Here is a list that includes some of the best places to get Tacoma Styled goods around the holidays! Keep reading until the end! These are listed in no particular order ;o)
1) Channing Baby & Co.
Check out Channing Baby & Co. on Pacific Avenue. It’s a spot for kids clothing, toys and and accessories. They work hard feature small local manufacturers, and PNW related goods such as this PNW Baby Tee.
Bleach is an Independent Action Sports Clothing Store across from Anthem Coffee in Downtown Tacoma. Bleach does an amazing of job of presenting Tacoma in stylish and dare I say hip way. They feature their own brand along with notable offerings from Billabong, Imperial Motion, Levis, Vans and Stance to name a few.
Bleach offers mens and women’s apparel. You may recognize this Tacoma Themed Design, which is prime to raise the eyebrows of movie buffs out there.
Know any folks that are into College Sports? Consider this Tac 253 Hoodie which is an interesting take on the Pac-12 logo. While you are at it check out this Straight Outta Tacoma Snapback that would make a great gift for any NWA fans on your shopping list.
Stocklist Goods is stocked with some great Tacoma finds, like this Tacoma Pennant. We love this clever take on the Tacoma streets in the form of Tacoma necklace and earrings. Do you know Tacoma’s Nickname? Check out this City of Destiny print, featuring some Tacoma landmarks and a favorite local clever sea creature.
Clever Neighbors List of Things To Do Around The Puget Sound
Looking for things to do around the Puget Sound this Holiday Season? Here is a list of events to help your search!
Help A Local Charity
Winter Holidays like Thanksgiving and Christmas, for many, are a joyous time of year. But, sadly there are many who are in need this time of year.
Seattle’s Union Gospel Mission and the Tacoma Rescue Mission are two local organizations who reach out to the homeless year round. If you are looking for a local way to help those in need, these are two great resources. They are always looking for compassionate people who are willing to donate their time and/or money.
Federal Way based World Vision, is a great international option that has local roots in the Puget Sound. World Vision offers a number of packages that you can purchase as gifts for friends or family. They also offer opportunities to sponsor children across the globe.
The Singing Christmas tree consists of a large local choir. The choir stretches to the ceiling on a set piece, designed to look like a Christmas Tree.
Each year, a different story is told. The production often features live animals, children, adults and a symphonic orchestra. Click here for more info and tickets.
Leavenworth is nestled deep in the Cascade Mountains. It is in close proximity to alpine skiing, wilderness trails and wineries. click here for a list of wineries
The city has steadily developed its Bavarian Roots for over fifty years. This is most evident in the German architecture. event the fast food restaurants are themed to fit in!
There are a number of festivals throughout the year including the Christmas Lighting Festival which occurs throughout December and the Bavarian Icefest which occurs in January.
Other events in the fall and winter include Oktoberfest in October and Christkindlemarkt which takes place in around Thanksgiving each year. These are both promoted by Projekt Bayern, which formed in 1996 to carry on the area’s Bavarian vision.
Leavenworth is a little over 2 ½ hours from Seattle or Tacoma. If you drive, make sure to check in with a reputable tire store like Northwest based Les Schwab Tires. It’s always a good idea to make sure your car and tires are up for the winter journey.
The Bavarian Village of Leavenworth is a great destination for the Holidays.
Snowflake Lane – Bellevue Square
Since 2005, Bellevue Square Mall has hosted a holiday themed parade called Snowflake Lane. It occurs every night from late November to December 24th.
Popular holiday characters are featured along with music, falling snow and holiday lights. Santa makes his presence known each evening during the parade. Families line up early along the route and disperse afterward for hot cocoa, or a bite to eat at any of the local eateries. It might be smart to grab dinner before hand, and dessert after.
If you are looking for a closer interaction with Santa, his workshop is located within the mall on the second floor. Pictures with the big guy can be had with packages starting at around $24. A number of local schools, vocal ensembles and entertainers are scheduled to share their talents every mid-day in late November and early December. Click to check the entertainment schedule.
