Spokane sits on the Spokane River in eastern Washington, close to the Selkirk Mountains and within easy reach of the Idaho state line. The downtown core holds much of what a visitor comes for: Riverfront Park, the historic Davenport District, the Fox and Bing Crosby theaters, and the Romanesque Revival buildings that survived the Great Spokane Fire of 1889. The city is also home to Gonzaga University, Manito Park, and the Northwest Museum of Arts and Culture.
For a visitor, the practical geography is simple. Downtown and the riverfront form the centre of things, with hotels on both banks of the Spokane River and along Division Street just across the bridge. The airport lies west of downtown, and separate clusters of accommodation sit east along the I-90 corridor toward Spokane Valley and Liberty Lake. This guide covers which of these areas to base yourself in, and what kind of accommodation you will find at each budget level.
Best areas to stay in Spokane
1. Downtown and the Davenport District
Downtown is the most convenient base for a first visit. It puts you in the heart of the city, within walking distance of Riverfront Park, the Davenport District (also known as the Art District), the Fox Theater, and the historic downtown architecture. This is where the city's luxury accommodation is concentrated, along with a range of mid-range hotels.
It suits first-time visitors and anyone who wants to spend their time on foot rather than in a car. Note that some downtown hotels sit on the riverbank or just across the bridge along Division Street, so check whether your address is in the core or a short walk from it.
2. North River Drive and the riverfront edge of downtown
The blocks along West North River Drive and North Division Street sit at the edge of Riverfront Park, on the banks of the Spokane River, just over the bridge from downtown. Staying here keeps you close to the park and the river while remaining within reach of the downtown core.
This area suits visitors who want the park and river on their doorstep and a quieter setting than the commercial centre, while still being a short walk from downtown attractions. It is served by mid-range hotels and suites.
3. Spokane Valley and the East I-90 corridor
East of downtown, along the I-90 corridor around Argonne Road and East Mission Avenue, you find a spread-out cluster of mid-range and budget accommodation. This area sits at the junction of I-90 and Argonne Road at Exit 287, which makes it straightforward to reach by car.
It suits travellers driving through the region, families, and anyone prioritising easy parking and highway access over walking distance to downtown. Expect to drive to the central sights rather than walk.
4. Airport and Airway Heights
West of downtown, around Spokane International Airport and Airway Heights, accommodation is oriented toward travellers passing through or arriving late. The airport sits about five miles west of downtown, near Fairchild Air Force Base.
This area suits short stays before or after a flight, and travellers who value proximity to the airport over proximity to the city centre. It is served by budget and mid-range hotels, some with extended-stay rates.
5. Liberty Lake
Liberty Lake lies further east along the I-90 corridor, beyond Spokane Valley. It is a quieter, more outlying base with mid-range accommodation.
It suits travellers with business or family reasons to be in the eastern part of the region, or those who prefer a suburban setting and do not mind driving into Spokane for the sights.
Where to stay on a budget, mid-range or splurge
- Budget: Expect motels and simple chain properties, including options near the airport at Airway Heights, along the east I-90 corridor, and a small lodge close to downtown on West 2nd Avenue. Rooms typically come with basic amenities such as free parking, Wi-Fi, and continental breakfast.
- Mid-range: This is the widest category in Spokane, covering chain hotels and all-suite properties downtown, along North River Drive, in Spokane Valley, near the airport, and at Liberty Lake. Some offer extended-stay rates, and several sit close to golf courses, universities, and visitor attractions.
- Splurge: The upper end is concentrated downtown and in the Davenport District, with luxury accommodation, historic properties, and small boutique hotels near the Fox Theater. Expect first-class service, on-site restaurants and bars, and rooms in historic buildings.
Best area for a first visit
Downtown and the Davenport District is the best base for a first visit. It places you within walking distance of Riverfront Park, the theaters, and the historic core, so you spend your time seeing the city rather than driving to it. It also offers the widest choice across all budget levels, from mid-range chains to the city's luxury and boutique properties.
Frequently asked questions
Where should I stay if I want to walk to the main sights?
Base yourself downtown or along the riverfront edge of downtown on North River Drive. Riverfront Park, the Davenport District, and the Fox Theater are all within walking distance of these areas.
Which area is best if I am arriving by air?
The airport and Airway Heights area, west of downtown, is the most practical for a flight-based trip. Spokane International Airport sits about five miles west of downtown, and there is a cluster of budget and mid-range accommodation nearby.
Where do families and drivers tend to stay?
The Spokane Valley and east I-90 corridor works well for families and drivers, with mid-range and budget options at the Argonne Road and I-90 junction at Exit 287. Liberty Lake, further east, offers a quieter suburban alternative.
Where is the luxury accommodation concentrated?
Downtown and the Davenport District hold the city's luxury and boutique properties, including historic hotels and small European-style options near the Fox Theater.
Compare live prices for these areas with the booking tools on this page before you decide.