Romancing the Roads (23 page)

Washington

Taking
I-90 into Spokane from Montana you are in Idaho for less than ninety miles. Then Washington State welcomes you.

Spokane (Population Approximately 178,000)

I arrived
in Spokane at about 7:30 p.m. It was still light, and I immediately liked something about the city. I have continued to tout it—a wonderful discovery.

Davenport Hotel

10 S. Post St.

509-455-8888

www.davenporthotel.com

Beautiful, stylish, and classy are understatements for this magnificent, historic hotel founded circa 1890 by Louis Davenport, the ultimate perfectionist: “He insisted on fresh flowers throughout the hotel, flatware be aligned one thumb knuckle from the table edge and money be washed and pressed before being given in change.” He sold his hotel in 1945 and took his magic with him when he left. The Davenport just was not the same and finally closed in 1985. For the next fifteen years, it was doubtful that it would ever regain its status in the hotel world. Perhaps demolition would be the answer.

In 2000, thanks to local (and farsighted) entrepreneurs Mr. and Mrs. W. Worthy, the Davenport was saved and is once again glorious and glowing. Perhaps the money isn’t washed and the one-knuckle rule no longer applies, but, as Mr. Worthy, states, “We in essence have a brand-new hotel that’s hidden in a 100-year-old body.” To which I add, they have done a great job!

One feels an immediate warmth on entering the hotel. It is female friendly, and old-world charm is evident. The lobby is beautiful in every way.

My room accommodations were attractive, comfortable, and not overly decorated. The massive mahogany headboards are impressive and give stature to the high beds. Steps at each side aid with getting into the bed. The bedding is excellent and the bed comfortable.

The spotlighting above the beds is nice, and there is also a lamp between the beds. The overhead air vent should have a deflector as those “breezes” blowing above sleepers can cause all sorts of cricks in the neck and headaches. The entertainment center is well placed, and there is a desk for “work.”

The bathroom area is divided into three parts. The separate vanity area has only one sink—not the worst thing in the world and fine if you are alone. There is a large tub, large separate shower, and a doorless cubbyhole for the toilet. Door please! Dispensers for soap and shampoo in the shower area and by the tub are convenient.

Each night when I was there, I had the delicious pleasure of enjoying a soft chocolate–peanut butter delight left next to the bed. Now, I learn that The Davenport’s turndown service includes one ounce of soft peanut br
i
ttle and a one-ounce piece of soft chocolate–peanut brittle. I look forward to tasting!

Spa Paradiso
(509-747-3529, www.spaparadiso.com) at the Davenport is good and professional. I enjoyed my spa experience. The staff was friendly, receptive, and knowledgeable—three adjectives that do not always apply to one spa! Be sure to look at the suggested packages in the spa brochure. I found these extremely well priced.

Do not miss visiting; better, stay at the Davenport. It is a special experience at a most special property.

The
Davenport Hotel Tower
is open. Across the street from the historic Davenport, it has 328 rooms, twenty-one floors, and all the amenities, bells, and whistles you could possible need or want. It is ideal for corporate meetings. The decor in many of the areas is safari themed—a first for Spokane, or so I was told. I look forward to visiting the Davenport Hotel Tower.

While walking and discovering, I found Spokane an ultraclean city—even the alleyways were clean. The streets are wide, the area uncongested, and the people friendly and open. I was impressed.

Spokane’s city planners seem to have thought out how the city could best expand and how the expansions would work not only on paper but in real life. So many planners seem to look at development and expansion only from the drawing board perspective.

The area around the Davenport Hotel is interesting, with a lot going on. Be sure to get a map! Though it’s a walkable area, street sense and awareness must prevail, particularly at night. If you are alone, know where you are going, and let the concierge know your plans. There were a few street children in groups along the sides of buildings in the downtown area. (Hippies still remain.)

The River Park Square

There are
many shops to visit, but if you’re not shopping, then there is the well-planned
Riverfront Park
by the
Spokane River
. The park has a wonderful antique carousel if the child in you, or with you, needs attention.

There is also the upscale Spokane Valley Mall, with all the usual stores.

Spokane Valley Mall

14700 E. Indiana Ave.

509-926-3700

www.spokanevalleymall.com

Spokane Steam Plant into
Steam Plant Square

159 S. Lincoln

509-624-8050

www.steamplantsquare.com

This steam plant heated downtown Spokane until 1986. A most adventurous undertaking was the transformation of the original. It is fascinating to see the boilers, catwalks, and coal bunkers once essential to the working plant, which now houses a state-of-the-art technology center. There is also the Steam Plant Grill, serving beers brewed onsite by the
Coeur d’Alene Brewing Company
.

