Tacoma, known as the city of destiny, is home to world-renowned museums, vibrant artists and beautiful natural landscapes. There are also a ton of fun and free things to do in Tacoma.
Read on for a list of 8 free things to do in Tacoma.
With a knack for true hospitality, Anne Smith is a beacon of progress and light for businesses trying to keep afloat during COVID. Read more here.
Spokane is well known for its laid-back attitude and expansive outdoor lifestyle. But, what goes on once the sun goes down doesn’t get nearly enough credit.
No matter your style for evening fun, you’ll find what you’re looking for right here in Spokane. From upbeat dance clubs to music festivals set in the mountains to daily live entertainment, Spokane is your go-to for nighttime fun.
Whether you’re a life-long resident, a college kid, or in town for a visit, you won’t want to miss these destinations. Here’s where to go to experience the Spokane nightlife.
Zola
This trendy bar and lounge offer more live entertainment than most in town. You can find a new act here 7 nights a week while enjoying decadent craft cocktails and a great selections of beer.
Zola is great for those special occasions like a graduation, birthday, or proposal. It’s a spot for those who want to do more than just talk over beers. Instead, residents typically come here to get down on its expansive dance floor. Great spot for friends and a fun night out.
nYne Bar and Bistro
Few establishments excel at bringing together such a diverse group of people as nYne. This downtown spot calls itself an “equality bar” as it attracts just about anyone who wants to dance, including the occasional drag queen show.
You can find a mix of both house bands and in-house DJs here on the weekends. Fuel up here before a big night out with their lively venue serving pub grub and burgers.
The Unforgiven Lounge
This swanky lounge/bar is just as well known for its fun food menu as it is its nightlife scene. Their bar boasts a lot of classic martini favorites, that can be sipped on inside or on the outdoor patio. The BBQ ribs and baked potato were a hit with our group!
The Unforgiven Lounge is in eastern Washington, but it feels like it belongs on the Las Vegas strip. From the liquor tower to the Chrome decor and colorful lighting, we guarantee you’ll have fun. This is a great place for dancing and partying with friends!
Volstead Act
Craft cocktail lovers, rejoice. Volstead Act is heaven for anyone who appreciates a modern spin on the prohibition era style.
This lounge offers a daily happy hour that runs from 3 pm-7 pm and 12 am-2 am Monday through Saturday. But, its all-day-long Sunday happy hour makes it the perfect place to get your Sunday Funday on.
The Viking
If you’re in need of a no-frills, cozy night, look no further than The Viking in downtown Spokane. This timeless dive has been a local hangout for over 2 decades.
The Viking recently underwent a major renovation, leaving it with more elevated indoor seating and an outdoor patio. Its beer list is quite extensive, so whether you’re a Budweiser type of guy/girl or a craft lover, you’re covered.
More on Spokane Nightlife
This city is far more than just its outdoors scene. Spokane nightlife gives you a taste of what else we have to offer.
Looking for things to do in Spokane? Look no further! The Clever Neighbor has all your needs covered for a visit to the Lilac City. And, while you’re here, check out some other cities to visit as well!
They say that breakfast is the most important meal of the day. While some recent findings contradict that popular idea, it does remain that breakfast is probably the most varied meal of the day, especially when you’re picking one of these breakfast restaurants in Ocean Shores.
After all, when else can you devour a stack of pancakes while one of your friends tucks into bacon and eggs and the other nibbles on avocado toast? It’s this kind of variety that makes going out for breakfast such a delicious treat, especially in Ocean Shores.
If you’re in the area looking for ‘breakfast restaurants near me’, look no further. Read on to find out the top five breakfast restaurants in Ocean Shores!
1. Linda’s Bakery Cafe
Ocean Shores has a great selection of quality places to eat, but you’ll find one of the best breakfast restaurant options in Ocean Shores at Linda’s Bakery Cafe.
For those with a sweet tooth, the pies and pastries are all made from scratch with real butter and quality ingredients. If savory’s more your style, the ham and cheese croissant, and full breakfast are popular options you won’t want to miss.
As well as great food, this spot has a great reputation for friendly servers who will always go the extra mile. So, even if you’re only in Ocean Shores for a short stay, you’re sure to come back to Linda’s! And don’t forget to try their espresso.
