There are certain mornings that feel like they etch themselves permanently into your memory, the kind that awaken not just your body but your sense of belonging in the world. In Spokane, Washington, I discovered that many of those mornings arrive quietly, accompanied by the gentle murmur of the Spokane River outside my hotel window. The river carries with it a rhythm of life that seems older than the city itself.
I have woken up in many cities, in many hotels, across the United States and beyond. Yet Spokane has its own magic: the way the early sunlight paints streaks of gold on the water, the way mist lifts in slow spirals over the cascades, the way joggers and dog walkers appear like clockwork along the paved river paths. It’s not just a city morning—it’s a dialogue between nature and urban life. And when you’re staying in one of Spokane’s riverside hotels, you are right in the middle of that dialogue.
Over the course of multiple visits, I have stayed in several of the city’s best riverside hotels. Each property carries its own personality, its own vantage point on the Spokane River, and its own kind of hospitality. What unites them is how they frame the morning: the comfort of waking up in a thoughtfully designed room, the sound of water accompanying your first sip of coffee, and the sense that your day is already set on a peaceful, promising course.
In this article, I want to share not just the hotels themselves, but also my lived experiences of mornings in Spokane—what it feels like to draw back the curtains, where I sat with my notebook, which details lingered after checkout, and how each property shapes your relationship with this remarkable river city.
Why Spokane’s Riverside Matters
Before diving into the hotels, it’s worth pausing to consider the Spokane River itself. This river is not just scenery; it’s the pulse of the city. Spokane Falls, located right in the heart of downtown, is one of the largest urban waterfalls in the United States. The sound of water rushing through the city gives Spokane an identity unlike any other mid-sized American city.
In the mornings, the river is especially captivating. Whether the season is spring—when the river swells with snowmelt from the mountains—or autumn, when the water is framed by crimson leaves, mornings along the river feel restorative. The Spokane River Centennial Trail runs for 37 miles, and in the first hours of daylight, it becomes a stage for cyclists, runners, and people like me: wanderers looking for inspiration.
This is why staying riverside matters. Hotels here don’t just give you a bed—they give you a vantage point, a morning ritual, a connection to something elemental. And with that, let me introduce you to five standout Spokane riverside hotels where I’ve had some of my most memorable mornings.
Hotel 1: The Davenport Grand, Autograph Collection
Location and First Impressions
Located at 333 W Spokane Falls Blvd, The Davenport Grand is impossible to miss. It sits near the Spokane Convention Center, a sleek modern building that contrasts beautifully with the more historic architecture downtown. When I first walked into the lobby, I was struck by its elegance—crystal chandeliers, polished marble floors, and an atmosphere that blends old-world luxury with contemporary style.
Mornings at The Davenport Grand
From my room on an upper floor, I drew back the curtains to reveal the Spokane River in motion, a ribbon of silver beneath the rising sun. I brewed a cup of coffee with the in-room machine, settled into a plush armchair, and simply watched the river for twenty minutes. It felt like meditation. The hotel’s large windows are a gift—you don’t have to step outside to feel connected to the landscape.
Highlights and Advantages
- Spacious rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows.
- Central location within walking distance of Riverfront Park and Spokane Falls.
- On-site restaurants offering hearty breakfasts (try the avocado toast or a classic omelet).
- A sense of luxury that doesn’t feel pretentious.
Guest Impressions
Guests often rave about the views and the modern amenities. Some note that the hotel feels like a big-city experience tucked into a mid-sized city. The word “impeccable” comes up often in reviews.
Booking Tips and Costs
On Booking.com or Expedia, rates usually start around \$180–\$250 per night, depending on the season. I’ve found the hotel’s own website sometimes offers packages that include breakfast or parking. For the best deal, book at least three weeks in advance; Spokane can get busy during conventions or Gonzaga University events.
Hotel 2: The Centennial Hotel Spokane
Location and Atmosphere
Situated at 303 W North River Dr, The Centennial is right on the riverbank, adjacent to Riverfront Park. What sets it apart is how it feels woven into the landscape. The outdoor pool area overlooks the river, and you can step directly onto the Centennial Trail from the property.
My Morning Experience
I woke up early here and decided to take my coffee outside. The hotel has outdoor seating where you can hear the river more distinctly than from inside. I sat there wrapped in a light sweater, watching the mist rise, while ducks cut ripples across the water. Later, I laced up my sneakers and jogged a stretch of the Centennial Trail. By the time I returned, the sun was fully up, and the river shimmered like polished steel.
Highlights and Advantages
- Direct access to the Spokane River Centennial Trail.
- Outdoor pool and firepits with river views.
- Rooms designed with warm, contemporary decor.
- A short walk to Spokane Arena and downtown restaurants.
Guest Impressions
Travelers frequently highlight the convenience of the location and the outdoor amenities. Families especially love it for the pool and proximity to the park. Some reviews mention that the hotel feels lively without being noisy.
Booking Tips and Costs
Rates usually hover around \$150–\$200. Expedia and Hotels.com often list flash deals for this property, and I once managed to book a riverside room for \$139 by using a last-minute discount on Priceline. My tip: if you don’t mind flexibility, check mobile-exclusive deals on booking platforms.
Hotel 3: Oxford Suites Spokane
Location and First Impressions
Found at 115 W North River Dr, Oxford Suites is a gem for those who love a balance of comfort and practicality. It doesn’t aim for extravagance; instead, it delivers consistency, warmth, and little perks that make mornings smoother.
