If you live here or visit often, you probably know about some of Spokane’s best places to eat.

Spokane is also one of the best places in the PNW for outdoor activities. After you enjoy the good eats at our restaurants, work off some calories with these outdoor activities in Spokane.

Get Fishy with It

Fishing is one of the most well-known things to do in and around Spokane.

The Spokane River provides 111 miles of fresh water that is perfect for river fishing. Or choose from any number of lakes to fulfill your dream fishing trip. Two of our favorites are nearby lakes, Newman lake, just east of downtown Spokane, or Liberty Lake. Both have spots to launch a boat and plenty of fish.

Whether it’s bank fishing, fly fishing, or wade fishing, don’t miss out on some of the world’s finest fishing while in Spokane.

Take a Hike

If fishing isn’t your thing, enjoy another one of the many outdoor things to do in Spokane.

Hiking and camping are plentiful in the area. Check out Riverside State Park for some of the best camping and hiking along the river–only nine miles outside of Spokane.

You’ll find 55 miles of trails for hiking, mountain biking, and other outdoor fun. The trails are perfect for any level of hiking, even some that are very kid friendly. Make your hike a casual walk or push yourself harder for a more extreme experience.

Spend the day hiking and spend the night in one of the many campgrounds in the park. Book early though, summertime camping spots go quick!

Tour de Spokane

From street cycling to mountain trails, biking is one of the most fun things to do when in Spokane.

The city is a bike-friendly community with bike lanes in many parts of downtown Spokane. You’ll find plenty of paved hills and valleys to climb and coast your way around the town.

If you prefer biking off the beaten path, take your mountain bike to explore parks and trails in the hills and woods nearby.

Check out these notable trails for guaranteed fun:

• Fish Lake Trail
• Columbia Mountain (at Sherman Pass)
• Deep Creek Loop (in Riverside State Park)
• Mount Spokane (at Linder Ridge)

Some trails connect to the city. Bike in, out, and around the Spokane as there is a lot to see on a bike and most of the city is relatively flat.

Get Snowed In

When the weather turns snowy, it’s a great time to throw on your hat and gloves and enjoy the outdoor activities in the Spokane area.

Grab your skis or your snowboard and hit the slopes. Good slopes are never far away–some within an hour’s drive from downtown Spokane. Mt. Spokane is 35 miles from downtown and has not only downhill skiiing, but a snowboard park and cross country skiing trails.

If slower snow is more your style, strap on a pair of snowshoes. Walk the many hiking or biking trails you walk and ride during warmer months all around Mt. Spokane.

Wine Is Best Outdoors

After a day full of outdoor adventure, don’t forget to check out Spokane’s wineries. Barrister, Arbor Crest and Overbluff are three of our favorites. With so many AVA’s on the eastern side of Washington State it’s no wonder Spokane has such a great selection of wine.

Many area wineries are the perfect setting for an outdoor tasting with friends and family. Any a few tasting rooms are right in downtown Spokane.

Enjoy Year-Round Outdoor Activities in Spokane

No matter the season, you can enjoy outdoor activities in Spokane.

It’s a perfect city for outdoor enthusiasts. No matter your age or outdoor interests, Spokane provides fun for the whole family.

If you’re visiting and camping isn’t for you, Spokane has plenty of hotels for comfortable evenings after a day outdoors. Check out our list of Spokane hotels of favorite unique hotels for your perfect Spokane getaway.

Tourists and locals love the relaxed, small-town feel of Washington State’s second-largest city.

Located beside the Spokane River and nestled into the western foothills of the Rocky Mountain, Spokane has no shortage of beautiful scenery and outdoor sports to enjoy. Combine this with a lively downtown area that has plenty of fun things to do, visitors and locals are bound to work up an appetite.

Luckily, there’s a range of great restaurants in Spokane; all with something different to offer. Many of their menus focus on the finest ingredients and innovative dishes.

If you’re looking for the best places to eat in the area, check out our list that includes some of Spokane’s best restaurants!

1. Casper Fry

Casper Fry, in the heart of the historic South Perry neighborhood, specializes in modern versions of classic Southern dishes.

Inspired by simpler times, this popular eatery serves up fresh ingredients sourced in the local area. If you’re looking for good places to eat in Spokane, you won’t be disappointed with the delicious food they offer.

