16 Amazing Day Trips From Spokane (Under 5 Hours Away)
Spokane is a great launching pad for an amazing day trip, and sometimes you just need a change of scenery!
From the breathtaking Columbia River Gorge to the vibrant city of Seattle, some of the most incredible destinations are just a short drive away.
Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventure or urban exploration, check out our list of 16 great day trips from Spokane that you won’t want to miss!
1. Seattle (4 Hour Drive)
If you’re looking for the perfect day trip from Spokane, Seattle is it. Known for both its city culture and natural beauty, Seattle is an idyllic destination to connect with nature and explore a vibrant metropolis.
Get up early and take a tour at the iconic Space Needle, have your coffee where it all started at the first Starbucks in the world, and explore the inspiring Museum of Pop Culture.
Enjoy a mouth-watering seafood lunch with a water view or meander around at one of the many parks around town.
If you’re looking for outdoor fun, the Olympic and Cascade Mountains are close by – get crazy with a hike and enjoy the fresh mountain air.
Just make sure you bring comfy shoes: there’s lots to explore in this Northwest gem. In other words, if your itinerary allows – don’t skip Seattle!
Tip: Check out all our guides on Seattle to make the most out of your trip.
2. Soap Lake (2 Hour Drive)
For those looking to take a day trip from Spokane, consider the tiny yet mighty city of Soap Lake.
Reportedly the most diverse mineral lake in the world, Soap Lake could possibly be an alternate form of an indulgent spa treatment!
The unique minerals found in the lake have become known for their healing powers.
Even if you don’t believe in its true restorative powers, you can always enjoy mud baths or indulge in floating bliss due to the high levels of buoyancy.
Soap Lake’s name hints at its star attraction, but don’t let that be all you do during your stay.
Explore the city itself and discover cultural wonders like the Masquers Theater, a performing arts house with entertaining stage shows throughout the year.
After a cultural exploration, opt for an adventure – rough it like the early settlers and stay in a tipi at Smokiam Resort.
Top it off with some tasty eats at one of the many restaurants, you can’t go wrong with a feast to end the day.
Armed with 320+ days of sunshine, Soap Lake is practically begging you to pay a visit.
3. Wallace (1.5 Hour Drive)
Spokane may be a gem of the Inland Northwest, but why not take a trip to its even more boisterous neighbor?
Considered the “Silver Capital of the World”, Wallace, Idaho is brimming with history – and with far fewer tourists.
Wallace continues to boast an impressive 100-plus years of operations as a major world silver producer.
Touring the Wallace District Mining Museum is worth making the 1.5-hour drive – you’ll get to explore the impact of silver on our Pacific Northwest corner of the world.
Better yet, you can follow that up with a beer at 1313 Club Bar & Grill, the oldest bar in all of Idaho – where they serve up cold brews and tall tales in equal measure.
Dive into the Wild West and spur your curiosity, learn something new, and top it off with a refreshing beverage!
Who knew that such a fun day trip existed only an hour and a half away from Spokane?
4. Lake Mary Ronan (4 Hour Drive)
Looking for an adventurous day trip from Spokane? Lake Mary Ronan is an excellent choice for families looking to dip their toes into the great outdoors.
This gorgeous alpine lake located in northwest Montana offers a variety of activities that will keep all members of your family entertained.
Fishing, hiking, and camping – it’s literally a tiny paradise with something to offer everyone.
With its pristine location and peaceful atmosphere, this paradise on Earth sets the mood for tranquil moments to unwind, connect with nature and make plenty of memories.
5. Missoula (3 Hour Drive)
Looking to get away without going too far? Head on out of Spokane and straight into the wilds of Montana with a day trip to Missoula!
It’s just a three-hour drive away, but if you close your eyes, you can almost believe you’re in another country – particularly when you arrive and inhale that beautiful Big Sky Country air.
With the Rattlesnake National Recreation Area & Wilderness, it’s easy to enjoy nature with activities such as hiking, horseback riding and cross-country skiing.
And if that doesn’t satiate your curiosity, there are plenty of cultural and historical attractions to explore too, like the art museum, the iconic carousel, and The Historical Museum at Fort Missoula.
All in one day- you can take on the warm sunshine and still get a full dose of history!
6. Kennewick (2 Hour Drive)
One surefire way to experience something new and maybe even slightly out of the ordinary is to take a day trip to Kennewick.
Nature lovers are especially in for a treat; Columbia Park has 400 acres of lush flora and fauna.
For the urban explorers, downtown Kennewick’s historic buildings have been renewed, creating space for specialty boutiques and wine bars. You can even see Broadway-style musicals!
Take a spin aboard the historic charm of the Gesa Carousel of Dreams, then reflect and honor America’s history at the 9/11 Memorial.
Surprisingly enough, these steel beams were recovered from the wreckage of the World Trade Center— talk about a piece of history with meaning!
7. Glacier National Park (5 Hour Drive)
If you’re feeling adventurous and swear to leave all boredom in your rearview mirror, then Glacier National Park is the place to go.
You can expect alpine lakes, and mountainous views with occasional wild animals crossing your path.
Hidden Lake Overlook offers arguably the best scenic opportunities, while Grinnell Glacier Overlook affords breathtaking views of icy mountains that will make you appreciate nature’s grand scale.
8. Colville National Forest (2 Hour Drive)
Colville National Forest is a stunning outdoor playground that’s just a day trip from Spokane.
Are you looking for an off-the-beaten-path rugged camping experience? The 1.1 million acre forest will have you feeling like the first person ever to step into the wilds.
