Welcome to Spokane, Washington! You may already be familiar with what Spokane is known for, but this article is all about experiencing all you can during just one day in the Lilac City. Whether you're here for vacation, considering renting an apartment in Spokane, renting a house, or even thinking about buying a home in Spokane, ApartmentGuide is here to help you craft the perfect one day in Spokane.
Here's how it works: Below, you'll find a curated list of restaurants, activities, and parks recommended by locals. Pick one option from each category, and you’ll have an ideal one-day itinerary in Spokane. Of course, you can choose more than one if you’d like — think of it as a “Choose Your Own Adventure” for experiencing the city and deciding if Spokane is a good place to live for you.
During your one day in Spokane, make the most of experiencing what a life living here would be like. Explore the Spokane Lilac Festival, book a trip with Peak 7 Adventures, or wander the Garland District. Check below for a list of shops to visit and landmarks to check out that are sure to leave you falling in love with Spokane.
Peak 7 Adventures: “Adventure seekers can find all they need to get out and explore the beauty of nature when they book a trip with Peak 7 Adventures. From climbing day trips, to multi-day backpacking or kayaking trips, white water rafting, and more, Peak 7 will take care of all the logistics, safety, fun, and food for your adventure. The guides are also just amazing people to get to learn from and spend time with out in the wilderness.” – Lauren of Jubilee Dance Spokane, a local dance studio in the Spokane area.
Green Bluff: “One of my favorite spots to visit, no matter what the season, is Green Bluff, a community of farms in North Spokane. There are always a million things to do including fruit picking, wine tasting, sleigh riding, and more!” – Taylor White Photography, a newborn and family photographer.
Spokane Lilac Festival: “Venture to Downtown Spokane on every 3rd Saturday in May for the annual Spokane Lilac Festival. With 2025 marking its 87th season, start the day off with the Cruzin' the Falls Car Show and Lilac Marketplace. Next, head over to Riverfront Park to discover some of the region's best brews with the 4th annual Brewfest. Then end the day in the streets of downtown with the annual Armed Forces Torchlight Parade, the largest in the USA!” – Adriana Demakas Berndt, Executive Director of Spokane Lilac Festival.
The Historic Davenport Hotel: “Stepping into the Historic Davenport Hotel is like traveling back in time. This beautifully restored landmark exudes elegance with its stunning lobby, intricate architecture, and rich history. I often find myself enjoying a cocktail in the Peacock Room, marveling at the ornate details and reflecting on the stories that have unfolded within these walls. This is one of the most popular wedding venues in Spokane, with multiple ballrooms, huge chandeliers adorning every ceiling, and marble floors and details throughout. It's absolutely gorgeous, and is a must-see for anyone visiting the area!” – Shanoah Bri Photography, a local Spokane wedding photographer.
Auntie's Bookstore and Uncle's Games: “This a combined bookstore and game shop – a local favorite! Auntie's Bookstore boasts an eclectic selection that ranges from local authors to rare finds. The warm and inviting atmosphere, coupled with knowledgeable staff who are always ready to offer personalized recommendations, makes every visit a delightful experience.” – Jess Beschta of the Liberty Building.
Pottery Place Plus: “A vibrant hub for local artisans and craft lovers, showcasing an impressive array of handmade pottery, jewelry, and art. The eclectic collection reflects the creativity of the Spokane community, making it the perfect place to find unique gifts or one-of-a-kind home decor.” – Jess Beschta of the Liberty Building.
Book a tour with Wander Spokane: “Wander Spokane has a number of fun and informative walking tours available to guests. They feature many historic Spokane landmarks and the guides tell you the story behind each one. They also have food and beer tours for those looking for a culinary experience.” – Gabe Wood, co-owner of Heritage Bar & Kitchen, a local gastropub serving the Spokane area.
Commellini Estate: “A historic event venue nestled in North Spokane, Commellini Estate offers a unique blend of rich history and authentic Italian cuisine. Established in 1941, the estate transports visitors back to a time of bootlegging and prohibition, all while enjoying beautiful grounds and award-winning dishes. It’s a must for both food lovers and history buffs.” – the team at Commellini Estate.
The Garland District: “Within a space of a few blocks is a full day's worth of local flavor and activities. You can see a classic movie at the Garland Theater, get a bite to eat at several wonderful local restaurants, head to my favorite guitar shop (Mark's), grab a cup of coffee at a couple of different cafes, go shopping at some great vintage stores and even play with Legos at Brick Buy Brick! The Garland District represents so much of what makes Spokane family friendly and unique.” – Jonathan Nicholson, local musician in the Spokane area.
