MARCH TO THE MADNESS: NCAA TOURNAMENT TIME NEAR SPOKANE VALLEY
March Madness has arrived, and Spokane Valley is the ideal escape for fans flocking to the NCAA Women’s Sweet Sixteen and Elite Eight in neighboring Spokane. Between the buzzer-beaters and bracket-busting excitement, explore the Valley’s family-friendly roster of recreation—from quiet trails to clamorous trampolines. Whether you’re cheering for a win or chasing waterfalls, the Valley presents the perfect playbook for your tournament trip.
CHEER FOR CHAMPIONS
March Madness is the crowning contest of college basketball. The trudge to the trophy runs through seven single-elimination rounds, with 68 teams tipping off. In Spokane, eight rosters will rival in the Sweet Sixteen and Elite Eight, fighting for a trip to the Final Four. From March 28-31, the Spokane Veterans Memorial Arena will host four sessions of these high-stakes hoops, where every pass and play could decide a program’s destiny. With single-session tickets starting at $28 and Spokane Valley a quick 10-minute commute away, the action is easily accessible.
DRIBBLE INTO DOWNTOWN
Before and after the buzzer blares, sustain your spirit at the North Bank of Riverfront Park, just a dribble away from the arena. Test your talent on one of the two Hooptown USA basketball courts, marked with a painted pop-art mural. Then, explore the Hooptown USA Hall of Fame Exhibit to brush up on basketball lore, from local legends like John Stockton to the city’s storied hoops history. For families, the Ice Age Floods Playground is a fast break for fun, with 40,000 square feet of family-friendly space.
Pick and roll across the river to Riverfront Park, where the Pavilion’s distinctive design posts up in the paint of the Spokane skyline. After an evening game, layup at its free light show for a dazzling finale to your day. When the sun shines, relax on the rolling lawns, pose by the prominent clocktower or take a twirl on the timeless Looff Carousel.
Follow the river’s ribbon to reach Spokane Falls, the largest urban waterfall in the U.S. For a courtside seat to the fall’s roaring rapids, soar on the Numerica Skyride, a gondola lift that glides across the Spokane River and under the Monroe Street Bridge. Or, drift into downtown to explore River Park Square, where retail and restaurants run point.
PIVOT TO PEACE
Every riveting game requires a timeout. When the endless energy of Spokane’s downtown turns draining, settle into the slow, relaxing rhythm of the Valley. Score big on scenery at Mirabeau Point Park, where spring blossoms and sculpted bedrock deliver a double-double of beauty and bliss.
If you’re looking for a path with a past, the Appleway Trail in Spokane Valley is a natural next step, tracing an old railroad right-of-way parallel to the city’s long-standing Sprague Avenue. The nationally known Centennial Trail offers 37 miles of scenic paths perfect for a family bike ride or brisk walk. Stretching from west Spokane to Coeur d’Alene, the trail treats you to portraits of the Valley’s most pristine views. With well-maintained paths, both the Appleway and Centennial trails offer a secure, scenic passage through the Valley’s breathtaking beauty. Plus, conveniently placed parking and restrooms help you start your adventure with ease.
For those eager to up their outdoor game, the Dishman Hills Conservation Area offers over 3,000 acres of lush landscapes. Accessible through six trailheads, this area invites adventurers to explore its expansive ecosystems. Among the many trails, the Rocks of Sharon hike is a family-favorite, treating travelers to gleaming panoramas atop granite peaks.
For a rainy-day rebound, discover the Valley’s diverse array of indoor attractions. Bounce, bowl, and bond at trampoline parks and arcades, or swing for the green at golf simulators. Enjoy a quieter quarter with a feature film at Regal Cinema or score some steals at Spokane Valley Mall.
SCORE YOUR STAY
After an afternoon and evening of heart-pounding hoops, unwind in Spokane Valley for a break away from the buzzer. Whether you’re charmed by the snug simplicity of a small inn or the consistent comforts of a trusted hotel chain, the Valley offers a variety of accommodations. Plus, complimentary parking and convenient freeway access are the ultimate assist for a stress-free stay. With less crowds and congestion, you’ll score a secluded space to rest and rally for the next round.
