I lived in Spokane for several years, and down around the convention center (and Riverfront Park, which is literally just out the door) was a popular stomping ground. When they say that the hotels across the river are very close, they mean it. However, my memories tell me that the important questions to ask will involve the pathways outside the convention center. The Centennial Trail (right outside) is a bike trail and thus well-maintained, but I honestly don't recall if there's a good ramp system on the other side of the river to various hotels. Spokane is one of those cities where the good is very good but the bad is horrid—and by that, I mean cracked sidewalks, no sidewalks, or various pedestrian-unfriendly routes.

I would highly suggest that someone on the convention committee (or an on-site volunteer) walk every single route, noting difficulties along the way (including grade; there are some lovely paved paths in Riverfront Park that could be problematic for someone who struggles with hills.) Then make sure that hotels with access issues are noted as such, because it would be awful to be trapped by a single flight of stairs.

—B. Durbin