Walking In Sunshine: Explore Downtown Spokane’s Convention District
Welcome to Spokane, the sunny side of Washington, where the sun shines an impressive 171 days annually and spring and summer temperatures average in the mid-60s to mid-80s. With a walkability score of 76 out of 100, exploring Spokane on foot is the perfect way to experience local culture and take in beautiful surroundings.
![](https://visitspokane.imgix.net/images/outdoors/2022-CentennialTrail-Downtown-BenMatthews-1110869.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=320&s=99129357ca37572c198c2cb3bd5685f4 320w, https://visitspokane.imgix.net/images/outdoors/2022-CentennialTrail-Downtown-BenMatthews-1110869.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=540&s=432f0774ef3757e5ac2819be68cabb8d 540w, https://visitspokane.imgix.net/images/outdoors/2022-CentennialTrail-Downtown-BenMatthews-1110869.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=768&s=955052ee09ee3b74c9955bb66af45d01 768w, https://visitspokane.imgix.net/images/outdoors/2022-CentennialTrail-Downtown-BenMatthews-1110869.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=1024&s=7bf5ee804188714ba1fe6d6c9ef1e40b 1024w)
Things To Do Within Walking Distance of the Convention Center
Spokane is an ideal destination for your next meeting or convention. Here is a list of what attendees will enjoy within walking distance of our Convention Center, which offers 300,000 total square feet of space, a 120,000 square foot exhibit hall, multiple ballrooms, and two adjoining hotels.
![Riverfront Park Spokane](https://visitspokane.imgix.net/images/riverfront-park/DJI_0661.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=320&s=a40f22127f0e9b3866013a0121f15516 320w, https://visitspokane.imgix.net/images/riverfront-park/DJI_0661.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=540&s=e316930b8fff78d73956095dc2fe14a3 540w, https://visitspokane.imgix.net/images/riverfront-park/DJI_0661.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=768&s=e486e7670402d2e1fc3d54774bb1b56b 768w, https://visitspokane.imgix.net/images/riverfront-park/DJI_0661.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=1024&s=baf57b936fae0d47916347cda6ca96aa 1024w, https://visitspokane.imgix.net/images/riverfront-park/DJI_0661.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=1200&s=5308c60d147b6e49d6dc33686d03633b 1200w, https://visitspokane.imgix.net/images/riverfront-park/DJI_0661.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=1440&s=a20f8af053d8a9f2c017a02fb8805d80 1440w, https://visitspokane.imgix.net/images/riverfront-park/DJI_0661.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=1920&s=39399fd89aeb993884c0965396eb099a 1920w, https://visitspokane.imgix.net/images/riverfront-park/DJI_0661.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=2560&s=75b78d7a2badd5ca9e1739ab9ca0e858 2560w, https://visitspokane.imgix.net/images/riverfront-park/DJI_0661.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=3840&s=c32e73a9e5ff78994076372a47e4eee7 3840w)
Riverfront Park
Riverfront Park is an urban oasis in the heart of downtown Spokane with over 100 acres of green space. The park was transformed from an old railyard into the site of the 1974 World's Fair. Some of the most popular attractions in Riverfront Park include the Looff Carrousel and the Pavilion. Built in 1909, the Looff Carrousel is a vintage marvel featuring 54 horses, 2 Chinese dragons, one giraffe, and a tiger. The ride is also ADA-accessible.
Talk a walk across the bridge to marvel at the newly renovated Pavilion. This large outdoor amphitheater hosts a variety of concerts, festivals, and events throughout the year. The Spokane River winds through the park, cascading over basalt rock and two dams to create the largest urban waterfalls in the country. Riverfront Park is a great place to explore nature amid an urban setting, relax, and explore Spokane’s many art installations peppered throughout the park. The park is open year-round and offers something for everyone.
