Spokane is the financial, cultural, and retail center for a large area of Washington, Idaho, and western Montana known as the “Inland Northwest.” Spokane's metropolitan area is home to approximately 650,000 citizens, but with a river running right through downtown and landscapes ranging from basalt columns to mountain lakes, Washington State's second-largest city lives up to its motto: "Near Nature, Near Perfect."
Spokane offers abundant green space and easy access to numerous lakes, ski resorts, mountains and bike paths. It's not all about the wilderness though. A vibrant downtown encompasses a variety of restaurants and performance venues, and breweries and wineries turn local ingredients into flavorful drinks. However, while a few districts bustle with activity, much of Spokane is quiet, exuding a calm, relaxed atmosphere not often found in major metro areas. Residents appreciate the small-town atmosphere with the advantage of big-city amenities. Individual neighborhoods foster a strong sense of community, and Spokane's government is dedicated to creating more neighborhood unity through community open house meetings. Each month, community assemblies gather throughout town to share ideas on how to make Spokane a better place to live.
Spokane has been selected as an All-America City three times in the past 41 years, including in 2015 when it was one of 10 honored throughout the country. The city hosts many great community events, festivals and gatherings, and is home to the Lilac Bloomsday Run, the largest timed road race in the nation, and the largest three-on-three basketball tournament, Hoopfest. Spokane has also been ranked one of the Healthiest Cities and Healthiest Places to Live in America.