Spokane, Washington

Encyclopedia : S : SP : SPO : Spokane, Washington

Spokane (pronounced spō-CAN [spoʊ ˈkæn]) is the county seat of Spokane County in the State of Washington, USA. It was originally incorporated as "Spokan Falls" (without an 'e' at the end), drawing on the Native American tribe known as the Spokanee, which means "Children of the Sun." Nicknamed "The Lilac City" because of the fragrant flowers that bloom throughout the area in mid-spring. However city management recently felt a new title was in order, "Near Nature, Near Perfect". Spokane is the second largest city in Washington state and the metropolitan center of the Inland Northwest. It is home to several colleges and universities, the most prominent being Gonzaga University and Whitworth College. There is also a downtown University District which includes extension campuses and departments for Washington State University (based in Pullman) and Eastern Washington University (based in Cheney). Eastern also has a downtown Spokane Center which houses a number of graduate programs, including the Inland Northwest Center for Writers.

The town site was originally platted, about 1880, surrounding the falls of the Spokane River, where the river descends from the Selkirk Mountain range into the Columbia Plateau. Spokane is 280 miles east of Seattle and 375 miles northeast of Portland. It is the urban commercial center of the eastern part of Washington and the northern part of Idaho, and acts as the distribution point for a major agricultural, lumber, mining, horticultural, and livestock raising region. The 2000 U.S. census showed that the city population was 197,400, and the county had a population of 417,939. The most recent state figures, released in April of 2006, show that the city population has since crossed the next century mark to 201,600, while metropolitan estimates show the area has more than half a million people, and may be approaching 600,000.

Spokane is continuing to experience a revitalization, especially in its downtown urban core. A number of condominuim projects, in particular Black Rock Development's Kendall Yards, will help to further establish Spokane as a major metropolis between Seattle and Minneapolis.

Contents

Government

Spokane Mayor Dennis Hession.

The City of Spokane has operated under a Mayor-Council, or Strong Mayor, form of government since January 2001, after 40 years under a Council-Manager system. [link]

Dennis P. Hession, formerly the President of the City Council, became the new mayor on December 16, 2005. The City Council consists of seven members: two elected from each of three districts, plus a president elected at large. The current city council president is Joe Shogan.

Spokane sits in Washington's 5th Congressional District, currently represented by freshman Rep. Republican Cathy McMorris.

History

Spokane Falls was a gathering place for the area's indigenous people because the Spokane River was teeming with salmon. The first hydroelectric dams on the Spokane River ended salmon fishing in 1908.

Camp Spokane was established by the U.S. Army at a location 56 Miles Northwest of Spokane, Washington as a consolidation of the garrisons at Fort Colville, and Camp Chelan on October 21, 1880. The intent was to protect the construction of the Northern Pacific Railway, and to secure the location for U.S. settlement. And by 1881, the Northern Pacific Railway was completed at this point bringing European settlement. The city of Spokan Falls (without an 'e') was officially incorporated on November 29, 1881. In 1883, it changed to Spokane [link]. The President of the first City Council, was millowner and Methodist minister Samuel G. Havermale.

In May of 1883 the town had only 500 inhabitants. In the summer of 1889 the city's downtown commercial district was destroyed by fire. This did not halt the rapid growth, as between 1900 and 1910 the population grew from 36,848 to 104,402.

The downtown area bordering the river, a major railroad yard, was transformed in 1974 in preparation for the World's Fair. Following the World's Fair, the former Expo site received its final makeover to become the one hundred acre Riverfront Park.

1974 World's Fair

View from inside The Pavilion built for Expo 74. It currently houses a public skating rink and IMAX theater.

Spokane hosted the environmentally-themed Expo '74, becoming the then-smallest city to ever host a World's Fair. This event transformed Spokane's downtown, removing a century of railroad industry that built the city and reinventing the urban core for new generations of Spokanites.

Many of the structures built for the World's Fair are still standing, and thriving. The United States Pavilion now houses an IMAX theater, and the Washington State Pavilion became the Spokane Opera House, recently renamed as the Inland Northwest Bank Performing Arts Center under a sponsorship agreement with a regional bank. The Expo site itself became the 100-acre (400,000 m²) Riverfront Park, containing, among other features, the U.S. Pavilion, the turn-of-the-20th-century (and meticulously preserved) Looff Carousel, and the Great Northern Railway clock tower, the last remnant of the vast rail depot that was demolished for Expo '74. The U.S. Pavilion and the clock tower are prominently featured in the park's logo.

