Heading to the Inland Northwest? Whether you’re chasing powder at nearby ski resorts, visiting Gonzaga University, or exploring the natural wonders of eastern Washington, Spokane International Airport (GEG) is your gateway to adventure.Whether you’re chasing powder at nearby ski resorts, visiting Gonzaga University, or exploring the natural wonders of eastern Washington, Spokane International Airport (GEG) is your gateway to adventure. Our comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about navigating this airport like a pro – from scoring the best GEG parking deals to finding that perfect pre-flight coffee spot.
Looking beyond its modest size, Spokane International Airport packs quite a punch when it comes to convenience and accessibility. Fun fact: while locals call it Spokane Airport, aviation enthusiasts might recognize it by its unique identifier “GEG” – a nod to its original name, Geiger Field, named after aviation pioneer Major Harold Geiger. These days, GEG serves as the second-largest airport in Washington state, welcoming over 4 million travelers annually through its doors.
What makes Spokane Airport particularly special is its perfect positioning. Just 7 miles west of downtown Spokane, it’s your jumping-off point for adventures in eastern Washington, northern Idaho, and even western Montana. Whether you’re here for business, hitting the slopes at Mt. Spokane, or checking out the roaring Spokane Falls downtown, you’ll find GEG surprisingly easy to navigate.
Think of this airport as your friendly neighborhood hub – it’s big enough to offer all the amenities you’d expect from a modern airport but small enough to avoid the chaos of larger facilities. No need to worry about getting lost in endless terminals or walking miles to your gate. GEG keeps things straightforward with three concourses that are actually connected (hello, easy connections!), and a layout that makes sense even when you’re rushing to catch that early morning flight.
Getting To and From Spokane International Airport- Your Transportation Rundown
Let’s talk about getting to and from the airport without breaking a sweat (or the bank). If you’re looking to save some cash, Spokane Transit Authority’s Route 60 is your friend. The bus runs regularly between the airport and downtown, taking about 25-30 minutes – just enough time to plan your itinerary or catch up on those unread emails. Plus, it’s super budget-friendly, making it perfect for savvy travelers.
More of a “get me there quick” type? Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are all over GEG. You’ll find their pickup spots clearly marked outside the terminal – no treasure hunt needed! Expect to shell out between $25-35 for a ride to downtown Spokane. And yes, traditional taxis are still a thing here if that’s more your style.
Inside the Terminal – What’s What at GEG
Think of Spokane Airport as a well-organized home with three main living spaces – Concourses A, B, and C. They’re all connected to the main terminal building, so you won’t need to channel your inner marathon runner to make connections. The layout is pretty intuitive: upper level for departures and check-in, lower level for arrivals and claiming your bags. Simple, right?
The Local Flavor and Airport Perks
Here’s where things get interesting. GEG isn’t just another cookie-cutter airport – it’s got personality. Art installations throughout the terminal showcase local talent (perfect for your Instagram feed), and you’ll find plenty of spots to plug in your devices and catch up on work or Netflix. The free Wi-Fi actually works (we’re looking at you, other airports), and there are enough charging stations to power up a small army of devices.
Feeling hungry? River Rock Taphouse serves up local flavors that’ll make you forget you’re at an airport. And if you’re traveling with kids, there’s a play area that might just make them want to stay longer (though we don’t recommend missing your flight for it!).
The GEG Parking Situation – Your Options Decoded
Now, let’s talk about everyone’s favorite topic – parking. The airport’s own parking garage will set you back about $15 daily if you want to keep your car covered and close to the terminal. The economy lot runs around $8 per day – not terrible, but not exactly a bargain either.
But here’s the real money-saving hack: through OneStopParking, you can book cheaper airport parking at the Super 8 Spokane for just $4.95 per day. Located a quick 2.8 miles from the airport, it’s a steal of a deal that comes with free shuttle service (running 4:30 AM to 11 PM). The best part? They don’t charge extra for those bigger vehicles – full-size vans, pickup trucks, and large SUVs are all welcome at the same rate. No need to book a hotel room either; just park and go!
Pro tip: If your flight falls outside shuttle hours (between 11 PM and 4:30 AM), a quick rideshare to the airport still works out cheaper than airport parking, especially for longer trips.
Weather Watch and Seasonal Smarts
Let’s be real about Spokane weather – it’s got personality. All four seasons show up to the party here, and winter isn’t shy about making its presence known. From November through March, snow is definitely on the menu. The airport crew handles it like pros, but it’s smart to pad your travel time during winter months. Think of it as built-in coffee break time!
Beyond the Airport – Quick Hits Near GEG
While the airport neighborhood isn’t exactly downtown Seattle, there’s more nearby than you might think. Northern Quest Resort & Casino is perfect for some pre- or post-flight entertainment, and Riverside State Park is your go-to if you need to stretch your legs after a long flight. The area around the airport has really developed over the years, offering plenty of dining options beyond airport food court fare.
Making the Most of Your GEG Experience
Whether you’re a first-timer or a Spokane regular, GEG is one of those airports that just works. It’s big enough to get you where you need to go but small enough to feel manageable. No need for a PhD in airport navigation here – just straightforward, efficient travel with a dash of local flavor.
Remember to book your parking ahead through OneStopParking to snag those sweet deals, especially during busy travel seasons or when major events are happening in town. And don’t forget to check the airport’s website for any updates before you fly – it’s always better to be in the know!
From its convenient location to its money-saving parking options, GEG might just become your favorite Pacific Northwest airport. And isn’t that what we’re all looking for – a hassle-free start and end to our adventures?