![](https://visitspokane.imgix.net/images/spokane-falls/2022-SpokaneFalls-Skyride-JasonHummel.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=49.43%2068.49&q=80&w=320&s=ca97a229dadb5f7963ae0d56c8f59309 320w, https://visitspokane.imgix.net/images/spokane-falls/2022-SpokaneFalls-Skyride-JasonHummel.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=49.43%2068.49&q=80&w=540&s=5c3800099a18767fb2edd153d48ef686 540w, https://visitspokane.imgix.net/images/spokane-falls/2022-SpokaneFalls-Skyride-JasonHummel.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=49.43%2068.49&q=80&w=768&s=16dc2634b8ccb9e2a02b8bcb75c4395b 768w, https://visitspokane.imgix.net/images/spokane-falls/2022-SpokaneFalls-Skyride-JasonHummel.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=49.43%2068.49&q=80&w=1024&s=f288d363e10f72fa6b9193a55ce6c9a5 1024w, https://visitspokane.imgix.net/images/spokane-falls/2022-SpokaneFalls-Skyride-JasonHummel.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=49.43%2068.49&q=80&w=1200&s=5fa3112db965ff3fb3eeb79039e19c33 1200w, https://visitspokane.imgix.net/images/spokane-falls/2022-SpokaneFalls-Skyride-JasonHummel.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=49.43%2068.49&q=80&w=1440&s=bc62221aac0961c9cb208899f49f4953 1440w, https://visitspokane.imgix.net/images/spokane-falls/2022-SpokaneFalls-Skyride-JasonHummel.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=49.43%2068.49&q=80&w=1920&s=ade832b5d119fd19f91df60880c86563 1816w)
A Bird's Eye View of Spokane Falls
You can walk to one of many observation points or head to the Numerica SkyRide in Riverfront Park, which offers a 20-minute flyover of Spokane Falls, providing a bird's eye view via one of the best cable car rides in the world. The iconic lilac gondolas seat up to six people and are ADA-compliant. The Skyride can be enjoyed year-round, but it is especially beautiful in the spring and early summer when the water is flowing at its highest.
![](https://visitspokane.imgix.net/images/outdoors/2022-CentennialTrail-Downtown-BenMatthews-1110777.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=320&s=9c04bfa971a4cfd1a6412add7132ed56 320w, https://visitspokane.imgix.net/images/outdoors/2022-CentennialTrail-Downtown-BenMatthews-1110777.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=540&s=87fa377b921fb5c1846db7aa861d5d7c 540w, https://visitspokane.imgix.net/images/outdoors/2022-CentennialTrail-Downtown-BenMatthews-1110777.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=768&s=e28e145a2f1b77402fd802a08760c5f8 768w, https://visitspokane.imgix.net/images/outdoors/2022-CentennialTrail-Downtown-BenMatthews-1110777.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=1024&s=26529f53bf50ba86c45e5d388cb6ae1f 1024w)
The Centennial Trail
The Centennial Trail is a breathtaking recreational trail that spans over 40 miles, offering an incredible outdoor experience for visitors in Spokane.. This scenic trail, which runs along the Spokane River, provides an excellent opportunity to enjoy a leisurely stroll, an invigorating morning run, or an exhilarating bike ride while immersing yourself in the area's natural beauty. With its diverse landscapes and stunning vistas, the Centennial Trail is a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers alike.
