Monroe Archway – Photo: Craig Goodwin
Article by Kate Hudson
Spokane, the biggest city between the Cascades and the Rockies, is a beautiful place to explore and discover. Driving east on I-90, you’ll see the landscape unfold as you crest a hill and descend into the city.
Impressive brick buildings, metal and glass, cars and rumbling railcars dot the craggy, treed landscape. Nestled in the middle of the metropolitan bustle is a beautiful oasis. Spokane’s Riverfront Park, currently undergoing a $64-million renovation, intertwines nature with the hum and hustle of urban existence.
The Historic Davenport Hotel
While you’re wandering through Riverfront Park, you’ll hear it, maybe even feel it, before you see it. The roaring Spokane Falls are a sight to behold and worth the short hike down into Huntington Park to see up close. The Falls have always served as a marriage between place and hospitality; a gathering spot for the local tribes. Today, you’ll frequently find people gathered for sunset yoga classes on the plaza overlooking the Falls.
Spokane Falls by Aaron Theisen
Yoga in the Park
Historically, Spokane has always been home to visionaries who have left an indelible mark on the community. You see it in the buildings, the art, the universities and the businesses that thrive. Make sure to book a room at The Historic Davenport Hotel. You’ll be greeted by John Reed, the 88-year-old doorman who has worked at the hotel for 75 years. Built by Louis Davenport in 1914, the hotel was nearly razed and turned into a parking lot. Thanks to the vision of locals, Walt and Karen Worthy, the hotel was saved, renovated to perfection and reopened in 2002. It’s both a history lesson and a piece of luxurious art you get to sleep in! It also served as a catalyst of growth and renovation.
Barrister Winery
Zona Blanca – Photo: Aaron Theisen
Downtown Spokane has an energetic vibe. All around you’ll hear the cacophony of construction as new building projects unfold. New restaurants, shops and public art fill out the robust social scene. As you wander, you’ll find people out walking, drinking on outdoor patios, eating at brilliant new restaurants and having fun.
Pop into Zona Blanca, owned by local and Top Chef contestant Chad White, and you’ll be blown away by the fresh tastes the ceviche bar offers up. Make sure you grab a beer at Steel Barrel Taproom while you’re there; the businesses share a building.
Zona Blanca – Photo Aaron Theisen
As you uncover nooks and crannies downtown, you’ll find dozens of tasting rooms all within walking distance. Barrister Winery uses the rumbling of passing trains to gently vibrate the red wines in its barrels to produce the perfect red. It’s a spark of brilliance you get to taste.
No-Li Brewhouse in the University District prides itself on crafting Spokane Style beers. The brewery uses ingredients sourced from within 300 miles of the city. Sip and sample an array of IPAs and ales as you sit along the banks of Spokane River. Inside the No-Li building is Dry Fly Distilling. The whiskeys, vodkas and gins are distilled with wheat grown by Washington farmers.
If outdoor activities are your thing, you’ll find plenty of opportunity on the Spokane River, the 40-mile long Centennial Trail or Riverside State Park. It’s all there: hiking, biking, rafting and zip lines. The best part? You don’t have to travel far or spend a lot to enjoy it.
Paddleboarders – photo compliments of NoLi Brewing
Once you’re here, you’ll soon realize Greater Spokane is a community rich in history. You’ll also quickly understand it’s a city that looks to the future by fostering creativity and creating a healthy place for people to prosper and to visit.
Dry Fly Distilling
SkyRide Spokane Falls – Photo: Scott Luce
Where to Sleep
The Historic Davenport Hotel
10 S Post Street
Spokane, WA 99201
Where to Eat
Zona Blanca
154 S Madison Street
Spokane, WA 99201
Where to Drink
Steel Barrel Taproom
154 S Madison Street
Spokane, WA 99201
Barrister Winery
1213 W Railroad Avenue
Spokane, WA 99201
No-Li Brewhouse
1003 E Trent
Spokane, WA 99202
Dry Fly Distilling
1003 E Trent
Spokane, WA 99202
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