Tucked near the border of Washington and Idaho, Spokane blends urban sophistication with jaw-dropping natural beauty. Whether you’re strolling its vibrant downtown area or exploring the rugged landscapes of the Pacific Northwest, here are two ways to spend an unforgettable day in Spokane, Washington.
Day 1: Urban Adventures in the City
Morning
Head to downtown Spokane for breakfast at First Avenue Coffee, a minimalist spot serving ethically sourced coffee and seasonal pastries. The wide-open, two-story space is warm, inviting, and popular among local artists. Sip a matcha latte, nitro cold brew, or pour-over coffee. Pair it with fresh-baked donuts or a Southern biscuit sandwich.
Next, make your way to Riverfront Park for a scenic ride aboard the Numerica SkyRide. During the 15-minute journey, you’ll descend 200 feet over the Spokane River. Marvel at panoramic views of the Spokane Falls—the country’s largest urban waterfall. Pass by landmarks like the Art-Deco City Hall and the historic Monroe Street Bridge. Afterward, ride the 1909 Looff Carousel and stop by the iconic Great Northern Clocktower, remnants of Spokane’s rich history.
Don’t miss the Gesa Credit Union Pavilion. Originally built for the 1974 World’s Fair as a gift from the U.S. government, the unique wire canopy structure now hosts everything from light shows to concerts to movie nights. If you’re traveling with children (or you’re a child at heart), take a ride on the Childhood Express, a 12-foot-tall Radio Flyer wagon that doubles as a slide. Discover eclectic art installations, like a garbage-eating goat that “eats” litter when it’s activated.
Midday
You can’t visit downtown Spokane without experiencing its vibrant local boutiques, many of which are housed in renovated historic buildings. Shop for upscale clothing and accessories at Garland Resale Boutique. Browse handcrafted goods by local artists at From Here, from home decor to jewelry to wall art. Looking for quirky souvenirs? Hit up Boo Radley’s for humorous finds and pop culture memorabilia.
Grab lunch at Cochinito Taqueria to enjoy Mexican cuisine and laid-back vibes in a trendy, modern space. Dig into flavorful tacos like the Lamb Merguez, 20-Hour Carne Asada, and Pork Bell. Or, try the Birria Torta with braised beef and find out why it’s a house favorite. Pair your meal with a hibiscus margarita or red sangria. Dining with a crew? Skip the glass and order a pitcher instead.
Afternoon
Take a self-guided tour of the Historic Davenport Hotel. Admire the crystal chandeliers, intricate woodwork, and marble floors of a circa-1914 gem that’s dripping in old-school luxury. Learn about the hotel’s storied past through a collection of displays and vintage photographs. Walk the ornate halls that notable figures like Amelia Earhart, Mahatma Gandhi, and a number of U.S. presidents once spent time. For a more informed tour, pick up a brochure at the front desk first.
Head to Browne’s Addition for an artistic deep dive at the Northwest Museum of Arts and Culture (MAC). Immerse yourself in the MAC’s five exhibition galleries showcasing regional history, arts, and American Indian culture. Admire thousands of masterpieces by Northwest artists, spanning over centuries. Find out what early 20th-century life in Spokane was like inside the Campbell House, included in your museum admission.
Evening
Indulge in seasonal Northwest fare at Wild Sage Bistro. Embrace the warm, earthy interiors and cozy atmosphere. Start your meal with their famous popovers served with lavender-infused honey butter—a house favorite. Savor farm-to-table entrees like the Wild Pacific Halibut or Bucket List Burger made with Australian wagyu beef. Treat yourself to the signature coconut cream layer cake, it’s a must-try for dessert lovers.
Wrap up your evening with cocktails at the Sapphire Lounge inside Hotel Ruby. Soak up epic skyline views by the fire pit in a lively setting with music-inspired local art adorning the walls. Go with a classic old-fashioned, or try a specialty cocktail like Burning Love. It’s made with house-infused chili tequila, blood orange syrup, lime juice, and a spicy salt rim.
Day 2: Exploring the Great Outdoors
Morning
Fuel up with a hearty brunch at Bruncheonette, a cozy eatery that originated from a beloved local food truck. Expect creative, flavorful dishes like the Bacon Sticky Bun, Smoked Brisket Hash, and Chorizo Breakfast Tacos. Sip a freshly brewed drip coffee, or choose from a mile-long list of mimosas—from the Pineapple Upside Down Mimosa to the Strawberry Blossom Mimosa. Arrive early to avoid a long wait, especially if you’re visiting over the weekend.
Take a short drive to High Drive Bluff Park, where you can bask in 360-degree views of the Latah Valley. Hike easy, beginner-friendly trails like the Polly Judd and Ponderosa trails to navigate pine forests. Meander through wildflower meadows and lush hillsides on the Balsamroot Trail or Creekside Loop. With more than 22 miles of scenic trails, there’s something for every skill level and vibe.
Prefer a shorter adventure with equally striking views? Walk the two-mile loop trail in the Bowl and Pitcher area of Riverside State Park. Cross the historic suspension bridge and weave through forested trails along the Spokane River. Marvel at roaring rapids and unique basalt rock formations that resulted from ancient lava flows.
Midday
Stop by Main Market Co-op in downtown Spokane to grab everything you need for a breezy, peaceful picnic lunch. The well-known outpost stocks a wide array of local and sustainable products that support regional farmers and artisans. Choose from freshly made grab-and-go items, a salad bar, hot bar, specialty desserts, local cheeses, meats, and fruit. Load up your provisions and find a shady spot in Manito Park or Riverside State Park to unwind.
If it’s nice out, embark on a kayaking or paddleboarding excursion down the Spokane River. Rent your gear (including life jackets and safety instructions) from Fun Unlimited to head out on your own, or book a guided trip to let an expert lead the way. Rentals sell out quickly during the summer months, so book ahead to secure your preferred time slot.
Afternoon
Drive along the Palouse Scenic Byway to cruise past rolling hills, canola fields, and small towns. Make stops at especially picturesque points like Steptoe Butte or Kamiak Butte to take in awe-inspiring views of the Palouse region. Along the way, explore Steptoe Battlefield State Park and watch Washington’s state waterfall (Palouse Falls) plunge nearly 200 feet into a canyon.
Next, visit Turnbull National Wildlife Refuge to wander through wetlands and trails surrounded by aspen groves. The refuge is home to more than 200 bird species, like trumpeter swans, black terns, and bluebirds. Keep an eye out for year-round residents like moose, Rocky Mountain elk, badgers, and white-tailed deer. For the best wildlife sightings, visit during the spring or fall migratory seasons.
Evening
Enjoy dinner at Elk Public House, a laid-back neighborhood gem in the heart of Browne’s Addition. Expect ample patio seating, comforting pub bites, and a rotating tap list of local brews. Order the grilled lamb burger, BBQ chicken quesadilla, or mushroom sacchetti in a smoked gouda cream sauce. Alongside your meal, gulp down a Georgetown Manny’s Pale Ale or Westbound Train Juicy IPA.
Looking to extend your time in the great outdoors? Book a tent or RV site to stay overnight at Riverside State Park. It’s far enough from Spokane’s bright city lights to create stellar conditions for stargazing. Start a campfire in one of the fire pits to roast marshmallows, but check the area’s current fire restrictions before you go.
If you’re not up for camping, grab drinks in downtown Spokane instead. Hit up The Purgatory for casual vibes and an extensive whiskey collection, or grab a table at Emma Rue’s to kick back in a whimsical, Parisian-inspired lounge with creative cocktails.
