Overview
Spokane Valley is an incorporated city in Spokane County, Washington, sitting just east of the city of Spokane along the Spokane River corridor. With a population of roughly 95,000, it is one of the larger cities in eastern Washington by population, though many visitors experience it as a seamless extension of the greater Spokane metro area.
The city occupies a broad river valley flanked by the Selkirk Mountains to the north and the rolling Palouse hills to the south. Its terrain and river access make it a practical base for hiking, cycling, fishing, and winter sports within a short drive. The Spokane River runs through the northern portion of the city and provides both scenic backdrop and recreational opportunity.
Spokane Valley developed largely as a suburban and commercial corridor, so travelers will find it less centered on a downtown core and more oriented around neighborhood parks, trail access, and regional services. That character makes it a comfortable, lower-key alternative to staying in central Spokane while remaining close to the region's main attractions.
Before You Go
Visas and Entry
Spokane Valley is in the United States. Entry requirements vary by nationality. Check TravelerPulse's Visas section and the U.S. Customs and Border Protection website for current requirements before booking.
Climate
The Inland Northwest has a semi-arid continental climate distinct from western Washington's rainy reputation. Summers (June–August) are warm and mostly dry, with highs frequently in the 80s–90s °F (high 20s–low 30s °C). Winters are cold and snowy, with average highs in the 30s °F (around 1–4 °C) from December through February. Spring and fall are mild with occasional rain. Pack layers regardless of season; temperatures can swing significantly between morning and afternoon.
What to Pack
- Comfortable walking and trail shoes
- Sun protection (sunscreen, hat, sunglasses) for summer visits
- Warm, waterproof layers for shoulder seasons and winter
- A reusable water bottle — tap water in the area is sourced from the Spokane Valley–Rathdrum Prairie Aquifer and is generally considered high quality, but verify locally
Practical Notes
Spokane Valley does not have a distinct tourist information center separate from the broader Spokane region. The Visit Spokane organization (visitspokane.com) covers the metro area and is a reliable starting point for regional planning.
Getting There
By Air
Spokane International Airport (GEG) is the primary gateway for the region. It sits west of downtown Spokane, roughly 20–25 minutes by car from most of Spokane Valley. The airport is served by multiple domestic carriers with connections through major western U.S. hubs. Verify current routes and schedules directly with airlines or on the airport's official site.
By Car
Interstate 90 bisects Spokane Valley east to west and is the main artery connecting the city to Spokane (west), Coeur d'Alene, Idaho (east, approximately 30 miles), and eventually Seattle (approximately 280 miles west). Driving is the most flexible way to reach and move around the city.
By Bus
Greyhound and other intercity bus services connect Spokane to major regional cities. The Greyhound station is in central Spokane rather than Spokane Valley; travelers would then use local transit to reach the Valley. Verify current schedules and stops before travel.
By Train
Amtrak's Empire Builder route stops at Spokane's main station, connecting to Seattle to the west and Chicago to the east (with stops in Montana, North Dakota, and Minnesota). From Spokane station, local transit or a rideshare can reach Spokane Valley.
Getting Around
A personal vehicle or rental car is the most practical way to get around Spokane Valley. The city is spread out along commercial corridors and residential neighborhoods without a compact walkable center.
Spokane Transit Authority (STA) operates bus routes connecting Spokane Valley to central Spokane and other parts of the metro area. Route maps and schedules are available on the STA website (spokanetransit.com). The Valley Transit Center on Sprague Avenue is a key hub for Valley-based routes.
Rideshare apps (Uber, Lyft) operate in the Spokane metro area, including Spokane Valley, and are a reasonable option for point-to-point trips. Taxi services are also available; verify current operators locally.
The Centennial Trail is a paved multi-use path that runs along the Spokane River and connects parts of Spokane Valley to central Spokane and into Idaho. It is well-suited for cycling and serves as a practical car-free way to move between some points along the river corridor.
