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.
