Spokane, Washington, has a rich culture with engaging musical performances, art exhibits, and historic programs readily available to residents and visitors alike. If you’re interested in experiencing Spokane’s cultural highlights firsthand, several places offer just that.
Keep in mind that many of these destinations have changed their operating hours and procedures due to COVID-19. Always check with the venue in advance for the latest information on closings.
Northwest Museum of Arts and Culture
2316 West 1st Avenue, Spokane, WA
A Smithsonian affiliate, the Northwest Museum of Arts and Culture works to preserve the heritage of Inland Northwest people through its programs, collections, and exhibitions. The MAC features collections of American Indian objects, 19th and 20th century art, and regional history artifacts. Rotating exhibits are regularly featured as well, so you can always find something new to experience.
The MAC is also home to the Campbell House, which transports visitors back to life circa 1910. Constructed in stunning English Tudor Revival style, the property boasts an elegant main house, offset service wing, and nearby carriage house. The Campbell House was carefully restored between 1984 and 2001 to provide an accurate glimpse of life around the turn of the century.
Corbin Art Center
507 West 7th Avenue, Spokane, WA
The Corbin Art Center hosts special programs on fine arts and crafts for both children and adults. Small class sizes ensure that every participant gets plenty of attention. You can sign up for classes on painting, drawing, fiber crafts, soap making, photography, cooking, writing, and more. The Corbin Art Center provides an outstanding opportunity for participants to immerse themselves truly in the culture of Spokane.
New Moon Art Gallery
1326 East Sprague Avenue, Spokane, WA
The New Moon Art Gallery showcases the works of established Spokane artists. The gallery features an extensive range of fine arts and crafts to view as well as a selection of handmade items available for purchase in the gallery shop. New Moon also holds juried art shows and offers art classes and workshops. The calendar is always changing, so keep an eye out for the latest events and opportunities.
Bing Crosby Theater
901 West Sprague Avenue, Spokane, WA
The historic Bing Crosby Theater was originally constructed in 1915 as a silent movie house. In the 1920s, the manager began hosting live performances between films and had the legendary Bing Crosby perform. The theater was later renamed for this iconic star. Today, the Bing Crosby Theater hosts a variety of live performances, including music, theater, and comedy.
Jundt Art Museum
200 East Desmet Avenue, Spokane, WA
The Jundt Art Museum at Gonzaga University houses a permanent collection of nearly 5,000 items, including pieces by Rembrandt van Rijn, Pablo Picasso, Francisco Goya, Andy Warhol, and Dale Chihuly. Due to space constrictions, the museum’s entire collection is not on display, but private showings of specific pieces are available upon request. In addition to its permanent items, the Jundt Art Museum also presents various juried and temporary art exhibits, such as the “2nd Triennial Inland Northwest Juried Landscape Art Exhibition.”
Historic Flight Foundation
5829 East Rutter Avenue, Spokane, WA
Fans of history and aviation will be thrilled to view the engaging exhibits at the Historic Flight Foundation. The museum showcases significant aircraft dating from 1927 to 1957. Fully restored, these planes are exhibited in flying condition. The aircraft on display include a North American P-51B Mustang, Grumman F8F Bearcat, Hamilton H-47 Metalplane, and more.
Spokane Symphony
1001 West Sprague Avenue, Spokane, WA
The Spokane Symphony owns and operates the historic Martin Woldson Theater at The Fox. The symphony regularly performs at the theater, and the upcoming 2021 Movies and Music Series includes productions like The Princess Bride in Concert and Jurassic Park in Concert. The Martin Woldson Theater also puts on other performances, so it’s worth checking the calendar if you’re interested in a night of music.
Blue Door Theatre
815 West Garland Avenue, Spokane, WA
The Blue Door Theatre players are an improv comedy troupe that performs weekly on Friday nights. This all-volunteer organization is dedicated to the simple pleasure of creating impromptu hilarity and making audiences laugh.
First Interstate Center for the Arts
334 West Spokane Falls Blvd, Spokane, WA
The First Interstate Center for the Arts is a stunning performance facility that presents a variety of art and entertainment for viewers throughout the Spokane region. The theater is home to WestCoast Entertainment’s Best of Broadway series as well as various music, dance, comedy, and performing arts events.
Spokane Valley Heritage Museum
12114 East Sprague Avenue, Spokane Valley, WA
Dedicated to preserving and sharing the unique history of the Spokane Valley region, this museum features a large collection of cultural artifacts that bring local history to life. Historic photos highlight the stunning growth of the area, and locals can research their family’s background using the archives. The museum regularly hosts intriguing exhibits and public history programs to showcase the rich culture of the Spokane region.
Historic Davenport Hotel
10 South Post Street, Spokane, WA
The Historic Davenport Hotel, constructed in 1914, features Kirtland Cutter architecture that’s been thoughtfully restored to provide modern conveniences in an elegant and luxurious setting. Stepping into the lobby is like stepping back in time with the gleaming marbled floor, rich upholstered seating, and charming water feature to greet you.
While all the rooms are inviting, the Circus Room, #708, is particularly engaging because it is the only original guestroom to survive. The room includes a fascinating circus mural and balloon-inspired lighting. You don’t have to book a room to bask in the glamour of the hotel, however. You can also arrange for a visit to the on-site Palm Court Grill and Peacock Room Lounge.
These rich cultural destinations are among our top picks at Wendle Ford and will provide you with an endless range of things to do throughout the year. Are there any local cultural destinations that we’ve missed? Share your favorite cultural spots in the Spokane region with us so we can keep our list as comprehensive as possible.
Featured Image via Flickr by WaStateGov
Connect with us