2. Ocean Beach Roasters & Bistro
Ocean Beach Roasters & Bistro is great for lunch and dinner, but it’s also perfect for breakfast, which is served from 9 am until 1 pm.
Highlights on the breakfast menu include crab cake Benedict, sausage apple hash and marionberry pancakes. They also do a range of omelets and the classic biscuits and gravy too. They have a case full of fresh pastries and nearly any coffee creation you desire. This style is modern and welcoming, with smiles by every employee and we all commented, these guys just do things right. The owner is friendly and often serves you the food. Highly recommend coming back for lunch as well. Their sandwiches were awesome! #yum
3. Our Place
With large portions and a varied breakfast menu, Our Place definitely deserves a place on our list of the best Ocean Shores local breakfast restaurants.
Highlights include the eggs Benedict omelet, biscuits and gravy with sausage, and tasty homemade pies and pastries.
This is a no-frills joint where you serve yourself coffee and get your own cutlery. But when the food’s this good and the prices are fair, you won’t hear any complaints from us. Locals would also agree, Our Place restaurant is probably the top spot in Ocean Shores for breakfast.
4. Sunny Beach Cafe
Ocean Shore’s Sunny Beach Cafe is another great place to head a delicious breakfast. Open Wed – Sun, Sunny Beach Cafe really brings out the sun on those cold rainy days. This mom and pop style restaurant is welcoming and enjoyable. Say hi to a local, their all pleasant and love chatting about their town.
With a range of breakfast options, including Belgian waffles, omelets, oatmeal, and bacon and eggs, there’s something for all tastes. The freshly baked bread is also a big hit with everyone who comes here.
5. RipTide Coffee Co.
For laid-back, cozy beach vibes and a wide range of delicious coffees, RipTide Coffee Co. is a great breakfast spot near the Oyhut Wildlife Area. Oyhut is on the far side of town, but worth the scenic drive if you’ve not been to the south end of the penninsula.
As well as teas and coffees, it serves freshly baked muffins, pastries, and sandwiches. There might not be as many options as other local breakfast restaurants, but the food is top-notch and homemade. Plus, the friendly staff and great decor make it a popular place for locals and tourists alike.
BONUS: Homeport Restaurant
This list would not be complete without mentioning Homeport Restaurant. Open all winter long with friendly staff and even friendlier portions, Homeport had a great selection that fits a families needs for warm breakfast at a reasonable cost. Don’t let the older decor persuade you otherwise, it’s a great spot for a very good breakfast. Try the omelette. We thought about returning on day 2 for another! #yummybreakfast
Ocean Shores Breakfast Restaurants
Once you’ve filled up at one of these Ocean Shores breakfast restaurants, you’ll be more than ready to enjoy another beautiful day along the Washington coast.
Remember, whether you’re a local or you’re planning to visit Ocean Shores, you’re in the right place.
Here at Clever Neighbor, we’ve got all the information you need to make the most of your time in Ocean Shores. From the best hotels to exciting local activities, we’re here to guide you!
If you’re visiting Portland, you should know that this is a city that’s home to some of the best breweries in the entire country. With a population of only 652,000, Portland still takes the prize from some of the biggest cities in terms of microbreweries and local watering holes.
Among the many fun things to do during your stay in Portland, a guide to the best Portland breweries is necessary. There are so many breweries to visit, it might just require you to extend your trip (or at least rely on your Lyft/Uber app to get you around).
In no particular order, here are some of the best breweries to visit in Portland.
Ex Novo
Ex Novo makes the list after opening in 2014 because of what it stands for. Not only do their beers rotate often and flow liberally, but they also give back to local charities. In fact, 100% of the profits made from their tasty libations get poured into (pun intended) local charities.
Their motto is ‘Drink Beer. Do Good’. What can get better than that? Sounds like a worthwhile activity to complete whilst in Portland, if you ask us.
Deschutes
Deschutes beer has been around for over thirty years, making it one of the oldest and most popular breweries in Portland. With the recent emergence of microbreweries across the USA, you’d think that might make it hard for an older brewery to keep up–but it’s been the exact opposite.
Deschutes likes to experiment, which keeps them hip and their flavors new. Their Portland location has twenty taps and regular tastings of new creations that are (or could be) coming out soon. Of the breweries in Portland, Deschutes is probably the most well known and also one of the best places to visit.