My Morning Routine Here
This was the hotel where I actually spent one of my favorite writing mornings in Spokane. After a good night’s sleep, I headed to the complimentary breakfast buffet—scrambled eggs, sausage, fresh fruit, and a surprisingly good coffee. I carried my plate back to a table overlooking the river. Eating while listening to the river’s hum gave me a sense of calm that made my morning journaling session especially productive.
Highlights and Advantages
- Free hot breakfast (not just continental pastries).
- Comfortable rooms with mini-fridges and microwaves.
- Riverside walking path right outside.
- Complimentary evening reception with wine or beer.
Guest Impressions
Guests consistently praise the friendly staff and the value for money. Families and solo travelers alike find it welcoming. Some note that while it’s not as glamorous as the Davenport, it’s more relaxed and feels personal.
Booking Tips and Costs
Average rates fall between \$140–\$180. Booking.com tends to have the best consistent prices here, though I once saved 12% by booking directly on the Oxford Suites website, thanks to a “member rate.” If you’re staying longer than three nights, call the hotel directly—sometimes they’ll offer extended-stay discounts not listed online.
Hotel 4: DoubleTree by Hilton Spokane City Center
Location and First Impressions
At 322 N Spokane Falls Ct, the DoubleTree is attached to the Spokane Convention Center, making it an excellent choice for business travelers. But it’s not just business—it has a prime riverside location, and many rooms offer sweeping views.
My Morning Story Here
The most memorable part of my morning at the DoubleTree wasn’t the view (though it was lovely). It was the cookie. Yes, Hilton’s signature warm chocolate chip cookie, given at check-in, somehow tasted even better with my morning coffee. I sat by the window, nibbling cookie crumbs, sipping coffee, and watching early kayakers paddle on the river. It was indulgent in the simplest, most comforting way.
Highlights and Advantages
- Classic Hilton reliability with Spokane’s riverside charm.
- Many rooms offer river views.
- Indoor pool and fitness center for active mornings.
- Walkable to Gonzaga University and downtown Spokane.
Guest Impressions
Reviewers often emphasize the professionalism of the staff and the reliability of Hilton standards. Some travelers love the location for events, while others highlight the river views as a surprise bonus.
Booking Tips and Costs
Expect to pay around \$170–\$220 per night. Hilton Honors members sometimes get discounted rates or free Wi-Fi upgrades. I recommend checking both Expedia and Hilton’s official site—sometimes Hilton matches online rates and offers extra points.
Hotel 5: Best Western Plus City Center
Location and Vibe
Located at 33 W Spokane Falls Blvd, Best Western Plus doesn’t sit directly on the riverbank like The Centennial, but it’s just steps away from Riverfront Park and the Spokane River. What it lacks in glamour, it makes up for in practicality and charm.
Morning Moments Here
One morning I took breakfast in the small dining area, then walked just two minutes to the park to sit near the river with my coffee in a to-go cup. It felt like an extension of the hotel—a chance to blend into the city’s morning rhythm. I saw office workers crossing bridges, joggers starting their day, and felt less like a tourist and more like a participant in Spokane life.
Highlights and Advantages
- Complimentary hot breakfast.
- Comfortable rooms with good value pricing.
- Steps away from the Spokane River and downtown.
- Free parking, which is rare and valuable in the city center.
Guest Impressions
Travelers often describe it as “simple but dependable.” The staff’s friendliness comes up repeatedly. Guests appreciate the location and price point.
Booking Tips and Costs
Rates are typically \$120–\$160. Hotels.com often offers “Stay 10 nights, get 1 free” rewards here, which is worth using if you’re a frequent traveler. If you’re budget-conscious but want to stay near the river, this is the sweet spot.
Platforms for Booking in the U.S.
Throughout my stays in Spokane, I’ve used multiple platforms to book hotels. Here are some of my go-to resources, each with its own advantages:
- Booking.com – Reliable, wide range of properties, free cancellation on many rooms.
- Expedia – Great for package deals (hotel + flight + car).
- Hotels.com – The rewards program makes it attractive for frequent travelers.
- Priceline – Best for last-minute deals and “Express Deals” if you’re flexible.
- Airbnb – An alternative for longer stays or unique local homes.
- Official Hotel Websites – Sometimes offer perks like free breakfast or parking.
My advice: always compare across at least two platforms and check the hotel’s direct site before booking. Also, look into loyalty programs—Hilton Honors, Marriott Bonvoy, and Best Western Rewards can make a difference if you travel often.
Practical Booking Tips
Over the years, I’ve learned some tricks that apply especially well to Spokane:
- Book Early During Event Weeks – Gonzaga University events and city conventions fill hotels fast.
- Consider Shoulder Seasons – Spring and autumn offer better rates than peak summer.
- Check Mobile Apps – Platforms like Expedia and Priceline often have app-only discounts.
- Call the Hotel Directly – If you see a price online, sometimes the hotel will match it and throw in extras.
- Stay Midweek – Rates dip significantly on Mondays and Tuesdays.
What Spokane’s Mornings Teach Me
Each of these hotels gave me not just a bed for the night, but a story for the morning. I still remember the way the light hit the river from The Davenport Grand, the quiet outdoor coffee at The Centennial, the writing session at Oxford Suites, the cookie indulgence at the DoubleTree, and the park bench reflection outside Best Western Plus.
Spokane taught me that mornings matter. They set the tone for the day, and when you wake up riverside in this city, you’re gifted with a sense of peace and possibility. Travel isn’t just about sightseeing or checking landmarks off a list. Sometimes it’s about those unhurried minutes by a window, the sound of water as your soundtrack, and the realization that you’re exactly where you’re meant to be.
So if you find yourself in Spokane, choose a riverside hotel. Wake up early, open the curtains, take your coffee slowly. The Spokane River will do the rest.
