Spokane House Interpretive Center
Step back in time at the Spokane House Interpretive Center, exploring the 1810 fur trading post and scenic river trails.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Spokane House Interpretive Center
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step back in time at the Spokane House Interpretive Center, exploring the 1810 fur trading post and scenic river trails.
"Super informative and had really amazing artifacts. The history of our land is very important to hang onto."
🚗 Parking & Pass
A Washington State Discover Pass is needed for parking. Grab one online or at a vendor before you go!
💧 Pack Essentials
Bring water, snacks, and sun protection, especially on warm days. The scent of pine is amazing!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Spokane House Trading Post
Outdoor grounds
Explore the remnants of the 1810 American Fur Company outpost, a key site in Northwest fur trade history.
Interactive Exhibits
Interpretive Center
Discover fascinating artifacts and learn about the fur trade era through engaging, family-friendly displays.
Riverside Hiking Trails
Riverside State Park
Hike along the scenic Spokane River, keeping an eye out for wildlife like elk and potentially moose.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Discovery Pass & Hours
Embrace the Outdoors
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking & Pass
A Washington State Discover Pass is needed for parking. Grab one online or at a vendor before you go!
💧 Pack Essentials
Bring water, snacks, and sun protection, especially on warm days. The scent of pine is amazing!
🥾 Trail Exploration
The interpretive trail offers river views and wildlife sightings. Print a map beforehand!
🕰️ Weekend Visits
The center is open weekends ONLY. Plan your trip to align with these hours.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking & Pass
A Washington State Discover Pass is needed for parking. Grab one online or at a vendor before you go!
💧 Pack Essentials
Bring water, snacks, and sun protection, especially on warm days. The scent of pine is amazing!
🥾 Trail Exploration
The interpretive trail offers river views and wildlife sightings. Print a map beforehand!
🕰️ Weekend Visits
The center is open weekends ONLY. Plan your trip to align with these hours.
🦌 Wildlife Spotting
Keep an eye out for elk and other wildlife along the trails. Respect their space!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Spokane House Interpretive Center for its informative exhibits and the historical significance of the fur trading post site. The surrounding park offers beautiful river trails and opportunities for wildlife spotting, making it a well-rounded experience for families and nature lovers alike. Some visitors noted the weekend-only hours and the need for a Discover Pass for parking.
"Part of the Riverside State Park. Way Kool place. Exhibits related to the Spokane House. Friendly volunteer. Good hiking interpetive trail around the compound. On the interpetive trail I encountered 2 Elk (adult and baby). Views of the river. Free on site parking. Flush toilets. Discovery Pass required. Worth the visit for one or the whole family. Open on weekends ONLY. Bring water, ice and snacks. Strong WIFI and satellite connection. Upper 90's today, hot with the strong smell / fragrance of pine (woody & fresh) in the air. . Print or bookmark the trail map. See you on the trail."
Robin Spisak
"This spot between the Spokane River and the Little Spokane had long been a meeting ground for local Native Americans. The small but interesting museum now here details the history of the fur trade in the Northwest. Be sure to spend time outside the museum looking at the parameters of the actual Spokane House trading post built originally (1810) by John Jacob Astor’s American Fur Company as part of his quest to establish a global trade empire. Walk down to the rivers and listen to the quiet. You might see a moose. Respect the wildlife and observe only!"
Ali
"Was super informative and had really amazing artifacts. The history of our land is very important to hang onto and pass down. The facility is very clean and well air conditioned. The staff we interacted with was exceptionally friendly and was incredibly excited to help us and provide learning material for all of us who went including my two young children. Would highly recommend this place and we will be going back again soon."
Sam Anderson
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Spokane House Interpretive Center is located within Riverside State Park. Follow signs for the center once inside the park. GPS coordinates can be helpful for navigation.
Yes, there is free on-site parking available. However, a Washington State Discover Pass is required for your vehicle.
Public transportation options to Riverside State Park are limited. Driving is the most common and convenient way to access the Spokane House Interpretive Center.