Reindeer Festival at Swanson’s Nursery
Swanson’s Nursery in Ballard has been providing the area with landscaping tips and products for years. They bring that level of service to the Holiday months with their Reindeer Festival which lasts from early November until Christmas Eve. The festivities include live music, a model train village and real live reindeer. Click here to learn more about meeting the Reindeer.
Along with a selection of Christmas Trees, there is plenty of shopping. And if you’re looking for the obligatory picture with Santa Clause, they offer that as well.
Special Holiday Adventure Tours are available upon request. These are a great opportunity for children to learn about the reindeer, model trains and Christmas Trees.
If you are looking for a one stop shop to prep for Christmas, this may be your spot!
Visit “Little Norway” aka Poulsbo
Poulsbo, founded by Norwegians in the late 1800’s, has maintained its Norwegian Heritage for over 100 years. In fact, two Norwegian monarchs have paid visits to the City.
There are a number of festive and historic events that take place here in the winter months. Which, may be fitting considering the movie Frozen is based on Scandinavian tales.
Here are some events you might consider in and near the City of Vikings:
A view of the shoreline in Poulsbo during the Holiday Season.
Tour The Lights
During the darkest time of the year, people love to light up the night with their own creative spin. There are many opportunities around the Puget Sound experience well crafted lighting displays. Here are a few:
If you are looking for a down home experience with a twist. Check out Country Village in Bothel. They have a number of activities each Holiday Season including A Pirate Christmas, Snowflake Creation Station, Live reindeer and activities with Mr. and Mrs. Clause. Click here to learn more about the Country Village
Experience tradition anew at the 1st Annual Tacoma Striezelmarkt!
The twinkling lights, the scent of mulled gluwhein (spiced German style wine) and Christmas music spreading through the air.
The 1st Annual Tacoma Striezelmarkt has opened its doors for the first of many years to come.
Experience the bustling marketplace and traditional treats of the holiday season in the heart of Tacoma’s Stadium District.
The Tacoma Striezelmarkt will open November 25th with both indoor & outdoor booths from 12 to 5 pm.
Where: 417 North E Street, Tacoma 98403
When: November 25th from 12pm – 5pm
Why: Support small business Saturday and get all of your Christmas shopping done!
Who: Get your invitation to the event by joining the Facebook Group page Tacoma Flea Market
6 Unique Things to do in Downtown Spokane –
Spokane is a city full of fun history and solid reputation. From hosting the world’s fair to inventing Father’s day… But what is there to do in downtown Spokane in this day and age?
If you are fortunate to find yourself in the beautiful downtown Spokane area here are a few of our top 6 unique things to do.
Let’s get to it!
1. Spokane Falls.
Did you know that the city was originally called ‘Spokane Falls?’ Spokane comes from the Indian word for “swift water” and with good reason considering we have a beautiful waterfall right in the middle of downtown Spokane.
If waterfalls are your thing be sure to check out Spokane Falls in the spring as this is when it is most powerful (31,000 cubic feet per second powerful.)
With a beautiful park and a few bridges, there are plenty of angles to view and experience the waterfall, not to mention grab that perfect Instagram pic.
Rainbows are highly common in the falls and actually have built up a reputation for them.
The river runs through downtown Spokane and the falls are just a few minutes walk away.
2. Iron Goat Brewing Co.
Iron Goat is part of the Inland Northwest Ale Trail an organization set up to promote local breweries on the network. When you visit any affiliated brewery you know that you will be sampling some of the finest local craft beers.
Iron Goat Brewing started with a conversation in a local Spokane bar between two strangers and has now become a fully established brewery complete with a kitchen, taproom and a wide selection of beers/sours.
To date, the brewery has crafted over 150 beers and has a seasonally rotating menu.
If you’re interested in local beer and cuisine then you’d better pay a visit while in Downtown Spokane.
