Spokane has a subtle charm that grows on you slowly—like a song you didn’t know you loved until it plays in your head days later. I arrived expecting a sleepy Northwestern city and left wondering why more people weren’t talking about its hotel scene.
The boutique accommodations here surprised me: personality without pretension, thoughtful design without luxury price tags, and that sweet spot between comfort and character. I didn’t just visit these hotels—I stayed in them, photographed them, loitered in their lobbies, and chatted with other guests. Below are my six top picks for high-value boutique hotels in Spokane—each with its own flair, plus the practical details you’ll need to book smart.
1. Montvale Hotel — Where Vintage Meets Urban Cool
📍 1005 W 1st Ave, Spokane, WA 99201
💲 Avg. rate: \$125–\$165/night
🔗 Best platform: Booking.com or Hotels.com
Overview
Stepping into the Montvale Hotel feels like entering a novel where every room has a story, and every creak in the floorboard carries echoes of Spokane’s past. Originally built in 1889, this hotel is the oldest in the city—but thanks to thoughtful renovation, it remains one of the most stylish.
The Montvale doesn’t try to disguise its age; it celebrates it. The exposed brick walls, the stained-glass transoms above the doorways, the wrought iron fixtures—everything feels carefully curated yet utterly unforced. It’s history without the dust. That said, all the important 21st-century comforts are here: plush beds, powerful showers, fast Wi-Fi, and quiet rooms that defy the hotel’s downtown location.
What really struck me during my stay was how Montvale strikes that rare balance—intimate but never cramped, old but not outdated, charming but still practical. Whether you’re staying for one night or five, it manages to feel like a home you never knew you had.
What Stood Out
- The atrium lobby is arguably one of the most photogenic hotel spaces in Spokane. With soaring ceilings, vintage leather armchairs, a curated bookshelf, and soft, natural light pouring in through skylights, it invites you to linger. I often found myself down there with a book and a coffee before heading out with my camera.
- Each room features locally-sourced artwork that reflects the Pacific Northwest’s creative spirit—think abstract pine trees, moody river scenes, and colorful cityscapes.
- Location-wise, it’s hard to beat. Right across the street is the Knitting Factory, a well-known live music venue, and just steps away are great cafés, bookstores, and the historic Fox Theater.
Guest Reviews Snapshot
“Perfect blend of vintage and modern. I booked it for the price and stayed for the ambiance.” – @ClareP, TripAdvisor
“The room was spotless, the bed crazy comfortable, and the downtown location unbeatable.” – Google reviewer
Booking Tips
- Booking.com frequently includes value-adds like free parking (typically \$15/day if booked separately).
- Request a corner room on an upper floor for more natural light and a great view of First Avenue.
- The hotel occasionally runs last-minute specials on Hotels.com—check both sites before you book.
2. Hotel Ruby — Creative, Affordable, and Smack in the Middle of It All
📍 901 W 1st Ave, Spokane, WA 99201
💲 Avg. rate: \$100–\$130/night
🔗 Best platform: Expedia, HotelsCombined
Overview
Hotel Ruby is quirky. Think repurposed motor lodge turned into an art hotel. There’s modern art in the lobby, custom murals in the rooms, and a sense of humor in the décor. This is where I stayed when I wanted to be near the action without breaking the bank.
What Stood Out
- The location is ridiculous—in the best way. Two blocks from Riverfront Park, right next to indie coffee shops, and minutes from downtown bars.
- Their attached martini bar (Monroe) was full of locals and way more stylish than I expected.
- Each room has a mini record player and Spokane-themed artwork.
Guest Reviews Snapshot
“Clean, funky, and shockingly quiet for downtown. I stayed 3 nights and slept like a baby.” – Booking.com guest
“I was in town for a concert. This was perfect—affordable and 2 minutes from the venue.” – TripAdvisor user
Booking Tips
- Weekday rates drop by \$20–\$30.
- If you’re noise-sensitive, ask for a room facing the interior courtyard.
3. The Davenport Lusso — Sophistication Without the Sticker Shock
📍 808 W Sprague Ave, Spokane, WA 99201
💲 Avg. rate: \$145–\$180/night
🔗 Best platform: Marriott.com or Agoda
Overview
Often overshadowed by its flashier sister, The Historic Davenport, Lusso is the quieter, more intimate gem in the Davenport collection. Located in a restored brick building with European flair, Lusso feels like a boutique hotel in Florence—with Spokane prices.
What Stood Out
- My room had huge windows, heavy drapes, and a gorgeous marble bathroom.
- It’s smaller than the Davenport Tower, which meant less noise and a more relaxed lobby vibe.
- The Red Tail Bar & Grill inside served surprisingly good Northwest fare (try the huckleberry pork sliders).