We really like their unique take on pub grub, as they focus primarily on food made from scratch and local produce.
Occidental Brewing Company
In terms of the best breweries in Portland, Occidental Brewing offers another specific type of drinking experience that you wouldn’t expect to find in the Pacific Northwest. Instead of your typical IPA’s, you’ll feel liked you’ve stepped into a Gaststube (pub) in Germany, home of their many German-style ales and lagers, and even an array of bratwursts. From German style Kolsch to Hefeweizen, Dunkel, Pilsner and more.
Occidental has a fantastic patio that makes drinking and eating during the summertime even more fun with friends.
Ground Breaker (Gluten Free)
For the gluten intolerant crowd, and there are more and more of us now, you might think breweries are out of reach or that your brewery map is small or nonexistent.
Well, think again, because Ground Breaker offers an array of drinks that are 100% gluten-free. When you come to Portland, you’ll be welcomed to a place that has won many awards for making beer that tastes just like (or better than) traditional beers. No need to just drink ciders anymore! #ohhappyday
In fact, the owner has won many awards for creating such tasty beer, that they started their commercial brewery and now serve gluten-free pub food as well. It’s a gluten free party! #glutenisbad 🙂
Portland Breweries: Wrap-Up
Portland breweries are a dream come true for most beer drinkers. IPA’s flow like the Columbia River in this riverfront town. When you get here, there are plenty of places you can sit down and have a drink. Whether you’re gluten-free, looking to visit a German beer hall, or want to help local charities, you can achieve nearly any drinking goal in Portland.
Join us for more updates on things to do around Portland. Enjoy your trip!
While 81% of the forests in the eastern US are privately owned, over 70% of forestland in the west is open to the public.
What does this mean for you, the savvy traveler? If you’re seeking true natural beauty and some of the best hiking in the US, there’s only one area to go. The Pacific Northwest.
Pacific Northwest hiking is not only the best in the country–some would argue it’s among the best in the world. Once you’ve sampled all the great things to do in Seattle, it’s time to explore the natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest (PNW).
So dust off your hiking boots, grab your gear, and get ready to discover the 8 best day hikes around Washington and Oregon. Let’s dive in!
1. Paradise Park Loop (Mt. Hood, OR)
For epic views of Mount Hood, Oregon’s tallest peak, take the 12-mile Paradise Park Loop that begins at Timberline Lodge.
This moderately difficult day hike offers jaw-dropping views of Mount Hood, fields full of lupine and other wildflowers, and a chance to explore the appropriately named Zigzag Canyon.
If you don’t have much time and would like to experience a little bit of everything, this is the day hike for you. Located just a little over an hour east of Portland, it’s also very easy to get to.
2. Naches Peak Loop Trail (Mt. Rainier, WA)
If you want to experience some great views on a shorter, moderately-easy hike, head for this 4.5-mile trail on the outskirts of Mount Rainier National Park.
This short scenic trail connects with the famous Pacific Crest Trail (and is a great alternative to the longer jaunt). Along the way, you’ll enjoy breathtaking views of Mount Rainier and plenty of wildflowers in bloom in the spring.
You’ll find the trailhead along State Road 410, about 2 hours southeast of Seattle.
3. Trail of Ten Falls (Silver Falls State Park, OR)
Are you a waterfall aficionado? If so, you’ve got to hike the Trail of Ten Falls between Silverton and Sublimity, Oregon.
Located in the aptly named Silver Fall State Park, this moderately difficult 10-mile loop takes you past an impressive 10 waterfalls. A few of the falls cascade well over 100 feet!
Even cooler? You have the chance to climb behind four of the waterfalls, offering a truly unique hiking experience (and great photo ops). #waterfallbeauty
You’ll enter the park and locate the trailhead about an hour and a half south of Portland.
4. Hoh River Trail (Olympic National Park, WA)
Want to try an easy hike through a temperate rainforest? Yep, this is an actual rainforest and beware, it’s amazing. Head west to Olympic National Park (about 4.5 hours’ drive from Seattle) and hike part of the 17-mile long Hoh River Trail. Our suggestion for a low-budget accommodations along the way is to stop in the scenic Ocean Shores.