Why the name Iron Goat: Paula Turnball created a metal goat with a built in trash-vacuum for the World Expo in 1974. The unusual sculpture can be viewed in Riverfront Park and has become a local icon.
Don’t worry if a beer isn’t your thing, they have plenty of other options available including wine.
Why not ask for an Inland Northwest Ale Trail map while you are there to get some more great ideas about other local spots you can go to on your adventure!
3. Riverpark Square.
Located smack bang in the middle of downtown Spokane, Riverpark Square is a prime location for dining, entertainment, and shopping.
The mall and the surrounding area have a wide range of ways to spend your time.
Entertainment:
20 screen AMC Theater: located on the third floor this is one of the best movie theaters in Spokane.
Kress Art Gallery: showcases art from local ‘rising stars’ and students.
Mobius Children’s Museum: a place where kids and families can play and learn about culture, art, and science through hands-on activities.
Shops:
River Park Square has a wide collection and variety of some of the biggest brand names and local stores.
Apple
Nordstrom
Urban Outfitters
North Face.
Polka dot pottery – paint your own masterpiece.
Made in Washington – Northwest gifts.
Francesca’s – a boutique featuring whimsical & eclectic collections of gifts, handbags, shoes, clothes and jewelry.
TO MARKET: Showcasing the work of local entrepreneurs, crafters, and artisans this unique store has a wide variety of gifts, home decorative items, and goods.
Restaurants:
PF Chang’s: Asian cuisine with a farm to wok philosophy.
Twigs – this locally owned martini bar is a real hit with regulars and visitors alike, frequently being voted as one of the best Martini bars around.
Tortilla Union: Newly opened in 2016, Tortilla Union is a celebration of southwestern food and drink.
Sushi Maru: Creative and traditional sushi served in a relaxing, friendly environment.
Be sure to check out the River Park Square website for information on upcoming sales and events.
There are also meeting facilities available. You can reserve the fan suite for a meeting or private event.
Clever Neighbor tip: You can park in the parking garage and receive a $3 parking discount from selected stores while parking after 5 pm is only $4 which is great if you’re attending the theater or another event in downtown Spokane.
4. Martin Woldson Theater at The Fox
The Martin Woldson Theater at The Fox began as a Fox movie theater in 1931. It was the largest theater in downtown Spokane with 2300 seats!
Designed by Robert Reamer it was the first building in Spokane to have air conditioning and was home to many stars such as Catherine Hepburn and Frank Sinatra.
The theater has made it onto the National Register of Historic Places despite almost being demolished in 2000. Through the generosity of Martin Woldson and his daughter, the theater was saved and given a renovation.
After the makeover and a new name, the theater is now one of the treasures of downtown Spokane offering a prime location for many performances.
The Spokane Symphony calls the theater home and can even be rented out for weddings!
To see what’s on during your visit in downtown Spokane check out their website.
5. Manito Park.
If you need to clear your head for a while Manito Park is just a 15-minute walk or a 5-minute bus ride from downtown Spokane.
This 90-acre park has been around since 1903 and is a great place to get out of the city without having to go out of the city!
Manito park features rose gardens, Japanese gardens, and even a year-round conservatory that is full of tropical and exotic desert plants. It’s common to see geese and ducks in the pond and is filled with places to stroll, sit down and relax.
The park is open daily and entry is free of charge.
6. Watch the World’s Largest Street Basketball game
Summers are not the same without the 3 on 3 basketball tournament in downtown Spokane. Visit spokanehoopfest.net for more info!
Downtown Spokane.
This is just the beginning of unique things to do in Spokane, for more information check out our other guides.
We are Clever Neighbor exist to give you a local neighborly insight into the best things to see and do in cities across the country.
To register your Downtown Spokane business with our site all you have to do is contact Clever Neighbor.