Highlights on the dinner menu include buttermilk-fried chicken and blackened catfish. You can also head there for a hearty breakfast, brunch or lunch instead.

2. Italia Trattoria

Established in 2010, Italia Trattoria specializes in Italian-inspired seasonal dishes. Located in the historic Browne’s Addition neighborhood, the restaurant uses the finest locally-sourced ingredients. While featuring local selections, many dishes also feature items imported from Italy.

It has an ever-changing menu, so their specialties can vary. But current favorites include pappardelle lamb ragu, and ricotta and rabbit ravioli.

Italia Trattoria can get busy, especially during the weekends. So make sure to reserve a table if you want to sample their delicious food. Their happy hour, from 5 to 6 pm, Tuesday to Thursday, is a popular time.

3. Queen of Sheba

For something a little different, try traditional Ethiopian cuisine at Queen of Sheba.

Set up by Almaz Ainuu, a native of Ethiopia, the restaurant has many vegetarian and vegan options. There is also a range of meat dishes featuring beef, lamb and chicken. Most of their spicy dishes come with a non-spicy alternative. So if you prefer milder flavors, this can be a great way to experience African Cuisine!

For an authentic dining experience, diners use a spongy flatbread called ‘injera‘ instead of cutlery to eat their food.

4. Sante Restaurant & Charcuterie

There’s nothing quite like Sante Restaurant and Charcuterie when it comes to Spokane Valley restaurants.

This elegant Parisian restaurant specializes in delicate, mouth-watering dishes that will make you savor every bite. Although the menu is subject to change, popular dishes include the classic croque monsieur and caraway-dusted pork loin.

5. Gordy’s Sichuan Cafe

Gordy’s Sichuan Cafe is a favorite with locals thanks to its delicious Chinese cuisine and friendly atmosphere.

Since opening over a decade ago, this restaurant has become a key part of the Spokane culinary scene. With varying levels of spiciness and the option to remove animal products from certain dishes, Gordy’s has something for everyone.

Try the Taiwanese black date chicken with sweet potatoes, the kung pao salmon, or beef with orange peel and chilies.

6. Clover

Clover, located near the Gonzaga University campus, is a cozy restaurant set in a Craftsman-style bungalow.

The seasonal menu puts the spotlight on the finest locally-sourced flavors. Some popular choices are the chili-rubbed tri-tip steak with brewer’s malt risotto. Or try the roasted squash and the seared scallops with pea puree and homemade chorizo.

Along with a selection of daily seafood, the menu includes plenty of unique starters, side dishes and salads.

7. Downriver Grill

Downriver Grill is an upscale, contemporary restaurant in Spokane’s Audubon district.

It’s a great spot for a lazy weekend breakfast from 9 am to 2 pm. Enjoy hearty dishes such as lemon ricotta blueberry pancakes or the Downriver Grill signature plate. The latter is a sage-Parmesan biscuit, scrambled eggs, and bacon or sausage in a chorizo gravy.

Alternatively, the main menu includes starters such as ahi poke and steamed clams. And there are classic entrees such as osso buco, filet mignon and puttanesca.

8. Mizuna

Mizuna’s menu has expanded to include meat-based dishes as well as the vegetarian and vegan meals they specialize in.

The vegetarian menu includes delights such as cashew-crusted seared avocado and Japanese eggplant ratatouille. And, meat-eaters can enjoy dishes such as pan-seared duck breast with red wine risotto. Or try the grilled Idaho trout with sweet potato and bacon hash.

With high ceilings, low lighting and a stunning seasonal patio, the setting is as perfect as the food.

9. The Wandering Table

Previously a pop-up restaurant, The Wandering Table found a permanent home in Kendall Yards in 2014.

Like all of the best Spokane Valley restaurants, this eatery focuses on offering diners the best seasonal, local ingredients. The menu changes often, and diners can even name their price and have the chef make something to fit that amount.

They specialize in sharing plates, with current menu highlights including smoke jackfruit empanadas, smokey chicken wings and Mexi-Korean pozole soup.

10. Churchill’s Steakhouse

Churchill’s Steakhouse, conveniently located in downtown Spokane, is a modern and sophisticated restaurant. The booth seating area also makes this a great place for groups.

