When it comes to planning a trip to Spokane, Washington, one of the most important factors to consider is the best time to visit. Spokane is a city located in the eastern part of the state, near the Idaho border, and its climate is characterized by cold winters and warm summers. The city has a lot to offer, from outdoor activities like hiking and skiing to cultural attractions like museums and festivals. However, the best time to visit Spokane depends on your preferences and what you want to do during your trip.
In this article, we will explore the best time to visit Spokane, including the pros and cons of each season, and provide you with some tips and recommendations to make the most of your trip.
The Best Time to Visit Spokane: A Season-by-Season Guide
Spring (March to May)
Spring is a great time to visit Spokane, with mild temperatures and plenty of sunshine. The average high temperature in March is around 58°F (14°C), while in April and May it’s around 68°F (20°C). This is a great time to enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and kayaking, as the weather is generally warm and sunny.
One of the main advantages of visiting Spokane in the spring is that it’s a great time to see the city’s famous cherry blossoms. The city has a large number of cherry blossom trees, and in the spring, they bloom with beautiful pink flowers. This is a popular event, and many people come to Spokane specifically to see the blossoms.
However, spring is also a popular time for festivals and events in Spokane. The city hosts the Spokane International Folk Festival in April, which features music and dance performances from around the world. In May, the city hosts the Spokane Cherry Blossom Festival, which includes a parade, live music, and food vendors.
Summer (June to August)
Summer is the peak tourist season in Spokane, with warm weather and long days. The average high temperature in June is around 84°F (29°C), while in July and August it’s around 90°F (32°C). This is a great time to enjoy outdoor activities like swimming, fishing, and boating, as well as visiting the city’s many parks and trails.
One of the main advantages of visiting Spokane in the summer is that it’s a great time to enjoy the city’s many outdoor festivals and events. The city hosts the Spokane SummerFest in July, which features live music, food vendors, and a fireworks display. In August, the city hosts the Spokane County Fair, which includes a rodeo, live music, and a demolition derby.
However, summer is also the most popular time to visit Spokane, which means that the city can be quite crowded. If you’re looking for a more relaxed atmosphere, consider visiting in the spring or fall. (See Also: Is January A Good Time To Visit Honolulu – Discover Now)
Autumn (September to November)
Autumn is a great time to visit Spokane, with mild temperatures and beautiful fall foliage. The average high temperature in September is around 72°F (22°C), while in October and November it’s around 58°F (14°C). This is a great time to enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and kayaking, as the weather is generally cool and sunny.
One of the main advantages of visiting Spokane in the autumn is that it’s a great time to see the city’s fall foliage. The city has a large number of deciduous trees, and in the autumn, they turn brilliant shades of orange, yellow, and red. This is a popular event, and many people come to Spokane specifically to see the foliage.
However, autumn is also a popular time for festivals and events in Spokane. The city hosts the Spokane Fall Fest in September, which features live music, food vendors, and a pumpkin patch. In October, the city hosts the Spokane Halloween Party, which includes a costume contest, live music, and a haunted house.
Winter (December to February)
Winter is a great time to visit Spokane, with cold temperatures and plenty of snow. The average high temperature in December is around 42°F (6°C), while in January and February it’s around 38°F (3°C). This is a great time to enjoy outdoor activities like skiing, snowshoeing, and ice skating, as well as visiting the city’s many indoor attractions.
One of the main advantages of visiting Spokane in the winter is that it’s a great time to enjoy the city’s many holiday events and festivals. The city hosts the Spokane Christmas Parade in December, which features floats, marching bands, and of course, Santa Claus. In January, the city hosts the Spokane WinterFest, which includes live music, food vendors, and a snow sculpture contest.
However, winter is also a popular time for indoor attractions in Spokane. The city has a number of museums, including the Northwest Museum of Arts and Culture, the Spokane Art School, and the Mobius Science Center. These attractions are a great way to spend a cold winter day, and they offer a variety of exhibits and activities for visitors of all ages. (See Also: Best Time to Visit Hilton Head? Peak Season Delights)
Best Time to Visit Spokane: Tips and Recommendations
When to Visit
The best time to visit Spokane depends on your preferences and what you want to do during your trip. If you’re looking for warm weather and outdoor activities, summer is a great time to visit. If you prefer cooler weather and don’t mind the crowds, spring and autumn are great options. If you’re looking for a more relaxed atmosphere and don’t mind the cold, winter is a great time to visit.
What to Pack
When packing for your trip to Spokane, be sure to bring layers. The city’s weather can be unpredictable, and it’s always a good idea to be prepared for changing conditions. Bring a jacket or coat for cooler weather, as well as a hat and gloves for colder days. If you’re planning to visit in the summer, be sure to bring sunscreen and a hat to protect yourself from the sun.
What to Do
There are many things to do in Spokane, regardless of the time of year you visit. Some popular attractions include:
- The Spokane River
- The Spokane Falls
- The Northwest Museum of Arts and Culture
- The Spokane Art School
- The Mobius Science Center
These attractions offer a variety of exhibits and activities for visitors of all ages. If you’re looking for outdoor activities, the city has many parks and trails, as well as opportunities for hiking, biking, and kayaking.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the best time to visit Spokane depends on your preferences and what you want to do during your trip. The city has a lot to offer, from outdoor activities like hiking and skiing to cultural attractions like museums and festivals. Whether you visit in the spring, summer, autumn, or winter, there’s always something to do in Spokane. By following these tips and recommendations, you can make the most of your trip and have a great time in this beautiful city.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time to visit Spokane?
The best time to visit Spokane depends on your preferences and what you want to do during your trip. If you’re looking for warm weather and outdoor activities, summer is a great time to visit. If you prefer cooler weather and don’t mind the crowds, spring and autumn are great options. If you’re looking for a more relaxed atmosphere and don’t mind the cold, winter is a great time to visit.
What are some popular attractions in Spokane?
Some popular attractions in Spokane include the Spokane River, the Spokane Falls, the Northwest Museum of Arts and Culture, the Spokane Art School, and the Mobius Science Center. These attractions offer a variety of exhibits and activities for visitors of all ages. (See Also: Best Time of Year to Visit Turkey? Discover Hidden Gems)
What are some outdoor activities to do in Spokane?
There are many outdoor activities to do in Spokane, including hiking, biking, kayaking, and skiing. The city has many parks and trails, as well as opportunities for outdoor recreation on the Spokane River and surrounding mountains.
What are some festivals and events in Spokane?
Spokane hosts many festivals and events throughout the year, including the Spokane International Folk Festival, the Spokane Cherry Blossom Festival, the Spokane SummerFest, and the Spokane Halloween Party. These events offer a variety of music, food, and activities for visitors of all ages.
What is the weather like in Spokane?
The weather in Spokane varies depending on the time of year. In the spring, the average high temperature is around 58°F (14°C), while in the summer it’s around 84°F (29°C). In the autumn, the average high temperature is around 72°F (22°C), while in the winter it’s around 38°F (3°C). It’s always a good idea to pack layers and be prepared for changing weather conditions.