Geography, environment and Climate

Spokane sits at the east edge of the Columbia Plateau's wheat farms and steppe, where they meet the forested Rocky Mountain foothills, the Selkirk Mountains. Among these is Mount Spokane[link], which overlooks the city from a height of nearly 6,000 feet and sports a distinctive "bald spot" that marks the seasons, turning white with winter snow and light brown with summer heat. The Spokane River, a major tributary of the Columbia River, passes through the city of Spokane, tumbling through a series of dramatic falls in the heart of Downtown, not far from the river's confluence with Latah Creek and the Little Spokane River.

Spokane has a continental, semi-arid climate, with moderately cold winters and warm summers. The Cascade mountains to the west shield it from the direct modifying effect of Pacific Ocean air, and Idaho's Mountains to the east help to protect it from the worst effects of arctic air in winter. Precipitation is concentrated in the cooler half of the year, with the summer typically enjoying dry and stable weather.

Spokane has undertaken a number of planning and environmental analyses, particularly centered on the downtown area. The goals of these efforts have been to enhance pedestrian mobility, decrease traffic congestion and mimimize vehicular air pollution. A skywalk system has been an ingredient in all of these issues' solutions.

According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 151.6 km² (58.5 mi²). 149.6 km² (57.8 mi²) of it is land and 2.0 km² (0.8 mi²) of it (1.30%) is water.

Demographics

As of the census^{[Geographic references#2GR2]} of 2000, there were 199,630 people, 81,512 households, and 47,276 families residing in the city. The population density was 1,307.7/km² (3,387.0/mi²). There were 87,941 housing units at an average density of 587.8/km² (1,522.6/mi²). The racial makeup of the city was 89.46% White, 2.07% African American, 1.76% Native American, 2.25% Asian, 0.19% Pacific Islander, 0.88% from other races, and 3.38% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 2.99% of the population.

There were 81,512 households out of which 29.4% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 41.3% were married couples living together, 12.4% had a female householder with no husband present, and 42.0% were non-families. 33.9% of all households were made up of individuals and 11.7% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.32 and the average family size was 2.98.

In the city the population was spread out with 24.8% under the age of 18, 11.1% from 18 to 24, 29.6% from 25 to 44, 20.5% from 45 to 64, and 14.0% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 35 years. For every 100 females there were 93.0 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 89.9 males.

The median income for a household in the city was $32,273, and the median income for a family was $41,316. Males had a median income of $31,676 versus $24,833 for females. The per capita income for the city was $18,451. 15.9% of the population and 11.1% of families were below the poverty line. 19.3% of those over the age of 18 and 9.6% of those 65 and older were living below the poverty line.

Neighborhoods

Spokane has a variety of neighborhoods, ranging from the late Victorian-era to the ultra modern. Many of these, both in and around Spokane, are commonly referred to by name, such as:

Browne's Addition: A National Historic District west of Downtown, Browne's Addition was Spokane's first prestigious address. Notable for its array of old mansions built by Spokane's early elite, in Queen Anne and early Craftsman styles, the area also is home to Coeur d'Alene Park and the recently rebuilt and expanded Northwest [Museum of Arts and Culture] (MAC). A prominent feature of the MAC is Campbell House, a turn-of-the-20th-century mansion built by Asa Campbell, a local mining magnate. The venerable home retains most of its original decor and is a favorite tour destination. The [City-County Office of Historic Preservation] offers information on all of Spokane's historic neighborhoods.

Downtown[link]: Spokane's central business core boasts recently revitalized shopping, housing, and entertainment services, with major projects recently completed and underway. Downtown is the cultural heart of the city and is particularly notable for [Riverfront Park] (site of the 1974 World's Fair), the [Inland Northwest Bank Performing Arts Center], the newly remodeled and expanded [Convention Center], [River Park Square] mall, the spectacular [Davenport Hotel] (which anchors the growing Davenport Arts District), numerous shops, pubs, and restaurants, and much new urban housing on the way. Of special note is a grand new neighborhood being developed on the northern periphery of the downtown core. The new development is called [Kendall Yards], and follows similar projects in cities like Houston and Denver. It will feature over 1,500 new urban residences and tens of thousands of square feet of new shopping, entertainment, and office space, making it one of the largest upscale urban redevelopment projects in the country.