This gorgeous park receives over 14 feet of rain every year, blanketing the region with mossy trees and lush green ferns. It’s also home to the quietest place in all of America, known as One Square Inch of Silence.
While the trail ends at the foot of Mount Olympus, you don’t have to take it all the way to the end. A day hike of 5-8 miles will still give you a great overview of the coastal rainforest.
5. Samuel H. Boardman Scenic Corridor (Oregon)
At the far southern end of Oregon, just before you cross into California, you’ll find a 12-mile stretch of coastline teeming with trails to explore.
Jagged rock formations and craggy islands make up this spectacular stretch of the ocean’s shore. The short loop out to Natural Bridges Cove is easy to hike and offers great views of stone arches and blowholes.
For a more challenging hike, try the Cape Sebastian Trail or the Secret Beach Trail which (you guessed it) leads to a secret beach.
Expert tip: Be sure to bring a good rain jacket, as the weather is wildly unpredictable in this region!
6. Rattlesnake Ledge Trail (Washington)
Just 40 miles east of Seattle lies one of the most popular day hikes in the PNW–and for good reason!
Rattlesnake Ledge sits high above Rattlesnake Lake is well worth the 4-mile round-trip hike to the top. You’ll gain 1,100 vertical feet in 2 miles, so you may have to stop for a few breaks along the way. #bringwater
The trail is well-maintained and popular on weekends, especially for hikers with dogs. If you’re craving some solitude, try visiting midweek for thinner crowds.
7. Mount Storm King (Olympic National Park, WA)
If you’re up for a serious challenge, this 4.5-mile hike in Olympic National Park will deliver.
In just over 2 miles, you’ll ascend a staggering 2,100 vertical feet. This means the trail is steep and difficult and full of switchbacks. In some places, there are even climbing ropes to help you keep your balance.
Is the effort worth it? Absolutely! When you get to the top, you’ll enjoy uninterrupted views of Lake Crescent and, across the Strait of Juan de Fuca, a glimpse into Canada.
The trailhead starts and ends at Storm King Ranger Station just past Port Angeles.
8. Oregon Badlands Wilderness, Oregon
Just east of Bend, Oregon, you’ll find a unique landscape seemingly untouched by time.
These badlands feature unusual cracked ridges formed by underground pressure from the nearby Badlands Volcano. More than 50 miles of trails wind through the region, providing the chance to see antelope, falcons, and yellow-bellied marmots.
A climb to the top of Badlands Rock Trail will reward you with 360-degree views of the area and is so worth it.
The Best PNW Day Hikes: Now You Know
So, which of these amazing day hikes will you try first?
Whichever one you choose, don’t forget your camera and tag @cleverneighbor on Instagram! You’re sure to snag a few epic photos to frame on your wall at home.
Are you lucky enough to visit the Pacific Northwest during the autumn months? Click here to discover the best areas for fall colors. Happy hiking!
If you live here or visit often, you probably know about some of Spokane’s best places to eat.
Spokane is also one of the best places in the PNW for outdoor activities. After you enjoy the good eats at our restaurants, work off some calories with these outdoor activities in Spokane.
Get Fishy with It
Fishing is one of the most well-known things to do in and around Spokane.
The Spokane River provides 111 miles of fresh water that is perfect for river fishing. Or choose from any number of lakes to fulfill your dream fishing trip. Two of our favorites are nearby lakes, Newman lake, just east of downtown Spokane, or Liberty Lake. Both have spots to launch a boat and plenty of fish.
Whether it’s bank fishing, fly fishing, or wade fishing, don’t miss out on some of the world’s finest fishing while in Spokane.
Take a Hike
If fishing isn’t your thing, enjoy another one of the many outdoor things to do in Spokane.
Hiking and camping are plentiful in the area. Check out Riverside State Park for some of the best camping and hiking along the river–only nine miles outside of Spokane.
You’ll find 55 miles of trails for hiking, mountain biking, and other outdoor fun. The trails are perfect for any level of hiking, even some that are very kid friendly. Make your hike a casual walk or push yourself harder for a more extreme experience.
Spend the day hiking and spend the night in one of the many campgrounds in the park. Book early though, summertime camping spots go quick!
Tour de Spokane
From street cycling to mountain trails, biking is one of the most fun things to do when in Spokane.