Bloc Yard Bouldering Gym: “If you enjoy climbing, I would recommend Bloc Yard Bouldering Gym. Very friendly staff and great quality setting for indoor climbing!” – Steve Moss of For the Love of God Brewing.
Grain Shed Co-Op: “What happens when a farmer, sourdough baker, and brewer get together and unite over locally grown grains? You get The Grain Shed, a cooperatively owned venture that serves up some of the best artisan loaves and craft brews this side of Snoqualmie.
The Grain Shed’s flagship location, nestled in Spokane’s revitalized Perry District, stone mills their flour on-site from heritage grains grown in the Palouse. Offering up bread loaves, toasts, sandwiches, and pastries (try their croissants!), The Grain Shed champions local sourcing of ingredients and quality products made with care and love. Their flagship location also offers craft brews made with the very same heritage grains they use in their bakery. If you’re looking for more of a pub environment, The Grain Shed’s Cedar Taproom may be more your speed, providing good ambiance and several events like trivia and art workshops.” – Dorian of Lunarium.
Petunia and Loomis: “Oddities and spooky decor and gifts that you can't find anywhere else, and a great downtown location make Petunia and Loomis a necessary stop for every Tourist and Spokanite.” – Emily Peterson of Page 42 Bookstore, a local used bookstore in Spokane.
Spokane's food scene is a vibrant mix of farm-to-table eateries, fine-dining establishments, and diverse international cuisines, showcasing the region's agricultural bounty and a growing community of passionate local chefs. Below are just a couple of options for you to choose from:
Satellite Diner and Lounge: “I would recommend visiting the Satellite Diner for a local greasy spoon/dive bar experience. They have amazing breakfast that’s served any time of day – including midnight.” – Rob Miller of Spokane Drone Photography, a drone photography and videography service based out of Spokane.
The Melting Pot: “Visit the Melting Pot if you’re looking for a nice fancy sit-down restaurant with fondue during your one day in Spokane.” – Rob Miller of Spokane Drone Photography, a drone photography and videography service based out of Spokane.
Zola Restaurant and Live Music Bar: “Love live music? Find some of the absolute best Spokane talent serenading those who know almost every night at Zola on Main. Even on a Tuesday night, you'll hear incredibly talented jazz, blues, and funk covers and originals that genuinely force you out of your seat and onto the dance floor. The food is also amazing, and the atmosphere and appreciation for good music is a joy to be around.” – Lauren of Jubilee Dance Spokane, a local dance studio in the Spokane area.
Gander and Ryegrass: “Specializing in seasonal, farm-to-table cuisine, Gander and Ryegrass showcases local ingredients from the Pacific Northwest. Their menu often features a variety of dishes, including fresh seafood, artisanal meats, and vibrant vegetable preparations. You can expect creative interpretations of classic dishes, with a focus on flavor and sustainability. They also offer a selection of craft cocktails and carefully chosen wines to complement the meal.” – Jess Beschta of the Liberty Building.
The Onion Taphouse and Grill: “A must during one day in Spokane is The Onion Taphouse and Grill in either downtown Spokane or on North Division! The downtown location is in a historic building circa 1906, and has been in business since 1978, arguably the longest-running locally owned restaurant in Spokane! All the food is made from scratch daily, and they feature 51 draft lines where most of the local breweries can be sampled!” – Robin Bernhart of Frank’s Diner, a beloved breakfast landmark housed in a historic 1906 railcar.
Zip's Drive-In: “Zip's is a long-time local institution, and the epitome of classic American small town burgers. In fact, there is nothing more ‘classic Spokane’ than sharing a tub of fries with friends and family, and enjoying them with Zip's famous Fry Sauce.” – Jonathan Nicholson, local musician in the Spokane area.
The United Building: “The United Building bills itself as a modern food hall where you can find everything from Texas barbecue, craft brews, and coffee to tabletop RPG games and vintage toys. Enjoy locally roasted coffee served up by Derailer Coffee or a pint from Bellwether Brewing Co while chowing down on some Texas BBQ from Locos. And when you’re all done, pop over to Bear Totem Tavern for a nightcap and perhaps a game of Dungeons & Dragons. If tabletop isn’t your speed, Pigasus offers new, handmade, vintage, and used toys, clothes, games, and art supplies.” – Dorian of Lunarium.
