Known as “The Lilac City” for the purple blooms that thrive in the area, Spokane gets its name from the nearby Native American tribe of the same name, which means “Children of the Sun”. Spokane’s accessible downtown and unique blend of outdoor experiences make it the perfect place to find some space in 2021!

What makes SPOKANE a great place for faith-based meetings?

Spokane is a gathering place where accessibility and hospitality conspire to make an original city experience both manageable and delightful. The beauty of Spokane is its proximity to nature and all God’s handiwork. Located along the Spokane River, the Spokane Convention Center offers up idyllic views. Between sessions, attendees have time to take a walk along The Centennial Trail through Riverfront Park, the site of the 1974 World’s Fair. Affordable, convenient, safe and walkable, Spokane is a city in constant motion, filled with amazing restaurants, history and jewel hotels.

What is unique and interesting about SPOKANE to visiting groups?

Visitors must make a point of visiting the roaring Spokane Falls in downtown Spokane's Huntington Park, and ride the Numerica SkyRide over the Falls. A must-see is The Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist. Created in the Gothic Revival style, it sits atop a hill overlooking the city. The 90-acre Manito Park is located nearby and features five distinct gardens.

Take the self-guided tour at the Historic Davenport Hotel. For architectural or art enthusiasts, take the free, self- guided Heritage or Sculpture Walks. Stop a moment under the twinkling lights of the free, nightly light show in the US Pavilion in Riverfront Park.

What are some nearby cultural experiences that groups would enjoy?

Spokane has a nice collection of museums and art galleries. The Northwest Museum of Arts and Culture is a Smithsonian-affiliated museum, which means it always has an exhibit guaranteed to pique your interest, plus it has
an incredible American Indian Collection. Spokane means “Children of the Sun” in the Salish language.

At Gonzaga University's centrally located campus, the Jundt Art Museum and the Bing Crosby Museum give you quality art and quality time with one of the world's most famous crooners. The best part: both are free. While you’re on campus, make a point of walking to St. Aloysius Catholic Church. Pause for a moment outside to look up at the awe-inspiring spires before going inside to take in the stunning interior.

What are some new or upcoming enhancements to SPOKANE that event planners should know about?

Four new hotels boldly opened their doors over the last year. Hotel Indigo in downtown Spokane, Tru by Hilton Spokane Valley, Hampton Inn South, and Springhill Suites Spokane Airport are all available options to rest your head. What was old is new again at The Centennial Hotel and Ruby River Hotel. Both have undergone extensive remodels.

Opening in the fall of 2021, The Podium is an all-new destination sports venue. Overlooking downtown Spokane, connected to Riverfront Park and within walking distance of the Spokane Convention Center and Spokane Veterans Memorial Arena, its main feature is a 200m, 6-lane indoor hydraulically banked track. Just approved! A 5,000-seat outdoor stadium, which will be conveniently located just north of The Podium. The predicted completion of the $31 million project is for the fall of 2022.

SPOKANE BY THE NUMBERS

120,000 square feet of exhibit space in the convention center
20 daily non-stop flights from six major airlines
3,758 hotel rooms in downtown
Riverfront Park named “One of the Most Beautiful Urban Parks in the US” by NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC