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Cheney, WA

Cheney, WA, is a quintessential American college town in the heart of the Palouse, home to Eastern Washington University and known for its small-town charm and rich railroad history.

About the City

Official Status and Administrative Affiliation

The official name of the city is Cheney. It is a city in Spokane County, located in the state of Washington, USA. The region of Eastern Washington is known for its rolling Palouse hills, agricultural richness (particularly wheat), and its unique geological history shaped by the Missoula Floods .

Date of Foundation and Age

Cheney was officially incorporated on November 28, 1883, making the city 142 years old as of 2026 . The town is named after Benjamin Pierce Cheney (1815-1895), a Boston railroad tycoon and a director of the Northern Pacific Railroad. Interestingly, he only visited the town once, on September 18, 1883, for the railroad's "Last Spike Ceremony," and shortly after donated $10,000 to establish the Benjamin P. Cheney Academy .

Geographic Location and Coordinates

The city's geographic coordinates are 47.4901° N, 117.579° W . Cheney is located on the rolling hills of the Palouse, overlooking the Channeled Scablands to the south and east, which were carved by prehistoric Missoula Floods . The elevation of the city center is approximately 2,352 feet (717 meters) above sea level .

City Type and Economic Specialization

Cheney is best described as a college town and an administrative and educational center. Its identity and economy are overwhelmingly shaped by the presence of Eastern Washington University (EWU). While it serves partly as a bedroom community for nearby Spokane, the university is the city's single largest employer. The local economy is also supported by agriculture, with dryland farming of wheat, barley, and peas being prominent in the surrounding area .

Population and Demographics

As of the 2020 census, the permanent resident population of Cheney was 13,255 . However, this number swells significantly when classes are in session at EWU, bringing the city's total temporary population to approximately 17,600 . Cheney is a small city that values its close-knit, small-town character, a trait that residents have actively preserved since its founding .

City's "Business Card"

Cheney is a classic American college town where the energy of Eastern Washington University infuses life into a community deeply rooted in the history of the Wild West and the railroad. It's a place known for its tight-knit feel, its role as the former county seat stolen in a legendary midnight heist, and its gateway location to the unique geological wonders of the Channeled Scablands.

Geography

Water Bodies (Lakes and Rivers)

Cheney is situated in a region dotted with numerous lakes, many of which are "pothole" lakes formed by the Missoula Floods. These are located within a 20-mile radius and offer abundant recreational opportunities .

National Parks and Wildlife Refuges

Climate and Weather

Climate Type and General Characteristics

Cheney has a semi-arid climate (Köppen climate classification BSk) on the edge of the Selkirk Mountains foothills. It is characterized by short, warm, dry summers and cold, wet, and windy winters .

Average Monthly Temperatures

Temperatures in Cheney vary significantly by season .

Precipitation and Humidity

The city receives an average of approximately 453 mm (17.8 inches) of precipitation per year . The wettest season is late autumn, with November being the wettest month, averaging 10 days with precipitation . Snowfall is common in winter, with December averaging the most snow at 5.5 inches . Average humidity is around 74% .

Sunny Days and UV Index

The skies over Cheney vary dramatically. The cloudiest months are November through January, while July and August are the clearest, with the sky being clear, mostly clear, or partly cloudy 75% of the time . The city enjoys long daylight hours in June (up to 15.9 hours) and short days in December (as few as 8.5 hours) .

Seasonality and Best Time to Visit

Landmarks and Attractions

Given its size, Cheney's landmarks are closely tied to its university and history.

The "Grand Steal" and Historic Downtown

The city's most famous historical event is the "Grand Steal" of 1881, where armed citizens from Cheney stole the county records from Spokane Falls in a midnight raid to claim the county seat . Today, the historic downtown area, laid out in a unique triangular shape with the base parallel to the railroad tracks, reflects the city's 19th-century origins and is currently undergoing renovation .

Benjamin P. Cheney Academy and Eastern Washington University

The legacy of the city's namesake lives on in its university. The Benjamin P. Cheney Academy building, funded by his donation, was the physical beginning of what is now Eastern Washington University (EWU). EWU's campus is the heart of the city, featuring modern facilities, historic academic buildings, and Roos Field, the university's football stadium famous for its iconic red Sprinturf surface .

Cheney Wetlands Trail

For those seeking outdoor landmarks, the Cheney Wetlands Trail offers an easy, scenic 3.2-mile loop through beautiful wetlands. It's a popular spot for hiking and wildlife viewing, with frequent sightings of moose, otters, porcupines, and various waterfowl .

Transport

Main Airports

Cheney does not have its own commercial airport. It is served by airports in the neighboring city of Spokane .

Main Railway Stations

Passenger rail service is available via Amtrak.

Major Highways

Cheney is well-connected by road.

Public Transit

Cheney is part of the Spokane regional transit system.

Local Cuisine and Culinary Traditions

Cheney is a classic American college town, and its dining scene is shaped by the tastes of its students and residents. While it may not have a globally recognized signature dish, the area offers authentic culinary experiences, from classic pub fare to fresh local produce and nearby wineries.

Classic American Pub Fare

The quintessential dining experience in Cheney revolves around its local pubs and eateries, which serve classic American comfort food. This includes dishes like burgers, sandwiches, and hearty breakfasts that are staples in the community . These are the everyday meals for students and locals, best enjoyed at establishments around the city or near the Eastern Washington University campus. The food is simple, satisfying, and reflects the town's down-to-earth character.

Local Wines and Wineries

The broader region around Cheney is part of Washington's acclaimed wine country. The area's geology and climate are conducive to viticulture, and there are local wineries to explore . These wineries offer a taste of Washington State's renowned wine production, with many offering tastings that allow visitors to sample the fruits of the region's vineyards. This is a must for anyone looking to experience the local flavors beyond the town limits.

Freshwater Fish from Local Lakes

Given its location amidst numerous lakes and the nearby Little Spokane River, the area offers excellent opportunities for fishing . Species like rainbow trout are common in lakes such as Fish Lake . For those who enjoy catching their own meal, the lakes provide a chance to prepare freshly caught fish, connecting directly with the region's natural resources.

Farmers Market Produce

Cheney fosters a strong sense of community, which is celebrated through its seasonal events. The local farmers' markets are a hub for fresh, regional produce and artisanal goods . Here, visitors and residents can find ingredients native to Eastern Washington, from fruits and vegetables to handmade products, offering a true taste of the local harvest.

University Town Dining

The presence of Eastern Washington University ensures a diverse and casual dining scene. The city's restaurants and cafes cater to a variety of tastes, offering everything from quick-service meals to sit-down dinners . The dining options are an integral part of the student experience and provide visitors with a welcoming place to eat.

Museums

Art Gallery at Eastern Washington University

The primary hub for arts in Cheney is on the campus of Eastern Washington University (EWU). The university hosts an art gallery that features rotating exhibitions, showcasing the work of students, faculty, and visiting artists. While it may not house a permanent collection of world-renowned masters, it is a vibrant cultural space that reflects the creative energy of the academic community and brings contemporary art to the city.

Jack and Florence Berney Native American Collection

Located within the EWU Libraries, this special collection is a significant cultural resource. It contains a variety of objects and archives related to Native American cultures, with a particular focus on the tribes of the Plateau region. The collection includes items such as baskets, beadwork, and historical photographs, offering valuable insight into the indigenous history and heritage of the area.

Cheney Historical Museum

For those interested in local history, the Cheney Historical Museum is the place to visit. Run by the Cheney Historical Society, it preserves and interprets the city's past, from its founding in 1880 as a railroad town to its development as a college community. Exhibits often include artifacts, photographs, and documents that tell the stories of Cheney's early settlers, the impact of the railroad, and the evolution of daily life over the decades .