The city is a bike-friendly community with bike lanes in many parts of downtown Spokane. You’ll find plenty of paved hills and valleys to climb and coast your way around the town.
If you prefer biking off the beaten path, take your mountain bike to explore parks and trails in the hills and woods nearby.
Check out these notable trails for guaranteed fun:
- Fish Lake Trail
- Columbia Mountain (at Sherman Pass)
- Deep Creek Loop (in Riverside State Park)
- Mount Spokane (at Linder Ridge)
Some trails connect to the city. Bike in, out, and around the Spokane as there is a lot to see on a bike and most of the city is relatively flat.
Get Snowed In
When the weather turns snowy, it’s a great time to throw on your hat and gloves and enjoy the outdoor activities in the Spokane area.
Grab your skis or your snowboard and hit the slopes. Good slopes are never far away–some within an hour’s drive from downtown Spokane. Mt. Spokane is 35 miles from downtown and has not only downhill skiiing, but a snowboard park and cross country skiing trails.
If slower snow is more your style, strap on a pair of snowshoes. Walk the many hiking or biking trails you walk and ride during warmer months all around Mt. Spokane.
Wine Is Best Outdoors
After a day full of outdoor adventure, don’t forget to check out Spokane’s wineries. Barrister, Arbor Crest and Overbluff are three of our favorites. With so many AVA’s on the eastern side of Washington State it’s no wonder Spokane has such a great selection of wine.
Many area wineries are the perfect setting for an outdoor tasting with friends and family. Any a few tasting rooms are right in downtown Spokane.
Enjoy Year-Round Outdoor Activities in Spokane
No matter the season, you can enjoy outdoor activities in Spokane.
It’s a perfect city for outdoor enthusiasts. No matter your age or outdoor interests, Spokane provides fun for the whole family.
If you’re visiting and camping isn’t for you, Spokane has plenty of hotels for comfortable evenings after a day outdoors. Check out our list of Spokane hotels of favorite unique hotels for your perfect Spokane getaway.
There’s nothing quite like sitting down with a big, steaming cup of fresh, hot coffee.
Of all the occasionally weird and always wondrous things people know Portland for, the city’s coffee shops are the really a gem for this beautiful city.
Portland is famous for its coffee, and Portland coffee shops are a set well above cafes in nearly every other city in the United States.
That said, there are those famous few that exceed the precedent that the city sets.
If you’re looking for a great place to grab a cup of joe in PDX, but aren’t sure where to start, we can help.
Here are ten must-visit coffee shops in Portland where you’re sure to find a perfect cup of coffee.
1. Coava Coffee Roasters
If you boiled all the eccentricities that make Portland, Portland down into a single cup of coffee–you’d find that particular cup at Coava.
At Coava coffee is not merely a caffeine boost to get you through the day, it’s an art form.
Coava baristas obsess over everything from soil composition to their intricate, and well worth the wait, slow drip system. Each cup is expertly crafted to extract all the rich, aromatic flavors from their precision roasted coffee beans.
If you prefer a cup of straight, black coffee, then Coava is the spot for you–sugar and cream are not needed here.
2. Good Coffee
This coffee house has a name that suits it perfectly.
You’ll find a plethora of excellent coffee and espresso drinks at Good Coffee. On top of that, you’ll also find a fantastic place to enjoy your expertly crafted beverage of choice.
If you’re looking for a coffee shop with a real home away from home vibe, then Good Coffee is just the place for you.
3. Sterling Coffee Roasters
A more apt term for the baristas over at Sterling would be brewmasters.
You won’t be able to find anyone obsessing over soil samples or bean varieties over at Sterling. But, you will be able to find an excellent cup of joe and a fantastic place to sit and enjoy it.
Sterling feels more like hanging out in a good friend’s exceedingly large breakfast nook than a coffee shop–and that’s what makes it so great.
When you visit, try one of Sterling’s uniquely famous espresso flights before settling in with a large craft of their classic bean juice.
4. Behind the Museum Cafe
Sometimes you want the coffee shop experience, with something a little lighter on the caffeine.
Behind the Museum Cafe is one of the most zen coffee houses you’ll ever find. With its open and minimalistic design, it’s hard to get stressed in this coffee shop.
