10 Things to Do in Spokane, WA for First Time Visitors
Spokane, Washington is a city that is filled with culture and activity. It’s made significant progress since existing as merely a rail hub. Spokane stands as one of Washington State’s largest cities that still offers the authenticity of Inland Northwest culture. When you’re planning to visit Spokane, here are 10 things you absolutely must make time to check out before you leave.
1. Visit Riverfront Park
Riverfront Park is one of Spokane’s most iconic landmarks. It’s a former point of gathering for Native Americans who lived in this region to fish. This remained their tradition until settlement by pioneers took place near the end of the 1800s. This caused them to forsake their fishing grounds and move to other areas. During this period, Spokane began to emerge into a city. Riverfront Park is set on over 100 acres of water and land that tourists and locals flock to year-round. Several community events are held here. You can walk over suspension bridges as well as ride a gondola and behold lovely water fountains.
2. Walk Spokane’s Centennial Trail
This is an excellent place to take a leisurely stroll and check out Washington and Idaho border markers on this trail. Walking is easy on its paved surface and this trail runs for 37 miles, leading you into breathtakingly scenic Nine Mile Falls that is located at an upper part of Washington state. Centennial trail runs through both urban and rural areas bordering waters running wild in the Spokane River. Centennial Trail also offers guided horseback rides and canoeing expeditions.
3. Tour St. John’s Cathedral
St. John’s Cathedral is Spokane’s most significant historical landmarks. You’ll be in awe of its amazing Gothic architecture. Here you’ll behold a European style architecture. Stained-glass windows with astounding detail adorn the interior and a labyrinth off amazing intricacy lies inside for your viewing pleasure.
4. Catch some entertainment at Martin Woldson Theater at Fox
The Martin Woldson Theater dates back to 1931. It is a historic site which was renovated in 2000. 1,600 seats are available for spectators in Martin Woldson Theater and a wine bar is open to all after viewing spectacular performances for winding down and relaxing.
5. Take a tour of Green Bluff
Green Bluff is a farm with great historical significance to Spokane. A scenic landscape surrounds Green Bluff with farm activities for people of all ages making this an excellent excursion for families with or without children. Green Bluff farm regularly schedules liver music concerts and performances in summer with harvest-related activities in Fall.
6. Go touring and tasting at Arbor Crest Winery and Riblet Mansion
Take a tour of the mansion first and learn the story of the interesting inventor who constructed it. Enjoy panoramic views from atop 400 feet high cliffs where the mansion sits. Afterward enjoy the fruits of Arbor Crest, the winery located on the site. Enjoy a glass of wine, tasty food samples, and picnic on the grounds while catching a concert.
7. See Spokane Falls
This amazing attraction that is located in Spokane’s business district is the world-famous Spokane Falls. Here is where the wildness of nature meets the modernity of urban development.
8. Northwest Museum of Arts & Culture
Spokane’s Northwest Museum of Arts & Culture is a Smithsonian affiliate and is only one of five that currently exist in Washington State. This historical museum was first opened as a nonprofit corporation in 1916, then later converted into a museum which opened its doors in 2001. Here visitors may explore the history, community, and culture of Spokane.
9. Eat a meal at Mizuna
Mizuna is a highly rated restaurant. Mizuna began serving guests in Spokane in 1996 in its 19th century building that espouses a unique and interesting past telling the story of Spokane while providing excellent food offerings. They pride themselves on using fresh local ingredients in their fare along with special menus for vegetarians, seasonal soups, seafood curry and much more.
10. Mica Moon Zip Tours
Mica Moon Zip Tours is an unforgettable excursion that takes guests on tours that traverse dense forests via an exciting zip line ride. Professional guides are there with you every step of your journey to ensure your absolute safety and enjoyment.
