Visiting Spokane

Spokane and Spokane Valley make up the largest metro area in Eastern Washington, Their location is just a few miles from Idaho and about 100 miles south of the Canadian Border. The area is an outdoor enthusiasts wonderland, in any season. The Spokane Metro Region is bisected by the Spokane River which provides and abundance of water recreation and activities. The Rocky Mountains rise dramatically to the east beckoning visitors to resorts, camping, fishing and hiking.

No need for a long drive and a lot of expense to enjoy outdoor winter sports. There are five local ski areas in the region, all within a short drive. Washington resorts are Lookout Pass and Mt Spokane. Close by in Idaho Schweitzer Mountain Resort, Lookout Pass, and Silver Mountain Resort are excellent options. Ski or snowboard to your hearts content or take to the beautiful countryside on snowmobiles, snowshoes or cross country skis. The snow is excellent and lasts well into spring.

Well known Gonzaga University, is located in Spokane. This private Jesuit university draws top students and educators to the area. Currently, the Jundt Art Museum on campus is exhibiting the Holy Family which features prints and creches of the nativity. The exhibit runs through mid March. If you are on campus, there is an unconfirmed rumor that Bing Crosby's last toupee' is housed in the rare book room at the Foley Library. Just a rumor!

The Zags (nick name for Gonzaga athletic teams) are in full swing this time of year with a full schedule of Men's and Women's sports. Basketball games are scheduled through March. Baseball spring training games can be seen in Tucson and Peoria Arizona and San Antonio Texas, with the regular season games starting in March. You can also catch some golf and tennis through the spring.

Spokane is called the Lilac City ,and the city blossoms, along with the lilac blooms, in April and May. The Lilac Festival and the Blooms Day Run are two of the most popular events in the City. Runners from all over the world come to participate in the 12K run held the first weekend in May.The Lilac Festival is held later in the month. The 2010 theme is “Freedom is not Free”. The festival features a parade, royalty, food and games. This is lots of family fun, so don't leave anyone at home.

Basketball Fans: Spring is a great time for basketball fans in Spokane. Boys and Girls state championships are held early March. Later in the month, the NCAA Division I first and second rounds will be played at the Spokane Arena. Basketball players of all ages and their fans, plan to come back to Spokane in June. The annual Hoopfest, which may be the biggest 3 on 3 basketball tournament in the world, is a highlight of the year in the city.

Hockey fans also have a full spring schedule of games with the Spokane Chiefs action.

Spokane is the cultural center of western Washington as well. The Northwest Museum of Arts & Culture in Spokane is featuring three outstanding exhibits this spring. “Art and People: Spokane Art Center and the Great Depression,” will be on display through April. Jumpin' with the Big Bands is a tribute to 1930's and 1940's jazz, including instruments and media from the period. Living Legacy: The American Indian Collection was the founding collection of the Museum and the current exhibit an alternative and culturally appropriate view of selected pieces from the collection.

While planning or traveling in Spokane, look for a Best Western Hotel for lodging. With convenient locations and affordable pricing, Best Western Hotels meet the needs of any traveler.

Spokane Hotel Map