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Tacoma Washington Pacific Ave and Old City Hall

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.

Some of their locally themed items include this wooden Washington State Baby Rattle, and this Plush Seattle Themed Globe Totters Soft. The block feature a number of Seattle landmarks like Starbucks, Pike Place Market and the Space Needle. Check out this locally made wooden sign.

 Check them out on Instagram!

2) Bleach Tacoma

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.

Check them out on Instagram!

 3) Tacoma Thunderdome

Tacoma Thunderdome features some talented counter-culture artists and their wares. It shares front door with Real Art Tacoma in the South Tacoma Business District, on 5412 S Tacoma Way in Tacoma. We love this Tacoma Dome Umbrella print that we featured on our Instagram page a while back.

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.

Check them out on Instagram!

4) The Pacific Northwest Shop in Proctor

The Pacific Northwest Shop features all things PNW! Gift boxes, clothing, books, speciality foods, Maps and much more. You can find them at 2702 North Proctor Street in Tacoma. Check out this Cascadia Flag T-Shirt

5) Etcetera

Etcetera in Downtown Tacoma features urban styling in men’s and women’s apparel. Check out their lookbook for this season Much of their merchandise has Tacoma flavor, like this Tacoma Dome Brimmed Hat or this B&I T-Shirt featuring the arcade entrance of that Tacoma Landmark. Learn more about the B&I here.

Check them out on Instagram!

6) Harmon Brewing Co.

Founded in Tacoma in 1997, Harmon Brewing Co. is a great spot to grab food and brew while out shopping. It also offers beer to go kegs, Growlers or 22 oz bottles. Some of the Tacoma inspired labels include Mt. Takhoma Blonde, Puget Sound Porter and Pt. Defiance IPA. Click here to check out more of their seasonal and year round brews.

7) Stocklist Goods

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.

As you may already know, there are plenty of things to do in Bend Oregon. So much so that you may be at a lost for what approach to take. Dig into this article and take some note. We hope to give you some ideas as you plan your day in Bend.

Things To Do In Bend: Downtown Bend

At the heart of the Bend city experience is it’s Downtown area. Otherwise known as Wall Street (click for map view), this area has plenty of shopping, restaurants and entertainment.

The Tower Theatre is just a stones throw away from Drake Park and the Deschutes River. The theatre plays hosts to many different concerts and film events throughout the year, including the annual Bend Film Festival, which is held in October.

Pine Tavern and Bend Brewing Company are just down Bond Street from The Tower Theater. Deschutes Brewery Brew Pub and McMenamin’s Old St Francis School are within a close walk as well. You may see a pattern here, yes Breweries are kind of a big deal on the list of things to do in Bend Oregon.

As for coffee shops you have local providers Bellatazza and Thump coffee along with an obligatory Starbucks. Lone Pine Coffee Roasters and Townshends Tea house are nearby. Café Sintra offers coffee and a Portuguese inspired menu of omelets sandwiches and dinner on the weekend (Quick Guide to Portuguese Cuisine).

Other downtown favorites include Pizza Mondo where you can buy a slice and a pint, and Toomie’s which features a wonderful menu of Thai cuisine.

Things to do in Bend Oregon: Drake Park

Mirror Pond at Drake Park may offer one of the calmest sections of the Deschutes River that you can experience. It’s a lovely setting with beautiful homes across the river (check out the real estate), large established trees and walking paths within steps of shopping and restaurants in Bend’s Old town. Don’t be surprised if you see someone fishing the banks of the river from their backyard, or people paddling kayaks, canoes or SUPs through the area.

If you are lucky you might just find a rubber duck hiding in the weeds long the shoreline. Early each fall, The Great Drake Park Duck Race hosts up to 30,000 entries who pay a nominal entry fee to race a duck down the river for charity.

Another fun event is Munch and Music, a food and music festival, that’s been going on for over 25 years.

Fun Fact: How much of the Deschutes River’s water is used for irrigation (Click For Answer)?

Things to do in Bend Oregon: Old Mill District

At one time the Timber Industry ruled in Bend. Today Bend’s industry has shifted as has the focus of the property at The Old Mill District. Premium restaurants and retailers line the Deschutes River in what constitutes a wonderful blend of shops, dining, entertainment, natural wonder and recreation.

Across the river is the Les Schwab Amphitheater, which hosts some of the biggest names in Entertainment. People of all ages often float the river or line the shores to hear the music for free (How to float the river like a pro).

Floating the river is something of a pastime in Bend, but be careful when approaching the Bend Whitewater Park. Of the three channels, only one is for non-experts. The center channel is for experts, while the far right channel (going downstream) is reserved for the wildlife.

Do you need some gear to hit the water in? No worries, REI is one of the anchor stores at The Old Mill District (Click here for Store Hours). If getting wet isn’t your thing, Wheel Fun Rentals offers a selection of pedaled carriages and bicycles that you can rent to explore the area.

