Being cooped up may have been the most challenging part of living through the pandemic. Hours spent mindlessly scrolling through Instagram travel accounts inspired wanderlust. Now that vaccinations are readily available and lockdowns lifted, many people will tentatively make their travel dreams a reality. For many people, it’s a bit scary to consider a real-life vacation. It feels stressful, but it doesn’t have to be. Read on to discover why Spokane, Washington is the ideal place for a stress-free vacation.

Easy come, easy go

The Spokane International Airport may be small, but that’s what makes it so great. Small airports are easy to navigate, can sometimes actually save you money, and it takes mere minutes to grab your bag, hop in an Uber, and 12-minutes later, you’re in downtown Spokane. The less time in a crowded space when COVID is still a thing, the better. Did we mention there are now 20 non-stop flights available from cities across the US?

Charming hotels

For a small city, jewel hotels make Spokane stand out. Whatever you seek--from big to boutique-- you’ll find it. You’re guaranteed beautiful accommodations.

Spas

When you finally do get here, you’ll find myriad things to do that will lower your stress. Stay at Northern Quest Resort & Casino and spend an entire weekend in their spa, La Rive. Make a point of meditating in the Himalayan salt room. Or stay in downtown Spokane at the Historic Davenport Hotel and enjoy a facial at their onsite spa.

Float the river

A river running through makes Spokane unique. With little effort, you can rent a standup paddleboard and spend a leisurely few hours floating in the fresh Ponderosa-scented air, marveling at the juxtaposition of nature and the jutting man-made structures of downtown.

Sweat it out

A sweaty, no-sweat vacation. Sounds ideal for people who find mental relief in pushing their heart rates to the max. Spring through summer, the City of Spokane offers free yoga, barre and spin classes in Riverfront Park. Check their calendar for class listings.

Walk in the park

Speaking of parks, Spokane County is filled to the brim with parks to take stress-free walks. Start with Manito Park on Spokane’s historic South Hill. Lie in the grass, stare at the sky and watch the clouds roll by.

Credit: Nicolas James

Hike to epic views

The Spokane region has some of the best hikes in the country. Men’s Journal even agrees! From the Liberty Lake Loop Trail to the Dishman Hills of Spokane Valley to the peak of Mt. Spokane, you’ll discover epic views of the area once you’re at the top. The best part is how easy it is to get to each of these trails. Traffic is generally non-existent, which means no stress.

Eat cheese

When in doubt, eat cheese and drink wine. Find delectable cheeses, bread and meats at Rind and Wheat or Wanderlust Delicato. Invite your friends on your no-stress vacation to Spokane and take a cooking class at Wanderlust. At $25 a person, you’ll be so happy you chose a smaller city to explore post-pandemic.

About the Author

Kate Hudson

Public Relations Manager