Downtown Spokane

Downtown Spokane is centered around Riverfront Park, which offers several easy walking loops. The main loop around the park, encompassing the Spokane Falls, is approximately 2-3 miles, perfect for a leisurely stroll. You can also connect to the longer Spokane River Centennial Trail, which extends for many miles in both directions, offering opportunities for longer walks, cycling, and trail running along the river.

While Downtown Spokane itself is generally flat and features easy urban walks, the Spokane River Centennial Trail offers a longer, more extended walking or cycling experience that can be as challenging as you make it. For traditional hiking with elevation gain, you would need to venture slightly outside the immediate downtown area to places like Riverside State Park, which is a short drive away and offers a variety of trails.

Parking is available in various garages and lots around Downtown Spokane, including those adjacent to Riverfront Park and River Park Square. While parking is generally accessible, it can fill up quickly, especially on weekends and during events. Arriving earlier in the day is often recommended. Spokane also has a public transit system, STA (Spokane Transit Authority), with numerous bus routes serving the downtown area, making it easy to reach the park without a car.

Beyond the easy walking paths, Downtown Spokane offers several family-friendly attractions within Riverfront Park. These include the historic Looff Carrousel, the world's second-largest Radio Flyer red wagon slide, and the Numerica SkyRide gondola, which provides scenic views of the Spokane Falls. The Spokane Pavilion also hosts various family-oriented events throughout the year.

Yes, Downtown Spokane is generally dog-friendly. Leashed dogs are welcome on the walking paths throughout Riverfront Park and along the Spokane River Centennial Trail. Please remember to clean up after your pet to help keep the area enjoyable for everyone.

Many of the main paths within Riverfront Park are paved and designed to be wheelchair accessible, offering easy navigation for all visitors. This includes access to many viewpoints of the Spokane Falls and various attractions within the park. The overall terrain of the park is generally flat, making it suitable for wheelchairs and strollers.

Downtown Spokane, especially Riverfront Park, can become quite lively and crowded on weekends, particularly during pleasant weather in spring, summer, and fall. Major events or festivals also draw significant crowds. If you prefer a quieter experience, consider visiting on a weekday or during the early morning hours.

Spring weather in Spokane can be variable. It's best to dress in layers, as mornings can be cool, but afternoons often warm up. A light jacket or sweater, comfortable walking shoes, and perhaps a waterproof outer layer for unexpected showers are recommended. The paths are generally well-maintained, so heavy hiking boots are usually not necessary.

Downtown Spokane offers unique winter walking routes, especially within Riverfront Park, where the Spokane Falls can be particularly beautiful with ice and snow. Paths are generally cleared, but some areas might be slippery. Dress warmly in layers, including a hat, gloves, and waterproof footwear with good traction. The Numerica SkyRide often operates in winter, offering a cozy way to see the snowy landscape.

While the Spokane River Centennial Trail itself is more of a recreational path, it runs directly through Downtown Spokane, where you'll find a wide array of cafes, restaurants, and breweries just a short walk off the trail. Within Riverfront Park, there are often seasonal vendors and concession stands, and the nearby River Park Square offers numerous dining options, from quick bites to sit-down meals.

For stunning views, walk across the various pedestrian bridges within Riverfront Park, such as the Post Street Bridge, which offers excellent perspectives of the Spokane Falls. The Numerica SkyRide provides an elevated, panoramic view of the falls and the park. Additionally, the upper areas of Riverfront Park offer vistas of the downtown skyline and the river.

Yes, despite being an urban environment, the Spokane River and Riverfront Park are home to various wildlife. You can often spot waterfowl like ducks and geese, and sometimes even herons or ospreys. Keep an eye out for fish in the clear waters, and occasionally, you might see smaller mammals like squirrels or rabbits in the park's green spaces.

Downtown Spokane has a vibrant public art scene. While a formal, continuously updated map might vary, many local organizations and the city often highlight urban art installations. You can discover numerous sculptures, murals, and architectural details simply by strolling through the downtown core and Riverfront Park. The Spokane Pavilion also features impressive light shows that are a form of urban art.