In addition, Downtown is home to Spokane's city and county government offices, most notably the Spokane County Courthouse, built in the style of a French chateaux and featuring large turrets and spires. A similar historic structure houses the [Spokane Athletic Club], a Spokane social institution housed in a Georgian-style building designed by famed Spokane architect Kirtland Cutter. The Club sits just across Riverside Avenue from [Our Lady of Lourdes Cathedral], seat of the Catholic Church in the Inland Northwest, and just across Monroe Street from the Thomas S. Foley United States Courthouse.

The recently rebuilt Monroe Street Bridge is Spokane's oldest river crossing, and is a notable symbol of the city featured in the city's crest. Nearby is the modern main branch of the [Spokane Public Library], with its unparalled views of the Spokane River. Just down Monroe Street is the [Fox Theatre], an art-deco movie theatre of yesteryear, currently undergoing a multi-million dollar renovation to become the new home of the Spokane Symphony. At the north end of Riverfront Park is the 12,000 seat [Spokane Veterans Memorial Arena], home to the Spokane Chiefs Hockey Club and Spokane Shock Arena Football Club. In addition to numerous local and regional events, the Arena plays host to events such as NCAA March Madness, numerous big-name concerts, and in 2007, the U.S. Figure Skating Championships. Across Mallon Avenue from the Arena is the Flour Mill, a converted structure that once produced flour in abundance but now houses a variety of offices, shops, and restaurants in a highly unique setting.

East Central: This neighborhood was bisected when Interstate 90 came through decades ago and is still recovering. The area sits at the foot of the South Hill, east of Downtown along the freeway. With plans for feeder lanes to be added to I-90 (the existing freeway will eventually connect with the new North Spokane corridor somewhere in the East Central neighborhood), there will likely be further impact upon the neighborhood where it meets the pavement. What remains of the residential integrity of the area (and there is much still) lies to the south of I-90, while the area north of the freeway continues to decay. All in all, the city and neighboorhood must put their heads together to reinvigorate this area. The good news is that some individuals are taking it upon themselves to pump life into East Central, as home-seekers are taking advantage of low housing prices and renovating. Thus, East Central's image is changing to one of opportunity and positive changes are underway.

Five Mile: A former agricultural plateau that lies approximately five miles north of Downtown. Five Mile Hill has experienced increasing residential development in recent years, owing to available land and panoramic views of the entire city and the valley in which it sits. Homes here tend to be on the pricey side, but the view and serenity may be worth it.

Garland: A mid-century suburban neighborhood a few miles north of Downtown. The area is considered a walking neighborhood with many local shops and the venerable [Garland Theatre], a popular independent movie theatre. The [Garland Village] is an excellent online guide to this treasured historic shopping district. You can also peruse [The Garland Times], the neighborhood's independent newspaper, for all the latest that the neighborhood has to offer.

Hillyard: A city chartered independently of Spokane, later incorporated into the Spokane city limits. "Downtown Hillyard," which runs along Market Street, was recently designated a National Historic District, a fact which should spur continued redevelopment of the district. Hillyard was named in honor of Great Northern Railroad magnate, James J. Hill. It is regularly known as the poorest section of Spokane, but that is likely to change due to the expected economic impact of the long-awaited North Spokane Corridor, a major north-south freeway now under construction.

Logan: The Logan Neighborhood comprises the residential area just north of Gonzaga University in central Spokane. A large number of Gonzaga University students occupy many of the neighborhood's historic large 19th-century houses, some in the Mission (as in Mission Avenue) Historic District. During the school year parking can be a problem for residents and non-residents alike due to the presence of so many students, particularly when the 'Zags' are playing a home game at the McCarthy Athletic Center. However, the vibrant student life that gives the area its energy offsets any inconvenience. With its wide early-century streets and housing variety, this area promises to catch the eye of many who want the close-to-Downtown-and-campus lifestyle coupled with affordable and charming homes that are ripe for restoration.

