The Big City

We recently headed to Spokane for a day of civilized entertainment including shopping and, of course, eating out.  We love to eat at PF Chang's...our favorite restaurant, but Spokane only has one and it is downtown.  Downtown Spokane is quite beautiful with the Riverside Park, mall, renovated buildings turned bars, restaurants, coffee houses, eclectic shops, and more.  However, with our big truck, it is a bit difficult to find parking downtown due to the small spaces and one-way streets.  Plus, all the parking garages were designed for mini coopers. :)  So, we took a left turn where we normally take a right, a block or so from PF Chang's and stumbled upon some nice roomy parking still only leaving us with a short walk to the restaurant.  We ended up parking next to The Spokane Club, which I learned, has been in existence in the same building since 1890.  The building caught my eye because of its beautiful architecture.  I researched the Club and discovered it is basically, an upscale social/athletic/business club for "community and civic leaders of Spokane".  The doors were plastered with signs stating, " Members Only".  Not very welcoming, but lovely just the same.  In taking a quick snapshot of the building, I noticed the other buildings on the street.  They were all just as distinct in their architecture and historic nature.  Below are some photos of the Spokane Club and other buildings in the vicinity that I managed to take while we were driving away...I hope to go back soon to get some better photos that will actually do these gorgeous buildings justice.  Anyhow, it ended up being a spectacular sunny day for an outing....a much needed one that included a stop at our new favorite places REI, Mountain Sports, and mine...Michael's!  David is never so thrilled about the last stop, but I could spend hours in there.  It is the total supply store/respite for all my winter hobby, keep myself from going cabin fever crazy, needs.  More to come on that subject later.

The Spokane Club...the entrance was quite grand and even displayed some Native American busts in the architecture over the main doorway

The Masonic Temple...very dignified and grand.  It was spectacular in the late morning light.

Other buildings adjacent to the Masonic Temple

Next door to The Spokane Club.  Another example of the interesting use of Native American inspiration in the architecture

A lovely old church across from The Spokane Club

Downtown Spokane