When the average price per gallon of gas in Spokane, Washington, hit $5.30, the Roberts family realized they could no longer afford a trip to Disneyland. What used to cost $30 to fill their Dodge Charger now runs $60. According to the American Automobile Association (AAA), the statewide average price per gallon is approaching $5.75, prompting many families to rethink their summer plans and forgo long-distance travel.
Paradoxically, such high fuel prices could draw more visitors to Spokane than usual, says Kate Hudson, director of public relations for the tourism bureau Visit Spokane. The official bureau promotes Eastern Washington as an affordable vacation destination using digital marketing on social media and search engines, partnerships with hotels and local businesses, and the organization of festivals and sporting events.
Because Spokane is a “driver destination” — most visitors arrive by car from neighboring regions — rising gas costs could work in its favor. The city sits in the eastern part of the state, closer to the borders of Idaho, Montana and Oregon, making it a convenient hub for road trips. Unlike Seattle, which suffers from congestion and high parking costs, Spokane offers less traffic, available parking and shorter distances to natural attractions like national forests and mountains. Hudson hopes people will choose closer, more affordable options — for example, a weekend in Eastern Washington — instead of trips to New York, Iceland or Paris.
This trend is supported by data from a Longwoods International survey of 1,000 U.S. adults: 41% of respondents planning trips in the next six months intend to travel closer to home, 36% will reduce the number of trips, and 8% will forgo travel entirely. Those affected by international conflicts are also changing plans: 40% are postponing overseas travel, 31% are replacing it with domestic trips, and only 19% are canceling everything. It is the 41% figure that gives Hudson hope.
Local businesses are already feeling the shift. Gina and Patrick Slattery, owners of the Hardware hotel in the town of Dayton (Columbia County), report higher room occupancy compared with last year. Having opened 15 rooms in the winter months of 2024, they expect the peak season in June and July to bring even more guests. “Airfares keep getting more expensive, but people still want to travel, so weekend trips to small towns like Dayton will be more popular this summer,” Gina notes.
Not all businesses feel equally confident. Luis Villagomes, owner of the Boggin’s Oasis tourist complex on the Grande Ronde River, says his business is relatively insulated from rising fuel costs because of its range of services: cabin and campsite rentals, rafting gear rental, and a restaurant. The Grande Ronde River, flowing in southeastern Washington, is known for its scenic canyons and rapids, making it a popular rafting destination with Class II–IV rapids that attract both beginners and experienced thrill-seekers. The region also offers camping, fishing and hiking, enhancing its tourist appeal. However, inflation has hit this business too: the price of a crate of tomatoes for the restaurant rose from $19 four years ago to nearly $80 today, forcing menu price increases. “When you have to charge $20 for a cheeseburger, it gets really tough,” he admits.
Other entrepreneurs have felt the consequences as well. Liana Bort, owner of Flash’s Auto Body and Paint in Spokane, notes that she has fewer customers than usual for this time of year — presumably because people are driving less. High fuel and airfare costs have already altered her family’s summer plans: “Last year we traveled a lot, went to weddings, but now that seems unlikely.”
Thus, the current situation creates a dual effect for Washington state. On one hand, high gas prices may stimulate local tourism, drawing visitors to cities like Spokane and Dayton who are seeking affordable, nearby destinations. On the other hand, inflation and rising costs squeeze small businesses and family budgets, forcing cuts in spending. Summer 2025 promises to be challenging, but for some entrepreneurs it could bring unexpected opportunities.
Based on: Sky-high gas prices could lead to more tourists for Inland WA