Spokane, WA

Spokane, the second-largest city in Washington, sits in Spokane County in the eastern part of the state, a region often called the Inland Northwest. With a city population of roughly 230,000 and a metro area approaching 600,000, it functions as the principal urban hub for eastern Washington, northern Idaho, and parts of western Montana. The city carries a relaxed, outdoorsy character, pairing a walkable, revitalized downtown with quick access to mountains, lakes, and river canyons. It is best known as a regional center and a gateway to the surrounding natural landscapes, and it lies about 280 miles east of Seattle, the nearest major West Coast city, and roughly 18 miles west of the Idaho border.

At the heart of downtown, Riverfront Park was built on the site of the 1974 World's Fair and stretches along both banks of the Spokane River. Its centerpiece is the Spokane Falls, a series of cascades that thunder through the city center and are illuminated after dark. The park also includes walking and cycling paths, an old-fashioned carousel, and the U.S. Pavilion observation tower, making it a natural starting point for visitors exploring the city on foot.

About 30 miles northeast of downtown, Mount Spokane State Park covers more than 13,000 acres of forested ridges, alpine meadows, and small lakes, with a summit just over 5,800 feet. The drive takes roughly 45 minutes. In summer, the park offers hiking, mountain biking, and wildflower meadows, while in winter it becomes a ski and snowshoe destination with both downhill runs and a Nordic trail system. The scenic drive up to the top is a draw in every season.

Roughly 30 miles east of Spokane, across the state line, sits the resort town of Coeur d'Alene on the shore of its strikingly blue namesake lake, a drive of about 40 minutes. The lake is famous for boating, swimming, and a memorable floating green at the local resort golf course, and the surrounding town offers boutiques, restaurants, and a lively waterfront. It is a popular day trip and weekend escape for Spokane visitors and residents alike.

Spokane's combination of an affordable, walkable urban core and immediate access to mountains, lakes, and small Idaho towns makes it a natural base for short-term rentals. Travelers can spend mornings at Spokane Falls, afternoons hiking on Mount Spokane, and evenings dining along the lake in Coeur d'Alene, all within an hour of the city. With four distinct seasons, a growing food and arts scene, and a central location within the Inland Northwest, Spokane offers year-round appeal and steady demand for hosts welcoming visitors to the region.