From downtown Spokane, take US-2 W/US-395 N and then follow signs for Riverside State Park. The interpretive center is well-marked within the park.
Yes, the center is part of Riverside State Park, which offers numerous hiking trails, the Spokane River, and other natural attractions. 
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the interpretive center itself is generally free, but a Washington State Discover Pass is required for parking your vehicle within Riverside State Park.
The Spokane House Interpretive Center is open on weekends ONLY. It's always a good idea to check their official website or social media for the most current hours before your visit.
While the center's exhibits are free, Riverside State Park requires a Discover Pass for parking. Day passes and annual passes are available.
No, the Spokane House Interpretive Center is exclusively open on weekends. Plan your visit accordingly.
Yes, the center sometimes hosts special events like fur trade reenactments. These can be very educational and fun for all ages.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore exhibits on the fur trade, see historical artifacts, and walk the grounds of the original Spokane House trading post. There are also interpretive trails.
Yes, the center features interactive exhibits that are great for both children and adults, making history engaging.
Visitors have reported seeing elk and even moose along the river trails. Always observe wildlife from a safe distance.
Yes, flush toilets are available on-site for visitors.
Absolutely! The exhibits are informative and interactive, and the surrounding park offers opportunities for outdoor exploration, making it a great family destination.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no dining facilities directly at the Spokane House Interpretive Center. It's recommended to bring your own food and drinks.
Yes, you can bring your own ice and snacks for a picnic. There are scenic spots along the river within Riverside State Park.
The nearest dining options will be back in the city of Spokane, which offers a wide variety of restaurants and cafes.
No, there are no concessions or shops selling food or drinks at the interpretive center. Be sure to pack everything you need.
Given the outdoor setting, easy-to-carry items like sandwiches, fruit, and trail mix are ideal.
📸 📸 Photography
The remnants of the trading post, the scenic Spokane River, and the natural landscape offer great photo opportunities. Wildlife sightings can also make for unique shots.
Photography is generally allowed inside the interpretive center, but it's always good to check for any specific signage or ask staff if you're unsure.
Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best natural light for photography, especially along the river.
Drone usage is typically restricted in state parks. Check the Washington State Parks regulations for specific rules regarding drones.
A versatile camera with a good zoom lens is recommended for capturing both the historical site and potential wildlife.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pack plenty of snacks and water for your visit, as dining options are limited. The easy-to-moderate trails are suitable for most ages, providing a chance for kids to burn off energy while learning about local history and the environment. It's a great way to combine educational enrichment with outdoor adventure.
🚶♀️ Nature & Hiking Enthusiasts
Remember to bring your Discover Pass for parking and wear comfortable hiking shoes. The interpretive trail around the compound offers a unique blend of history and nature. Consider visiting in the morning or late afternoon for the best light and potentially more wildlife activity.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History of Spokane House
Visitors can explore the outdoor remnants of the original trading post, offering a tangible connection to the past. The site's location along the Spokane River and Little Spokane River was strategic, providing access to resources and transportation routes essential for the fur trade. The center also highlights the diverse Native American cultures present in the area, emphasizing their role in the fur trade and their deep connection to the land.
Understanding the history of Spokane House provides insight into the early days of European settlement and the complex relationships that developed between different groups. It’s a story of commerce, exploration, and the enduring legacy of the fur trade on the American West. The interactive exhibits make this history accessible and engaging for all ages.
Exploring Riverside State Park
+1Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the park's diverse flora and fauna. Keep an eye out for wildlife such as elk, deer, and various bird species. The park's natural beauty, especially the scent of pine trees on a warm day, creates a refreshing and immersive outdoor experience. The park also provides opportunities for picnicking, making it an ideal destination for a family outing.
Remember that a Washington State Discover Pass is required for parking within Riverside State Park. This pass supports the maintenance and operation of Washington's state parks. Planning to spend a few hours exploring both the historical aspects of Spokane House and the natural beauty of the park is highly recommended for a complete experience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit