Spokane River, Washington Travel Guide

Discover the scenic Spokane River in Washington – a perfect blend of natural beauty, thrilling activities, and cultural experiences for tourists of all ages.

Home
Travel Guides
Washington
Spokane River

Nestled in the heart of Washington State, the Spokane River is a picturesque destination that offers a blend of natural beauty and exciting activities. Flowing from the Rocky Mountains of Idaho and winding its way through the city of Spokane, the river is a vital part of the region's landscape and history. Whether you're looking to relax by the water, explore scenic trails, or enjoy thrilling water sports, Spokane River has something for everyone. One of the highlights of visiting Spokane River is exploring Riverfront Park, located in downtown Spokane. This expansive park offers stunning views of the river, along with numerous attractions such as the Spokane Falls, which are especially spectacular in the spring when the snowmelt swells the river. The park also features a historic carousel, a skyride over the falls, and ample space for picnicking and leisurely strolls. For the more adventurous, the Spokane River provides excellent opportunities for kayaking, rafting, and fishing. The Bowl and Pitcher area in Riverside State Park is a particularly popular spot for these activities, with its striking rock formations and challenging rapids. Anglers will find the river teeming with trout and bass, making it a prime location for a day of fishing. Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the Centennial Trail, a 37-mile path that runs alongside the river, offering breathtaking views and access to a variety of ecosystems. This trail is perfect for biking, jogging, or simply taking a peaceful walk while soaking in the natural surroundings. Along the way, you'll encounter diverse wildlife and numerous spots to rest and enjoy the scenery. Cultural experiences also abound near the Spokane River. The Northwest Museum of Arts and Culture, located just a short distance from the river, provides fascinating insights into the region's history and indigenous cultures. After a day of exploration, visitors can enjoy a meal at one of the many riverside restaurants, where they can savor local cuisine while taking in the beautiful river views.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Spokane River.

Visit Riverfront Park early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy a peaceful experience.
Springtime offers the best views of Spokane Falls due to the snowmelt.
Rent a kayak or raft for an adventurous day on the river, especially in the Bowl and Pitcher area.
Explore the Centennial Trail by bike or on foot to fully appreciate the river's natural beauty.
Check the local fishing regulations and get a permit if you plan to fish in the river.
Don't miss the Northwest Museum of Arts and Culture for a deeper understanding of the region's heritage.
Reserve a table at a riverside restaurant in advance, especially during peak tourist season.

Explore Spokane River: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Best attractions in Spokane River

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

Browse the full guide

All Attractions

Riverfront Park

Experience the natural beauty and cultural richness of Riverfront Park, Spokane's centerpiece for outdoor adventure and relaxation.

4.7

Manito Park

Explore the natural beauty and tranquility of Manito Park in Spokane, a stunning urban oasis featuring diverse gardens and serene landscapes.

4.8

Northwest Museum of Arts & Culture

Explore the Northwest Museum of Arts & Culture for a unique blend of local history, stunning art exhibitions, and delightful café experiences in Spokane.

4.6

Riverside State Park

Discover the beauty of Riverside State Park, a natural gem in Washington offering outdoor adventures, stunning landscapes, and diverse wildlife.

4.7

Best landmarks in Spokane River

Top-rated picks

Best Landmarks

Browse the full guide

All Landmarks

The Historic Davenport, Autograph Collection

Experience the timeless elegance of The Historic Davenport, a luxurious hotel in Spokane, blending rich history with modern amenities for an unforgettable stay.

4.6

Northwest Museum of Arts & Culture

Explore the Northwest Museum of Arts & Culture in Spokane, where art, history, and local heritage come alive through engaging exhibits and programs.

4.6

Riverside State Park - Bowl and Pitcher Area

Discover Riverside State Park - Bowl and Pitcher Area, a stunning outdoor haven in Spokane, offering hiking trails, breathtaking views, and serene picnic spots.

4.7

Little Spokane River Natural Area

Discover the natural beauty of Little Spokane River Natural Area, a tranquil state park perfect for hiking, wildlife viewing, and enjoying the outdoors.

4.7

Best restaurants in Spokane River

Top-rated picks

Best Restaurants

Browse the full guide

All Restaurants

Clinkerdagger

Experience exquisite American cuisine at Clinkerdagger with stunning river views in Spokane.

4.4

Anthony's at Spokane Falls

Experience exquisite seafood dining with stunning river views at Anthony's at Spokane Falls in Downtown Spokane.

4.5

The Onion Bar & Grill Downtown Spokane

Discover the heart of Spokane at The Onion Bar & Grill – where delicious food meets exceptional craft beers in a lively setting.

4.3

Steam Plant Restaurant & Brew Pub

Discover Spokane's historic dining gem at Steam Plant Restaurant & Brew Pub – where great food meets craft beer in a stunning industrial setting.

4.4

Best bars in Spokane River

Top-rated picks

Best Bars

Browse the full guide

All Bars

O'Doherty's Irish Grille

Discover the heart of Irish culture and cuisine at O'Doherty's Irish Grille in Spokane, where every meal is a celebration.

4.6

The Viking

Experience the best of Spokane's grill and pub scene at The Viking, where delicious food and a lively atmosphere await every visitor.

4.5

Saranac Public House

Discover the vibrant atmosphere and delicious American cuisine at Saranac Public House in Downtown Spokane, a perfect spot for food lovers and social gatherings.

4.4

Twigs Bistro and Martini Bar

Experience the vibrant flavors and atmosphere of Twigs Bistro and Martini Bar, a premier destination for American cuisine and signature cocktails in Downtown Spokane.

4.3

Best nightclubs in Spokane River

Top-rated picks

Best Nightclubs

Browse the full guide

All Nightclubs

Spokane Comedy Club

Experience the best of Spokane's nightlife with a side of laughter at Spokane Comedy Club, featuring top comedians and a vibrant atmosphere.

4.6

ZOLA

Discover ZOLA in Downtown Spokane: A chic lounge offering exquisite dining, creative cocktails, and an unforgettable nightlife experience.

4.4

nYne Bar & Bistro

Experience the vibrant nightlife at nYne Bar & Bistro, Spokane's premier gay night club, where inclusivity meets entertainment in a lively atmosphere.

4.5

The Ridler Piano Bar

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Spokane at The Ridler Piano Bar, where live music and expertly crafted cocktails create an unforgettable atmosphere.

4.5

Best shops in Spokane River

Top-rated picks

Best Shops

Browse the full guide

All Shops

NorthTown Mall

Discover NorthTown Mall in Spokane, a shopping paradise with diverse stores, delightful dining, and vibrant community events.

4.2

Spokane Valley Mall

Explore Spokane Valley Mall: A vibrant shopping destination with diverse stores, tasty dining options, and family-friendly entertainment in Spokane Valley, WA.

4.2

River Park Square

Discover River Park Square, Spokane's premier shopping mall with diverse stores, delightful dining, and entertainment experiences for all ages.

4.4

Piece of Mind Cannabis - North Spokane Dispensary

Explore the finest cannabis selection at Piece of Mind Cannabis in North Spokane – where quality meets community in a friendly atmosphere.

4.8

Explore Spokane River on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Spokane River, mapped for you.

Spokane River Essentials

Spokane River is located in Washington State, USA. The nearest major airport is Spokane International Airport (GEG), approximately 7 miles west of downtown Spokane. From the airport, you can rent a car, take a taxi, or use rideshare services to reach the river. Additionally, Amtrak offers train services to Spokane from various cities, and Greyhound provides bus services to the Spokane Intermodal Center.
Once in Spokane, getting around is relatively easy. The Spokane Transit Authority (STA) operates an extensive network of buses that cover most of the city and its surroundings. Renting a car is a convenient option for exploring areas outside the downtown core, including scenic drives along the river. Biking is also popular, with numerous bike rentals and bike-friendly paths along the river. Taxis and rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are readily available.
The official currency is the US Dollar (USD). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted throughout Spokane, including at restaurants, shops, and tourist attractions. ATMs are plentiful, especially in downtown Spokane. It is advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments or market purchases.
Spokane is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, it is advisable to stay vigilant, particularly in downtown areas after dark. Areas like East Central and parts of West Central have higher crime rates and should be avoided, especially at night. Always keep an eye on your belongings and avoid carrying large amounts of cash or valuables.
In case of emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. Spokane has several hospitals, including Providence Sacred Heart Medical Center and Deaconess Hospital, which offer emergency services. For minor health issues, pharmacies are widely available. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.
Fashion: Do dress comfortably and in layers, as weather can change. Avoid overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect places of worship you may visit. Public Transport: Do show respect to bus drivers and fellow passengers. Don't play loud music or talk loudly on your phone. Greetings: Do greet people with a smile and a handshake. Eating & Drinking: Do try local cuisine and craft beers. Don’t leave a poor tip; standard tipping is 15-20%.
To experience Spokane River like a local, visit the Riverfront Park, which offers scenic views and local events. Check out the local farmers' markets for fresh produce and handmade goods. Engage with locals, who are generally friendly and willing to share tips about the area. Don’t miss the Centennial Trail, perfect for hiking, biking, and enjoying the natural beauty along the river.

When is the best time to visit Spokane River?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Spokane River

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Spokane River. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloHowdy
  [haw-dee]
- GoodbyeSee ya
  [see yah]
- YesYup
  [yuhp]
- NoNah
  [nuh]
- Please/You're welcomePlease/No problem
  [pleez/no pro-blem]
- Thank youThanks
  [thanks]
- Excuse me/SorryPardon me/My bad
  [par-dn me/my bad]
- How are you?How ya doin'?
  [how yuh do-in]
- Fine. And you?Good. How 'bout you?
  [good. how 'bout yuh]
- Do you speak English?Ya speak English?
  [yah speak ing-lish]
- I don't understandI'm lost
  [ahm lost]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMenu, please
  [men-yoo, please]
- I don't eat meatI'm veggie
  [ahm vej-ee]
- Cheers!Cheers!
  [cheers]
- I would like to pay, pleaseCheck, please
  [chek, please]
- Help!Help!
  [help]
- Go away!Go away!
  [go a-way]
- Call the Police!Call the cops!
  [call the cops]
- Call a doctor!Need a doc!
  [need a doc]
- I'm lostI'm lost
  [ahm lost]
- I'm illI'm sick
  [ahm sik]
- I'd like to buy...Gotta get...
  [got-ta get]
- I'm just lookingJust browsing
  [just brows-ing]
- How much is it?How much?
  [how much]
- That's too expensiveToo pricey
  [too prye-see]
- Can you lower the price?Can you do better?
  [can yuh do bet-ter]
- What time is it?What time is it?
  [what time is it]
- It's one o'clockIt's one
  [its one]
- Half past (10)Half ten
  [half ten]
- MorningMorning
  [mor-ning]
- AfternoonAfternoon
  [after-noon]
- EveningEvening
  [ee-ven-ing]
- YesterdayYesterday
  [yes-ter-day]
- TodayToday
  [to-day]
- TomorrowTomorrow
  [to-mor-row]
- 1One
  [wun]
- 2Two
  [too]
- 3Three
  [three]
- 4Four
  [for]
- 5Five
  [fiv]
- 6Six
  [siks]
- 7Seven
  [sev-en]
- 8Eight
  [ate]
- 9Nine
  [nine]
- 10Ten
  [ten]
- Where's a/the...?Where's the...?
  [wheres the]
- What's the address?What's the addy?
  [whats the add-ee]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Show me on the map
  [show me on the map]
- When's the next (bus)?When's the next bus?
  [whens the next bus]
- A ticket (to ....)Ticket to...
  [ticket to]

History of Spokane River

The Spokane River has been central to the life and culture of the Spokane Tribe for thousands of years. The river provided a rich source of fish, particularly salmon, which was a staple of the Tribe's diet. The Spokane people also used the river for transportation and trade, establishing a network of relationships with other tribes in the region.
In the early 19th century, European explorers and fur traders began to venture into the Spokane River area. Notably, the Lewis and Clark Expedition passed near the river in 1805. The arrival of these explorers marked the beginning of significant changes for the indigenous populations, as new trade routes and settlements were established.
The Spokane River's powerful waterfalls, known as Spokane Falls, became a focal point for early European settlers. By the late 1800s, the area around the falls had transformed into a bustling town, which would eventually become the city of Spokane. The falls provided not only a picturesque landscape but also a crucial source of hydroelectric power.
The late 19th and early 20th centuries saw significant industrial development along the Spokane River. Lumber mills, railroads, and hydroelectric plants sprang up, utilizing the river's natural resources. The rapid industrialization contributed to the economic growth of Spokane and the surrounding region, although it also led to environmental challenges.
One of the most transformative events in the modern history of the Spokane River was the Expo '74 World's Fair. Held in Spokane, this was the first environmentally themed world's fair. The event led to the revitalization of the riverfront area, with the construction of Riverfront Park and the restoration of natural habitats along the river.
In recent decades, efforts have been made to protect and restore the Spokane River. Organizations such as the Spokane Riverkeeper work to monitor water quality and advocate for the river's health. These conservation efforts aim to balance the needs of the local community with the preservation of the river's natural beauty and ecological significance.
Today, the Spokane River continues to be a vital part of the region's culture and lifestyle. It serves as a hub for outdoor recreation, including fishing, kayaking, and hiking. Annual events and festivals celebrate the river's significance, fostering a sense of community and connection to this historic waterway.