Known as the Lilac City due to the wealth of lilac shrubs that have flourished in the area since their introduction in the early 20th century, Spokane is one of the nation's hidden treasures. Home to an amazing array of attractions, lovers of the great outdoors are spoilt for choice when it comes to thrill-seeking days out, while visitors booking a car rental from Spokane International Airport can venture even further into the wilds of the local area.
Located in the central business district of downtown Spokane, Spokane Falls is a great place to visit. The raw power of the water is simply breathtaking for all who see it, with the roar of the Spokane River an experience in itself. Bars and restaurants can be found nearby, while the occasional marriage ceremony is also a common occurrence in this picturesque spot.
Spread over more than 100 acres, Riverfront Park offers lush green spaces where guests can relax and unwind away from the busy downtown area of the city. Open to the public all year, the park offers a variety of walking paths and trails to explore, as well as plenty of sights to see including the 1909 Looff Carrousel.
Spokane is a vibrant destination with plenty to do at all hours, but it's after dark when the tempo rises and the city truly comes to life. Offering an array of bars, restaurants and clubs, there's sure to be music and dancing to suit every taste. Whether it's enjoying cocktails in the city center to the biggest acts performing at the Spokane Arena, there's always something going on.
Just a 40-minute journey north of Spokane, the McLellan Conservation Area is a 410-acre property of Ponderosa pine forest. It offers a variety of trails for visitors of all levels of fitness and is a key wildlife habitat along the Long Lake section of the Spokane River. Visitors can get back to nature away from the hustle and bustle of the big city, while nesting osprey are regularly seen in the area, making it an ideal place for birdwatching.
Around an hour and 40 minutes west of the city, the Grand Coulee Dam is an ideal day trip destination for anyone renting a car in Spokane. Built between 1933 and 1942, the dam is a truly massive structure and offers both a visitors center and guided tours. There's also the spectacle of the One River, Many Voices laser light show, which takes place on specific dates throughout the year and is a sight to behold.
One of the most picturesque ways to enjoy a Spokane car rental is to head east out of the city and visit the historic destination of Missoula in Montana. It's around a three-hour trip to get there, but the route takes visitors through the stunning scenery of both the Coeur d'Alene National Forest and Lolo National Forest. On arrival, visitors can enjoy the rich history of the Historical Museum at Fort Missoula or experience the stunning views from atop Mount Sentinel.
A rugged 4x4 could be the best option for visitors to Spokane, given the wide array of natural attractions to be found in the area.
Spokane International Airport
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July, with 12.3 hours of bright sunlight on average per day.
December, with 63.5 mm on average.
Hoopfest, Bloomsday Run, Chinese Lantern Festival