Aside from meeting locals in a bar, another great way to explore the vibe of Spokane is by visiting some of the “third places” located throughout the city. From a late-night tea shop to an assortment of high-end coffee shops, you’re sure to stumble upon plenty of Spokane residents gathering together to chat, work, and relax. Pick one or more options from below to explore:
Lunarium: “Lunarium is a late-night tea shop focused on creating a safe and welcoming all-ages community space in Spokane. With herbal, dessert, and traditional teas sourced from around the world (and many blended in-house), you’re sure to find something that suits your mood. Lunarium also offers several sweet treats made from scratch in-house and boasts one of the best Welsh style scones served in Spokane (served with fresh whipped cream and in-house jam!). If you’re looking for something to do in the evening, Lunarium has you covered, hosting several open art groups as well as a monthly open mic and seasonal all-ages drag show.” – Dorian of Lunarium.
Uoni Bubble Tea: “This local Spokane boba shop has a variety of milk tea and lemonade drinks, unique pastry offerings, and a fabulous modern vibe inside. It's a great place to study or catch up with friends.” – Emily Peterson of Page 42 Bookstore, a local used bookstore in Spokane.
Indaba Coffee on Riverside: “A Pacific Northwest staple is, of course, coffee. Indaba Coffee is a local company with multiple locations throughout Spokane, but their riverside location is my go-to spot for a cozy caffeine fix and great vibes. Nestled along the Spokane River, it offers a welcoming atmosphere with delicious, locally roasted coffee. I love the inviting decor, friendly baristas, and seasonal drinks making it the perfect place to relax, catch up with friends, or even get some work done while enjoying the view of the river.” – Shanoah Bri Photography, a local Spokane wedding photographer.
Maple Street Bistro: “I highly recommend Maple Street Bistro for coffee and breakfast items, including house-made biscuit sandwiches and tasty baked goods.” – Steve Moss of For the Love of God Brewing.
Rockwood Bakery: “Grabbing a coffee and a slice of freshly baked pumpkin pie at the Rockwood Bakery and heading over to Manito Park for a stroll through lush gardens and landscapes is a beautiful and iconic way to enjoy Spokane. Do not miss the greenhouse which will transport you to a tropical island, which is a nice escape in the middle of the inevitable Spokane winter chill!” – Lauren of Jubilee Dance Spokane, a local dance studio in the Spokane area.
Cafe Coco: “Stop by Cafe Coco for coffee and pastries!” – Ashley Brownlee of Garland Resale Boutique, a resale and consignment boutique in Spokane.
The Pacific Northwest is known for its beauty, and spending one day in Spokane will do everything to confirm these beliefs. With plenty of parks and gardens, there’s something to satisfy any nature lover. Whether you’re looking for a hike to an old fire lookout or a stroll through downtown’s Riverfront Park, take your pick from the options below and experience the beauty of Spokane’s outdoor playground.
Manito Park: “Manito Park, a 98-acre park located in the South Hill neighborhood of Spokane, is one of the most unique places to visit for both kids and adults during one day in Spokane. Among my favorite spots to visit in the park are the Nishinomiya-Tsutakawa Japanese garden, the European-style Duncan garden, and the Gaiser Conservatory, which is home to many exotic plants.” – Taylor White Photography, a newborn and family photographer.
Iller Creek Conservation Area: “Start your one day in Spokane with a scenic hike from any of the Iller Creek trailheads. This trail offers incredible views of the Inland Empire, and the central location makes it easily accessible for all levels of hikers. It’s the perfect way to experience Spokane’s natural beauty without venturing far from the city.” – Kevin Campbell of 45 Degree Brewhouse.
Waikiki Springs Trailhead: “For a peaceful outdoor experience, Waikiki Springs Trailhead is a hidden gem just north of the city. The trail offers serene views of the Little Spokane River and abundant wildlife, making it a perfect escape into nature without leaving town.” – the team at Commellini Estate.
Indian Painted Rocks: “This is one of my favorite unique leisurely hikes in Spokane. Featuring 250-year-old petroglyphs, this trail passes through marshland between the Little Spokane River on one side to monolithic Basalt cliffs on the other. This area is beautiful, calming, and very inspiring. In fact, it is so inspiring that I finished writing several songs for one of my albums there. Note: a Discovery Pass is required.” – Jonathan Nicholson, local musician in the Spokane area.
