Cheers to Spokane: Hops and Hoops

Come and visit Spokane for a great weekend getaway! From the plethora of activities and sights to see, you won't be bored. Get a taste of the local beer scene, take a walk next to the river running through downtown, or just walk through the fields of wheat and barley for a peaceful afternoon. If that's not enough, you can even pay homage to NBA legend John Stockton in his hometown! Don't miss out on the chance to make Spokane a part of your weekend exploration.

Spokane is unique in many ways among towns of its size and region. Located in the Inland Northwest of Washington State, Spokane is a college town, boasting a vibrant atmosphere, plenty of shops and dining options, and of course its deep connection to John Stockton of the Utah Jazz. Spokane is full of attractions, both natural and those built by man.

Natural Beauty

From its central location at the confluence of the Spokane and Little Spokane River, to its surrounding wheat, barley and spud farms, Spokane is a picturesque city with something for everyone.

The water running through the heart of the city is fresh and clear. The Spokane River, which meanders through the heart of the city, has been voted best river in the state of Washington. Also in the Spokane River are the powerful Spokane Falls, believed to be sacred by Native Americans and providing a calming backdrop to the downtown area. Visitors can take advantage of 18 miles of riverside bikepaths, walkways and parks. And if biking isn’t your thing, the locals will be happy to take you kayaking or standup paddling.

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Just to the north of the city lies Mount Spokane and the infamous Nordic Ski Trails. In winter, the trails are a winter wonderland, populated with skiers and snowshoers. In summer the trails offer unparalleled mountain biking and of course breathtaking vistas.

Fine Dining and Shopping

Spokane is famous for its abundance and variety of restaurants - from fine-dining recommendations to gastropubs, you’ll find whatever cuisine you’re looking for, usually all within a few blocks. And if you’re feeling adventurous, why not sample some of the local specialty: huckleberries. You’ll find huckleberry-flavored treats everywhere, from ice cream and candies to pies, jams, and sauces.

When you’re done dining, it’s time to explore Spokane’s retail options, which include a mix of both big-brand stores and local boutiques. Spokane also is home to several specialty stores, including several establishments specializing in rare and classic beers and wines.

Sports and Culture

When it comes to sports, Spokane is a great place to be. With the Spokane Chiefs and Spokane Indians, the city has great ice hockey and minor-league baseball teams. The city is also home to the Spokane Arena, which hosts concerts and performances from some of the biggest names in entertainment.

  • John Stockton, famous for his iconic donation of NBA basketball shorts to the local Boys and Girls Club.
  • The Spokane Arena, a state of the art professional sports venue.
  • The Spokane Symphony, a long-running classical music institution.
  • The Spokane Indians and Spokane Chiefs, minor league baseball and ice hockey teams.

Spokane also has a thriving art and culture scene, with cultural institutions that include the Northwest Museum of Arts & Culture, the Bing Crosby Theater and the Spokane Symphony. As far as music goes, Spokane is home to a number of clubs and venues that host local and national acts. Spokane was also an important training ground for musical acts like Sarah McLachlan and Nirvana.

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Washington's Hop Country

Around an hour and a half away lies Washington State’s hop country. With more than a dozen local breweries and a wealth of hop farms, this part of the state is a beer lover’s paradise. Take the Yakima Valley Hops Trail, the top beer tourism attraction in the state, to explore hop harvesting, beer brewing and tasting experiences like those enjoyed in both Washington and Oregon.

Conclusion

Spokane is an exceptional place with a lot to offer year-round. It’s full of natural beauty, sporting events, and a variety of cultural experiences. The nearby wheat and barley fields – and hop fields hours away – make excellent use of the local terrain. Spokane has its fair share of restaurants, shopping options, and world-class entertainment, making it the perfect destination for any traveler wanting to explore the Northwest.

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