The downstairs lounge area has a casual feel with a professional piano player and relaxed seating. But, be sure to make a reservation if you want to dine upstairs.

All steaks come with creamy garlic mashed potatoes and fresh baked bread. And, you can choose from the many sides and sauces on the menu as a way to personalize your meal. They also have a good selection of seafood dishes and an impressive wine list.

The 10 Best Spokane Restaurants

As this extensive list shows, there is no end of delicious and different restaurants to choose from in Spokane. From authentic Ethiopian cuisine to traditional steakhouses, Spokane has it all.

And, thanks to Clever Neighbor’s helpful recommendations, endlessly searching online for where to find ‘dinner near me’ is a thing of the past.

Remember, whether you’re looking for Spokane restaurants to tantalize your taste buds or unmissable events in the area, Clever Neighbor is your local go-to directory!

The Spokane Valley is nestled in the picturesque state of Washington. It’s home to over 127,000 residents. It’s Aaland of 30 somethings, and is bustling with things to do for both the young and the young-at-heart.

Explore the Spokane Valley like a local with this curated list of things to do:

Family Friendly

Most outdoor activities in Spokane are family friendly. The following activities are guaranteed to tucker the kids out.

1. Looff Carousel

This piece of history is located at 507 N Howard Street — just across from Riverfront Park. Expertly carved from wood, the carousel was a wedding gift from Charles I. D. Looff to his daughter in 1909. Don’t be deterred by its age. The Looff Carousel is among the most well preserved, hand-carved carousels in the country. This is an indoor activity that’s perfect for those rainy days.

2. Ice Ribbon

If you’re traveling during the colder months, this one’s for you. The Ice Ribbon is a 16 foot wide, 650 ft path that loops through picture-perfect greenery at Riverfront Park. Cuddle up to some hot cocoa and take some photos for the memory books because this is one you’ll want to remember.

Are you visiting in the warmer months? No worries! The path is converted into a Roller Ribbon during seasons of warmer weather.

3. Wonderland Family Fun Center

Located near some entries on our list of unique Spokane hotels, Wonderland Family Fun Center is 5 acres of fun and thrills for the whole family. Bring your family here for go-karts, black light mini golf, bumper boats, and a huge laser tag arena. Admission is free and the park is open year round.

Spokane Valley Outdoors

If you have a visceral need to be outdoors, then consider a move to Spokane. Home to some of the most beautiful scenery in the country, you may never want to leave!

4. Centennial Trail

The Centennial Trail is a paved 37-mile long hiking and biking path.

The trail goes from Nine Mile Falls in Washington State, through the Spokane Valley and continues east across the State Line. It continues on through Post Falls, Idaho into Couer D’Alene.

This trail will take travelers along the scenic Spokane River and through downtown. The trail offers a glimpse of other things to do in Spokane Valley like fishing or cross-country skiing.

5. Spokane Falls

Spokane Falls are the pride and joy of Spokane. The falls thunder through downtown Spokane. Historically it was a gathering place for local Native American tribes.

The bridge that passes over it is a great place for photos or aural serenity. Whether on bike or on foot, you won’t be disappointed by this gift from nature.

6. Row Adventure Center

Row Adventure Center hosts a series of waterfront packages for the daring thrill-seeker. You can take on the swift white waters of the Spokane River or simply float along its eight-mile stretch. Just remember, floating is only permitted during calm waters.

7. Outdoor Movies and Concerts

If you’re going out to the movies, you may just see Spokane featured on screen. The area is home to many filmmakers, as well as North By Northwest, which is responsible for bringing a number of films and television shows to the screen including Z-Nation and the award winning film The Basket. Rumor has it that Johny Depp once walked the streets of Spokane while filming Benny And Joon.

If you are looking for an outdoor film or concert experience, check out Mirabeau Point Park, Pavillion Park, and Riverfront Park. the offer a number of free outdoor features and concerts.

Tours, Nightlife, Eats

Daily life in Spokane is full of can’t-miss events. Spokane Valley things-to-do don’t just end when the sun sets. Here are a few to try when its time for some serious adulting:

8. Distillery and Wine Tours

Many of the local breweries offer wine, beer, and cocktails that you can only find in Spokane. This is because they use locally grown flora create one-of-a-kind delights.

