Spokane: Discover Waterfalls, Gardens and Culture

Spokane combines impressive waterscapes, beautifully maintained gardens, extensive trails and a diverse cultural scene. Those planning a trip with children can choose between nature experiences, scenic views and history without limiting their vacation to just one activity. When searching for a vacation rental in Spokane, it is therefore worth first determining your own travel rhythm: Should the focus be on Spokane Falls, walks or cultural discoveries?

Spokane Falls and Garden Landscapes

Spokane Falls are Spokane’s most significant natural attraction and the centerpiece of Riverfront Park. Since the earliest times, the waterfalls have been a gathering place for the Spokane Tribe of Indians and served as a source of food and beauty. This connection between nature and history gives the central landmark a special significance that goes beyond simply being a viewpoint.

From Huntington Park, you can see the lower falls of Spokane Falls. Another notable green space is Manito Park, known nationwide for its diverse horticultural displays. At the John A. Finch Arboretum, you will find a botanical collection of trees and woody plants labeled for field study. The different landscapes there range from a native pine forest to a shady grove covered with rhododendrons. A walking guide allows you to take a self-guided tour through some of the collections and to notable trees.

Trails, Views and Different Daily Itineraries

For active days during your vacation, the Spokane River Centennial Trail is an important point of reference. The paved recreational trail is nearly 40 miles long and designated for pedestrians and non-motorized vehicles. It also carries the designation National Recreation Trail. In downtown Spokane, the trail can be accessed between miles 20 and 23 via most of the streets running north or south between Mission Park and Kendall Yards.

This allows you to shape your stay according to your personal preferences: You can include a section of the trail in your daily itinerary or combine nature experiences with other destinations. Those looking for views regardless of the weather will find a special option in the Numerica SkyRide. The enclosed cabin offers views of the Spokane River and Spokane Falls; the round trip takes 15 minutes. The SkyRide is wheelchair accessible.

Culture and Historic Places

Spokane also offers opportunities for days focused on culture. The Northwest Museum of Arts & Culture has five exhibition galleries. They highlight regional history, art and the culture of American Indians. The Spokane Civic Theatre was founded in 1947 and produces 15 to 20 plays, musicals and other live events each year. Its venue on Howard Street opened in 1967.

Historic individual attractions add to this offering. The 1909 Looff Carrousel is listed in the National Register of Historic Places. The historic Campbell House dates from 1898. Together with the exhibitions and theater, these create a cultural focus that can be easily alternated with nature and scenic experiences in Spokane.

The Right Accommodation for Your Stay in Spokane

When choosing a vacation rental or vacation home, you can use your preferred daily itinerary as a guide. Nature lovers may plan more time for waterfalls, gardens and the Centennial Trail, while culture enthusiasts may place the museum, theater and historic sites at the forefront. If interests differ within the travel group, Spokane offers several clearly distinct themes for planning together.

More Places to Search

If you would like to extend your travel planning to additional places from the same selection, you can also view Spokane Valley, Airway Heights, Mead, Nine Mile Fls, Mica, Cheney and Liberty Lake. This allows you to expand your search for a vacation rental or vacation home to several destinations.

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