Things to do in Bend Oregon: Brewery Tour

Not far from the Old Mill District is the home of Black Butte Porter, Mirror Pond Pale Ale , Obsidian Stout and Inversion IPA. Deschutes Brewery has been crafting these fine beverages for some time, and they do offer brewery tours.

Central Oregon plays host to over 25 local breweries, so cruising the area and testing out these fine creations is definitely high on the list of things to do in Bend. If you are visiting in the winter months, be sure to ask if Jubelale is on draught.

Things to do in Bend Oregon: Local Museums

Looking for kid friendly things to do in Bend? Head a few miles south to the High Desert Museum. Historic displays of the region along with live animals, and interactive experiences make the High Desert Museum a place to stop on any trip to Central Oregon. It’s a great way to get a grasp on what makes the High Desert of Central Oregon so Special.

The Deschutes Historical Museum is located near Downtown Bend in the Reid School which is on the National Register of Historic Sites. The museum has exhibits on the early days of Bend along with Native and Pioneer artifacts. There is an early example of a classroom, and exhibits on the forestry of Central Oregon.

Fun Fact: Who founded Bend’s first High School? (Click for answer)

Things to do in Bend Oregon: Outlet Mall

On the South end of town, just off Highway 97 are the Bend Factory Stores. Oregon natives Columbia, Nike and Pendleton have stores here along with Coach, Carter’s & Kids and Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory. There’s nothing like losing yourself in a little air-conditioned shopping spree, especially when it’s tax free. (Click to find a Pendleton store near you)

Things to do in Bend Oregon: Pilot Butte

Lastly or Firstly on the list of things to do in Bend should be a trip up Pilot Butte to survey the land and the many peaks of Central Oregon. Pilot Butte is an approximate 500-foot-tall extinct Volcano, or cinder-cone as it is often referred to.

You may choose one of three trails to the top, or drive your vehicle up a paved road that winds its way to a scenic lookout with parking and sculpted maps to help your orientation.

Fun Fact: Which US State Capital has a Volcano sitting 2900 feet below its surface? (Click for Answer)

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!

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.

Local To Tacoma

Pao’s is just off Highway 16 on 6^th avenue, on the way toward Titlow Beach, where grown men once wrestled octopi. Tacoma Community College is nearby as is the Tacoma Musical Playhouse. There are lots of things to do in Tacoma, but stopping here in a must!

Do you like musicals? Check out this 5 disk Boxset.

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!

Bicycles, Helmets and Gear Oh My!

Tacoma’s waterfront is the premier bike path for a cruise. Old Town Bicycle is ready to get your bike that much needed tune up before Spring melts the Winter frost.

With three locations, Olympia on Capitol Way, Gig Harbor on Kimball Drive, and Tacoma’s McCarver St Location, Old Town Bicycle’s staff is ready to get you on the road.

Cycling Aspirations and Perspiration

Let’s be clear, I do not claim to be a cyclist. When I ride, it’s usually a pleasurable cruise down by the water. My beach cruiser is classic cream white with style, and of course she has a basket.

The only time I was semi-serious about cycling was for the annual Tour de Goldfish on Five Mile Drive. That race ended in a tag team Tandem Bicycle ascent to the finish.

READ: THINGS TO DO IN TACOMA: THE NARROWS BRIDGE

Get Tuned

If you are a cruiser like me, or a serious cyclist that needs the right gear for those long distance rides, Old Town Bicycle has you covered.

When I brought my beach cruiser in for a much needed tune up, I was greeted by several staff members who were ready to assist me. Alana described the different types of tune up’s the shop offered.

They cover everything from Standard to Deluxe tune ups, taking the time to clean, inspect, grease and adjust so my two wheeled transportation was ready once again to ride along the waterfront.

Gear Heads

The staff at Old Town Bicycle is friendly and knowledgeable. They were glad to discuss the importance of bike maintenance and the best ways to keep my bike in well working condition.

Helpful Hint: Giving your bike a bath, similar to washing your car keeps it in good condition. Washing prevents pebbles, sticks and nature from rusting chains or breaking gears.

We also discussed the right types of gear. Those funny shorts and Clip in shoes you see when a cyclist passes by in the bike lane are actually well worth the price for comfort and balance.

Old Town Bicycle has the right helmets, tires, water bottles and cycle gear you need to get out on the road feeling prepared.

Outdoor Adventures

Tacoma’s beauty is is better enjoyed outside. The bike path is a great way to do this. There are plenty of things to do in Tacoma on your two wheeled friend. There are tons of local trails and waterfront views to be enjoyed.

If you ever made a resolution to get active and healthy or trying a new sport, placing your feet to the pedals is a great solution

It’s never a bad time of year to get your bike tuned, especially if it hasn’t been done in a while.

Check out Old Town Bicycle’s Deluxe Tune Up Package! Be sure to tell them Clever Neighbor sent you!

Old Town Bicycle
Address: 3009 N McCarver St, Tacoma, WA 98403
Phone:(253) 573-9400
Hours: 10AM–6PM

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!

