Summer in Spokane is a vibrant season filled with a wide variety of activities. Here are some of my favorite fun things to do in Spokane this summer. I've listed them in chronological order for you, too! And, there are many more than just 10!
Visit the Northwest Museum of Arts and Culture
Known as the MAC, this museum offers fascinating exhibits on the history, art, and culture of the Inland Northwest. It's a great indoor activity for those hot summer days. During the summer, they have camps, story & craft events and more for kids - making it a fun Spokane activity for the whole family. Below pictured was a recent exhibit featuring the works of late Spokane artist, Harold Balazs. His "Lantern" sculpture (more commonly know as "Transcend the Bullshit") in Riverfront Park is a beloved icon of the city.
Date: Open year-round, Cost: $8 - $12, Kids 5 and under are free, Learn more here.
The Harold Balazs Exhibit at the MAC. Image courtesy of Northwest Museum of Arts and Culture.
Hike in Riverside State Park
For hiking enthusiasts, Riverside State Park offers miles of trails along the Spokane River. You can hike, bike, or even horseback ride through the park, and don’t miss the scenic Bowl and Pitcher area with its striking basalt rock formations
Date: Open year-round, Cost: Discovery pass required, Learn more here.
Visit Manito Park
This 90-acre park is perfect for a relaxing day out. Explore the beautifully manicured Duncan Garden, the Nishinomiya Tsutakawa Japanese Garden, and the Gaiser Conservatory. It's a great spot for picnicking, photography, and simply enjoying the outdoors. Mark it on your calendar as a fun thing to do in Spokane this weekend!
Date: Open year-round, Cost: Free, Learn more here.
I’ve talked about Manito Park before! If you’re looking for my inside scoop on some times to visit to see certain blooms, check out my blog Blooms & Basalt Rock: My Favorite Spokane Gardens & Green Spaces
Storytime at the Carrousel
Bring the kids to the Looff Carrousel in Riverfront Park for storytime sessions. It’s a delightful way for children to enjoy engaging stories and a ride on the historic carousel.
Date: Third Friday of the Month at 11 am, Cost: Free to attend and $1 carousel rides to those who attend, Recommended for ages 2-5, Learn more here.
Storytime might be for 2-5 year olds, but the carousel is for EVERYONE!
Explore Green Bluff
Just a short drive from Spokane, Green Bluff is a farming community known for its fresh produce. In the summer, you can pick your own berries, enjoy homemade pies, and visit various farm stands. It’s an excellent outing for families. And, if you're looking for something fun to do in Spokane TODAY, this is always a great option - especially on weekdays!
Date: Open all summer, Cost: Free, but so many yummy things to purchase, Learn more here.
Enjoy a Guided Walking Tour by Wander Spokane
Spokane has a burgeoning wine scene. Visit local wineries and tasting rooms to sample some of the best wines the region has to offer. Popular choices include Barrister Winery and Arbor Crest Wine Cellars, which also hosts a summer concert series - Link to Seattle to Spokane Relocation -
Dates: Available all summer, Cost: Varies. Their walking city tour is a “Pay-What-You-Can” structure, other tours are priced. Learn more here.
Attend the Arbor Crest Summer Concert Series
Enjoy live music with stunning views at Arbor Crest Wine Cellars. This summer concert series is a perfect way to relax with friends, enjoy great music, and sip on local wines. This is a perfect adult-only fun thing to do in Spokane this summer!
Date: Thursdays & Sundays, May - September, Cost: $10+, 21+ only, Learn more here.
Visit the Kendall Yards Night Market
Held every Wednesday evening throughout the summer, the Kendall Yards Night Market offers local produce, artisan goods, food trucks, and live music. It's a vibrant community event that showcases the best of Spokane’s local businesses
Date: Wednesday from 5 pm to 8:30 pm, Mid-May - Mid-September, Cost: Free, but lots of great items to purchase inside the market, Learn more here.
Attend Riverfront Moves
Stay active with Riverfront Moves, offering free outdoor exercise classes like yoga and barre in Riverfront Park. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy the summer weather while staying fit. The instructors are always fun any some evenings have DJ-ed music to make the classes extra fun!
Date: Runs Mid-June - Labor Day on MOST Tuesdays, Thursday and Saturdays, Cost: Free, Find the official schedule here.
Note: Looking for a less active, free Riverfront activity? Check out their free summer movie nights!
A yoga class at Riverfront Park. Image courtesy of Riverfront Park of Spokane.
Terrain's Bazaar
Explore handmade goods from hundreds of the region's most vibrant and dynamic small businesses, and revel in the abundance of creativity our area has to offer.
Date: Mid June, Cost: Free to attend, but so many amazing artisans to purchase from, Learn more here.
SkyFest
Fairchild Air For Base is hosting SkyFest! A free event open to the public. The show will features a variety of aircrafts, performances and much more.
Date: Mid-June, Cost: Free, Learn more here.
Participate in Hoopfest
Experience the world’s largest 3-on-3 basketball tournament. Whether you’re playing or cheering from the sidelines, Hoopfest is a thrilling and energetic event that showcases Spokane’s community spirit
Date: Last weekend of June, Cost: Registration fees vary, Learn more here.
Kayak, Float or Paddleboard on the Spokane River
Rent a kayak or paddleboard and enjoy a day on the water. The Spokane River offers both calm sections for beginners and more challenging rapids for the adventurous
Date: Water levels vary depending on year, but typically the season starts in late June or July. Cost: Free, other than supplies.
Celebrate the 4th of July in Downtown Spokane
Downtown Spokane comes alive on Independence Day with fireworks, live music, and family-friendly activities. Head to Riverfront Park for the best views and an evening filled with patriotic celebrations.
Date: July 4th, Cost: Varied, Learn more here.
Watch Shakespeare in the Park
Enjoy classic plays in a beautiful outdoor setting. Spokane’s Shakespeare in the Park events bring beloved plays to life in local parks, offering a cultural treat for theater enthusiasts. This will the 4th season for the Spokane Shakespeare Society!
Date: Mid-July - Mid-September, Cost: Donations, Learn more here.
Pig Out in the Park
This popular event features food vendors, live music, and family-friendly activities. Held in Riverfront Park, Pig Out in the Park is a six-day festival that celebrates Spokane’s culinary diversity and community spirit
Date: Labor Day Weekend, Cost: Free to attend, but food purchases are a must! Learn more here.
VOLUME Music Festival
This beloved local music festival is returning after a 4-year hiatus. Enjoy over 80 artists at 10 different venues over two days. Tickets allow entrance into all shows. Pick and choose what you like best. Music types vary widely, so there is something for everyone!
Date: Mid-September, Cost: $50 and up, Learn more here.
Spokane’s summer activities cater to a wide range of interests, from outdoor adventures to cultural experiences. Whether you’re exploring parks, enjoying local markets, or participating in community events, there’s always something fun to do in Spokane during the summer months
Looking for other seasonal lists? Check out my blogs 10+ Fun Things to Do This Spring in Spokane, WA or 10+ Fun Things to Do This Winter in Spokane, WA.
