SPOKANE, Wash. – Downtown Spokane has experienced a significant increase in foot traffic and tourism recently. The Downtown Spokane Partnership reported a 5.4% increase in foot traffic by the end of 2025, with more than 3 million tourists visiting the area in the fourth quarter alone.
Local business owners have observed the positive changes. Reema Shaver, owner of Bistango Martini Bar and Lounge, shared her thoughts on the bustling atmosphere.
“People also like it, you know, they like the hustle and bustle they do. They want that,” Shaver said.
Having opened her business in 2005, Shaver has witnessed the transformation of the downtown area over the years.
“It’s been a journey for sure and I’ve seen it go from 0 to 180 for sure in 20 years,” she said.
Shaver noted that the increase in foot traffic is refreshing after the challenges brought by the COVID-19 pandemic.
“The weather has been really a big factor for people coming downtown,” she said, acknowledging the various factors contributing to the rise in customers.
Shaver also mentioned the positive impact of city council initiatives and the Spokane Police Department’s efforts to maintain order.
“I’ve noticed a lot less troublemakers,” she said.
“I see ambassadors downtown. They encourage us to call. I mean, here’s one outside right now asking this gentleman to leave.”
The Downtown Spokane Partnership has been proactive in scheduling conventions to boost tourism.
Kevin Campbell, an economic vitality specialist, highlighted the growth in business openings.
“Just last year, in 2025, 27 new retail and ground level businesses opened in downtown Spokane,” Campbell said.
Campbell also emphasized the importance of legacy businesses in the area.
“Downtown Spokane has no shortage of great legacy businesses,” he said.
Trevor Hoffman, owner of 24 Taps Burgers and Brews, shared his experience with the increased customer base.
“During lunch, I get a lot of people from out of town, maybe waiting for hotels or, you know, coming in for lunch breaks, during their conferences,” Hoffman said.
Hoffman has taken steps to enhance his business offerings.
“We upgraded our menu, about, like, eight months ago or so, and so, that we really elevated that with, Pendleton beef,” he said.
Despite holidays being the busiest times, Shaver noted the excitement extending into the summer months.
“People really enjoy the overwhelming feeling and just knowing that there’s people downtown trying to come in and come in and you know, the wait at the door and excitement to get a drink. It’s actually pretty awesome,” she said.
The thriving downtown area continues to attract both locals and tourists, contributing to Spokane’s economic growth.
