Nestled in the eastern part of Washington state, Spokane, WA is a city renowned for its natural beauty, cultural attractions, and vibrant community. From the stunning waterfalls of Spokane Falls to the peaceful wilderness of Dishman Hills, living in Spokane offers a wealth of beautiful places that are sure to delight visitors of all ages and interests. From outdoor adventure and scenic views to cultural enrichment and hidden gem stores, Spokane has something to offer. Whether you are looking to rent an apartment in Spokane on Redfin or purchase a home in the area, let’s explore some of the most beautiful places in Spokane, Washington, and discover what makes each of these destinations so special.
1. Green Bluff
Green Bluff is located just 15 miles north of Spokane, Washington. This scenic destination is home to a number of family-owned farms and orchards that offer fresh produce, seasonal activities, and beautiful views of the surrounding countryside. Visitors to Green Bluff can enjoy picking their own fruit, shopping for local products, or simply taking a leisurely stroll through the orchards and fields.
During the fall, the area comes alive with pumpkin patches, corn mazes, and other fun activities for the whole family. Some of the popular attractions in Green Bluff include Walter’s Fruit Ranch, which offers a variety of fruits, vegetables, and baked goods, as well as High Country Orchard, which features apple and pear trees, a petting zoo, and a country store. Be sure to eat a delicious pumpkin donut.
2. Riverside State Park – Bowl and Pitcher Area
Riverside State Park is a 14,000-acre park located just a few miles from Downtown Spokane, Washington. The park features over 55 miles of hiking and biking trails, scenic views of the Spokane River, and opportunities for camping, fishing, and other outdoor activities. One notable area within the park is Bowl and Pitcher.
“Bowl and Pitcher has a special place in my heart. With unique rock formations, a refreshingly teal river, beautiful trails and sunshine through the trees, it’s a great place to renew your energy. Whether a pocket to cool off near the river during the summer or trace along the footpaths during the fall, it’s a nearby haven for Spokane lovers,” notes local Stevie Lynne.
3. Riverfront Park
Riverfront Park is a 100-acre urban park situated along the Spokane River. It offers a variety of recreational activities, scenic views, and cultural attractions. The park’s most famous feature is the Spokane Falls, a stunning waterfall that can be viewed from several vantage points throughout the park. Riverfront Park also features a carousel, a pavilion, a skate park, a playground, and a gondola ride that provides breathtaking views of the falls and the city skyline. Visitors can also enjoy walking and biking trails, picnic areas, and seasonal events throughout the year, including the famous Spokane Bloomsday Run.
4. Mt. Spokane State Park
Mount Spokane State Park is a 13,919-acre park that offers a variety of recreational activities, including hiking, mountain biking, skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing, and features over 100 miles of trails. Additionally, the park offers several campsites and picnic areas, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts year-round.
Local resident Zach Nichols shares, “My favorite beautiful place in Spokane is Mt. Spokane. Most know this place in the winter as there is a ski lodge; however, during the summer, it is an incredible place to visit. There are numerous trails to hike or bike along, a road that goes all the way to the top for easy-access picnics at the vista house, and the huckleberry picking during the late summer is also amazing. There is a little bit for everyone yet even many locals have never visited during the summer months.”
5. Page 42 Bookstore
Page 42 Bookstore is an independent bookstore, and is dedicated to promoting and selling a diverse selection of books. The store features both new and used books, including rare and hard-to-find titles, as well as a variety of book-related merchandise, such as bookmarks, tote bags, and candles.
“My favorite place in Spokane is Page 42 bookstore which is local and women-owned,” states Kristina Corbett of Arch and Elm Photography. “It is the definition of a cozy, homey bookstore filled with very reasonably priced used books. You can even sell them your old books for store credit. As an avid reader and mom of 3 kids, it’s the best place to pick up new books for the entire family.”
6. Manito Park
Manito Park is a 90-acre urban park located in the South Hill neighborhood. This beautiful park features lush gardens, playgrounds, a duck pond, and a conservatory that houses a variety of exotic plants. Manito Park is a popular destination for visitors and locals alike, offering numerous walking paths, picnic areas, and seasonal events throughout the year. The park’s many gardens include the Rose Garden, the Japanese Garden, and the Lilac Garden, which features over 100 varieties of lilacs. Visitors can also explore the Gaiser Conservatory, which features tropical and subtropical plants, or the Joel E. Ferris Perennial Garden, which showcases a variety of perennial flowers.
7. John a Finch Arboretum Park
John A. Finch Arboretum Park is a 65-acre botanical garden located in southwest Spokane. The park features over 2,000 different species of trees and plants, including native Pacific Northwest species, and offers visitors a peaceful and serene atmosphere for walking, picnicking, and enjoying nature.
Blair Voss Photo says, “John A. Finch Arboretum park sits just nine minutes west of downtown Spokane and is a beautiful park year round. From its vast green grass, fresh water stream and beautiful trees it’s the perfect place to relax. John A. Finch Arboretum also has a stunning display of blossoming trees in the spring and an array of gold and red leaves during the fall which makes for beautiful photo opportunities.”
8. Spokane Falls
Spokane Falls is a waterfall located in the heart of Downtown Spokane. This stunning waterfall can be viewed from several vantage points, including Riverfront Park and the Numerica SkyRide. The falls are created by the Spokane River, which flows through the center of the city and is a major source of hydroelectric power for the region. Visitors to Spokane Falls can enjoy the beautiful views and the sound of the rushing water, as well as learn about the history and significance of the falls at the nearby Spokane Falls Visitor Center.
9. Chateau Rive Area
Chateau Rive is an elegant event venue that offers stunning views of the Spokane River and the city skyline. The venue hosts a variety of events, including weddings, receptions, concerts, and corporate events, and features a large ballroom and outdoor terrace for guests to enjoy.
“My favorite area has to be around the Chateau Rive located below the flour mill. I absolutely love the charm and color of this neighborhood. With beautiful views of the Spokane River and its falls and Canada Island, this area also offers amazing food and activities for all ages with North Bank Park, Ice Age playground and some Hooptown hoops. Located just north of downtown’s Riverfront Park, this place is the perfect place to spend a sunny afternoon,” shares Lovejoy Images.
Photo courtesy of Lovejoy Images
10. Dishman Hills Conservation Area
Dishman Hills Conservation Area is a 530-acre protected natural area that is home to a variety of plant and animal species and offers numerous hiking trails, scenic views, and opportunities for outdoor recreation. Visitors can explore the hills and valleys of the area, which are covered in grasslands, forests, and wetlands, and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and beautiful scenery. The conservation area is also a popular destination for birdwatching, with over 100 bird species known to inhabit the area. Other wildlife that can be spotted in Dishman Hills include deer, elk, coyotes, and bobcats.
11. Ruins – a beautiful culinary experience
“Ruins is one of my favorite beautiful places in Spokane to eat. Chef Tony Brown is so creative and adventurous. The flavors, the vibe and the warmth have all the big city feels in a small town,” notes Mango Ink.
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