Things to See & Do
Centennial Trail
The Centennial Trail is perhaps the most visited outdoor amenity in Spokane Valley. This paved trail follows the Spokane River for roughly 40 miles from Nine Mile Falls in the west to Coeur d'Alene, Idaho in the east, passing through multiple access points in the Valley. It accommodates walking, running, cycling, and in-line skating. Several trailheads in Spokane Valley provide parking and river access.
Parks and Natural Areas
Mirabeau Point Park, located near the northern edge of the city, offers walking trails, a playground, and river views. Sullivan Road Centennial Trail access points are popular with locals for fishing and riverside walks. Spokane Valley has numerous neighborhood parks suitable for picnicking and casual recreation.
Valley Mission Park
This large community park includes sports fields, a skate park, a seasonal spray pad, and open green space. It reflects the city's family-oriented character and is a good place to observe local daily life.
Nearby Day Trips
Spokane Valley's location makes it an effective base for day trips. Liberty Lake (a small city and recreational lake) is just minutes east. Mount Spokane State Park, about 30 miles north, offers hiking in summer and skiing in winter. Coeur d'Alene, Idaho — with its resort, lake, and trail system — is roughly 30 miles east on I-90.
Locally Brewed Beer and Distilled Spirits
The broader Spokane region has developed a modest craft beverage scene. Several breweries and distilleries operate within or just outside Spokane Valley; verify current locations and hours locally or through Visit Spokane.
Food & Drink
Spokane Valley's dining scene is predominantly casual and reflects its suburban character. Sprague Avenue and other commercial corridors host a mix of independent restaurants, regional chains, and fast-casual options. The city does not have a concentrated restaurant district, so dining tends to be spread across the city.
Regional cuisine in the Inland Northwest leans toward American comfort food, Pacific Northwest-influenced menus (salmon, locally grown produce), and Mexican food (reflecting the region's agricultural workforce heritage). Several locally owned diners and family restaurants offer straightforward, well-priced meals.
For specialty food shopping, the area has grocery stores and, during summer months, farmers markets in the broader Spokane Valley area. Verify market dates and locations locally, as schedules change seasonally.
Travelers seeking a broader range of dining options — fine dining, diverse international cuisines — will find more variety in central Spokane, a short drive west.
Shopping
Spokane Valley is home to Spokane Valley Mall on North Sullivan Road, one of the larger enclosed malls in eastern Washington. It anchors a broad retail corridor that includes big-box stores, outlet-style shops, and national chains. This area is convenient for travelers who need to stock up on gear, clothing, or everyday supplies.
For more locally flavored shopping — independent boutiques, antique stores, and specialty retailers — central Spokane's neighborhoods (particularly the South Perry District and Garland District) offer more distinctive options within a short drive.
Practical Information
Emergency Services
In the United States, dial 911 for police, fire, and medical emergencies. Spokane Valley Fire Department serves the city. Verify the location of the nearest urgent care clinic or hospital before you need one; Valley Hospital is located in the area — confirm current details locally.
Money
ATMs are widely available at banks and grocery stores throughout the city. Credit and debit cards are accepted almost universally. Tipping is customary at sit-down restaurants (typically 15–20%), for taxi and rideshare drivers, and for other service providers.
Connectivity
Cellular coverage from major U.S. carriers (AT&T, T-Mobile, Verizon) is generally strong throughout Spokane Valley. Most hotels and many restaurants offer free Wi-Fi. Verify data roaming costs with your carrier before traveling from outside the U.S.
Time Zone
Spokane Valley observes Pacific Time (PT): UTC−8 in winter, UTC−7 during daylight saving time (typically mid-March through early November).
Safety
Spokane Valley is generally considered a safe destination for travelers exercising normal urban precautions. As with any city, be aware of your surroundings, keep valuables out of sight in parked vehicles, and secure accommodation locks.
Outdoor recreation safety is relevant here. If hiking or cycling on trails, carry water, inform someone of your plans, and be aware that summer temperatures can be high. River swimming or floating on the Spokane River carries current-related hazards; check local conditions and posted warnings before entering the water.
Wildfire smoke is a recurring concern in eastern Washington during late summer (July–September). Air quality can deteriorate significantly during regional fire events. Check AirNow.gov or a local weather service for air quality index updates if visiting in late summer.
