fair is the First Interstate Center for the Arts.

It was definitely a worthy endeavor, as the First Interstate Center for the Arts has become first when it comes to great entertainment in this city.

Sitting right by the eponymous river, it’s a place for fun and very enlightening experiences, with many styles of performance being hosted and celebrated here.

First Interstate Center for the Arts has been around since 1974.

In that time, it’s hosted comedians like Jerry Seinfeld, musicians like John Mellencamp, and performances of Broadway shows like “The Lion King.”

Its 2,600-seat size means you can feel like you’re part of a big crowd while still enjoying an intimate experience.

Tourist attractions like First Interstate Center for the Arts have led to unforgettable moments for countless people, spread across decades.

You can definitely be part of the very lucky group.

If you’ll be in the city tonight, you absolutely need to see what’s happening at the First Interstate Center for the Arts.

Address: 334 W Spokane Falls Blvd, Spokane, WA 99201, United States

24. Spokane Symphony

You already know the Spokane Symphony performs at the Martin Woldson Theater.

However, there’s a lot more to be said about them and their legacy in this city.

Read on to find out why the Spokane Symphony deserves as much respect as possible.

History is a large reason to appreciate the Spokane Symphony.

They started more than 70 years ago, in 1945, and they’ve continually shown what artists at the peak of their craft can accomplish.

Their talent is truly astounding, and they all come together to fill the room at Martin Woldson Theater with such auditory power.

However, if you prefer hearing living music with some fresh air and a gorgeous sky to gaze upon, you’re in luck.

The symphony also performs at parks.

If you come during the holidays, you can see them do shows with the local ballet school.

Seeing the Spokane Symphony perform can be very fun as well as quite moving.

Close your eyes and feel the power of the notes emitting from each instrument, as well as the comfort of your seat.

When you open them, you should be able to appreciate them even more.

Take a moment to be happy that such an institution is thriving today.

25. Mount Spokane Ski and Snowboard Park

Although it was previously mentioned you could go skiing at Mount Spokane, you should still understand why this is one of the best places to visit for winter thrills.

Skiing and snowboarding may hit a new peak for you, and that’s not just talking about the slopes.

Get yourself plenty of layers on as you hear about the awesomeness of Mount Spokane Ski and Snowboard Park.

This ski resort has plenty of snow and plenty of fun.

You can take a lift up to a peak of nearly 6,000 feet and set out to feel the rush of bitter cold wind against your face as you navigate your skis or snowboard.

You’ll likely be too busy grinning in excitement to notice just how cold you are.

There are also lessons, for adults and children, that teach about safety and other important aspects of frosty thrills.

If you don’t want to ski or snowboard, you can still enjoy the slopes through tubing.

You can also just enjoy the comfort of the lodge as you look out at the snow-blanketed landscape.

Visit here for one of the most touching tourist attractions in Washington.

Address: 29500 N Mt Spokane Park Dr, Mead, WA 99021, United States

26. The Campbell House

Known in full as the “Grace Campbell Memorial House,” this is one of Spokane’s most important tourist attractions for historically minded visitors.

The Campbell House has major significance to the city’s story.

At the Campbell House, you can learn about how one family achieved such a legendary status, and tour one of the finest buildings in all of Washington.

The Campbell House story starts with Ambassa B. Campbell, who was born in Ohio but who later started a mining business in the city with John A. Finch.

This was a huge business that helped Finch and Campbell see six-figure incomes.

His daughter donated their family home as a museum named for his wife and her mother.

This is run by the Eastern Washington State Historical Society.

The Campbell House is a great thing to see, as every room and every object holds a different sort of importance.

You can see it as part of a tour of the Northwest Museum of Arts and Culture.

It’s available between Tuesdays and Sundays from noon to 4 p.m.

Address: 2316 W 1st Ave, Spokane, WA 99201, United States

27. Mobius Children’s Museum

Kids might not always like going to school, but they do tend to always love learning.

It’s just that they might need more space and activity than the confines of a classroom might allow that.

This is a very cheap but still riveting thing to share with your kids.

Being at Mobius Children’s Museum can feel like you’ve wandered into some kind of funky picture book.

The exhibits let your kids have hands-on fun, making art, learning about science, and see live theater at their “Globe Theater.”

Planning a trip here is what to do for a great bonding experience with your family.

Mobius Children’s Museum shows how keeping your mind sharp can keep you feeling young.

It’s also so cool to see your kids nurturing their minds with the many things to do.

Admission to Mobius Children’s Museum is $10 for children, ages one and up and adults, and $9 for seniors and military members.

Address: 808 W Main Ave, Spokane, WA 99201, United States

28. Wisconsinburger

Why isn’t this burger shop called “Washingtonburger,” given its location?

Well, this Washington establishment got its name due to the inspiration its founder took from Wisconsin burger shops.

If you’re longing for a savory burger, Wisconsinburger is your friend.

They’re not just throwing the name “Wisconsin” around.

Their cheese and butter are all sourced from the state.

They also use local ingredients to great effect.

Their beef is exclusively Washington Premium Angus and their buns are made at the local Alpine Bakery.

They’ve got some very creative burgers on their menu, including two tasty veggie burgers.

Eating at Wisconsinburger is what to do when you want to enjoy a great comfort done with style.

Look at the menu today but not when you’re hungry.

Wisconsinburger is open between Sundays and Thursdays from 11:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. and on Fridays and Saturdays from 11:30 a.m. until 9 p.m.

Address: 916 S Hatch St, Spokane, WA 99202, United States

Start Planning Your Trip To Spokane

Spokane, Washington has great free things to do, and ones that cost money are worth every penny.

Whether your idea of a fun time is rowing down a fierce river, skiing down a huge peak, or just sitting in a nice park, this city can feel like paradise.

Spokane’s status as a great part of the Pacific Northwest should be recognized, and you can do your part by visiting and spreading the word about Spokane attractions and experiences.

Happy travels.