Artist & Craftsman St Helens Debut
Artist & Craftsman Store Front
A great addition to the down town area, Artist & Craftsman Supply in Downtown Tacoma is now open! Art lovers won’t have to make that commute to Seattle any longer to get the pro-artist supplies they need. Located on St Helens Ave, Artist & Craftsman Supply is open from 9am to 7pm Monday through Saturday and 10am to 6pm Sunday. These experts have everything painters, sculptors and crafters need.
A Space to Create Art
Artist & Craftsman Paper Selection
Opening their doors November 2016, Artist & Craftsman arrived with a reputation in the art community for quality professional art supplies. Their Seattle Location is known for it’s astounding inventory and size. However the Tacoma location has a more Historic feel. A flood of abstract rainbow colors fill the room along with decorative light features. The Artist & Craftsman team has done an amazing job of restoring the Wagner Motors Building without losing the integrity of its classic 1920’s design.
Although every artist has a speciality and Michael Rives, the Manager of Artist & Craftsman is there to help artist cultivate theirs. I spoke with Kat one of the friendly staff members as she was adjusting upcoming events on the store cork board. She explained that Artist & Craftsman is a place for artist to dive into their passions. Moreover Kat was adamant that if there was a specific tool or item an artist wanted and Artist & Craftsman didn’t carry it in store, they would be able to order it for their customers or help them find it. The friendly staff isn’t the only draw to this stellar art store. Artist & Craftsman also host events, and are beginning to organize classes for the 2017 year.
2 Must See Demos
Artist & Craftsman Spray Paint
You don’t need an excuse to visit Artist & Craftsman but this month there are two Free Demos hosted in store that are a must see. Mark your calendar for Saturday February 4th 1pm to 4pm for the Yupo Paper Demo. Yupo Paper is a type of polyurethane synthetic paper. This paper is actually 100% recyclable. Another feature is that Artist can manipulate their work with water. This awesome paper is amazing for creating watercolor type images, soft textures, and depth.
The second event this month is on Sunday February 12th at 1pm. Artist & Craftsman will be hosting Marabu and demonstrating new products. Celia Buchanan will be leading the demonstration.
There are many more events to come which are listed on the Artist & Craftsman Facebook page and website. Tacoma residents are fortunate to live in a city full of art. Let February be a month to begin creating, painting, crafting and framing. Let’s express ourselves and get inspired at Artist & Craftsman!
We love food trucks! They offer an personal experience with the folks who make your food, and cut down a lot of the overhead so that the money goes where it matters most — into the food, the owners and the employees!
Lumpia World serves the South Sound with their unique fusion of Pacific Rim Cuisine. Check out this video featuring co-owner Derrick Ellis to learn more about their offerings! Check out their twitter page or instagram to learn where their food trucks are today!
Manifesto Coffee Satisfies Your Daily Caffeine Dose
Manifesto Coffee hit the ground running when their dynamic team opened doors in October 2016, emphasizing what’s important to many when it comes to coffee. This shop focuses on superbly roasted beans, and offers Fair-Trade, Organic, Single-Origin Coffee. The coffee has a rich full-bodied flavor that might have you going back for a second Americano. Before you get trapped by winter storms, stop by and pick up one of their original house blends. Hours of operations are 6 AM to 5 PM pm on weekdays and 8 AM to 5 PM on weekends. Manifesto Coffee is located on South 11th Street in Tacoma’s Hilltop Neighborhood
Meet the Masterminds
Manifesto Coffee is a casual coffee shop, co-owned by Israel Hickey and Jack Saffle. This pair has taken their combined coffee expertise and collaborated with a couple close counterparts to create their version of the corner coffee shop. Israel the Head Roaster, lets the beans speak for themselves. His skillful roasting brings out a rich aroma and full bodied flavor profile. I had a moment to discuss the details with Jack. He shared with me in all honesty how for him this local coffee joint embodies all things Tacoma. This is a place for Skaters, Dungeon and Dragons folk and the alternative locals. Not only is this a space to drink amazing coffee, but its a place to collaborate and share their love of Tacoma. With coffee at their core, it’s not hard to see why Manifesto Coffee is the next up-and-coming neighborhood attraction.
