If you’re visiting Spokane, Washington, for the first time, navigating around can seem daunting. With so many forms of transportation in the city, from buses and river ferries to trolleys and railroads, it may not be easy to know what is best for your needs. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to get around town! We’ll cover all the options available when traversing downtown Spokane, including public transit systems such as bus lines and taxis and water-based alternatives like river ferries or wine tours along riverside roads. Let’s look at each mode of transport in detail so you can decide which one best fits your budget and travel plans!
When Buses Run
Busses are available to commuters 365 days a year, including holidays such as New Year’s Day, Thanksgiving, and Christmas. So on these holidays, there is no excuse for missing out on great adventures like visiting the great riverside state park close to the Spokane river. On these special occasions, the schedules for buses may differ from their usual operation times; during the weekdays, they run from 5:30 in the morning until 11:30 at night. On weekends, they start running at 8 a.m. and cease operations at 8 p.m. Thus, individuals who rely on buses can rest assured that they have access to this service all year round.
Bus Routes
All 43 bus routes currently run throughout the service area, providing transportation to their destinations. Detailed information regarding these routes can be found on the website, with alerts (a red bell) indicating which routes are impacted due to any stop closures or construction occurring in the vicinity. Thus, passengers can easily check for changes and plan accordingly.
These routes connect a variety of major landmarks throughout the city, going up to the river park square, affording citizens and visitors convenient access to some of the most iconic spots. Among them are historic buildings, monuments, parks like riverfront park, hotels like the historic davenport hotel, and other points of interest that have played an important role in the area’s history. These routes allow people to explore the city conveniently while ensuring they don’t miss any of its renowned attractions.
- Spokane Community College
- Eastern Washington University district
- Spokane Falls blvd Community College
- Spokane Veterans Memorial Arena
- Spokane International Airport
- St. Lukes Rehabilitation Institute
- Sacred Heart Medical Center
- Shriners Hospital for Children
- Spokane Public Library
- Civic Theater
- Various public schools
Online Technology And Apps
Spokane County Transit offers an extensive and user-friendly website, offering a wealth of information for anyone who wishes to take advantage of the bus system. It includes comprehensive details on fares, routes, schedules, maps, and other helpful resources that will easily enable riders to plan their journey throughout the year. The site also provides updates on any changes in service or special events taking place in the area. With its organized layout and detailed content, Spokane Transit’s website is an invaluable resource for navigating public transportation in the Spokane region.
The website provides comprehensive information about all routes, bus stops, schedules, and fares applicable to passengers. Furthermore, it contains details about the policies and rules for ridership and helpful advice on how to be courteous to other bus riders. For those with disabilities, the website also offers useful information about their rights and privileges when using public transportation.
Spokane Transit has implemented a range of cutting-edge software, applications, and technologies to simplify the bus-riding experience for its customers. This innovative technology allows riders to access real-time schedules and easily track their buses. This advanced system allows them to purchase tickets online or through apps on their phones, making it even more convenient to ride the bus in Spokane valley.
Text Your Stop
Every bus stop has its unique four-digit code, which is displayed on the sign for that specific bus. Passengers can access a convenient service by taking advantage of the “Text Your Stop” option. Here they can text their assigned code to 99689 and receive an immediate response containing information about when the next bus will arrive.
Real-Time Info Map
The “Real Time Info” map is an interactive tool that provides a comprehensive overview of active bus stops in the Spokane area. Users can quickly and easily discover which bus lines are approaching their location by clicking on any highlighted stops. Additionally, zooming in on different areas of the map further exposes additional bus stops that may be within the service region. This allows for a more thorough exploration.
Transit Apps
Spokane’s transit information can be easily accessed through Google Maps. It has been further utilized by third-party app developers who have created special applications designed to assist Spokane riders in their travels across the city. These apps provide functionality that helps commuters find their way from one location to another. Without worrying about getting lost or figuring out complicated routes. These apps include:
- Transit App
- One Bus Away
- Moovit App
All three of these applications can be found for use on both Apple and Android phones. Although Spokane Transit does not officially promote or sponsor any of these apps, they are still listed on the Spokane Transit website as a source of convenience for their customers. These apps provide an easy way to access up-to-date transit information with just a few clicks or taps on your device.
Fares
Spokane Transit employs a uniform fare system to ensure transportation is accessible and reasonably priced for all individuals. Using this standard fare structure, the Spokane transit authority strives to make efficient public transport available and affordable for as many community members as possible. Options include:
- Single-ride fare
- Day pass
- Two-hour pass
- The fixed route 31-day pass
Discounted fares are available for seniors 65 and older and students wishing to travel. These reduced prices offer a great way for those on fixed incomes and young people who may be financially constrained to enjoy the convenience of public transportation still.
Good Luck
If you’re new to Spokane, you’ll quickly discover that the city offers an impressive and comprehensive public transportation network. Learning how to use the buses is essential to get around the area easily. Understanding where they go, their routes, and schedules will be key in helping you make your way around town.
Before you begin to rely on the bus system for traveling to a new job or important appointments, it is recommended that you take a few trips from the bus stations to some enjoyable destinations. This way, when you need to use public transit to get where you need to go. You will understand how the system works and can confidently navigate your route.
Conclusion
While the city’s bus system may not be as large as Seattle or Portland. It is still possible to visit Spokane without a car. By familiarizing yourself with the city’s public transportation options, you can easily get where you need to go without renting a car or relying on Uber. So whether you’re visiting for a weekend or looking for an alternative to driving, check out Spokane’s public transportation options!