Sport and Sporting Legends

Sports in Cheney are synonymous with the Eastern Washington University (EWU) Eagles. The university's athletic programs are the heart of the city's sports culture, competing at the highest level of college athletics.

Roos Field: The Famous Red Turf

One of the most unique and recognizable features in all of college sports is Roos Field, the home of the EWU Eagles football team. What makes it famous is its bright red playing surface, officially nicknamed "The Inferno" . Opened in 1967 and renovated in 2010, the stadium has a capacity of 11,702 spectators . It was originally named Woodward Field but was later renamed Roos Field after a significant donation from the Roos family. The red turf is a major point of pride for the university and a topic of conversation in the sports world .

Eastern Washington Eagles (NCAA Division I)

The EWU Eagles are the city's professional-level sports teams, competing in the NCAA Division I, the highest level of college athletics . They are members of the Big Sky Conference. The athletic department fields 14 teams, including football, men's and women's basketball, soccer, volleyball, golf, and tennis .

Football Championship and National Fame

The EWU football team achieved its greatest glory in 2010 by winning the NCAA Division I Football Championship, defeating the University of Delaware 20-19 . This was the first national team championship in the university's history and put Cheney on the map for college football fans across the country. The team is coached by Aaron Best .

Reese Court: Home to Basketball and Volleyball

The university's basketball and volleyball teams play their home games at Reese Court. This multi-purpose arena can hold 6,000 fans and opened in 1981, replacing the old Eastern Washington Fieldhouse . It is named after William Reese, a former EWU football coach.

Key Rivalries

The Eagles have developed intense rivalries with other universities in the region:

Outdoor Recreation

Beyond university sports, Cheney is a hub for outdoor activities. The surrounding area, shaped by the unique channeled scablands geology, offers numerous opportunities for hiking, biking, fishing, and boating . The Columbia Plateau Trail, a 130-mile state park trail, runs from Cheney to the Tri-Cities and is a major draw for hikers and bikers . The nearby Fish Lake and other water bodies are popular for water sports and fishing .

Universities and Academic Institutions

Eastern Washington University (EWU)

The defining institution of higher learning in Cheney is Eastern Washington University. Founded in 1882 as the Benjamin P. Cheney Academy (thanks to a $10,000 donation from the transport magnate for whom the city is named), it later became the Cheney Normal School before evolving into the university it is today .

Cheney Public Schools

As a residential and college community, the Cheney School District is a significant part of the educational landscape, serving the families of the city and surrounding area. It provides public education from kindergarten through 12th grade and is a major employer in the region, contributing to the city's identity as a place focused on learning and community .

Healthcare and Medical Facilities

CHAS Health - Cheney

Primary healthcare services in Cheney are readily accessible through CHAS Health. This is a community health center that provides comprehensive medical care for the entire family, from pediatrics to geriatrics . CHAS Health is a key provider, ensuring that residents and students have access to quality medical services. They offer a sliding fee scale based on family size and income and accept most insurance plans, including Medicaid and Medicare, making healthcare accessible to all, regardless of their ability to pay . The center also coordinates with specialists in obstetrical care and preventive medicine .

Specialty and Emergency Care

For more specialized medical needs or emergency services, residents of Cheney typically rely on the larger medical infrastructure in nearby Spokane, located just 17-20 miles away . Spokane is the major medical hub for the inland Northwest and is home to several large, multi-specialty hospitals, including:

This proximity to world-class medical facilities in Spokane ensures that the residents of Cheney have access to a full range of healthcare options, from routine primary care within the city to highly specialized treatments just a short drive away.

Turnbull National Wildlife Refuge

While not a medical facility, the nearby Turnbull National Wildlife Refuge is a vital part of the region's health and wellness, offering a natural space for recreation and stress relief . Its network of trails through wetlands, forests, and the unique channeled scablands geology provides residents with ample opportunities for hiking, wildlife viewing, and connecting with nature, contributing to the community's overall well-being .

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