Here are a few great places for a wine-tasting tour:

Latah Creek Wine Cellars, Barrister Winery Downtown Tasting Room, or Knipprath Cellars Winery

Check out Iron Goat Brewery, River City Brewery, and Black Label Brewery for a few of the local favorites.

9. Live Music and Dancing

No matter the day or month, there is always live music in Spokane. This is a city that loves to support local arts. Check out the eclectic treasure trove of trash at Zola seven nights a week. Also, drop into the Bartlett or the House of Soul: Spokane for a couple of the best listening rooms around.

Luckily, these swanky places also encourage dancing, so wear comfortable shoes.

Not the least of these is the Spokane Symphony. Founded in 1945 as the Spokane Philharmonic, they are a delight for locals and tourists alike. Most of their performances are held at the Martin Woldson Theater. They also perform two free concerts at Pavillion Park and Comstock Park.

10. Dining

After all the dancing and fun you’re bound to want some tasty eats. These are just a few of the best places to eat in the Valley:

Wisconsinburger is a franchise of its midwestern namesake. It features burgers with freshly ground beef and toasty bakery bread. Can you guess where the cheese comes from? You guessed it, Wisconsin cheese curds are imported to add that homemade taste.

The Queen of Sheba is the home of delicious Ethiopian food. A large plater is used to serve the world’s oldest fare in a family style. Patrons use the Injera bread to dip and taste the various sauces and spicy sides offered. If you want a break from burgers for a while, this is definitely somewhere to check out.

A few more local favorites include Black Angus Steakhouse, Twigs Bistro and Martini bar, and Vintage Vines

Dig Your Heels Into These Great Activities

Get to know Spokane Valley any time of year. There are activities in every corner for every budget. Whether for a relaxing or going for a work-cation, this city has much to offer.

Check out our website for more tips on how you can get the most from this Washington state city.

If you’re looking for fun things to do in Spokane, you’re in luck.

Are you looking for something to do over Labor Day? An art fest in Spokane? Festivals? All of these things, as well as a rich history packed with unique experiences, can be found in this small city.

Maybe Spokane isn’t the first city you think of to add to your PNW or Washington state to-do list. But you may find that changes after you learn all the fun things there are to do here.

Whether you are visiting Spokane for labor day weekend or coming at a different time of year, you will find plenty of fun things to do.

Here are 7 of the best Spokane events you can attend. By its conclusion, you may just be ready to make this trip every year!

#1. Spokane Hoopsfest

Hosted each year at the end of July, Spokane Hoopfest is an annual 3-on-3 basketball tournament held. It is the largest event of it’s kind, making it an exciting event that maintains a “niche” feel.

The Hoopsfest event has drawn upwards of 27,000 players, and in 2011, had over 7,000 teams registered for the event. Clearly, people in Spokane love their hoops, and even more enjoy watching the event take place!

Participation in Hoopfest ranges from watching, to volunteering, to participating in the actual competition. Think you have what it takes? Here are the official rules for competing in the tournament.

#2. World-Class Wine Tasting

Who says Spokane can’t be home to great tasting wine? No one, and if they do, they are misinformed. Spokane is actually a fantastic place for tasting wines, experiencing new things, and learning about the region.

The Pacific Northwest is home to some of the finest grown grapes in the entire country, and Spokane wineries feature them in their drink. From tasting rooms to wine cellars, to being served by experienced sommeliers, you can find anything wine-related you’re looking for here.

For example, Barrister Winery offers enough cool scenery and finely aged wines to make any trip memorable.

#3. Spokane County Interstate Fair

If you’re looking for Spokane Labor Day weekend events, look no further than the annual county fair. In the realm of Spokane riverfront park events, you won’t find a more popular or well perceived fair in the area.

A ten-day event beginning each year after Labor day, locals come together to put on exhibits containing arts, crafts, food preservation, livestock, and more. The fair is said to generate about $7m annually for the greater Spokane area, which means you are also helping support local small businesses and vendors.

The event promotes family-oriented entertainment and hosts events that are kid-friendly throughout its 10-day setup. This is an event you won’t want to miss.

#4. Musicfest Northwest

Held in May each year, the Musicfest Northwest event is one of the many Spokane festivals locals and tourists enjoy.

