Numerica SkyRide at Riverfront Spokane

If you are looking for a way to see Spokane from its most breathtaking perspective, the Numerica SkyRide cable car is exactly what you need. This popular attraction in the USA features a system of modern enclosed cabins that glide smoothly over the river and the city, offering views of the legendary Spokane Falls.

The main highlight of the route is its descent: the cabins drop about 200 feet (61 meters) into the river gorge. This brings passengers into close proximity with the rushing waters, where you can even feel the cool mist from the lower falls. The journey lasts about 20 minutes, offering an unforgettable sensation of flying over the water and the architectural landmarks of the downtown area.

The attraction is deservedly ranked among the 12 most scenic cable cars in the world and welcomes guests year-round. Thanks to the fully enclosed cabins, you can take flight in any weather while remaining warm and comfortable. It is an ideal spot for both a romantic date and a family outing, offering a bird's-eye view of the river's natural power.

To find the latest information about the attraction or to contact the park administration, you can use the following contact details.

During your Numerica SkyRide trip, your attention will be drawn to more than just the churning water. From the gondola windows, you will see beautiful views of the city's historical buildings, such as the Art Deco Spokane City Hall and the majestic Spokane County Courthouse, which resembles an old castle. You will also fly under the famous century-old Monroe Street Bridge, which adds a special touch to the journey.

For photography enthusiasts, a nice bonus is that the cabins slow down or pause briefly while other passengers board—this is the perfect moment to take clear shots of the waterfalls without any vibration. Attentive tourists might spot local canyon residents, such as playful marmots sunning themselves on the rocks. The most impressive views await from March to June, when melting snow fills the river, turning the falls into a truly powerful spectacle.

After returning to the ground, don't rush to leave the park. Nearby, you'll find the Mobius Discovery Center, the Numerica Skate Ribbon, and the famous historic Expo '74 Pavilion. In the evening, it’s worth walking to Gathering Place Plaza, where fountains and modern art installations are lit up with bright lights, creating a truly magical atmosphere.

Getting to this popular spot is easy, as it is located in the heart of the city at 720 W Spokane Falls Blvd, Spokane, WA 99201. The ticket booth is in the southwest part of the park, right at the intersection of N Post Street and W Spokane Falls Boulevard. If you are already walking through the city center, simply follow the signs for Riverfront Park—the walk will take very little time.

For those who prefer to drive, there are paid parking areas within the park. You can also use a taxi; the ride from major downtown hotels takes just a few minutes. If you decide to take public transport, look for routes heading to The Plaza central terminal, which is just a short stroll from the park.

After purchasing your ticket at the Numerica Skate Ribbon building, head to the boarding entrance. If you have some extra time, we recommend checking out the observation deck at the base of the lower falls—walk west past the gondola and head down the special staircase to see the power of the water from a different perspective.

The Numerica SkyRide owes its existence to a grand event—the 1974 World's Fair (Expo '74), which was held in Spokane and attracted over five million visitors. At that time, two cable cars soared over the fairgrounds, but only this gondola line has survived to this day, becoming a true symbol of the city and its historical heritage.

Interestingly, Riverfront Park was built on the site of what was once the city's industrial and commercial hub. Creating the park helped restore the river's ecology and transformed a former industrial site into an urban oasis. The cable car cabins fly past the current City Hall, which was built in 1929 in an elegant Art Deco style and originally served as a Montgomery Ward department store.

Another architectural masterpiece visible to passengers is the Spokane County Courthouse. Built in 1893, it resembles the French chateaus of the Loire Valley. Curiously, its architect, 29-year-old W.A. Ritchie, had no formal classical education and learned design through correspondence courses, yet he managed to create a building recognized as a national architectural treasure.

To fully enjoy the views and soak in the atmosphere, you should plan your time considering a few factors. The round-trip ride in an enclosed cabin takes about 15 to 20 minutes. This is plenty of time to take in the waterfalls and snap panoramic photos of the city.

However, we recommend setting aside about 45–60 minutes for your visit. This will allow you to buy tickets without rushing, visit the observation deck at the base of the falls, and enjoy a stroll through the surrounding Riverfront Park. If you plan to visit on weekends or holidays, consider potential wait times in the boarding queue.

The cable car operates on a convenient schedule, making it easy to plan a visit on both weekdays and weekends. Typically, the attraction is open Monday through Thursday from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM, on Friday and Saturday until 6:00 PM, and returns to a 5:00 PM closing time on Sunday. Please note that children under 15 must be accompanied by an adult.

It is important to remember that the SkyRide usually closes for annual technical maintenance in early February, so be sure to check the official website before visiting during that time. The cabins are fully ADA-accessible for wheelchair users, making this adventure available to everyone.

A ride on the cable car is just one part of what the city center has to offer. Exploring the areas around Riverfront Park will allow you to dive deeper into the region's cultural and entertainment scene, discovering historic pavilions and modern art spaces.