Spokane, Washington, offers a vibrant community where urban living harmonizes with natural beauty. The city is known for its rich cultural heritage, with a diverse population and a strong presence of over 40 arts organizations, including theaters, galleries, and music venues. Annual events like the Lilac Festival, Spokane Hoopfest, and Pig Out in the Park bring the community together, celebrating local culture and fostering a sense of unity.
The Spokane Farmers' Market, established in 1998, is a vibrant community hub located in the historic Browne's Addition neighborhood at the corner of 4th Avenue and Chestnut Street. The market offers a diverse array of locally grown produce, meats, dairy, baked goods, and artisan products.
Website: spokanefarmersmarket.org
Address: West 4th Avenue &, S Chestnut St, Spokane, WA
The Thursday Market in Spokane's South Perry District is a vibrant community gathering. Held at 924 S Perry St, adjacent to Grant Park, the market features over 60 local vendors offering fresh produce, artisanal foods, handmade crafts, and more. It's a lively event with live music, family-friendly activities, and a welcoming atmosphere that draws visitors from across the region.
Website: thursdaymarket.org
Address: 1000 S Perry St, Spokane, WA 99202
The Kendall Yards Night Market in Spokane, Washington, is a vibrant community event that takes place every Wednesday evening. The market offers a delightful mix of local produce, artisan goods, live music, and more.
Website: kendallnightmarket.org
Address: 1335 W Summit Pkwy, Spokane, WA 99201
Boo Radley's offers a wide array of items, including novelty gifts, retro toys, books, apparel, and home decor. The store is known for its eclectic selection and friendly, knowledgeable staff, making it a favorite destination for both locals and visitors.
Website: shopbooradleys.com
Address: 232 N Howard St, Spokane, WA 99201
Auntie’s offers a diverse selection of both new and gently used books across various genres, including fiction, nonfiction, science, and children’s literature. In addition to books, the store carries greeting cards, tote bags, t-shirts, and Spokane-themed gifts. They also provide bookstore credit for gently used books, allowing customers to trade in their reads.
Website: auntiesbooks.com
Address: 402 W Main Ave, Spokane, WA 99201
Atticus Coffee & Gifts is a beloved coffee shop and boutique. Established in 2009 by Kris and Andy Dinnison, it offers a unique blend of artisan coffee, gourmet pastries, and an eclectic selection of locally made gifts and home decor. Atticus is known for its high-quality coffee offerings, including favorites like the XL Lavender Latte, cold brew, and French press coffee.
Website: facebook.com/AtticusCoffee
Address: 222 N Howard St, Spokane, WA 99201
Wonders of the World is a unique and eclectic shop located in Spokane, Washington, inside the historic Flour Mill building. Established in 1992, it has become a beloved destination for both locals and visitors seeking distinctive and culturally rich items. This store offers a diverse array of treasures from around the globe, including: jewelry & beads, crystals & minerals, artifacts & fossils, and more.
Website: wondersoftheworldinc.com
Address: 621 W Mallon Ave Suite #412, Spokane, WA 99201
First Friday in Spokane is a vibrant monthly event held on the first Friday of each month, from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m., showcasing the city's dynamic arts and culture scene. Launched in November 2003 through a partnership between the Downtown Spokane Partnership and Spokane Arts Commission, it has become a beloved tradition.
Website: downtownspokane.org/first-friday
Address: View Routes
The Little Spokane River Artist Studio Tour is a cherished annual event held in the picturesque Little Spokane River Valley, just north of Spokane, Washington. This free, self-guided tour offers visitors the unique opportunity to explore four artist studios and gardens, featuring over 50 local artisans showcasing their work in outdoor and garden settings.
Website: littlespokanestudios.com
Address: View Tour
Organized by Spokane Arts, these citywide tours showcase artists, performers, and venues across Spokane, highlighting creativity beyond the downtown core. The tours typically include: Fall Arts Tour (October), Winter Arts Tour (February), and Saturate. These tours are designed to complement the monthly First Friday events, providing a broader view of Spokane's artistic community.
Website: spokanearts.org
Address: View Events
The Mead School District, located in north Spokane, Washington, has been serving the community for over a century. As of the 2021–2022 school year, the district enrolled approximately 10,275 students across 18 schools, including two high schools, three middle schools, and ten elementary schools.
Website: mead354.org
Address: 2323 E Farwell Rd, Spokane, WA 99021
The Nine Mile Falls School District, located northwest of Spokane, Washington, encompasses a 65.5-square-mile area along both sides of the Spokane River, extending approximately 30 miles from Seven Mile Road to Scoop Mountain. Serving both Spokane and Stevens counties, the district includes communities such as Nine Mile Falls and Suncrest.