They label it as a part-learning, part competitive experience all about celebrating the art of performance. Entrants may earn medals, cash awards and performance opportunities on radio and in evening concerts. And as an added incentive, young artist Division winners perform with the Spokane Symphony.

The bulletin, as well as changes for 2018, can be found here for anyone interested in attending the event.

#5. Bloomsday Run

Looking for something in Spokane to stay fit? Look no further than the Lilac Bloomsday Run.

Each year, approximately 50,000 runners toe the starting line, making it one of the largest races in the Pacific Northwest each year.

The race has been held annually since 1977 on the first Sunday of each May. Because there are so many events in May, this race can be either a fun fitness challenge to keep your trip going, or be the sole reason you visit Spokane. The race is 12km (about 7 miles), so you may need to train a bit before participating.

For race information and to read previous year’s results, click here.

#6. Pig Out In The Park

Maybe you aren’t into the running scene, but instead looking to savor the local foods. This is the event for you! Labeled as a food and music festival, Pig Out In The Park is perfect for your end of summer or labor day weekend activities in Spokane.

Some fun “statistics” from Pig Out In The Park include:

• 47 food booths
• 225 menu items
• 3 adult beverage gardens
• 3 separate concerts on 3 different stages

Time-sensitive events like happy hours, local artists performances, and more are scheduled throughout the day, as well as large markets featuring many tasty local vendors eager to show off their foods. For anyone with an appetite, this is a Spokane event worth being there for.

Want to learn more? The event layout can be found here to give you a better idea.

#7. Torchlight Parade

Another event to add to the plethora of Spokane festivals in May, the Torchlight Parade celebrates America’s armed forces. Whether you are there to support the military, or just love American history, this event is as educational as it is social.

Their mission is “honoring our military, empowering our youth, and showcasing our region”, and the event has taken place annually since 1938. They expect an annual crowd of about 215,000, with 150,000 spectators watching the parade take place.

For those looking to do something unique while visiting Spokane, this is a good option.

Wrap-Up on Spokane Events

Spokane may not be the biggest city on the map, but the annual events and festivals held here certainly make it a place worth considering. Whether you are interested in the arts, food, fitness, or history, there is an event for each guest looking to visit the city.

If you’re looking for food or music, consider events like Pig Out In The Park, Musicfest Northwest, or the Spokane County Interstate Fair.

For sport or fitness related events, be sure to check out the legendary Hoopsfest. Alternatively, if you’re looking for a race to test your mettle and endurance in the PNW, check out the massive Lilac Bloomsday Race.

If you have questions or want to learn more about what Spokane has to offer, feel free to contact us.

Enjoy the city and all these wonderful events!

It’s one of the “Top 10 Fittest US Cities” and “Best Mid-Size Cities to Visit”. It also has the seventh most efficient airport and is the leading place to retire in the West. Plus, it’s one of the top riverfront cities and greatest small cities for foodies.

What’s this “it” we’re referring to? Washington’s Spokane, that’s what!

No wonder visitors spent a whopping $1.3 billion when they visited in 2017! That number represents an impressive six percent increase from the year before. It also shows a considerable growth in hotel occupancy.

The best and most unique hotels in Spokane WA are also to thank for this huge improvement.

The question is, which of these Spokane places to stay should make it to your list of prospective accommodations?

We’ve rounded up six in this post, so make sure you keep reading!

1. The Davenport Lusso, Autograph Collection

How does a 10-minute walk to the Riverfront Skyride – where some of the most unique Spokane experiences await – sound like? Or a calm and quiet downtown location to give you a great night’s sleep?

Awesome, right?

That’s exactly what The Davenport Lusso, Autograph Collection has to offer, among many others. It’s also only 600 meters from the Spokane River, which is a great bonus for nature-loving travelers out there. If you’re in for some theatrical experience, the Martin Woldson Theater is also only a few minutes away.

Another characteristic that sets apart this boutique hotel is the architecture itself. It’s in an old (but well-renovated) building, giving it a romantic and charming appeal. Comfy beds in air-conditioned rooms await visitors.

Sweeten the deal when you get a select suite, and you can even enjoy drinks from the minibar beside a fireplace!

2. The Historic Davenport, Autograph Collection

There are more than 1,300 hotels and lodging in the Washington State. Of this, the Historic Davenport, Autograph Collection makes it to the U.S. News and World Report’s top 10.

