The Spokesman-Review Newspaper
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Spokane, Washington  Est. May 19, 1883
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Everything You Didn’t Know About Spokane

A smart look at our region’s art scene, breweries, history, legends, parks and more

In 2018, the staff of The Spokesman-Review compiled their top tips and tricks to Spokane in the book, "100 Things to Do in Spokane Before You Die." It suggested the best that Washington's second-biggest city has to offer, including from wining and dining, outdoor recreation and historic sites.

Seven years later, some of the tricks have moved on (closing shop after the pandemic), while others feel like common knowledge for the average Spokane resident.

So, we've decided to bring you this special section, packed with things you didn't (or smarty-pants, maybe you did) know about the city. This is the perfect guide for people who have lived here their whole lives, or for those who have just moved to the city or are attending a university here for the first time. It's a smart look at our region's art scene, breweries, history, legends, parks and more.

And with the release of this year's "100 Things to Do in Washington Before You Die," by author Gina Tarnacki, Spokane is well-represented as a vibrant literary and college town, renowned for its rugged natural beauty and endless opportunities for recreation.

And that's something you surely do know.

There’s an activity for every season

While Spokane definitely experiences all four season, there’s still something to do year-round – rain, smoke, snow or shine. Here are some seasonal highlights:

Summer is fine for fine arts

Summer in the Inland Northwest is bookmarked by two outdoor art festivals. First in late May or early June is Spokane’s Art Fest, which brings art, music and food to Browne’s Addition. The three-day festival, presented on the campus of the Northwest Museum of Arts and Culture, features more than 150 juried artists who share ceramics, drawing, fiber, glass, jewelry, leather, metal work, painting, photography, printmaking and wood.
Sports >  Outdoors

Spokane County Lake rundown

With the weather peaking over 90 degrees this time of year, people are looking for a way to cool off. Luckily Spokane County has plenty of lakes with public access for fishing, swimming and boating. Here’s a list of lakes that the Spokane County Sheriff’s Office patrols.

Hike to a hidden waterfall at Indian Canyon Park

Mystic Falls tumbles over a basalt cliff into a deep ravine, creating a small grotto in Indian Canyon Park in the Palisades Park area. It’s a charming spot, but you have to clamber down a steep trail to view the falls. It’s worth the trek.