How to get to Spokane

Located in the east of Washington state, Spokane seamlessly blends the dynamics of a city centre with the picturesque nature of the Inland Northwest. When planning how to get to Spokane, travellers will discover a convenient transport network connecting this "Lilac City" with other regions of the USA. You can reach the destination in various ways: by flying into the international airport, using rail services, or taking a trip by car.

The fastest way to reach the region is to take a flight to Spokane International Airport (GEG). This aviation hub serves millions of passengers annually and ensures reliable connections with major cities in the USA, situated just a few kilometres from the centre.

If a direct flight is not available, one can consider alternative arrival options in neighbouring cities with a subsequent transfer. The nearest airports are located in the cities of Hayden (49 km) and Pullman (105 km), as well as in Canadian Trail (161 km).

Travelling by rail is a scenic way to get to Spokane, as the city is served by the national Amtrak network. Trains following the Empire Builder route make a stop at the station in the city centre, allowing tourists to travel comfortably from Chicago, Seattle, or Portland.

For those departing from regions without direct rail connections to the city, combined options are possible. You can travel by train to neighbouring locations, such as Hayden or Pullman, and complete the remaining part of the journey by bus or car.

Bus services connect Spokane with surrounding settlements, offering a budget-friendly travel option. Regular trips allow you to comfortably reach the city while enjoying the landscapes of Washington state from the window.

One of the available routes runs from the city of Hayden. Despite the short distance of about 60 km, travel time can be approximately 2.6 hours, which should be taken into account when planning transfers and connections.

A trip by car provides maximum flexibility and allows you to plan your own itinerary on the roads of the USA. The shortest route leads from the city of Hayden: covering 58.5 km will take just about 40 minutes with light traffic.

The road from the city of Pullman, with a length of about 120 km, will require approximately 1.4 hours. If you are heading from the Canadian border, the journey from the city of Trail (203 km) will take about 2.7 hours, revealing excellent views of the region's nature.

To ensure your trip to Spokane is as comfortable as possible and leaves only pleasant impressions, we recommend familiarizing yourself with local features in advance. A little preparation will help avoid surprises and allow you to enjoy your holiday.

1. Seasonal Clothing. The climate here is continental: winters can be snowy and cold, while summers are hot and dry. It is recommended to dress in layers to easily adapt to temperature changes throughout the day.
2. Transport. For trips around the city centre, walking is sufficient, but to visit natural attractions in the surroundings, it is better to rent a car.
3. Finances. The official currency is the US Dollar (USD). Credit and debit cards are accepted almost everywhere, but keeping some cash for small expenses is always useful.
4. Health and Safety. The single emergency number is 911. The city is generally safe, but tourists should observe standard precautions and not leave valuable items in the car in plain sight.
5. Communication. The main language of communication is English. Locals are friendly and usually happy to help tourists if questions arise.
6. Local Etiquette. In the service sector, it is customary to leave tips of 15–20%. Politeness and a smile are a universal way of communication in the USA.
7. What to Avoid. Try not to plan important car trips during rush hours or during heavy snowfalls in winter without appropriate vehicle preparation.
8. Additional Tip. Be sure to visit Riverfront Park in the city centre — it is an ideal place for relaxation and learning about the region's history.

By following these simple recommendations, you will be able to feel confident and focus on exploring the unique culture and nature of Spokane.