Shadle: A residential neighborhood in the northwest part of the city that features a large park and sports complex known as Shadle Park. The area is composed largely of neat middle-class streets lined with post-war era housing. There is also a site of historical interest here: Drumheller Springs lies nearly hidden behind rows of homes and a major north-south arterial called Ash Street. This small parcel was the site of the first white American-style school built in the Oregon Territory, circa 1830. Local Indians were taught here by Spokane Garry, a chief of the middle Spokane people who preached Christianity and peace among the Native Americans that inhabited Inland Northwest. This site is now managed by the Spokane Parks and Recreation Department as a natural area. A trail that once led from downtown Spokane all the way to Canada still runs through the small, quiet preserve.

The South Hill: A catch-all phrase for various neighborhoods that cover the hills south of downtown, from historic to contemporary. Manito Park, Spokane's largest, is located here and includes the Japanese Gardens (a gift to the city from sister-city Nishinomiya, Japan), the Rose Gardens, the Duncan Gardens, the Gaiser Conservatory, and the Manito duck pond. Other South Hill neighborhoods include Lincoln Heights, Cannon's Addition, Comstock, and Moran Prairie.

The South Hill is commonly considered Spokane's old money area and is often thought of as a figurative opposite to Spokane's north side, which tends to be more commercialized and sprawling.  From Downtown, the view of the South Hill is dominated by evergreen trees and two large man-made features: Sacred Heart Medical Center, Spokane's largest hospital, and the Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist[link], seat of the Episcopal Diocese of Spokane and a magnificent example of  modern English Gothic architecture.

Spokane Valley: The city of [Spokane Valley] lies to the east of Spokane and incorporated in 2003. Still referred to by locals simply as "the Valley," the area includes much of the unincorporated neighborhoods surrounding the new city. The city's districts include some former small towns that have long since become neighborhoods, including Millwood, Dishman, and Otis Orchards. The Spokane area's high-tech hub, the city of [Liberty Lake], borders Spokane Valley to the east.

Sunset Hill: Located just west of Downtown, near Spokane International Airport, Sunset Hill features older neighborhoods with more petite houses, as well as new subdivisions. Sunset Hill is bisected by I-90 and Sunset Boulevard, which represents one of the remaining sections of the old U.S. Highway 2, once the main road between Spokane and Seattle prior to the completion of Interstate 90. In fact, I-90 features one of the most striking views of the city and Mt. Spokane behind it in the distance, as seen by travelers heading east along the freeway upon reaching the crest of the Hill on their way down into the city. Of note, the John A. Finch Arboretum, an expansive park filled with a variety of tree species and wildlife, is located on Sunset Hill.

The University District[link]: Just east of downtown, the area boasts three campuses that connect in one large district of academic energy and student vitality. The district contains Gonzaga University and its 6,000 undergraduate students, as well as Washington State University - Spokane, and Eastern Washington University's Riverpoint Campus. Plans call for dramatic increases in the student population in coming years, as well as additional housing, services, and entertainment for a young, professional audience.

West Central: This neighborhood includes Washington State's largest National Historic District, [Nettleton's Addition]. Like much of Spokane, West Central suffered from mid-century suburban flight, but 2000 Census data showed significant improvement that has continued and expanded. In "Socio-Economic Changes in Spokane County Census Tracts from 1990 and 2000," the Spokane-Kootenai Real Estate Research Committee noted "a distinct decline in poverty levels" in West Central. More recently, discussion of Kendall Yards, a large-scale "new urbanism" development bordering the southern edge of West Central, has sparked renewed interest in this historic neighborhood. This is another of Spokane's ripe-for-restoration locations, with plentiful and architecturally interesting homes, quiet streets lined with mature trees, and a location near Downtown.

Education

Colleges and universities

Gonzaga University
Whitworth College
[Spokane Community College] Part of the Community Colleges of Spokane
[Spokane Falls Community College] Part of the Community Colleges of Spokane
Eastern Washington University (Cheney)
Washington State University - Spokane branch
[Apollo College] - Spokane Campus
[Mukogawa Fort Wright Institute] - American campus of Mukogawa Women's University, Nishinomiya, Japan
[Cat Tales Zoological Training Center] The only school of its kind.

Historical

Spokane University in the Spokane Valley, closed in 1933
Spokane Art Center a Federal Art Project during the Great Depression
Holy Names College (1960–1963) later named Fort George Wright College (1963–1982) eventually merged with the adjacent Spokane Falls Community College.