Website: 9mile.org
Address: 10110 W Charles Road, Nine Mile Falls, WA 99026
The Kootenai School District is known for its close-knit community and strong relationships between students, teachers, and families. Many parents and alumni describe the school as fostering a "family-like" atmosphere where staff are deeply invested in students' academic and personal growth. However, some reviews note that while the school excels in personalized attention, it may have limited offerings in fine arts and extracurricular activities due to its small size.
Website: sd274.com
Address: 13030 E O'Gara Rd, Harrison, ID 83833
The Lakeland Joint School District 272, located in Rathdrum, Idaho, serves communities in the Spokane, Washington area, including Athol, Bayview, Spirit Lake, and parts of Coeur d’Alene. Despite its proximity to Spokane, it is an Idaho-based district.
Website: sd272.org
Address: 15506 N. Washington St., Rathdrum Idaho, 83858
Freeman School District, located in Rockford, Washington—approximately 15 miles southeast of Spokane—is a rural K–12 district serving around 890 students across three schools on a single campus. The district is known for its strong sense of community, academic rigor, and a commitment to student well-being.
Website: freemansd.org
Address: 15001 South Jackson Road Rockford, WA 99030
Spokane Public Schools (SPS) is the largest public school district in eastern Washington, serving the city of Spokane and its surrounding areas. Established in 1889, SPS encompasses 57 schools, including 34 elementary schools, nine middle schools, five comprehensive high schools, and various option schools and programs designed to meet diverse student needs.
Website: spokaneschools.org
Address: 200 N Bernard St, Spokane, WA 99201
The Coeur d'Alene School District #271, located in Coeur d'Alene, Idaho, serves approximately 10,171 students across grades K–12 . It encompasses the cities of Coeur d'Alene, Dalton Gardens, Hayden, and Hayden Lake, as well as parts of rural Kootenai County. The district operates 17 schools, including 11 elementary schools, 3 middle schools, 2 traditional high schools, and an alternative high school.
Website: cdaschools.org
Address: 1400 N. Northwood Center Ct., Coeur d' Alene, ID 83814
The Medical Lake School District (MLSD) is a public school district located in Medical Lake, Washington, just west of Spokane. It serves approximately 1,897 students across four schools and is recognized for its strong academic performance and support for military families.
Website: mlsd.org
Address: 116 3rd St Ste B, Medical Lake, WA 99022
The Central Valley School District (CVSD) is a public K–12 district located in the Spokane Valley and Liberty Lake areas of eastern Washington. Established in 1890, CVSD serves approximately 14,700 students across 29 schools and learning centers. The district spans an 80-square-mile area, encompassing the cities of Liberty Lake and Spokane Valley.
Website: cvsd.org
Address: 2218 N. Molter Road, Liberty Lake, WA 99019
West Valley School District (WVSD), located in Spokane Valley, Washington, is a public school district that serves approximately 3,483 students across 13 schools. Established in 1910, the district encompasses a diverse community and offers a range of educational programs from preschool through high school.
Website: wvsd.org
Address: 2805 N Argonne Road, Spokane, WA 99212
Browne’s Addition is Spokane’s oldest residential neighborhood, renowned for its rich history, diverse architecture, and vibrant cultural scene. Located just west of downtown Spokane, it offers a blend of historic charm and modern urban living.
Website: visitspokane.com/about-spokane/districts/brownes-addition
Address: Get Directions
The South Hill neighborhood in Spokane, Washington, is renowned for its historic charm, tree-lined streets, and proximity to downtown. Spanning several distinct neighborhoods—including Rockwood, Manito, Cliff-Cannon, Comstock, and the Perry District—South Hill offers a blend of residential tranquility and urban convenience.
Website: spokaneplanner.com/post/south-hill
Address: Get Directions
The Emerson/Garfield neighborhood in Spokane, Washington, is a vibrant and historic community located just north of downtown. Characterized by its rich history, diverse architecture, and active community involvement, it offers a unique blend of urban convenience and residential charm.
Website: emersongarfield.org
Address: Get Directions
The West Central and Kendall Yards neighborhoods in Spokane, WA, offer a dynamic blend of historic charm, urban revitalization, and modern living. Kendall Yards is a contemporary, mixed-use neighborhood situated along the north bank of the Spokane River, just west of downtown. West Central is a historic neighborhood located just northwest of downtown Spokane. It features a mix of Victorian-era homes, mid-20th-century bungalows, and modern apartment complexes, reflecting its rich history and ongoing development.
Website: spokaneplanner.com/post/west-central
Address: Get Directions
Peaceful Valley is a distinctive and historic neighborhood nestled along the Spokane River, just west of downtown Spokane, Washington. Known for its bohemian charm and close-knit community, it stands out as one of the city's most unique areas.
Website: spokaneplanner.com/post/peaceful-valley
Address: Get Directions
North Hill is a centrally located neighborhood in Spokane, Washington, known for its historic charm, scenic views, and vibrant community life. The neighborhood features a mix of well-preserved early-20th and midcentury homes, including Craftsman-style bungalows, ranch-style houses, and cottages.
