A Three-Day Weekend Guide for Spokane in Summer by Behler Homes

A Three-Day Weekend Guide for Spokane in Summer by Behler Homes

Whether you're visiting Spokane for the first time, considering a move to our wonderful city, or simply looking for a fresh way to spend a long weekend, I've put together my ideal three-day Spokane itinerary.

As a born-and-raised local and the founder of Behler Homes, these are the hyper-local spots I find myself recommending again and again to friends, family, clients, and newcomers. This guide combines some of Spokane's best food, locally loved coffee shops, beautiful outdoor spaces, and favorite activities. If you only have three days to experience the Best of the Inland Northwest, here is exactly how I would spend them.

 

Day One | Friday: Discover Downtown & Kendall Yards

Brunch: Bruncheonette

Let's start strong. I love Bruncheonette for that true brunch hour. On a Friday you’ll skip the wait if you land at this place around 10 or 11 am.  Their creative menu, generous portions, and cozy atmosphere make it an easy recommendation for visitors looking to kick off their Spokane adventure. It’s a great way to get a creative, hearty meal before heading into your day.

Afternoon Activity: Kendall Yards & The Centennial Trail

Head just a few blocks south and spend some time wandering Kendall Yards. This vibrant, master-planned neighborhood has become one of Spokane's most popular destinations, featuring local shops, public art, and incredible river views. Grab a walk along the Centennial Trail and enjoy one of the best vantage points of downtown Spokane.

Local Pro-Tip: Have a bit of extra time and love to get moving? Follow the trail all the way west and southwest to cross the bridge into the historic, peaceful oasis of Peaceful Valley. Is shopping more your thing? keep the walk quick and leave a little extra time for adventuring at River Park Square before dinner.

Related Blog Post: Spokane 29 Neighborhood Overview by Behler Homes: Part 3

Afternoon Pick-me-up Stop: New Love Coffee (Kendall Yards) or Donuts at Hello Sugar

Need a mid-afternoon pick-me-ready? Swing by New Love Coffee. It's the perfect spot to grab a specialty latte, sit back, and people-watch with beautiful views of the gorge. Not into coffee? Grab a sweet treat from Hello Sugar.

Dinner: Choose Your Dining Experience

Downtown Spokane's culinary scene is exploding. Depending on your vibe, I highly recommend two distinct options:

  • Option 1: Clinkerdagger (The Historic Icon): Located in the historic Flour Mill, the food here is excellent, but the real star is the outdoor deck overlooking the Spokane River and Lower Falls. It's an iconic dining experience and a perfect place to relax. It is just east of Monroe, in the same vicinity as Kendall Yards, so it’s the easiest choice geographically. 

  • Option 2: Inland Pacific Kitchen (The Foodie Hotspot): For something highly innovative, treat yourself to IPK. Located in the Washington Cracker Co. building, they are known for creative, themed menus featuring locally sourced ingredients and thoughtful presentations. Make sure to snag a reservation.

Evening Activity: Riverfront Park & Downtown Nightlife

No Spokane weekend is complete without spending time at Riverfront Park. If you’re an early dinner eater, walk along the Spokane River, ride the historic Looff Carousel, take the Numerica SkyRide over Spokane Falls, or simply enjoy the evening lights.

This puts you right next to the core of downtown for late-night options. Grab a craft cocktail downstairs at Durkin’s Liquor Bar; catch a live show at the Spokane Comedy Club or the First Interstate Center for the Arts (INB); or watch some live music at Barrister Winery.

Related Guide: Spokane Relocation Guide from a Local

 

Day Two | Saturday: Green Bluff & Spokane's Rural Side

Breakfast: Frank's Diner (North Location)

For your second morning, visit one of Spokane's most iconic and historic restaurants. Frank's Diner has been serving customers for over a century from a beautifully preserved, historic railcar. It remains a must-visit destination for unbeatable breakfast classics.