Parks and Recreation

In 1907, Spokane's board of park commissioners retained the services of the Olmsted Brothers to draw up a plan for Spokane parks. [link] Today, Spokane has a system of over 75 parks totalling 3500 acres, with parks ranging in size from the quarter-acre Skeet-So-Mish Park playground to the 464-acre Palisades Park conservation area. Spokane's jewel is its extensive park system, a fraction of which is listed below:

Riverfront Park[link], created as the final legacy of Expo '74 and occupying the same site, is one hundred acres in Downtown Spokane and the scene of some of Spokane's largest events. With views of the mighty Spokane Falls, the park boasts a number of civic attractions, from the Skyride (a recently rebuilt gondola that carries visitors down across the falls high above the river gorge), the 5-story IMAX theatre, numerous rides and concessions, and year-round festivals. A new "Great Gorge Park," originally designed by the Olmsted Brothers, is being proposed as an extension of Riverfront Park[link] along the deep river gorge through the Peaceful Valley neighborhood.
Manito Park and Botanical Gardens [link], on Spokane's South Hill, features a duck pond; the central conservatory named in memory of Dr. David Gaiser; Duncan Garden, a classical European Renaissance style garden and the Nishinomiya Japanese Garden designed by Nagao Sakurai in 1967. Upper Manito features a popular playground area, softball field, horseshoe pits and grass fields for group games. There is also a children's playground at lower Manito, near the duck pond. The abundant trails and pathways are popular with runners, dog walkers and mountain bikers.
[Riverside State Park] is close to Downtown and offers hiking, mountain biking, rafting and camping opportunities as well as scenic views.
The [Centennial Trail] offers locals and visitors the chance to run, walk, bike or roller blade over thirty-seven miles of paved trails running along the Spokane River and across the metropolitan area. Informational signs and parking are provided along the Trail.
Highbridge Park and People's Park: These two parks located in Peaceful Valley where it meets Hangman Valley are centers of Spokane's gay and nudist culture.
The John A. Finch Arboretum (57 acres) is a public arboretum featuring a variety of rare and native trees and wildlife. The Arboretum was established in 1949.
Downriver Park, near Riverside State Park and Downriver Golf Course, boasts a championship 21 hole Disc Golf Course adjoining the Spokane River, and another fine 18 hole Disc Golf Course resides in High Bridge Park, near Downtown. Maps and information are available at: [Spokane Disc Golf Assoc.]
Public Golf Courses: Spokane rates highly in all major golf publications owing to its numerous well-maintained public courses, easy tee times, and relatively inexpensive fees. The city-owned courses include The Creek at Qualchan, Indian Canyon, Esmerelda, Downriver, and Hangman golf courses. In addition, the Spokane Country Club and Manito Country Club offer private memberships to their own courses.
In the summer, many Spokane residents visit Lake Coeur d'Alene, Priest Lake, Lake Pend O'Reille, or one of the many other nearby bodies of water.
In the winter, Spokane residents have easy access to five ski resorts within a few hours of the city. A non-profit organization operates nearby Mt. Spokane Ski and Snowboard Park. Mt. Spokane State Park also offers trails for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing and dogsledding. During the non-winter months, hikers and mountain bikers frequent the trails.
Just outside of Spokane in the city of Mead is one of the world’s most unique Zoological parks.
[Cat Tales]is a rescue facility for exotic cats including (but not limited to) smaller cats like the African Serval on up to 600+ pound Barbary Lions, and even a Liger. There are many things that make this park unique, but what makes it the most unique is that fact that it is also a zoological training center where students spend one year learning to care for, and work with some of the most unique and in some cases endangered animals in the world.

Sports Teams and Events

Club	Sport	League	Stadium (or Arena)	Logo
Spokane Indians	Baseball	Northwest League (Eastern Division)	Avista Stadium
Spokane Chiefs	Ice Hockey	Western Hockey League (U.S. Division)	Spokane Arena
Spokane Shock	Arena Football	AF2 (National West)	Spokane Arena
Spokane Sabercats	Football	Evergreen League

Spokane has played host to the NCAA Men's (2003) and Women's (2002) Basketball Tournaments, and has been selected to do so again in 2009.

Spokane will host the 2007 U.S. Figure Skating Championships, and was a candidate city for the 2009 World Figure Skating Championships, losing its bid to Los Angeles.

Inside the sold-out Spokane Arena on Teddy Bear Toss night. The 12,750-seat Arena is the 2nd largest indoor Arena in Washington state. The Spokane Chiefs and Spokane Shock call it home.

