Places to Visit: Spokane Washington

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Spokane Washington

A little over three hours from Missoula, MT, you will find the action packed town of Spokane, WA, which boasts over 260 days of sunshine a year, making it perfect for summer and winter recreational fun.

  • Spokane is just a little over 3 hours from Missoula.
  • Tee off on one of the 3 dozen golf courses.
  • Experience what this biking mecca has to offer.
  • Whitewater your way down the Spokane river.
  • Spend the day touring award winning vineyards and tasting fantastic wines.

Overview

If you are looking for adventure, excitement, culture, decadent food, wine, and entertainment, you have found your place. With over 260 days of sunshine, this fabulous, four season city boasts more activities than one can even imagine.

During the day, whitewater raft down raging rivers, hike through forested canopies, float along pristine lakes or tee off at one of the 36 golf courses. At night, savor the flavors of this culinary center, enjoy the local wine or take in a show. Spokane is a year round center of excitement!

Location

The town of Spokane, WA can be found just twenty miles west of the Washington/Idaho border.

The straight and easy drive from Missoula, MT takes just three and a half hours. The perfect distance for a weekend getaway.

Services/Amenities

Unlike a lot of cities in the west, Spokane is a busy metropolis of over 200,000 people. From simple to sumptuous, in Spokane you have options. Decide what type of accommodation you are looking for and get ready to be overwhelmed with options. Choose from classic bed and breakfasts, rustic cabins, extended stay lodgings, national chain hotels and motels, local hotels or full service resorts. If you are touring the west via RV, you will not only find RV friendly campsites but RV resorts.

When your stomach starts to rumble, the biggest problem you'll have is deciding where to eat. This culinary hub boasts famous chefs and a strong local food movement. So, whether you are looking for vegan, decadent, a nice aged steak, local flavors, something with an international twist, or just a familiar chain, you have landed in the land of options. Don't forget to try some of the award winning local wine.

Activities

Where do you start? With 260 days of sunshine, Spokane is hopping in the summer and the winter.

  • Biking
    This biking hub is perfect for those looking for miles of smooth pavement or for the adrenaline junkie looking for some seriously rugged trail rides. For those looking for something a bit calmer, try the Spokane River Centennial Trail.
  • Rafting
    The Spokane River runs right through the heart of town. In late spring and early summer, catch the rapids as you whitewater raft down the river. Experience the breathtaking rock formations that make up the Bowl & Pitcher and feel the chilly water splash across your face as you bounce your way through the rapids.
  • Canoeing
    When the water levels drop, the river is also great for canoeing and kayaking. There are also over 30 lakes in the surrounding area to choose from. So, pick a lake and start paddling.
  • Fishing
    If fishing is more your thing, this is your area. Here, fly-fisherman share the waters with bait fisherman. Grab your rod and reel, and start casting. You may catch a rainbow or cutthroat trout or a small or largemouth bass depending on where you go. There are many lakes in the area to choose from, including Badger, Clear and Hog Canyon Lakes to name a few.
  • Hiking
    Hiking is a very popular past time because Spokane's surrounding areas are covered in trails. A favorite local hike is in Mount Spokane State Park, found in the Selkirk Mountains. The Day Mountain Loop Trail is six miles and takes you to the summit at 5,883ft, where scenic views of the surrounding valley can be seen. Since the trail starts at 5,000ft, the elevation gain is minimal making this three hour hike perfect for a day trip.
  • Winter Activities
    In the winter, the Mount Spokane State Park gets over 300 inches of snowfall, making it a winter wonderland playground. Cross-country ski or snowshoe your way through the snow covered terrain, just beware of those cruising the area via snowmobile.

Attractions

If you love to spend your days on the green, then Spokane may be your heaven. You will find three dozen golf courses ranging from fantastic public courses to phenomenal and pristine private courses. Now you just have to decide where to start.

  • Wineries
    When in Spokane, you are in the heart of wine country. Spend a day touring award winning vineyards and enjoying perfect food and wine pairings. Taste your way through the country side. You may want to hire a driver for the day.
  • Northwest Museum of Arts & Culture
    The Northwest Museum of Arts and Culture features 68,000 pieces in various collections containing fine arts pieces, artifacts about the regional history of the area, and American Indian artifacts. In addition, the museum hosts traveling exhibits. This is a must see stop for any history buff.
  • Riverfront Park
    Don't miss the Riverfront Park, located right in the heart of downtown. Boasting 100 acres of fun, this park offers an IMAX theatre, mini golf, a historic carousel, ice skating, pavilion restaurants, and much more fun for the entire family to enjoy. 
  • Mobius Children's Museum
    The Mobius Children's Museum is a great place to bring the kids. The interactive displays allow them to touch and feel displays and even experience an authentic Filipino village.
  • Silverwood Theme Park
    If you crave adrenaline, then get ready to be thrilled at the largest amusement park in the west. The Silverwood Theme Park has two wooden roller coasters and over 65 other thrilling rides.
  • Gonzaga Sports
    Depending on the season, you may be able to catch a game at Gonzaga University. Feel the energy and spirit that emanates from college athletics.

Getting Here

The drive from Missoula to Spokane is gorgeous. As you leave Missoula Valley you begin to ascend up to Lookout Pass, which is in the heart of the Bitterroot Mountains. The scenic drive continues past the picturesque Lake Coeur d'Alene before taking you to the all the way to Spokane

Missoula to Spokane is a straight shot. Leaving Missoula, take I-90 west for roughly three hours. Take exit 281for access to the city center.