Local Pro-Tip:  It's best to leave EARLY for this day's adventures. If you're too tired from the night before, switch your Green Bluff day to Sunday and head for a low key day on the South Hill today.

Daytime Activity: Exploring Green Bluff

As someone who actually lives on Green Bluff, I couldn't create a Spokane weekend guide without including my own backyard! Just 15 minutes north of Spokane, Green Bluff is a unique agricultural cooperative home to more than 30 family farms, orchards, wineries, and seasonal events. Depending on the time of year, you can pick fresh berries, apples, pumpkins, or simply enjoy the stunning mountain views and rolling farmland.

Lunch: High Country Orchard

While on the Bluff, make High Country Orchard your midday stop. Step inside their beautiful barn market for a gourmet lunch, and make sure you do not leave without trying one of their famous, scratch-made huckleberry fritters or a slice of fresh-baked pie. It’s the ultimate farm-to-table lunch experience.

Afternoon Drink: Wildland Cooperative

After lunch, head over to Wildland Cooperative to unwind. This space perfectly blends a farm, a natural winery/brewery, and an art market. Grab a flight of local Washington wine or a pint of craft beer, sit out on the patio, and soak in the community atmosphere and rural landscape.

Dinner: Wild Sage Bistro

Head back into the city and finish your Saturday with one of Spokane's most consistently acclaimed dining experiences. Wild Sage Bistro is beloved for its exceptional service, locally inspired dishes, and an upscale atmosphere that feels special without being overly formal.

Related Blog Post: Orchards & Acreage: Exploring Green Bluff Just North of Spokane, WA

 

Day Three | Sunday: South Hill Charm & Neighborhood Favorites

Breakfast: Rockwood Bakery

Start your Sunday like a true South Hill local. Rockwood Bakery is nestled just down the street from Manito Park in a charming, tree-lined neighborhood. Grab a fresh pastry and a coffee, and enjoy the cozy, community-centered atmosphere.

Morning Activity: Manito Park & Botanical Gardens

If you've spent any time reading the Behler Homes blog, you know I absolutely love Manito Park. This 90-acre park is one of Spokane's true crown jewels. Depending on the season, you'll find world-class rose gardens, lilacs, a peaceful Japanese Garden, the Gaiser Conservatory, and beautiful historic stone structures. It's always the first place I bring clients and friends visiting the area.

Lunch: South Perry Pizza

Since you're already on the South Hill, head just a few blocks east to the vibrant Perry District for lunch at South Perry Pizza. Their wood-fired pizzas have earned a fierce following among locals, and the open-air, walkable neighborhood atmosphere makes it a fantastic midday stop.

Afternoon Activity: Perry District Exploration

Spend the rest of your afternoon exploring the local boutiques, indie shops, and neighborhood character of the Perry District. It's one of my personal favorite Spokane neighborhoods because it masterfully balances historic preservation with a thriving, modern independent business community. Local Pro-Tip: Need a little exercise before hitting the road? Head straight south on Perry Street until the road ends. There you’ll find the historic Perry Street steps. A few loops on the 63 step incline will make you feel good about sitting the rest of the day while you travel home!

Before You Hit the Road:

Grab a final caffeine kick at The Shop (a converted historic garage turned coffeehouse) or enjoy a light, refreshing local craft beer at Perry St. Brewing before wrapping up your weekend.

Related Blog Post: Blooms & Basalt Rock: My Favorite Spokane Gardens & Green Spaces

 

Why I Love Calling Spokane Home

One of my favorite things about Spokane is the sheer variety you can experience in a single weekend. You can spend your morning walking through world-class botanical gardens, your afternoon exploring urban boutiques, and your evening enjoying award-winning culinary creations. Best of all, you can enjoy the energy of downtown one day and be wandering quiet orchards on Green Bluff the next.

Whether you're visiting for a quick long weekend or considering making the Inland Northwest your permanent home, I hope this guide helps you experience the true local magic of our city. Thinking of relocating to the area? You can check out my listings here or connect with me

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