- Lilac City: Spokane is often referred to as the “Lilac City” because of the abundance of lilac bushes that bloom in the area. The city even hosts an annual Lilac Festival, which includes a parade, events, and a beauty pageant.
- Spokane Falls: The city is situated on the Spokane River, and it is home to the magnificent Spokane Falls. The falls drop a total of 100 feet in elevation and offer stunning views. There are multiple vantage points, including Riverfront Park, where visitors can enjoy the beauty of the falls.
- Birthplace of Father’s Day: Spokane is known as the birthplace of Father’s Day. Sonora Smart Dodd, a Spokane native, initiated the idea of celebrating fathers in 1910. The first Father’s Day was celebrated in Spokane on June 19, 1910.
- Bing Crosby: The famous singer and actor Bing Crosby was born in Spokane in 1903. He became one of the most popular and successful entertainers of the 20th century, known for his smooth voice and iconic songs like “White Christmas.”
- World’s Fair: Spokane hosted the World’s Fair, officially known as Expo ’74, in 1974. It was the first environmentally themed World’s Fair and attracted millions of visitors from around the world. The fair’s legacy can still be seen in Riverfront Park, which was developed for the event.
- Outdoor Recreation: Spokane is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. The city offers a wide range of recreational activities, including hiking, biking, skiing, snowboarding, and fishing. The nearby Mount Spokane State Park provides excellent opportunities for outdoor adventures.
- Gonzaga University: Spokane is home to Gonzaga University, a private Catholic university known for its academic excellence and highly successful men’s basketball team, the Gonzaga Bulldogs. The team has achieved significant success in the NCAA tournament and has a dedicated fan base. Not quite sure how to pronounce this mega team? In #GoZags, you could say zig zag and you would pronounce the zag in Gonzaga correctly. Give it a shot!
- Arbor Crest Wine Cellars: Spokane is part of the flourishing wine region of Washington State, and one of its notable wineries is Arbor Crest Wine Cellars. Located in a historic mansion atop a cliff overlooking the Spokane Valley, it offers wine tastings and stunning views.
- Spokane Hoopfest: Hoopfest is the largest 3-on-3 basketball tournament in the world, held annually in Spokane. It attracts thousands of teams and participants of all ages, making it a vibrant and exciting event for basketball lovers.
- Film Festival: Spokane hosts the Spokane International Film Festival (SpIFF) each year, showcasing a diverse selection of international and independent films. It provides a platform for filmmakers to share their work and engages the local community in the art of cinema.