In addition, the city has two major events of its own: [Hoopfest], the world's largest 3-on-3 basketball tournament and the [Lilac Bloomsday Run], usually referred to simply as Bloomsday, a road race that annually draws upwards of 50,000 runners.

High school sports are also a large draw in Spokane, as local teams compete in the Greater Spokane League (GSL). In addition to the majority of contests played at school facilities, Joe Albi Stadium, an 18,000-seat city-owned venue, is the scene of many GSL football games, and the Spokane Arena hosts a number of GSL basketball matchups, as well as other high school sports.

The Spokane Arena is also the perennial host to the State 'B' Basketball Tournament, which brings to town athletes and fans from many of Washington's smaller high schools.

Events and Activities in Spokane

Spokane is home to a number of major annual events that draw people from a large surrounding area, as well as one-of-a-kind attractions.

The Lilac Bloomsday Run [link], a 7.46 mile race for walkers and competitive runners, is the largest timed road race in the world, typically drawing between 50,000 and 70,000 participants [link]. It is held on the first Sunday of each May.
[Hoopfest] is the largest 3-on-3 basketball tournament in the world. It is held the last weekend in June, and boasts a variety of participants, from kids, teens, and adults to former college and NBA players, in their respective brackets. Started in 1989 with just 300+ teams, the event now annually averages more than 40,000 participants.
Each April, Japan Week celebrates the sister-city relationship with Nishinomiya, demonstrating the many commonalities shared between the two cities. Students from the Spokane campus of Mukogawa Institute, Whitworth College, Gonzaga University, Spokane Falls and Spokane Community College organize an array of Japanese cultural events, in addition to a number of others that take place around the city.
The Lilac City Open Disc Golf Tournament, organized by the [Spokane Disc Golf Association] (SDGA) is the premier Disc Golf Event in the Inland Northwest. In 2006, it fell on Memorial Day Weekend at the end of May. The tournament features not only both of Spokane's public disc golf courses, Downriver and High Bridge Disc Golf Courses, but also includes two courses at the private Four Mound Disc Golf Reserve.
[Spokane Raceway Park] hosts motorsports events such as the annual American Hot Rod Association (AHRA) World Finals drag race in early August.
The [Garland Village Arts & Music Festival] takes place the second Saturday each August. 2006 will mark the 4th annual street fair. More information can be found at [The Garland Village].
[Pig-Out In The Park] is an annual summer festival celebrating the joy of food. Lots of food. And local music. Local restaurants set up a number of booths all around Riverfront Park. Visitors can browse for food and listen to live local bands perform. It is traditionally held during Labor Day week in early September.
Tour des Lacs [link] is a well-supported two-day benefit bike ride in September, from Spokane to Coeur d'Alene and back, including short route options on the Centennial Trail. Route options from 80 to almost 200 miles; breakfast, dinner, and food stops. Usually draws about 1000 riders; helmets required.
Spokane is also home to a National Historic Landmark hand-carved carousel, created in 1909 by Charles I. D. Looff as a wedding present for his daughter. The carousel still operates in Riverfront Park, downtown, where riders can participate in an old-time ring toss. The carousel continues to offer a free ride to the rider who grabs the brass ring.
The Northwest Museum of Arts and Culture [link] houses a large collection of Native American artifacts as well as regional and national traveling art exhibits. Located in Browne's Addition, the Museum boasts a secluded setting just blocks from the heart of Downtown.
The [Spokane Symphony] performs a full season of concerts and the [Spokane Jazz Orchestra] is the oldest performing jazz orchestra in the United States.

Notable Spokanites

Musicians

Jim Boyd, musician, cultural critic, and two-time 'Album of the Year' winner at the Native American Music Awards Visit Jim at his shop here: [link]
Mike Clarke, member of the band The Byrds.
Bing Crosby, celebrated entertainer.
Paul D'Amour, former member of the band Tool.
Thomas Hampson, America's leading baritone.
Myles Kennedy, lead singer of the band Alter Bridge.
George Lynch, former member of the rock band Dokken and current member of Lynch Mob.
Craig Montoya, member of the band Everclear.
Billy Tipton, transgender jazz musician.