If that double espresso seems a little too extreme for Behind the Museum, they have a wide variety of teas to help warm you up and calm you down.
And if you were wondering, yes–it really is behind a museum.
5. Barista
If you’re a coffee-lover, but not the artsy type, it can be hard to find the perfect coffee shop to suit your style in Portland.
That’s where Barista comes in.
There are a few Barista locations scattered across the city. But each location features the same clean, elegant coziness everyone can appreciate and enjoy.
Barista bosts a series of different roasts from local coffee roasters from across the city. So, you’re guaranteed to find something local you’re going to love.
6. Heart Coffee
It’s the perfect coffee shop for the Scandinavian mad scientist inside all us. #dontcalluscrazy
While the outward aesthetic and style of Heart Coffee caused a bit of a rift amongst local coffee-fans, most people can agree that a good cup is a good cup.
Heart has become famous for its unique Aeropress system, that generates light but immensely flavorful cups of coffee.
7. Either/Or
If you’re into the broader world of coffee possibilities, then you may be able to find your wildest dreams come to life at Either/Or.
More than a coffee shop, Either/Or feels like an art studio — where coffee is the medium of choice.
Coffee mocktails, city-famous pastries, and surprising flavor combinations run rampant in this cafe.
Either/Or also features a Portland-inspired interior design that makes it a great place to enjoy a cup of coffee and your next deep read.
8. Cathedral Coffee
If you’re in the mood for a heavenly cup of coffee, Cathedral Coffee is the place for you.
Don’t let the name fool you. Cathedral Coffee is far from stuffy. This strange coffee spot is full of art, life, and warm, natural wood–making it an excellent place to spend a lazy Sunday afternoon.
Cathedral Coffee’s coffee is undeniably worthy of praise. (Was that good for a dad joke?) But, if you’re looking for a real religious experience you may want to try one of the fresh, made-in-house wonders in their bakery display case. (We’re on fire with the dad jokes today!)
9.Spella Caff?
Spella Caff? has existed in some form for well over a decade–so you can be sure that its coffee is something of a landmark nowadays.
If an authentic Italian roast is your cup of tea–or coffee–then Spella is the place for you.
Spella Caff? looks and feels like a low-key down to earth style cafe, but don’t let its looks fool you. This coffee shop is cranking out one of the best Italian roasts available on this side of the Pacific.
10. Stumptown Coffee Roasters
While Portland’s namesake coffee house has a few different locations, every spot feels like the true original.
At Stumptown, consistency is king. It doesn’t matter which location you visit you can always expect to walk away with a top-notch cup of coffee.
Stumptown puts a lot of emphasis on their gold-star barista training program, which is how they maintain quality across the board.
It seems like every other coffee shop in America is doing a version of cold brew these days. But, Stumptown practically perfected the art with their nitro-cold brew system.
A nice iced-down Stumptown cold brew is the perfect way to refresh and jumpstart yourself when you hit that midday slump.
11. (BONUS) Nossa Familia Coffee
We just had to add one more because it was so good. From the second you step into Nossa Familia until you leave, you’re surrounded by the thought that these folks really know their coffee. A simple menu, with a few fun options like Portuguese for “Fire Mocha” or Sweet Mocha with Cardamon and Cayenne. The kids had steamers and hot chocolate, and we enjoyed the simplicities of one of the best latte’s we’ve ever had.
With mostly standing room only and a line of people waiting to buy their next latte, we headed on our way with coffee’s in hand. Don’t miss this jewel of Portland.
The Best Portland Coffee Shops
It’s no secret to locals and tourists alike that Portland is one of the best cities for coffee lovers in the country. So, no matter where you wind up wasting an afternoon, you’re sure to find an excellent cup of coffee.
Now that you’re familiar with a few Portland coffee shops, why not explore the rest of what this beautiful and eclectic city has to offer. See more at Clever Neighbor Portland.
If you’re looking for something fun and unique to do in Portland, we can help! Visit us today to uncover everything the city has to offer.
Washington state is a place of wonder. Just search #pnwonder on Instagram and you’ll see more beautiful photos of Washington that you could possibly look at in a day! It’s not just because it has some of the country’s tallest peaks, or for its diversity on both sides of the mountains, but for the diversity of cities that across the state as well.
