Exploring Spokane: 36 Hours in the Inland Northwest

Nestled in Eastern Washington, just 20 miles from the Idaho border, Spokane beckons visitors with its perfect blend of urban charm and natural wonders. As the second-largest city in eastern Washington, this destination packs endless Spokane Washington attractions into one memorable weekend getaway.

The crown jewel of downtown is Riverfront Park, home to the nation’s largest urban waterfall. The park’s SkyRide gondolas offer breathtaking views of the cascading Spokane Falls below. For culture enthusiasts planning 36 hours in Spokane, the Northwest Museum of Arts & Culture houses the world’s largest collection of Plateau tribal art.

Outdoor enthusiasts will find paradise in Spokane’s two major state parks. The Centennial Trail stretches 40 magnificent miles from Riverside State Park to Coeur d’Alene, Idaho. Food lovers can explore over 30 breweries and 20 wineries, plus numerous farm-to-table restaurants sourcing ingredients from local Spokane County farms.

A weekend in Spokane promises unforgettable experiences, from watching the Spokane Symphony perform at the historic Martin Woldson Theater to discovering interactive exhibits at the Mobius Discovery Center. The Historic Davenport Hotel, America’s first air-conditioned hotel, stands as a testament to the city’s pioneering spirit since 1914.

Getting to Spokane: Travel Options and Transportation

A comprehensive Spokane travel guide must include the city’s diverse transportation network. Spokane’s accessibility shines through its multiple travel options, making it a breeze for visitors to explore the city’s attractions.

Private Air Charter with Direct2

Direct2 provides exclusive air charter services to Spokane, offering flexibility in travel schedules. These private flights land at Spokane International Airport, just 15 minutes from downtown.

Ground Transportation in the City

The Transportation in Spokane includes an extensive bus network operating 365 days yearly. The system features 43 routes connecting major landmarks across the city.

• Bus service hours: 5:30 AM – 11:30 PM weekdays
• Weekend service: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM
• Lime scooters for short trips
• Free downtown parking on Sundays

Navigation Tips for Visitors

The city’s grid layout makes navigation straightforward. Each bus stop displays a unique 4-digit code for real-time arrival updates through text messaging.

“Spokane’s transit system ranks among the most efficient in the Pacific Northwest, serving thousands of passengers daily with precision and reliability.”

36 Hours in Spokane: Your Perfect Itinerary

Planning things to do in Spokane requires smart timing to experience the city’s highlights. Our curated Spokane itinerary maximizes your 36-hour adventure in Washington’s second-largest city.

Start your morning at Riverfront Park, a 100-acre urban oasis. Take a ride on the Numerica SkyRide, ranked among the world’s top scenic cable experiences. The park offers three distinct playgrounds, perfect for families seeking outdoor fun.

For afternoon adventures, visit The Blue Zoo’s interactive marine life exhibits or experience thrilling zip-line tours at Mica Moon. Nature enthusiasts can explore Cat Tales Wildlife Center to observe majestic large cats and bears.

“Spokane’s blend of urban charm and natural wonders creates an unforgettable weekend escape.” – Visit Spokane

• Download the GasBuddy app for fuel prices
• Use Yelp for restaurant recommendations
• Check hotel rates on multiple platforms
• Visit during April-September for baseball games

Riverfront Park: The Heart of Downtown Spokane

Nestled in the heart of downtown, Riverfront Park Spokane spans 100 acres of urban beauty. This sprawling oasis welcomes over three million visitors yearly, offering a perfect blend of natural wonders and entertainment.

Spokane Falls and SkyRide Gondolas

The park’s crown jewel is the thundering Spokane Falls, the nation’s largest urban waterfall. Spokane River activities reach new heights with the SkyRide gondolas, carrying visitors on a breathtaking journey above the rushing waters. The aerial ride offers unmatched views of the cascading falls and downtown skyline.

Historic Great Northern Clocktower

Rising 155 feet into the sky, the Great Northern Clocktower stands as a proud reminder of the city’s railroad heritage. This architectural marvel survived the 1974 World’s Fair demolition, now serving as one of the park’s most photographed landmarks.

The Pavilion Light Shows

The U.S. Pavilion transforms into a dazzling light display each weekend. This modern marvel hosts outdoor concerts and special events throughout the year, creating magical evenings under the Spokane sky.

“The park represents Spokane’s spirit – where nature meets urban life in perfect harmony.”