The Main Event, Single Origin Espresso
Establishing themselves in the Fair Trade Organic scene, Manifesto Coffee is available at Harbor Greens, the Tacoma Boys 6th Ave, Puyallup and Lakewood locations, Stadium Thriftway, and Dave’s Meat and Produce. Whats more, their variety of blends have unique flavor profiles which are highlighted in the charismatic names.
Sumatra Takengon has a truly decadent taste. This Single Origin blend has a sweet flavor profile that highlights strawberry, cinnamon, and hibiscus. Consequently the name take-n-gone showcases its popularity as this house original has flown off the shelves. Alternatively, Ethiopia Yirgacheffe hits more floral notes, embodying elderflower, honey and melon for a smooth taste. Indeed spice is not forgotten with the Mexico Chiapas. This spicy bright coffee has notes of cedar and tobacco. No doubt this coffee will transport drinkers somewhere warmer. Finally Nicaragua San Juan De Rio Coco has rich apricot, hazelnut notes. This cup of Joe goes perfectly with your favorite chocolate pastry. If you aren’t sure what caffeine hits the spot just ask your barista for a recommendation.
2 Ways to Enjoy
For most of us, coffee helps us to speak to other humans in the morning. The first way to try this new local coffee shop is to of course stop by and get caffeinated. Not everyone takes their coffee black. For this reason, Manifesto Coffee and 1022 have you covered. The syrups on the espresso bar are made from scratch by the craft cocktail professionals at 1022 on South J Street. They are coupled with seasonal, organic flavors that in my opinion are some of the best blended syrups around. Moreover, the second way to enjoy is to grab a bag of beans from your local grocer and perk up with a french press.Considering that you’re already in the neighborhood, go grab some java from these local experts. Tell them Clever Neighbor sent you and you seek caffeine!
Manifesto Coffee Address: 1003 S 11th St, Tacoma, WA 98405 Phone: (360) 775-9834 Hours: 6AM–5PM
Donuts from a Drive Thru! I must have crashed and gone to heaven!
If you have a hankering for donuts in Tacoma, check out Pao’s Donuts and Coffee Shop in Tacoma’s West End (making the West Slope Historic). You don’t even have to leave the comfort of your car—they have a drive thru window! Bring cash though because credit cards are not welcome. However the inexpensive pricing will have you searching your seats for change (I speak from experience).
A fresh selection of Old Fashioned donuts in Tacoma at Pao’s Donuts and Coffee Shop
Pao’s Excels in its Simple Approach
I am impressed with the pricing, the simplicity and the excellence in their offerings. Eating at Pao’s has changed what I accept as a good donut. The owners have been there to serve me each time I go. They are quick let me know which donuts are fresh, and which are discounted day old donuts. I was hesitant in ordering an espresso from a donut shop, but I must say, my double tall latte was well made. Pao and his wife seem to take pride in their work, and the community has noticed . Pao’s was voted Best of the South Sound in 2016.
Pao’s was voted Best in the South Sound for 2016.
Family Business
The atmosphere may seem familiar to you. Pao’s is a former Dunkin Donuts. Pink donut boxes, stacked high behind the counter. Pictures of Pao’s children are on the walls, some with giant donuts. You get the feeling that Pao’s is not just a business—but a means to an end—a vision of what America can be and is.
An assortment of syrups illuminated in Pao’s drive thru window, by the late day sun.
Don’t Forget The Cash!
Next time you’re cruising the streets, looking for some donuts in Tacoma, check out Pao’s Donuts and Coffee Shop. You won’t be disappointed–unless you forget your cash!