Among the eastern side of the state is one of the state’s metropolitan jewels, the city of Spokane.
Spokane is mainly known for the natural beauty that surrounds and winds through the city. Whether you are visiting to hike in Riverside State Park or climb Mt. Spokane, you should make some time to see and do as the locals do.
Scroll down and learn about seven little-known activities you have to try in Spokane.
1. Spend Your Downtime with Friends From Beyond the Grave: Greenwood Cemetery
Though spending time in a cemetery sounds a bit creepy, this tip should be saved for those with a need for the curiosities. The Greenwood Cemetery in Spokane is nicknamed as the home of “the staircase of 1,000 steps.” This name comes from a stairway in the graveyard that may be haunted. Legends say that no one can make it to the top without having to run in fear the other way.
These stairs, along with the rest of the cemetery, are supposedly home to hundreds of ghosts of all ages. And according to local legend, these ghosts shriek and howl in the night.
Whether you are a believer or not, and you’ve got the stomach for it, make some time to swing by this ancient hollow ground. Greenwood Cemetery is also home to beautiful landscapes on par with some of the best valleys in Spokane and centuries worth of history.
2. Go Green with the Garbage Eating Goat
If littering really gets your goat, you should visit Riverfront Park. Riverfront Park is the home to a goat sculpture that eats garbage. Literally.
This favorite Spokane, Washington point of interest was created in 1974 when the city hosted the World’s Fair. The statue is made of metal and has a vacuum inside it that permits the goat to “eat” anything small enough to fit in its mouth.
If you find yourself downtown, make sure to fit this goat into your schedule. He may be 44. But, he still spends all his days cleaning up the city and the kids will love it!
3. Hitch Your Wagon to the City of Spokane, Instagram worthy find!
Let the city of Spokane take you on a trip back to your childhood. Not too far from the garbage eating goat, you will find yourself the world’s largest Radio Flyer wagon. This statue, officially named, “The Childhood Express” was given to the city in 1990.
The artist, Ken Speiring, made the statue not only in homage to his childhood but for children of all ages to play with. This twelve-foot sculpture is meant for climbing, jumping, and yes, you can even sit in it!
Whether you are four or forty, the Radio Flyer wagon in Riverfront Park is a must see thing to do in Spokane, WA.
4. Rock and Scroll: Indian Painted Rocks
Almost three centuries ago, the Spokane Tribe lived on the land around the Little Spokane River. They would paint figures of red onto the porous rocks found near the riverbeds. The rocks absorbed the paint, and the drawings can still be seen today.
It is still up for debate what these drawings of horses, crosses, and other drawings are meant to tell the looker. But what is not up for argument is the rocks’ importance to the city. These rocks have been a Nationally Registered Historic Place for almost fifty years.
These paintings can be found by Little Spokane River Natural Area.
5. See the Bisons on the Bridge
The Monroe Street Bridge was built in 1909 to replace a wooden one that burned down. The bridge was decorated with an array of things. This list of things just happened to include the skulls of bison.
These bison skulls in a concrete cast are supposedly inspired by a once famous and local politician. Patrick C. Shine found one on a trip to Alberta, and he was so proud and fascinated by it, that he hung it in the garage for his family and the town to enjoy.
It is believed that the skull mysteriously vanished. However, its spirit stays with locals and tourists alike via the Monroe Street Bridge.
6. Let’s Hear it for the Boys: the Home of Father’s Day
Fun fact, Father’s Day was invented in Spokane. The city is the birthplace of Sonora Smart Dodd, who is known as, “The Mother of Father’s Day”.
After hearing a sermon on Mother’s Day in 1909, Dodd came up with the idea for a Father’s Day. She and her five brothers were raised by her widower father. Thirteen months later, the city of Spokane honored fathers at a local YMCA, making it the first Father’s Day in the country.
Dodd continued to campaign for a Father’s Day in the US throughout her life. It was signed into fruition in 1972 by President Richard Nixon, just six years prior to Dodd’s death.
Her home is just off of Arthur street and is easily recognizable from the enormous plaque in front.
7. A Night on the Town: Riverside Place
If you are spending your night out, whether on a romantic date with your significant other or just dinner with friends, you should check out Riverside Place. It is a great place to catch concerts, theatrical performances, and other amazing local artists.
