Eco-Tourism & Sustainable Travel Destinations in Spokane, Washington, United States
1. Northern Quest Resort & Casino
Experience eco-friendly gaming and entertainment at this resort that uses energy-efficient LED lighting, renewable energy sources, and locally sourced food.
- Green Gaming: Offers energy-efficient slot machines to reduce carbon footprint
- Local Sourcing: Serves locally sourced food at their restaurants to support the local economy and reduce transportation emissions
- Renewable Energy: Incorporates renewable energy sources like solar panels into their facilities
2. Spokane River Centennial Trail
Enjoy a scenic, eco-friendly bike ride or walk along the Spokane River on this paved trail that stretches for over 37 miles.
- Scenic Views: Offers breathtaking views of the Spokane River and surrounding landscape
- Accessibility: Wheelchair and stroller accessible, making it easy for everyone to enjoy nature
- Eco-Friendly Transportation: Encourages eco-friendly transportation by providing a safe space for cycling and walking
3. Campbell's Covered Bridge
Visit this historic covered bridge located in Riverside State Park that showcases the beauty of sustainable design and craftsmanship.
- Historic Design: Constructed using timber-framed design, providing a great example of traditional building methods
- Nature immersion: Located in a natural setting that allows visitors to connect with the outdoors
- Sustainable Construction: Designed and built using sustainable materials and techniques, minimizing its environmental impact
4. Riverside State Park
Explore over 50 miles of hiking trails, horseback riding paths, and mountain bike routes in this beautiful state park dedicated to preserving the natural environment.
- Preservation of Natural Habitats: Protects and preserves diverse habitats like forests, wetlands, and grasslands
- Outdoor Recreation Opportunities: Offers various outdoor recreational activities like hiking, horseback riding, and mountain biking
- Environmental Education: Provides educational programs to raise awareness about local ecosystems and conservation efforts
5. Downtown Spokane Farmer's Market
Visit the weekly farmer's market in downtown Spokane to support local farmers and enjoy fresh, sustainably grown produce.
- Local Support: Supports local farmers by providing a venue for them to sell their products
- Fresh Produce: Offers fresh, locally grown produce that's often picked the same day
- Community Gathering Spot: Serves as a gathering spot for locals and visitors alike to connect with their community
6. Manito Park
Stroll through beautiful gardens and natural landscapes at Manito Park while learning about sustainable gardening practices.
- Beautiful Gardens: Features various themed gardens like the Japanese Garden, English Perennial Garden, and a Rose Garden
- Sustainable Landscaping: Practices sustainable landscaping techniques like composting, rainwater harvesting, and use of native plants
- Educational Programs: Offers educational programs to teach visitors about sustainable gardening practices
7. Mission San Juan Parish
Step back in time and learn about the area's history at this mission that was built using sustainable design principles.
- Historic Design: Constructed with adobe, stone, and wood, using materials found on-site
- Cultural Education: Provides insight into the history and culture of the Spokane region
- Sustainable Building Techniques: Utilizes sustainable building techniques like passive solar design and natural ventilation
8. Spokane Valley Ranch and Farm Park
Experience rural life at this park that offers educational programs about agriculture, sustainable farming practices, and animal care.
- Agricultural Education: Offers educational programs about various aspects of agriculture
- Sustainable Farming Practices: Demonstrates sustainable farming practices like crop rotation, composting, and organic gardening
- Animal Welfare: Provides a safe and humane environment for the animals on the farm
9. Spokane River Gorge
Explore the stunning Spokane River Gorge with its rugged cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and diverse wildlife.
- Scenic Beauty: Offers breathtaking views of the river gorge and surrounding landscape
- Wildlife Observation: Provides opportunities to observe local wildlife like eagles, ospreys, and otters
- Geological Formations: Showcases various geological formations like basalt cliffs and lava flows
10. Latah Creek Wine Cellars
Tour a sustainable winery that practices eco-friendly wine-making techniques and sources grapes from local, organic farms.
- Organic Grape Sourcing: Sources grapes from local, certified organic farms
- Eco-Friendly Wine Making: Practices eco-friendly wine-making techniques like recycling water and using solar power
- Tasting Room Sustainability: Uses energy-efficient lighting and serves locally sourced snacks in their tasting room
11. The Kinnikinick Native Plant Nursery
Purchase native plants for your garden at this nursery that promotes sustainable landscaping practices.
- Native Plants: Sells a variety of native plants suitable for different climates and soil types
- Environmental Education: Provides educational resources about the importance of native plants and sustainable landscaping
- Community Engagement: Offers workshops and events to engage the community in sustainable gardening practices
12. Phoenix Flights Raptor Rehabilitation Center
Learn about bird conservation and rehabilitation at this center that cares for injured birds of prey.
- Bird Conservation: Works to conserve and protect birds of prey in the region
- Educational Programs: Offers educational programs about birds of prey, their habitats, and conservation efforts
- Rehabilitation Efforts: Cares for injured birds of prey with the goal of releasing them back into the wild
13. The Green Box Recycling Project
Learn about recycling and sustainable living at this project that collects reusable items from local businesses.
- Recycling Education: Offers educational resources about recycling and sustainable living
- Material Collection: Collects reusable items like office supplies, electronics, and household goods from local businesses
- Community Engagement: Engages the community in recycling efforts by providing drop-off locations and educational programs
14. The Center for Performing Arts
Experience live performances at this venue that uses energy-efficient lighting and sources local performers.
- Energy Efficiency: Uses energy-efficient lighting and other sustainable practices to minimize its carbon footprint
- Local Performers: Features local performers, helping to support the local arts community
- Community Engagement: Provides educational programs and workshops about various forms of art and performance
15. The Lands Council
Support conservation efforts in the Inland Northwest by volunteering or donating to this organization.
- Conservation Efforts: Works to conserve and protect forests, wildlife habitats, and cultural resources
- Community Engagement: Engages the community through volunteer opportunities, events, and educational programs
- Regional Focus: Focuses on conservation efforts specific to the Inland Northwest region