Artists

Sherman Alexie, author
Kenneth Callahan painter from the "Northwest School"
David Eddings, popular author of the Belgariad and many other books
Chuck Jones, American animator of Bugs Bunny, Daffy Duck, and the Road Runner

Actors

Darren McGavin (by some accounts), actor best known for his part in A Christmas Story
Craig T. Nelson, actor who has played lead roles in Coach, The District, and The Incredibles.
Julia Sweeney, actress and comedienne — well known as Pat on Saturday Night Live.
Tongolele, Film and television actress famous throughout Spain and Latin America.

Sports

Neil Everett, ESPN SportsCenter Anchor.
Stuart W. Evey, Founder - ESPN Sports Television Network.
Jason Hanson, kicker with the Detroit Lions of the NFL.
Chad Little, former NASCAR driver. Went to Gonzaga Law School.
Dan Lynch, former first-team All-American football player.
Adam Morrison, former Gonzaga basketball player, and 2005-2006 preseason and postseason first team All-American. He has officially declared for the NBA Draft as of April 2006, and signed with the Charlotte Bobcats on July 6. Born in Montana.
Jeff Robinson, former NFL Long Snapper and Tightend. Won Super Bowl XXXIV in 2000 and played in Super Bowl XXXVI in 2002.
Mark Rypien, former World Champion Quarterback for the Washington Redskins of the NFL MVP of the 1991 Super Bowl.
Ryne Sandberg, 2005 Inductee into the Baseball Hall Of Fame, former second baseman for the Chicago Cubs.
Tom Sneva, Indianapolis 500 winner.
John Stockton, former professional basketball player, point guard for the Utah Jazz of the NBA and Gonzaga Bulldogs.

Politicians

Ryan Crocker, distinguished US diplomat, currently serving as US Ambassador to Pakistan.
Samuel G. Havermale, early Spokane pioneer, minister and politician.
Tom Foley, U.S. Congressman, former Democratic
Eric Johnston, former head of the United States Chamber of Commerce, former President of the Motion Picture Association of America

Other

Ryan C. Benson, actor and winner of NBC reality program: The Biggest Loser.
Madonna Buder, 75-year-old Catholic nun and oldest Hawaii Ironman Triathlete competitor.
Kirtland Cutter, architect, best known for his legacy to Spokane, including the Davenport Hotel.
Cyan Worlds, Inc., the company that produced the computer game Myst.
Sonora Smart Dodd, successfully campaigned for the establishment of Father's Day.

Speaker of the House of Representatives.

Chief Garry, One of the Spokane tribes' most prominent and influential leaders during the shift from indigenous to European-American control of their land. He advocated for peace among all peoples.
Col. David P. Jenkins Civil War Colonel, Spokane homesteader and philanthropist
Wilder Graves Penfield, American-born Canadian neurosurgeon who mapped out the functional areas of the cereberal cortex and pioneered groundbreaking research into epilepsy treatment.
Irwin Rose, American biologist awarded Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 2004.
Laurie Roth, former host of the Laurie Roth Show, a nationally syndicated talk radio program which originated at KQNT in Spokane.
UFO Phil, comedy/novelty songwriter and regular guest on many national radio programs such as Coast to Coast AM and Dr. Demento.

See:

Spokane in Film and TV

Spokane has been featured in several theatrical films.

One of the more recent is a film called End Game, which was mostly shot in the Spokane area, although the film takes place in the eastern United States. The movie stars Angie Harmon and Cuba Gooding Jr..
1985 movie Vision Quest, starring Matthew Modine, was filmed in Spokane and features many landmarks in town, including The Onion restaurant, the Ridpath Hotel, and Rogers High School. It also features a cameo by an early-career Madonna (it was actually Madonna's first movie appearance).
Benny & Joon, starring Johnny Depp, was filmed in Peaceful Valley, near downtown. The scene in the movie with Benny doing the trick with the hat in the cafe was filmed in Ferguson's Diner in the Garland Village.
Home of the Brave, starring Samuel L. Jackson and 50 Cent, is a straight-to-video production that completed shooting in Spokane in April 2006.
Hangman's Curse, a notable book by local author Frank Peretti, recently became a movie and was filmed in areas in and around Spokane.
Mozart and the Whale starring Josh Hartnett, Radha Mitchell, and Gary Cole, about the development of the romantic relationship between two people with Asperger's syndrome (a form of autism), and based on the real-life experiences of Jerry Newport and his wife, Mary.