A Student's Guide to Spokane
Your home for
a few beautiful days.
You're coming to learn something incredible. While you're here, let Spokane surprise you.
Spokane is more than a destination—
it's a feeling.
We're so glad you're coming. THE SPACE sits on the east end of downtown, right at the edge of the University District — a genuinely beautiful part of the city.
Most of what you'll want to see, eat, and experience is walkable. This guide is our way of making sure you get to feel a little of what makes this place special.
Logistics
Where to Stay
We recommend staying in or near downtown — north of the train viaduct — for the easiest and most comfortable experience getting to and from class each day.
Closest
Downtown Hotels
Flexible
Airbnb
Flexible
VRBO
The key: Stay north of the train viaduct. It keeps your walk to THE SPACE smooth, safe, and easy.
On Foot
Walking to THE SPACE
Walking downtown is easy and pleasant. Most students walk to class each day. A few simple things to know:
Get Outside
Explore the City
All of this is within easy walking distance of THE SPACE. Go slow. Take it in.
- Riverfront Park — the heart of Spokane, right on the river.
- The Pavilion — iconic and worth a stop.
- Upper Spokane Falls — one of the most dramatic urban waterfall views in the country.
- The Centennial Trail — beautiful river path, perfect for an evening walk.
If You Have More Time
- River Park Square — easy downtown shopping if you need it.
- Main Ave (Howard → Division) — a great stretch for wandering and local finds.
- The MAC (Northwest Museum of Arts & Culture) — genuinely worth a visit.
Local Favorites
Coffee, Shops
& Wandering
All of these are within walking distance. Spokane's local scene is genuinely special — take the time to pop in.
Atticus Coffee & Gifts
Cozy, eclectic, and a true Spokane staple. A must-visit.
Boo Radley's
Fun and quirky — right next door to Atticus. You'll want to look around.
Hatch Coffee
Great coffee and very close to THE SPACE. A solid morning stop.
Indaba Coffee
Local favorite downtown with a great atmosphere and good energy.
Kizuri
Just a block south of us — unique fair trade goods from around the world.
Wonders of the World
Across the river — a fun global gift shop worth the quick walk.
Revival Tea Company
A little dungeony, speakeasy feel. Definitely worth the visit.
Don't Miss This
Kendall Yards —
the sunset walk
If you do one thing while you're in Spokane outside of class, make it this: walk across the pedestrian bridge to Kendall Yards for sunset. The views are genuinely stunning, and the neighborhood has a handful of great places to eat and drink while you're there.
- Versalia Pizza — a great meal with great views.
- Maryhill Winery — sit outside if the weather is right.
- Mole — a neighborhood favorite.
The pedestrian bridge from downtown makes this a lovely, easy walk — no car needed.
Evening Plans
After Class,
go here.
A few places we genuinely love for an evening out after a day of learning.
Wooden City
On the pricier side, but the food and atmosphere are really worth it.
Cochinito
Casual, delicious tacos and a local favorite. A go-to.
Durkin's Liquor Bar
Great cocktails, good food, and a genuinely cool space.
The Gilded Unicorn
Underground speakeasy-style. A fun, unexpected experience.
Steam Plant
The food is okay — but the historic building alone is worth walking through.
Come curious.
Leave in love with Spokane.
Choose a comfortable place to stay, give yourself a little time to get oriented, and enjoy being here. Spokane has a really special mix of nature, walkability, and local charm — we hope you get to feel a bit of it while you're in town.
Why Train in Spokane
Spokane is an ideal city for barefoot massage and continuing education training. It is easy to reach, easy to navigate, and full of beauty, culture, and nature that support focused, embodied learning. SoleMassage students consistently love how simple it feels to arrive, settle in, and fully engage in class.
Easy Travel & Central Location
Spokane International Airport (GEG) is small, efficient, and close to the city (about a 10 minute drive). Most students are on the ground and on their way within minutes, making travel days straightforward and low stress.
THE SPACE is located east downtown Spokane at teh start of the U Disctrict, with the lower South Hill just minutes away. Whether you walk, bike, or drive, getting to class is easy and predictable, leaving more energy for learning and recovery.
Where to Stay
Quick Guide
Downtown Spokane
Stay within walking distance of class, coffee shops, restaurants, Riverfront Park, and the Spokane River. Many students enjoy being able to walk everywhere before and after training days.
Lower South Hill
A quiet, residential area just a short drive or bike ride from THE SPACE. This is a great option if you prefer a calmer place to land at night while staying close to class.
Airbnb options are widely available in both areas, along with centrally located downtown hotels that are comfortable, convenient, and easy to navigate.
Driven by passion
Nature Built Into the Day
One of Spokane’s highlights is how naturally the outdoors fits into daily life.
The Centennial Trail runs along the Spokane River through downtown, making it easy to take a walk by the water on your lunch break. Riverfront Park is nearby, offering open space, fresh air, and room to decompress.
In the evening, the Pavilion lights up the park and creates a beautiful, relaxed place to stroll after class.
Food, Coffee & Local Favorites
Everything you need is close by.
Grab coffee before class, walk to lunch, or meet classmates for dinner without planning a whole itinerary. Downtown Spokane is filled with markets, restaurants, and cafes that are approachable, high quality, and student friendly.
Beloved local spots like Boo Radleys, Atticus Coffee & Gifts and Auntie’s Bookstore are perfect for post-class wandering, journaling, or a quiet reset.
A City That Complements the Training
Spokane is a beautiful, human-scale city with just the right amount of activity. There are plenty of things to enjoy after class, while still offering the calm and spaciousness needed for integration and rest.
For barefoot massage training, ashiatsu education, and immersive continuing education, Spokane supports deep focus, physical awareness, and genuine connection.
Train with intention. Move your body. Walk the river. Eat well. Rest deeply.
SoleMassage training in Spokane makes all of that possible.
Their attention to detail and commitment to quality truly stood out. We’ve already recommended them to others.
—Former Customer