Quartz Lookout: “Spokane is at the doorstep of incredible outdoor adventure, and home to two state parks, Riverside and Mt. Spokane. Quartz Lookout, which also has an old fire tower available for rent, gives a reward of an incredible view of the valley below. It's an easy 2.5 miles from the Selkirk Lodge parking lot … easy but for a few stretches that will test your hamstrings. Sit on the rocky overlook for a break and share some snacks with your best adventure buddy.” – Angela of Big White Dog Photography, a photography service in Spokane for owners and their dogs.
Riverfront Park: “Keep your head on a swivel at Riverfront Park because the original site of Expo '74 is full of landmarks, like the Looff Carrousel, the Skate Ribbon, the Skyride and the Clocktower. Originally built in 1902, the clock tower was part of the Great Northern Railway Depot that was demolished in 1973 to make way for the World's Fair. The dog-friendly park comprises 100 acres in downtown Spokane. Spend the day exploring and stop by the food trucks that line the pathways on busier days.” – Angela of Big White Dog Photography, a photography service in Spokane for owners and their dogs.
Riverside State Park: “I really love Bowl and Pitcher in Riverside State Park for outside hiking. Also don’t miss walking on the downtown riverwalk with one day in Spokane!” – Ashley Brownlee of Garland Resale Boutique, a resale and consignment boutique in Spokane.
Finch Arboretum: “A must-see location for anyone who loves to watch the leaves change color in the Fall during one day in Spokane. Finch Arboretum sits on 65 acres of wooded hillside and boasts a collection of trees from the world over. This time of year, you’ll also be treated to the many fruiting colors of azaleas, crabapples, and hawthornes, among others. Be sure to keep Fido at home, though! Finch Arboretum is a protected nature area and thus disallows pets in order to preserve the unique ecosystems found within.” – Dorian of Lunarium.
Deep Creek: “As a rock climber, I very much enjoy the Deep Creek recreation area. It has many sports routes for climbers. And also has some beautiful hiking areas.” – Steve Moss of For the Love of God Brewing.
If you’re looking for craft beers and fancy cocktails, Spokane has plenty of incredible places to choose from. Visit one of the options below, or take a tour of a few during your one day in Spokane.
45 Degree Brewhouse: “After your hike, head over to 45 Degree Brewhouse for a refreshing pint. Located just a short drive from Iller Creek, the 45 offers a uniquely friendly, artistic vibe where you can enjoy craft beer brewed on-site and amongst the finest of local patrons that Spokane has to offer. The 45 is the perfect spot to experience a truly local slice of Spokane's vibrant beer scene.” – Kevin Campbell of 45 Degree Brewhouse.
Uprise Brewing: “When it's time to quench your thirst, head to Kendall Yards and stop by this local craft brew pub with your pup. Dogs are welcome on the patio, where you can also entertain yourself with a game of cornhole. The Bright Side West Coast IPA is refreshing but if you're looking for something a bit heavier, the American stout is the best dark beer in town.” – Angela of Big White Dog Photography, a photography service in Spokane for owners and their dogs.
Radio Bar: “Excellent cocktails and small eats at Radio Bar in the Audubon area. My favorite is their mezcal sour.” – Steve Moss of For the Love of God Brewing.
Emma Rue’s: “I would love to recommend Emma Rues for a cocktail with one day in Spokane.” – Ashley Brownlee of Garland Resale Boutique, a resale and consignment boutique in Spokane.
Do a brewery crawl in Downtown Spokane. “Many of the best breweries in the area have tasting rooms all within walking distance on the west end of Downtown Spokane. One can easily make an afternoon out of visiting Humble Abode Brewing, Whistle Punk Brewing, Brick West Brewing, and Iron Goat Brewing. If you're hungry there are great burgers available at Whistle Punk, Pizza is available at Iron Goat, and BBQ is available at Brick West.” – Gabe Wood, co-owner of Heritage Bar & Kitchen, a local gastropub serving the Spokane area.
Jeremy Steckler works at Redfin as a Content Marketing Coordinator. He has been cultivating a passion for writing his whole life and is recently diving into a love for producing local and lifestyle content. Jeremy lives in Seattle and loves spending time hiking, playing guitar, and acting in the local film scene. His ideal home would be a decommissioned lighthouse overlooking the water.