However, this aesthetically pleasing building also comes with its own interesting past. Before it was purchased and made into a venue, it was originally a secret Masonic temple.
Add Riverside Place to your list of things to in Spokane. You will be able to catch a show and walk around a century-old building filled with both history and mystery.
Spokane: a City to Add to Your Bucket List
Just 100 miles away from the Canadian border, Spokane offers nature as far as the eye can see. But as you can tell from this short list, Spokane is a city of wonder and fun on its own. Not to mention the world’s largest outdoor basketball tournament every summer on the streets of downtown Spokane.
If you are coming to the city of Spokane, leave some wiggle room in your day-to-day itinerary for some unique and fun sights. Yes, you may come for hiking and mountain climbing. But chances are, you will stay longer than expected to enrich yourself in this city filled with arts and history.
Have questions or comments about anything and everything Spokane, Washington? Please feel free to join our e-community!
Everyone loves Italian food. Old and young, 70 percent of people say they eat Italian food as often as once a month.
Italian food is an iconic cuisine that is appetizing to people almost everyone. If you’re a fan of great authentic Italian food, you know the importance of staying up to date with the best places to go. Especially if you’re not on the east coast!
So, here’s a list of the best Italian restaurants in Olympia. Try not to let your mouth water while you read!
The Best Italian Restaurants in Olympia
Pasta, breadsticks, and meatballs; you name it, these restaurants have it.
1. Basilico
This Italian restaurant has one of the most inviting interiors you’ll see in the PNW. With a rustic feel to its food – and its decorating – you’ll feel like you’re sitting in old world Italy.
Their menu features a long list of fine red or white wines for anyone’s palate. They also feature many other drink selections. The food menu has a terrific selection of appetizers, entrees, and pasta plates. If you have trouble deciding on what you want, they also put together tasting menus. But you’ve got to try their homemade pasta.
Our recommendations are the pasta with ground pork and mushrooms in a cream sauce and the eggplant parmesan appetizers. Really quite spectacular dishes.
Some people sometimes feel left out at Italian restaurants because of a gluten intolerance. But that won’t be the case here, because Basilico’s also offers gluten-free options. This is very uncommon in the Italian restaurant world. #glutenfreeforme
2. Casa Mia
When a restaurant earns awards for their food, you know it’s going to be good. Some of the best Italian food comes with a heartfelt backstory, and Casa Mia has that. Recently they were awarded first prize in the “Pizza Across America” contest for their Chicken Pizza, and have twice won Pizza Today International Pizza Recipe Contest.
Our recommendations are the $8 lunch special with their house salad and homemade vinaigrette dressing and minestrone soup.
Between their pizza and pasta menu, your mouth will water reading the descriptions. They’re also able to accommodate a range of dietary needs.
3. Pizzeria La Gitana
If you’re looking for a unique environment with quality food, look no further. This restaurant boasts a kitchen full of imported, organic ingredients.
There are plenty of salads and appetizers on the menu. But the real star is their long, detailed list of pizza. This menu is full of white pizza, pesto pizza, and almost any other type of pizza you can imagine.
Our recommendations are the Italian Classic pizza and a pint of Peroni on tap.
And they even offer delivery for when you’re not feeling up for a night out and a very good gluten free crust.
4. The Mark
If fine dining is a little more your speed, welcome to The Mark. Its rustic, romantic setting is a great place for anniversaries and even birthdays. In fact, they also host other events such as weddings.
Their menu is extensive, offering the classics as well as some new takes. If you visit this restaurant, prepare to leave completely satisfied. Pasta’s, surf and turf, and more will keep you coming back.
Our recommendations are the vodka grapefruit with fresh squeezed organic ruby red grapefruit juice and a grass fed NY steak with green beans for dinner.
Don’t forget to leave room for dessert. Tiramisu and chocolate cake are only a few of the delicious, post-dinner items you should try.
Explore Olympia
There’s no doubt you’ll find some of the best Italian restaurants in Olympia. No matter what mood you’re in, there’s a restaurant that fits your pace. Make a list of some of these great places and try them all.
If you’re passing through or have lived in Olympia for a while, you may want to know what there is to do. Read “Top Things to Do in Olympia WA” for lots of great ideas!