Interesting places to visit near Spokane, United States

Location: Spokane, Washington, USA

Best For: History Enthusiasts, Families with Children, Nature Lovers, Dog-Friendly

Discover a captivating detour at Spokane's Riverfront Park, where the Old West comes alive through immersive living museums and historic reenactments. This unique attraction offers visitors a chance to experience the rich heritage of the American frontier amid the scenic beauty of the Spokane River and parklands.

Visitors can explore authentic Old West buildings, watch skilled actors bring history to life, and participate in interactive exhibits that engage all ages. Families will appreciate the kid-friendly activities and educational storytelling, while nature lovers can enjoy the park's trails and river views. The area is dog-friendly, allowing well-behaved pets to accompany their owners on outdoor walks.

Whether you're a history buff eager to delve into frontier life, a family seeking a fun and educational outing, or a traveler looking to combine cultural heritage with natural beauty, Spokane's Riverfront Park Old West Living Museums offer a memorable and enriching experience for all.

Location: Spokane, Washington, USA

Best For: Nature Lovers, Families with Young Children, Dog-Friendly, History Enthusiasts, Outdoor Recreation

Nestled along the scenic Spokane River, Riverside State Park's Natural Playgrounds offer a refreshing detour for travelers seeking a blend of tranquility and family-friendly adventure. This expansive park is renowned for its beautifully crafted natural play areas that encourage imaginative play amid towering trees and river views, making it a perfect spot to unwind and connect with nature.

Visitors can explore miles of hiking and biking trails, enjoy riverfront picnics, and discover historical landmarks within the park that appeal to history buffs. The playgrounds are thoughtfully designed with natural materials, providing safe and engaging environments for children of all ages to explore and play.

Families will appreciate the kid-friendly amenities and open spaces, while dog owners will find ample off-leash areas to let their pets roam freely. Foodies can enjoy nearby local eateries or pack a picnic to savor in the park’s scenic spots. Whether you're looking to immerse yourself in nature, indulge in outdoor activities, or simply relax with loved ones, Riverside State Park's Natural Playgrounds offer a diverse and enriching experience for all travelers.

Location: Spokane, Washington, USA

Best For: Nature Lovers, Dog-Friendly, Families with Children, Hiking, History Enthusiasts, Foodies

Why it's a great detour: The Spokane River Centennial Trail offers a picturesque escape along the river with extensive pet-friendly dog parks and scenic riverside walks. This trail is perfect for travelers seeking a peaceful retreat where they can enjoy nature, history, and local flavors all in one place. Its accessibility and variety of activities make it an ideal stop for families, dog owners, and outdoor enthusiasts.

Key activities: Visitors can stroll or bike along the well-maintained Centennial Trail, explore multiple off-leash dog parks where pets can play freely, enjoy riverside picnics, and discover historical landmarks and interpretive signs that tell the story of the Spokane region. Nearby eateries and food trucks provide delicious local cuisine, perfect for foodies looking to sample regional flavors.

Kid-friendly focus: The trail is safe and accessible for children of all ages, with gentle terrain and plenty of open spaces for play and exploration. Educational signage adds an engaging historical element for young learners.

Dog-friendly notes: This detour is exceptionally dog-friendly, featuring several designated off-leash areas along the trail where dogs can socialize and exercise. Water stations and shaded rest spots ensure comfort for pets and their owners throughout the visit.

Location: Cheney, Eastern Washington, USA

Best For: Nature Lovers, Hiking, Family-Friendly, Dog-Friendly, History Enthusiasts

Turnbull National Wildlife Refuge offers a peaceful detour into the heart of Eastern Washington's natural beauty. This refuge is renowned for its diverse ecosystems, including wetlands, forests, and grasslands, providing visitors with immersive wildlife encounters and scenic nature trails. It's a perfect stop for families seeking educational outdoor experiences, nature lovers eager to observe native species, and history buffs interested in the area's natural heritage.

Visitors can enjoy hiking on well-maintained trails and boardwalks that wind through the refuge, ideal for spotting sandhill cranes, deer, and a variety of bird species. The refuge also features interpretive signs and a visitor center that enrich the experience with insights into local ecology and conservation efforts. Families with young children will appreciate the accessible trails and opportunities for wildlife viewing without strenuous hiking.

The refuge is dog-friendly, allowing leashed pets on designated trails, making it a great option for travelers with dogs wanting to explore nature together. Additionally, the peaceful surroundings and picnic areas provide a relaxing environment for all ages.

Whether you're a foodie interested in local wild edibles during guided tours or a photographer seeking stunning landscapes and wildlife shots, Turnbull National Wildlife Refuge offers a versatile and enriching detour for a wide range of travelers.

Location: Situated near Medical Lake in Eastern Washington, USA, Fort Spokane State Park offers a unique glimpse into American frontier history and natural beauty.

Best For: Nature Lovers, History Enthusiasts, Families with Children, Dog-Friendly

Why it's a great detour: This historic state park combines the charm of the Old West with well-preserved military artifacts and scenic river views, making it a captivating stop for travelers interested in history and nature alike. Its peaceful trails and picnic areas provide a refreshing break from the road.

Key activities: Visitors can explore the remnants of the 19th-century military fort, enjoy hiking and biking on shaded trails along the Spokane River, have picnics in designated areas, and engage with interpretive signs detailing the fort’s significance. The park also offers opportunities for birdwatching and photography.

Kid-friendly focus: The park is ideal for children, offering open spaces to roam safely and educational exhibits that bring history to life in an engaging way.

Dog-friendly notes: Dogs are welcome on-leash, making it a great stop for travelers with pets to stretch their legs and enjoy the outdoors together.