Getting to Know Spokane, WA
With a low unemployment rate and competitive cost of living, Spokane is one of the most stable mid-size cities in the Pacific Northwest. Spokane, which means "Children of the Sun" in the local native language, is especially attractive for those who love the great outdoors. Residents here can find plenty of opportunities for camping, hiking and skiing at Mount Spokane State Park, plus white-water rafting on the Spokane River.
Attractions in Spokane
During your search for an apartment, set aside some time to explore Spokane's fascinating historical sites. Don't miss a visit to Monroe Street Bridge, an impressive structure that was the country's longest concrete-arch bridge when it was constructed in 1911. You can also visit other architectural wonders like the Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist and St. Aloysius Church, located on Gonzaga University's campus.
Neighborhoods in Spokane
Each community in Spokane has a charming character of its own, from the small-town suburb of Opportunity to the hip oasis of Manito. To help you choose the best neighborhood for you, we've developed a list of our top five favorites:
Apartments in Spokane
Spokane apartments boast a wide range of options, from recently renovated studios for college students to three-bedroom homes for families. Many apartment complexes include conveniences like fitness facilities, business centers and garages. Clubhouses are also common in the city's apartment communities, and some apartments offer fireplaces, storage facilities and access to hiking trails. Whether you're moving to Spokane for the first time or you're a seasoned Spokanian, use Apartment Guide to get all the information you need to find right place to live.
Fun Things to Do in Spokane
Residents have year-round access to the city's more than 30 golf courses and other sports facilities such as Avista Stadium, home of Minor League Baseball's Spokane Indians. The city is also known for its family-friendly festivals and events. Strap on your tennis shoes and race in the Lilac Bloomsday Run every May, or sit back and watch the world's largest outdoor three-on-three basketball competition in late June.
Thanks to a low cost of living and plenty of free things to do, Spokane residents can save up for vacation without sacrificing local fun. Just south of downtown Spokane, Nishinomiya Tsutakawa Japanese Garden is a great place to stop and smell the roses. You can also visit downtown's cascading waterfalls for a photo and a picnic before biking the 37.5-mile Centennial Trail along the Spokane River.
Spokane for Families with Kids
Spokane is home to eight public high schools, six middle schools, 24 elementary schools and five specialty schools, including the Libby Center, home of Spokane Public Schools' gifted-and-talented program. For a fun family activity after school, head to one of the 50-plus Green Bluff Growers locations to pick your own produce, pet domesticated animals or take a relaxing hayride.
Pet-friendly Spokane
Give your four-legged friend a tail-wagging good time with a walk in one of the city's public pet parks. After playing fetch in SpokAnimal Dog Park or rolling in the grass at South Hill, grab a treat at one of several local restaurants that allow dogs on their patios.
Getaways from Spokane
Head west on I-90 to reach the scenic seaport of Seattle, home to attractions such as the Space Needle and the Chihuly Garden and Glass museum. Continue past the Emerald City to enjoy a summer vacation in Westport, the closest beach to Spokane. Looking for a Pacific Northwest road trip? Mount Rainier National Park, Portland, Oregon, and Kelowna, British Columbia are all about five hours from Spokane.