• Family-friendly attractions include the historic Looff Carrousel
• The iconic red wagon slide delights young visitors
• Ice skating at the Numerica Skate Ribbon in winter
• Year-round events and festivals

Cultural Attractions and Museums

Spokane cultural attractions paint a vibrant picture of the city’s rich heritage and artistic spirit. From world-class museums to performing arts venues, the city offers diverse cultural experiences that captivate visitors and locals alike. The cultural landscape of Spokane spans across multiple venues, each telling its unique story.

Artistic Legacy at MAC

The Northwest Museum of Arts and Culture stands as a cultural cornerstone, housing 68,000 pieces. This Smithsonian-affiliated institution showcases the largest collection of Plateau tribal art worldwide. The museum blends regional history with contemporary exhibitions, creating an immersive experience for art enthusiasts.

Interactive Learning

The Mobius Discovery Center brings science to life through interactive exhibits. Kids and adults explore scientific principles through hands-on experiments, making learning an adventure.

Symphony Under the Stars

The Spokane Symphony, led by conductor James Lowe, has delighted audiences for 76 seasons at the Martin Woldson Theater. This historic venue combines architectural splendor with acoustic perfection, creating magical musical evenings.

“The arts scene in Spokane transforms our city into a canvas where history meets innovation, creating unforgettable cultural experiences.”

• Daily guided tours at MAC
• Rotating science exhibits at Mobius
• Year-round symphony performances

Outdoor Adventures and Natural Wonders

Spokane outdoor activities blend urban convenience with wilderness adventure. The crown jewel of local recreation, Riverside State Park spans 14,000 acres of pristine natural, offering visitors endless opportunities for exploration.

Nature enthusiasts flock to Riverside State Park for its diverse terrain and recreational options. The park features miles of hiking trails, mountain biking paths, and equestrian routes winding through pine forests and along the Spokane River.

“The Spokane region stands out as a hidden gem for outdoor enthusiasts, with its unique blend of urban accessibility and untamed wilderness.” – Outdoor Recreation Magazine

• Mountain biking at Camp Sekani
• Rock climbing at Deep Creek Canyon
• Kayaking through Bowl and Pitcher
• Bird watching along Little Spokane River

The 40-mile Centennial Trail connects Spokane to Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, providing a scenic route for cyclists and pedestrians. The trail system showcases the region’s natural beauty while offering year-round recreational opportunities for all skill levels.

Dining Scene and Local Cuisine

The Spokane restaurants scene sparkles with diverse flavors and rich culinary traditions. From long-standing establishments to trendy newcomers, the city offers an incredible range of dining experiences that showcase the best of Spokane cuisine.

Farm-to-Table Restaurants

Local chefs pride themselves on partnerships with regional farmers, bringing fresh ingredients straight to your plate. These relationships support countless family farms while delivering exceptional dining experiences.

Local Breweries and Wineries

The craft beverage scene in Spokane shines with innovative breweries and sophisticated wine bars. Local establishments offer unique tasting experiences paired with creative food menus.

Must-Try Local Specialties

The city’s signature dishes reflect its diverse culinary heritage. Here are some standout options:

• Farm-fresh seasonal menus
• Craft cocktails with local spirits
• Award-winning wine selections
• Vegetarian and vegan options

“Spokane’s dining scene represents the perfect blend of tradition and innovation, where every meal tells a story of our region.”

Manito Park and Gardens: A Natural Oasis

Manito Park and Gardens stands as a crown jewel among Spokane parks, spanning 90 breathtaking acres of meticulously maintained landscapes. The park’s centerpiece, Duncan Garden, bursts with color from 70,000 annual flowers arranged in stunning geometric patterns inspired by the gardens of Versailles.

Nature enthusiasts flock to this urban sanctuary year-round to explore its diverse spaces. The rose garden displays hundreds of varieties, while the Japanese gardens offer peaceful paths for quiet reflection. During peak season, the dahlia trial garden creates a rainbow tapestry that draws photographers and garden lovers from across the Pacific Northwest.

Beyond its natural beauty, Manito Park and Gardens serves as a popular venue for outdoor weddings and community gatherings. The park’s walking paths wind through native plant collections and perennial gardens, making it perfect for daily strolls or weekend picnics. During winter months, the conservatory provides a warm retreat where visitors can enjoy exotic plants and seasonal displays.

The park’s online community keeps visitors updated on seasonal events and bloom times through their active social media presence. Every season brings new reasons to visit this cherished Spokane park, from spring tulip displays to summer concerts on the lawn. The park’s accessibility and free admission make it an essential stop for anyone exploring the Inland Northwest.

Source Links

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