Climb on at Edgeworks
When you think Rock Climbing our minds wander to gigantic boulders and cliffs with climbers hundreds of feet in the air. This image can be a bit intimidating. Indoor climbing has dramatically changed this traditional view of rock climbing to one with brightly colored hand and foot holds, auto-belays and one-on-one instruction. Located off 6th Avenue on North 9th Street, Edgeworks is hiding out and it’s absolutely the best climbing gym in Tacoma! Don’t be intimidated,the team at Edgeworks will have you suited up and bouldering in no time. They have all the rental equipment climbers need. Everything from climbing shoes, harnesses, ATC and chalk bags. Not to mention they have great hours, open seven days a week Monday – Friday 9 am to 10 pm, Saturday 10 am to 10 pm Sunday 10 am to 7 pm.
Local bouldering
Walking up to the front door of Edgeworks, it’s hard to imagine that inside the grey warehouse business complex there is 10,000 sq ft of climbing, top-out bouldering wall, six auto-belays (single person belay stations), weight room, an instructional climbing wall on the second floor and a yoga studio to boot. Edgeworks literally has it all. There are basic 101 level classes that teach beginners how to tie a figure eight, lock in their ATC’s and climb on. It doesn’t stop there. Once you fine tune those climbing skills indoors the team at Edgeworks takes top-roping and lead climbing outside! Don’t worry when the little ones come calling“Mom I want to climb too!”, Edgeworks has kids classes and camps available as well. Climbing is a family activity and helps get everyone active and exploring the Pacific Northwest.
Commercial Climbing Gyms
The climbing industry has grown tenfold in the past decade. The march continues with the help of heated warehouses and fancy climbing equipment such as Gri Gri’s and comfortable sport harnesses. Commercial indoor climbing is another way for people in the Northwest to stay dry in the winter months while maintaining their 5.11 B status. I began climbing at Edgeworks almost one year ago, January of 2016 and have never looked back. The instructors at the gym are patient, knowledgeable, friendly and fun. They take climbing seriously so we can monkey around and really push the limits. If you are looking to become an Outdoor Guide or just want to boulder with friends check out Edgeworks. Tell them Clever Neighbor sent you!
Stay Warm & Dry
A simple three-layer approach to style can keep you warm this season. Here are some stylish tips and selections that are found locally and on the web.
Base Layer:
A good base layer wicks moisture away from your body. This keeps you warm. Avoid cotton shirts, which absorb moisture. Fabrics like polyester and wool are good choices. You can’t go wrong with this Icebreaker Merino Wool Long Sleeve. If you are feeling a little more sporty, this Helly Hansen Long Sleeve hearkens back to their original Lifa long underwear which caused a stir in the 70’s.
A good thermal layer absorbs the heat your body creates, while letting moisture escape. Garments with pockets of air like polar-fleece, wool and goose-down are all great for this. Seattle Based Outdoor Research features a wool blend hoody, which is a comfy and durable choice. This North Face Aconcagua Vest will keep your body warm while giving your arms mobility. It’s a good alternative to the standard North Face Denali Fleece. You could always get both – it never hurts to have options.
Outer Shell:
A good shell protects you from the wind and the rain. Many older styles of raincoats are not breathable like their modern counterparts, but they still work well depending on how active you are. A classic design from a Northwest mainstay is this Eddie Bauer Windfoil Elite Trench Coat. Something a little sportier, light weight and breathable would be a Minimalist Gore-Tex shell from Marmot.
Despite the cold, this mom — in her classic Filson wax-cloth rain coat — enjoys the beach with her son who is toasty warm in his North Face Denali Jacket.
Something To Consider:
There is a hybrid of sorts out there. It is technically a thermal layer, but can still shed a little wind and rain. It’s called a soft shell and is more breathable than a standard outer shell. In some ways it is perfect for our relatively temperate Northwest winters. It works well as a light jacket through the other three seasons as well. This North Face Apex Bionic 2 Softshell should last you years on the streets and the slopes, while this Kirkland Signature softshell hooded jacket would be the stylish and economical choice. If you’re looking for another resource check out sharp shaft survival tips.
Local bouldering
warehouses and fancy climbing equipment such as 