![Date Night Ideas in Spokane](https://visitspokane.imgix.net/images/outdoors/26-2021-RIverside-NJames.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=320&s=cf201454111c9362a1bfc79a85c3dec9 320w, https://visitspokane.imgix.net/images/outdoors/26-2021-RIverside-NJames.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=540&s=f55afaa803d1a1cdc23fbf6c343d6355 540w, https://visitspokane.imgix.net/images/outdoors/26-2021-RIverside-NJames.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=768&s=1fac55ac391d48cec5d15a56594f7f34 768w, https://visitspokane.imgix.net/images/outdoors/26-2021-RIverside-NJames.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=1024&s=247cce38d110e571206b1daf89cc182a 1024w, https://visitspokane.imgix.net/images/outdoors/26-2021-RIverside-NJames.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=1200&s=f78ba9d2cd76e97788a030526d4373a0 1200w, https://visitspokane.imgix.net/images/outdoors/26-2021-RIverside-NJames.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=1440&s=1675b5d8ba824fb397d45895049ff1c1 1440w, https://visitspokane.imgix.net/images/outdoors/26-2021-RIverside-NJames.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=1920&s=8fc9fa68bf3991f4ae9ebd54eea59538 1920w, https://visitspokane.imgix.net/images/outdoors/26-2021-RIverside-NJames.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=2560&s=c5490db6d7d4b8c77e571c94be4c1a22 2560w, https://visitspokane.imgix.net/images/outdoors/26-2021-RIverside-NJames.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=3840&s=a60755ca975c7471b95b4504c9c29ec9 3840w)
Starting from the Spokane Convention Center, you can step directly onto the Centennial Trail and embark on your journey. As you venture along the trail, you'll find many highlights to explore and enjoy. Here are other noteworthy sections and trailheads that are particularly recommended for visitors:
- Kendall Yards: Located just west of downtown Spokane, the trailhead at Kendall Yards offers a convenient starting point. This vibrant neighborhood features a variety of amenities, including shops, restaurants, and parks, making it an ideal spot to begin your Centennial Trail adventure.
- Riverside State Park: Continuing west from Kendall Yards, the trail leads you into Riverside State Park, a vast natural area known for its stunning landscapes and recreational opportunities. Within the park, you can explore a network of trails, including those that lead to the Bowl and Pitcher, a dramatic rock formation carved by the Spokane River.
- Nine Mile Falls: As you progress further west, you'll come across the Nine Mile Falls area, where the trail offers breathtaking views of the Spokane River. This section is particularly popular among hikers, bikers, and anglers, with opportunities for fishing and picnicking along the riverbank.
The trail features well-maintained paths suitable for various activities, making it accessible and enjoyable for people of all ages and fitness levels. Whether seeking a peaceful walk, a bike ride, or an energizing run in nature, the Centennial Trail promises a memorable experience.
![](https://visitspokane.imgix.net/images/food-drink/2022-INL-MossutosItalianRestaurant-7.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=320&s=6b73632854c8d53249e52361e2f7a79b 320w, https://visitspokane.imgix.net/images/food-drink/2022-INL-MossutosItalianRestaurant-7.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=540&s=3d58bedea8b847ba2ffeb75dd1f2f51b 540w, https://visitspokane.imgix.net/images/food-drink/2022-INL-MossutosItalianRestaurant-7.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=768&s=4fee49911f3996b2f1e7c0ca09b47efa 768w, https://visitspokane.imgix.net/images/food-drink/2022-INL-MossutosItalianRestaurant-7.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=1024&s=9b6861bf73748ee93a77912afb3a30f2 1024w, https://visitspokane.imgix.net/images/food-drink/2022-INL-MossutosItalianRestaurant-7.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=1200&s=90fd59ed5fc263941b3a7c77431c5152 1200w, https://visitspokane.imgix.net/images/food-drink/2022-INL-MossutosItalianRestaurant-7.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=1440&s=1ca811f74709a6dc35cfb4292ac145aa 1440w, https://visitspokane.imgix.net/images/food-drink/2022-INL-MossutosItalianRestaurant-7.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=1920&s=4c882bc894802ef75172f1e7aac5c6f5 1920w, https://visitspokane.imgix.net/images/food-drink/2022-INL-MossutosItalianRestaurant-7.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=2560&s=45aff3453dc8c566feea293ca3abcecd 2560w, https://visitspokane.imgix.net/images/food-drink/2022-INL-MossutosItalianRestaurant-7.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=3840&s=672d3b0d991188f74d5cc90ecff87b69 3840w)
Inspired Food and Drink
Nestled throughout downtown near the Convention Center, you will find 120+ locally owned drink scene, drink scene, drink scene, and drink scene. Start your day at one of numerous coffee shops and cafes offering a wide range of specialty coffees, from pour-overs to cold brews. From upscale to casual dining, you’ll find exceptional Ethiopian food, authentic Italian pasta and gelato, Spanish tapas or wood-fired pizza. Enjoy a nightcap at one of many unique cocktail bars. There are so many options in Spokane’s food and drink scene, every discerning foodie will find a delicious experience.
![](https://visitspokane.imgix.net/images/outdoors/2022-Journal-of-Lost-Time-Mt-Spokane-Drive.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=320&s=bb25a3ced074259ee6be168327cda49a 320w, https://visitspokane.imgix.net/images/outdoors/2022-Journal-of-Lost-Time-Mt-Spokane-Drive.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=540&s=6642a72cc605d4cb1a804ed14202be07 540w, https://visitspokane.imgix.net/images/outdoors/2022-Journal-of-Lost-Time-Mt-Spokane-Drive.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=768&s=28db2cd99cfd215651aa60735c0b9e48 768w, https://visitspokane.imgix.net/images/outdoors/2022-Journal-of-Lost-Time-Mt-Spokane-Drive.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=1024&s=44a825aef62e463f4da19ba9ce02b71c 1024w, https://visitspokane.imgix.net/images/outdoors/2022-Journal-of-Lost-Time-Mt-Spokane-Drive.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=1200&s=2bb9c7dfb7200c2faff18241fba3c5c5 1200w, https://visitspokane.imgix.net/images/outdoors/2022-Journal-of-Lost-Time-Mt-Spokane-Drive.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=1440&s=841cd316b97e9e78eb87d8c5242b27d5 1440w, https://visitspokane.imgix.net/images/outdoors/2022-Journal-of-Lost-Time-Mt-Spokane-Drive.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=1920&s=e63317bd343b81948ea2503a97869231 1920w, https://visitspokane.imgix.net/images/outdoors/2022-Journal-of-Lost-Time-Mt-Spokane-Drive.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=2560&s=934f656d8e9598a0cffc9a9160252ab6 2560w, https://visitspokane.imgix.net/images/outdoors/2022-Journal-of-Lost-Time-Mt-Spokane-Drive.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=3840&s=0addc7013aa6ad67904fb13b70c9a808 2732w)
Extend Your Stay and Explore Nearby Destinations
In addition to the many attractions and activities within walking distance of the Spokane Convention Center, there are also a number of great destinations located just a short drive away. Here are a few suggestions for day trips or weekend getaways:
- Mount Spokane: Located just 20 miles northeast of Spokane, Mount Spokane is a popular destination for hiking, biking, camping, and skiing. In the winter, the mountain offers a variety of downhill and cross-country skiing trails, as well as snowshoeing and snowmobiling opportunities. In the summer, hikers can enjoy the many trails that wind through the mountain's forests and meadows.
- Coeur d'Alene: This charming lakeside city is just a 30-minute drive from Spokane. With its stunning scenery, world-class golf courses, and vibrant downtown, Coeur d'Alene is the perfect place to relax and enjoy the outdoors.
- Glacier National Park: Located just a four-hour drive from Spokane, Glacier National Park is a must-see for any nature lover. The park has stunning scenery, including towering mountains, pristine lakes, and abundant wildlife.
- Walla Walla: Located just a two-hour drive from Spokane, Walla Walla is a charming city known for its wineries, breweries, and delicious food. The city is also home to several art galleries, museums, and historical sites.
These are just a few of the many great destinations near Spokane. With its beautiful scenery, abundance of activities, and friendly people, Spokane is the perfect place to relax and have fun following your meeting in Spokane.
Ready to visit Spokane?
Getting here is easy, with options to arrive by train, plane, or car. The Spokane International Airport is less than a 15-minute drive from downtown, offering convenience and more time to enjoy all the city has to offer.
Convention-goers will love exploring Spokane, a walkable city rich with historic architecture and amenities. Spokane's beautiful surroundings and many attractions will leave you refreshed and inspired.