While visitors are welcome to enjoy fishing, mountain biking, horseback riding, and skiing, the park offers an interesting history lesson as well.
Travel back in time when you follow the interpretive trails. They’ll lead you through the fascinating history of logging and mining activities that shaped this place as we know it.
Even if you’re short on time, there’s ample opportunity to explore Colville’s vast beauty!
9. Mount Spokane (1 Hour Drive)
Ready to hit the road from Spokane? Get out and explore the gorgeous Selkirk Mountain range, with over 100 miles of trails for hiking and exploration – not to mention some wild critters!
If you’re feeling lazy, don’t worry – drive up instead of trekking it. Mt. Spokane’s Summit Road is open during the summer months, so go ahead and climb your way to the top.
To really take in the views, check out Vista House; catch a glimpse of nearby lakes using one of the conveniently placed viewfinders.
It’s the perfect winter destination for skiers and snowboarders and during the summer months, it’s an outdoor lover’s dream come true!
10. Coeur d’Alene (40 Min Drive)
Taking a day trip from Spokane to Coeur d’Alene is a great escape from the typical routine. Just a 40-minute drive away and you’ll find yourself in Idaho’s stunning lake city!
This picturesque location is full of exciting activities, including biking trails, lake cruises and of course, enjoying the urban vibe downtown.
Not to mention, it’s so close that you don’t even have to worry about packing an overnight bag.
Late fall or winter is the best time to make the journey if you want a chance at spotting bald eagles – these birds migrate to feast on yummy salmon, giving you a wondrous nature show.
11. Leavenworth (3 Hour Drive)
Few places in the country capture Bavarian charm like Leavenworth, and with only a short two-hour drive from Spokane, it’s an easy day trip for anyone seeking to enjoy some of Washington’s unique attractions.
In the winter, the town transforms into a Bavarian-style village, complete with twinkling lights and holiday cheer during the most magical time of year.
From charming Alpine architecture to beer tasting at local German restaurants on Front Street, you won’t be disappointed by what this town has to offer.
The Nutcracker Museum is a can’t-miss stop – it boasts over 7,000 different nutcrackers!
From traditional models to the downright eccentric, any hobbyist or art enthusiast will appreciate the diverse range of pieces on display.
Be aware, though – you may never want to leave once you get a look at what Leavenworth has to offer!
12. Newman Lake (30 Min Drive)
Newman Lake makes for the perfect day trip from Spokane, with outdoor activities like boating or fishing, to great eateries and picnic spots nearby.
Whether you decide to take a leisurely cruise around the lake or try your luck at angling for its large bass population, there’s plenty of fun to be had.
It’s the kind of outing where absolutely nothing has to go as planned – kick back, relax, and just enjoy all that Newman Lake has to offer!
13. Walla Walla (3 Hour Drive)
Walla Walla is a wine lover’s paradise! Just a few miles away from the state border with Oregon and Spokane, it’s the perfect destination for a day trip.
Drawing oenophiles from all around, sample one (or two) glasses of Merlot, Syrah and Cabernet varietals at renowned spots such as Waterbrook Winery and Leonetti Cellar.
Satisfied sippers can explore Walla Walla further by strolling around Main Street. Here, visitors will find quaint shops, cozy cafes and delicious dining options to round out the perfect day-trip getaway.
Adventure seekers can venture into the surrounding countryside too; with its breathtaking scenery, you’ll have all sorts of opportunities to try some of Washington’s finest wines.
14. Portland (5 Hour Drive)
A day trip from Spokane to Portland could be the perfect way to get away for a little while and explore a city full of fun and adventure.
You can start your trip with a cup of coffee from one of Portland’s many local cafes. Take in some art, and go window shopping at the boutiques.
And if you’re feeling particularly adventurous, allow yourself to be charmed by the eclectic mix of restaurants that fill the downtown streets.
From incredible small-batch breweries to acclaimed chef-driven restaurants, you’ll find something in Portland that tickles your taste buds and leaves your stomach satisfied.
Of course, if you’re looking for a more educated outing, don’t forget that Portland is home to Powell’s City of Books – arguably the best way to spend an afternoon exploring thousands of titles, old and new.
With its vibrant culture, friendly locals, diverse offerings, and beautiful public parks, Portland is sure to charm you – even if it is just for a day!
15. Bainbridge Island (5 Hour Drive)
An island just across Seattle, Bainbridge Island is totally worth a day trip from Spokane.
Pack your sunscreen and sense of adventure – with stunning driftwood beaches and sweeping views of neighboring mountains – you’ll need to wrap up at least an entire day to take it all in.
The local museum adds a touch of culture to your day out too, exhibiting work from emerging local artists.
For lunch, stop by one of the many cozy cafes with tasty regional fare before heading downtown to do a little shopping.
16. The Columbia River Gorge (4 Hour Drive)
If you’re looking for an adventure just outside of Spokane, the Columbia River Gorge is a great place to spend a day.
Though it’s a four-hour drive, it’s worth it: there are so many wonderful things to explore.
It’s an outdoor enthusiast’s dream, offering endless activities like hiking, biking, sightseeing, fishing, and even water sports.
But that’s not all – The Oregon side of the gorge is home to an unbelievable 90 waterfalls, many of which can be seen along the breathtaking Historic Columbia River Highway.
Don’t miss out on the iconic Multnomah Falls, clocking in at 620 feet (190 meters)!
If that’s not quite your speed, cast off into the river by boat and feel at peace on the peaceful waters.
The Columbia River Gorge is a perfect escape for anyone who is curious about nature or has a thirst for outdoor exploration.
