As briefly mentioned in our earlier article, Location is Key, one of the most attractive features about the Tri-Cities is its central location in the Pacific Northwest. With routes to the major cities of Seattle, Spokane, and Portland, you’re never more than a few hours from urban hustle and bustle. Access to international airports means that you can catch a flight anywhere in the world, (as soon as travel restrictions begin to ease). With regular flights from the Tri-Cities Airport, these urban centers have become easier than ever to reach. Today, we’re setting our spotlight sights on the “lilac city” of Spokane, Washington.
Background
The largest city in the eastern half of the state, Spokane’s population is around 225,000 and has been steadily rising over the past few decades. It shares a lot in common with the Tri-Cities, being very similar both geographically and geologically. Located about 145 miles to our northeast, it’s a straight drive of about two hours on I-90. You’ll pass several small towns on your drive up north through one of the coulees that define our region. These massive ravines stretch for hundreds of miles, remnants of the Missoula Floods that carved out valleys like the Columbia River Gorge. We covered these prolific floods in a previous post, which you can check out here.
History
The city was named after the Spokane Tribe who originally inhabited the area that we now call home. The name translates into “children of the sun,” which remains a great descriptor of our region’s attitude and persona. We covered some of our region’s native tribes and history in the article “Native Tribes of Eastern Washington,” which you can read here. A small European fur trade post was established in the area in 1810, but the population truly began to grow after the completion of the Northern Pacific Railway in 1881. Settlers came from all around, hearing prospects of silver and gold in the region. The city was established that same year, originally being named “Spokane Falls.”
Time for Fun
When COVID restrictions ease up on small businesses in Washington State, there will be a great deal of need for support from the community in our state. If you are planning a trip to Spokane down the road, you will not be short on options for dining and accommodations. In the meantime, if you are traveling through the area, there are a few points of interest that remain open and safe to enjoy in the midst of this pandemic. Palisades Park is a sprawling outdoor nature reserve east of downtown Spokane. Featuring a seven-mile roundtrip hiking trail with family and pet friendly amenities, the park is a fantastic way to enjoy the beauty of our region up close and personal. You will enjoy gorgeous views of Mt. Spokane on the horizon while passing colossal basalt formations. Hidden gems like the Indian Canyon Falls reward the more adventurous hikers who explore thoroughly.
Conclusion
The Spokane area is a diverse and beautiful representation of eastern Washington, offering a bit of something for everyone to enjoy. It’s a place that everyone who lives in the region should visit at least once, full of history, beautiful scenery, and Romanesque architecture. If you haven’t yet made a trip to Spokane, make sure to check out the lilac city when you get the chance. You’re sure to have a good time.