The name itself should already tell you it’s one of the historic hotels in Spokane. Built in 1914, this four-star hotel housed dignitaries throughout its longer-than-a-century existence. It also boasts of a museum nestled in Victorian-era interiors – complete with marble floors.

The historic decors extend to its 284 guest rooms, all also having undergone a full restoration. The rooms’ mahogany furnishings, luxurious window treatments, and beds fit for kings and queens await tired travelers.

The downtown location of the Historic Davenport makes it one of the best places to stay in Spokane. Plus, it boasts of its own spa, salon, and fitness center, giving you more reasons to indulge.

If you fancy eating outside, worry not as the hotel is also only a few minutes drive to some of Spokane’s best restaurants. It’s about 10 minutes from Chaps Coffee Co. and the Downtown River Grill.

3. The Davenport Grand, Autograph Collection

Another entry from the Autograph Collection of Marriott, expect The Davenport Grand to provide you with some serious lodging experience. It’s more modern than its sister properties, but it’s still one of the best-rated (especially for service) luxury hotels in Spokane.

For starters, it offers breathtaking views of the Spokane River. It’s also only four blocks from some of the city’s main attractions, including the River Park Square and the INB Performing Arts Center.

The hotel also makes dining easy yet gastronomic. It boasts not one, but two in-building restaurants as well as two bars. Catch whatever meal you fancy at The Grand Restaurant & Lounge, or have some tasty tapas at Table 13.

Book one of the 716 rooms here, and you can expect top-notch comforts. Spend a great night’s sleep tucked under the Frette Italian sheets with your head propped on pillowtop beds. There’s also WiFi, cabled LCD TV, and a coffee maker in each room.

4. Hotel Ruby

Take a nice trip down memory lane when you step into the Hotel Ruby.

Built in the 1960s as a motor inn, this boutique hotel is as cool and funky as you can imagine. It’s smaller compared to many of what’s in this list, but all its 37 artsy rooms designed for comfort feature plush, comfy – and get this – custom-made beds!

The downtown location also makes it quick and easy to visit some of the city’s top destinations. It’s only a few minutes from the natural wonders of Riverfront Park and Spokane Falls as well as the history-rich Bing Crosby Theater. If you’re up for some shopping, there’s also the nearby River Park Square Mall.

Another thing that makes the Hotel Ruby unique: its Bicycle Checkout Program! You can take one of the complementary Ruby Bikes any time of the day for some healthy touring of the city.

5. The Montvale Hotel

History buffs will love The Montvale Hotel – the oldest in this list. Built in 1899, this proud-to-be-a-member of the Historic Hotels of America is the premier historic hotel in Spokane.

Found in the heart of the city’s Entertainment District, Montvale is only a few steps away from the Spokane Falls, the Bing Crosby Theater, and the River Park Square Mall. What’s more, it houses four of the best local dining establishments, including the Gilded Unicorn and the Brooklyn Deli.

You have nine different room types to choose from, ranging from the Standard Queen to the Presidential Suite. Each of the 36 rooms boasts of plush beds, large pillows, and other beautiful furnishings. The great location also affords nice views of the city – right from the comfort of your room.

6. The DoubleTree by Hilton Spokane City Center

Breathtaking overlooking views of the Spokane River – check. A few minutes from the Riverfront Park – check. A 12-minute drive from the Spokane International Airport – check.

All these and more you can enjoy when you stay at the DoubleTree Hotel. There’s also the nearby Centennial Trail, the Gonzaga University, and the INB Performing Arts Center.

Oh, did we mention that they welcome guests with their signature DoubleTree Chocolate Chip Cookie? How’s that for a warm and inviting start to your Spokane trip?

Stay in One of These Unique Hotels in Spokane WA for a Memorable Trip

There’s so much to see and do in Spokane that at the end of the day, all you want is to lie down on a plush bed, surrounded by cozy furnishings. These – and customer services that go beyond – are what you can expect when you stay in one of these hotels in Spokane WA.

So, what are you waiting for? Book a room with one of them now and you can rest assured you’re in for an even more memorable trip!

Want more insider tips on what to do in Spokane? Then please feel free to visit our site’s Entertainment section!