Ananda is Sanskrit for bliss, which is exactly what students find at Source Yoga. Located on North 21st Street in Tacoma or Regents Blvd in University Place, this local yoga studio has amazing instructors that help students at every level develop and harness their abilities. I began my Yoga expedition this past September. Coming in with zero experience, I was nervous about trying yoga. I decided to start with the I & II level class. One hour and fifteen minutes later my Yoga Bhakti (path of devotion) was under way.

Let’s talk benefits! Everyone knows that yoga helps to increase flexibility, energy and vitality. Moreover, when paired with healthy eating leads to weight reduction and increased self esteem. Yet, improved athletic performance isn’t the only benefit. With a monthly membership at Source Yoga students are able to utilize mats, bolsters, blocks, and straps to assist in their practice. You never need to worry about forgetting your mat again.

All the instructors at Source Yoga are extremely knowledgeable. They are continually developing their skills by attending seminars and workshops. Students also have access to with their membership or can purchase these exploits individually.

What to expect! Class starts with seated dhyana or meditation and Instructors help students mentally focus through breathing exercises. I have tried a couple other Yoga studios in Tacoma. One of the many reasons I keep coming back to Source Yoga is the instructors. They walk students through the poses by performing them during class. They also assist students by helping to adjust their poses to develop proper movement.

So do yourself a favor this Holiday Season and take a break from the chaos by venturing into Source Yoga and find a moment of zen. Use Holiday Promo Code – Holiday15 – to get 15% off gift card purchases until December 15th!

Ananda Yoga
Address: 2712 N 21st St a, Tacoma, WA 98406

Phone: (253) 756-8066
Hours: 8am – 5pm

Website: http://sourceyogaonline.com/

Clever Neighbor Holiday Showcase

Santa always gets it right, but he seems to get ample assistance from his Elf brigade. Luckily Clever Neighbor has come to the rescue. On Saturday, December 17th, Clever Neighbor held its Holiday Showcase at Tacoma’s Historic Gower Mansion. We hosted many of Tacoma’s hidden holiday gems. From stocking stuffers to presents under the tree Clever Neighbor has you covered at the Holiday Showcase.

2016 Holiday Showcase Vendors

Harts & Pearls

AH Lip and Body Butter

Bicycle Soap Company

We are in love with Bicycle Soap Company, their artisan collection of fair trade luxury soaps are rich with essential oils and Shea butter. Bicycle Soap Company believes in fair trade, they only use Shea butter from Global Mamas a Non-profit in Ghana that empowers and supports women entrepreneurs. As a result Bicycle Soap Company will nourish your skin when you begin your holiday detox.

Joyful Letter Shop

Joyful Letter Shop is a great addition to our hand crafted fun. Featuring wood sliced ornaments, signs, and decorations Joyful Letter Shop crafts warm decor while waiting for reindeer. These made to order signs and ornaments come in multiple sizes with unique phrases. However, Joyful Letter Shop also creates custom burlap banners and moleskin notebooks if your tree has just the right amount of ornaments.

Stephanie James

Don’t forget the wreath! Wreaths are a classic Holiday Symbol or center piece and in the Pacific North West. Stephanie James has a beautiful collection of Holiday Wreaths. These wreaths are made with traditional fresh greens and set the tone for winter wonderland by featuring miniature holiday scenes. Stephanie makes custom pieces or you can choose from a variety of traditional holiday favorites.

Lisa DeVries – Scentsy Independent Consultant

Fresh Pine isn’t the only fragrance at our Clever Neighbor Holiday Showcase. Our Scentsy consultant Lisa DeVries has just the right combination of fragrance to bring warmth and cheer. These wick-less candle warmers are perfect for any room in the house, and can change with the season. Be sure to stock up before family, friends and neighbors stop by to open presents!

Sanford & Daughter

Our Holiday Showcase wouldn’t be complete without a little bling for the new year. Sanford and Daughter has a truly unique jewelry line that cannot be duplicated. With over 100 years of exposure, Tacoma’s Old City Hall copper tiles have been transformed into bracelets, earrings and necklaces and are a truly unique piece of Tacoma’s History. Sanford and Daughter has taken up-cycling to a new level by creating stunning statement pieces that have an incredible story behind their creation.

LuLaRoe by Rachelle Tichy

Paring your new statement piece with the perfect outfit will be a piece of pie this year. Fashionable, comfortable and affordable, has there ever been a better combination? Lularoe doesn’t think so. Their line of stylish clothing gives Lularoe consultants the opportunity to live their lives and set their own schedule. This pop-up boutique is the perfect solution for the trendy fashionista in your life. These modern but classic dresses, skirts, sweaters, shirts and more will have your family wishing for more surprises under the tree.

Don’t wait this year! Get all the unique and thoughtful gifts at your Clever Neighbor Holiday Showcase this weekend. Finding the perfect gift from Local Tacoma based artists and crafters just got better, we’re here to help.

-With Holiday Cheer, your friendly Clever Neighbor!

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