Guest Reviews Snapshot
“Beautiful and peaceful. I actually preferred this to the big Davenport because it felt more personal.” – Google user
“Great location, great value. Elegant without being stuffy.” – Yelp reviewer
Booking Tips
- Join Marriott Bonvoy for perks like late checkout and free breakfast upgrades.
- Book through Marriott directly for best cancellation policies.
4. Ruby River Hotel — Riverside Views on a Budget
📍 700 N Division St, Spokane, WA 99202
💲 Avg. rate: \$105–\$135/night
🔗 Best platform: Priceline, Kayak
Overview
Not to be confused with Hotel Ruby downtown, Ruby River is more traditional—but the location on the riverfront makes it unbeatable. I stayed here mid-week and was blown away by the value: huge room, clean pool, and the Spokane River right outside my balcony.
What Stood Out
- Gorgeous walking path along the river directly from the back of the hotel.
- Free hot breakfast and free parking included.
- Great for travelers with dogs—pet-friendly rooms available.
Guest Reviews Snapshot
“Excellent value for what you get. Loved watching the ducks float by in the morning.” – TripAdvisor reviewer
“The views made it feel like a resort. And the price? Unbelievable.” – Expedia guest
Booking Tips
- Use Kayak or Priceline Express Deals for discounted nightly rates (I saved \$22/night this way).
- Ask for a river-facing room on the second floor for the best views.
5. The Steam Plant Hotel — Industrial Chic with Historic Soul
📍 123 S Lincoln St, Spokane, WA 99201
💲 Avg. rate: \$135–\$160/night
🔗 Best platform: Hotels.com, Trip.com
Overview
This hotel sits next to one of Spokane’s most unique landmarks: the Steam Plant, a restored 1916 industrial site now housing a brewery, restaurant, and boutique offices. The hotel leans into that industrial aesthetic with exposed brick, piping, and factory-style windows—but makes it comfortable and warm.
What Stood Out
- Huge windows flooded the room with natural light.
- The Steam Plant Restaurant & Brewery is just steps away—convenient and tasty.
- Excellent location: only a short walk to River Park Square and the Spokane Convention Center.
Guest Reviews Snapshot
“Funky, fun, and full of personality. Loved the industrial design touches.” – Yelp reviewer
“Comfortable bed, spotless room, and walking distance to everything I needed.” – Google review
Booking Tips
- Search on Hotels.com and use their 10-stays-get-1-free program.
- Rooms with city views tend to go fast—book 2–3 weeks ahead for weekends.
6. The Madison Inn by Riversage — Quiet, Clean, and Underrated
📍 15 W Rockwood Blvd, Spokane, WA 99204
💲 Avg. rate: \$95–\$115/night
🔗 Best platform: RiversageHotels.com, Orbitz
Overview
Tucked behind Sacred Heart Hospital, Madison Inn isn’t flashy—but it’s easily the best low-key value I found in the city. Rooms are basic but spotless. The vibe is peaceful, almost residential. It’s ideal for travelers who want simplicity, security, and a good night’s sleep.
What Stood Out
- Surprisingly spacious rooms for the price.
- Free breakfast with a decent spread (eggs, sausage, oatmeal, etc.).
- Ultra-quiet neighborhood but still only 10 minutes from downtown.
Guest Reviews Snapshot
“Quiet, clean, and affordable. Honestly, I didn’t expect much—but I’d stay again in a heartbeat.” – Expedia reviewer
“Great staff. The kind of place that feels like a family-run inn.” – Google review
Booking Tips
- Check direct on their website (Riversage) for a loyalty discount.
- Rooms on the third floor have slightly better views of the surrounding hillside.
Tips for Booking Boutique Hotels in the U.S.
- Compare across platforms.
Booking.com and Expedia often offer different room types or cancellation policies. Use Trivago or HotelsCombined to quickly compare. - Check direct pricing.
Some boutique hotels offer direct booking perks (free parking, late checkout, etc.). - Use price-tracking tools.
Websites like Hopper or browser extensions like Honey can notify you of price drops. - Avoid peak weekends.
Spokane hosts events like Bloomsday and Hoopfest—hotel rates jump significantly. If flexible, travel mid-week. - Join loyalty programs.
Even if you don’t travel often, Marriott Bonvoy, Hilton Honors, and Hotels.com’s rewards program can offer real benefits after just a few stays.
Spokane may not scream boutique luxury like Seattle or Portland, but its hotel scene punches far above its weight. I left with the feeling that Spokane understands hospitality—not the kind that overwhelms with formality, but the kind that feels like a welcome home. Whether you want historical charm, urban grit, or riverside serenity, there’s a well-priced room here that won’t just fit your budget—it’ll elevate your whole trip.
