Spokane

A trip across the Cascades on I-90 takes you to the city of Spokane near the Idaho border. The four hour drive east through Snoqualmie Pass and down the east slope of the mountains winds through the agricultural heart of Washington State. I’m always ready to stop along the freeway in Roslyn, Cle Elum or Ellensburg for bite to eat at one of the local spots.

At Vantage, I-90 crosses the Columbia River. The ‘look out’ at the top of the ridge gives you an idea of the size of this magnificent river.

Heading east, you go by rolling fields of fertile farmland. Most of this property is irrigated by water from the Columbia.

The sun that is often hidden by the clouds on the coast is said to shine more than 250 days a year on Eastern Washington. I think that is true. It’s always sunny when I’ve been in Spokane.

The City has a river at its heart. Spokane Falls is a highlight of any visit to the city’s Riverfront Park. I love walking through this lovely area, the site of Expo ’74. Be sure you see the sculpture ‘Joy of Running’ honoring the city’s annual Bloomsday Race.

A unique feature of the city is the ‘Skywalks’ connecting historic buildings to the mall and shops and restaurants downtown. A must see is the marbled and gilded lobby of the restored 1914 Davenport Hotel. Take time for a drink in the Peacock Lounge.

I think the Northwest Museum of Art and Culture or MAC,as the locals call it, has an outstanding exhibit of northern plateau Indian history and culture. The ‘people of the river’ gallery features voices, photographs and example of Spokane and Colville tribal beadwork, basketry and clothing.

Manito Park on South Hill is one of my favorite locations. The classic formal gardens, the conservatory and the Japanese Garden offer great places to get away from the city hustle.

You’ll see more information on Eastern Washington in my travel video:

Washington State A Scenic Tour.