Website: my.spokanecity.org/neighborhoods/councils/north-hill
Address: Get Directions
The West Hills neighborhood in Spokane, Washington, is a distinctive area characterized by its hilly terrain, scenic views, and proximity to natural parks. Located to the west of downtown Spokane, it encompasses both urban and rural elements, offering residents a blend of suburban comfort and access to outdoor recreation.
Website: my.spokanecity.org/neighborhoods/councils/west-hills
Address: Get Directions
North Indian Trail is a scenic and family-friendly neighborhood in the northwestern corner of Spokane, Washington. Nestled on a plateau above the Spokane River, the area offers panoramic views of the river gorge and is bordered by the Five Mile Prairie to the east.
Website: my.spokanecity.org/neighborhoods/councils/north-indian-trail
Address: Get Directions
The South Perry Neighborhood in Spokane, Washington, is a vibrant and evolving area that blends historic charm with modern amenities. Situated just south of downtown Spokane, it's known for its eclectic mix of locally owned businesses, tree-lined streets, and a strong sense of community.
Website: visitspokane.com/about-spokane/districts/south-perry-district
Address: Get Directions
The Audubon/Downriver neighborhood in Spokane, Washington, is a charming and vibrant community known for its blend of natural beauty, historic architecture, and strong local engagement. Nestled along the Spokane River, it offers residents a peaceful suburban feel with easy access to downtown amenities.
Website: spokaneplanner.com/post/audubondownriver
Address: Get Directions
Spokane Hoopfest is the largest 3-on-3 basketball tournament in the world, held annually in downtown Spokane, Washington. This massive community celebration spans 45 city blocks, featuring over 450 courts and attracting more than 25,000 players from across the U.S. and beyond.
Website: spokanehoopfest.net
Address: Get Directions
Spokane, Washington, offers a vibrant and family-friendly celebration for the 4th of July, featuring a variety of events across the city. Riverfront Park is the heart of Spokane's Independence Day celebrations.
Website: visitspokane.com/events/summer-events/4th-of-july
Address: Get Directions
The ICCU Summer Carnival is an annual event held at Riverfront Park in Spokane, Washington, typically around the 4th of July. Presented by Idaho Central Credit Union, the carnival offers a festive atmosphere with classic rides, games, food vendors, and entertainment for all ages.
Website: my.spokanecity.org/riverfrontspokane/calendar/2025/...
Address: Get Directions
Pig Out in the Park is Spokane’s beloved six-day food and music festival, held annually over Labor Day weekend in Riverfront Park. In 2025, the 44th annual event is scheduled for August 28 through September 1. It's a free, family-friendly celebration that draws tens of thousands of visitors from across the region.
Website: pigoutinthepark.com
Address: Get Directions
The Manito Park Art Festival is an annual event held on the second Saturday of June at Manito Park in Spokane, Washington. Organized by The Friends of Manito, the festival aims to showcase a diverse array of local artists and foster community engagement.
Website: thefriendsofmanito.org/calendar/manito-art-festival
Address: Get Directions
Bazaar is Spokane’s largest all-local art market, organized annually by Terrain, a nonprofit dedicated to fostering creativity and supporting local artists. The event showcases a vibrant mix of handmade goods, live music, food, and family-friendly activities, transforming downtown Spokane into a celebration of community and creativity.
Website: terrainspokane.com/bazaar
Address: Get Directions
Spokane, Washington, boasts a vibrant selection of farmers markets that celebrate local agriculture, crafts, and community spirit. These markets not only provide access to fresh, locally sourced goods but also foster a sense of community through various events and programs. Whether you're looking to stock up on produce, enjoy live entertainment, or support local artisans, Spokane's farmers markets have something for everyone.
Website: View Farmers Markets
Address: Get Directions
Valleyfest is Spokane Valley’s premier community festival, celebrated each September with a vibrant mix of entertainment, culture, and family-friendly activities. Founded in 1990, Valleyfest has grown into a three-day celebration held at Mirabeau Point Park, CenterPlace Regional Event Center, and Plantes Ferry Sports Complex.
Website: valleyfest.org
Address: Get Directions
Spokane, Washington, offers a vibrant live music scene featuring a diverse array of concerts across various genres.
Website: visitspokane.com/things-to-do/nightlife/live-entertainment
Address: View Event Locations
Crave! Northwest is the Inland Northwest’s premier food and drink celebration. This three-day festival is a vibrant showcase of regional culinary talent, featuring over 45 chefs, 20+ local producers, and 12+ breweries, cider houses, and wineries. Each evening offers a unique theme, ensuring a diverse and engaging experience for all attendees.
Website: cravenw.com
Address: Get Directions