Steam Plant Grill

159 S. Lincoln

509-777-3900

www.steamplantgrill.com

The far-sighted creation of Ron and Julie Wells, the grill allows diners to enjoy excellent food in a unique environment—the steam plant. In opening this grill, the owners did not have to concern themselves with decor. Open for lunch and dinner, this great place is within walking distance of the Davenport. Read the history of the steam plant, which was in operation for over seventy years, then sat idle for ten until it was realized that its eighty thousand square feet could be used for offices, retail space, and the Steam Plant Grill. Applause! Congratulations for the renaissance of the original steam plant.

Italian Kitchen

113 N. Bernard St.

509-363-1210

www.italiankitchenspokane.com

This delicious little restaurant is within walking distance of the Davenport (a bit farther than the Steam Plant Grill). I thoroughly enjoyed dinner, the friendly staff, and the reasonable prices. I have learned that the Italian Kitchen has new owners since I visited but has not lost any of what I discovered. Delicious!

There is obviously a lot to see in and learn about Spokane. I would definitely put it on my revisit list. The city seems to be doing things well—learning from other places that might not have taken the time to plan as carefully.

Seattle

Taking
I-90 West to Seattle, you drive about four hours on a good interstate.
Moses Lake
is the first real city, with gas stations, food outlets, and the like.

About thirty minutes outside Seattle, you can stop and stretch at
North Bend Premium Outlets.

North Bend Premium Outlets

461 South Fork Ave. SW

425-888-4505

www.premiumoutlets.com

I-90 to
Mount Baker Ridge Tunnel
takes you into downtown Seattle.

There is so much to see and do in Seattle, a thriving big city. Read up on its many attractions, and plan accordingly. I had heard a lot about Seattle—all good, all correct! Seattle is special.

Tacoma Art Museum

1701 Pacific Ave., Tacoma

253.272.4258

www.tacomaartmuseum.org

Alexis Hotel

1007 First Ave.

206-624-4844

www.alexishotel.com

It is as this boutique hotel’s slogan states, “A Work of Art.” The Alexis offers a special, wonderful experience for all. It is definitely female friendly.

The outside greeting was welcoming, and I had no qualms about turning my car over to the attendant.

On entering the hotel, I was greeted by a huge, awesome, very colorful Dale Chihuly. His glass art is fabulous! This impressive piece was only on loan, however, and is not in residence at the Alexis at present.

FYI:
In
Tacoma
, Washington, you can take a walking tour that takes you through the
Dale Chihuly Glass Collection
for $16 per person (in 2011). Children are free.

The Alexis lobby decor is subdued but extremely tasteful. The front desk staff were attractive but, more importantly, alert and efficient. My room was a beautifully appointed suite with a kitchen. The cozy and inviting bedroom had a queen-size bed with crisp, white Egyptian cotton linens. The white Egyptian cotton duvet covering the down comforter was only luxurious. Everything was immaculate. I saw other rooms, but regardless of size, they did not diminish in quality. As of 2007, all guest rooms and hallways were refurbished. Specialty suites named for celebrities are theme decorated with their namesakes’ respective claims to fame. My suite contained books of all varieties—many signed by the authors when at the hotel.

In the late afternoon, complimentary wines are served in the lobby—a nice inclusion. Women even solo do not hesitate to attend and to talk with other guests. I met a couple from my home area.

For a special dining experience at the Alexis, visit the Library Bistro (whispering not required).

Library Bistro

92 Madison St.

206-624-3646

www.librarybistro.com

The Library Bistro now serves only breakfast and Saturday and Sunday brunch, as well as personally prepared, private dining menus. When I was there, I enjoyed a long, delicious dinner. The salad, main course, and dessert could not have been better. Most memorable was the appetizer, a small serving of macaroni and cheese with thinly sliced apples. The sauce on the macaroni was very creamy and just right—upscale soul food.

Now there is also the Bookstore Bar for lunch and dinner. I am certain that every morsel is delicious.

Bookstore Bar

1007 First Ave.

206-382-1506

www.librarybistro.com

When I was at the Alexis, the general manager was a woman, and I always like to tout females who are in command. As of this writing, the Alexis has another female GM, Jenne Neptune. She is lucky to be at such a special property.

The Alexis is a Kimpton Hotel. Although, try as I might, I have not stayed in many. From what I have heard, they stand for superb quality.

Staying at the Alexis allows you to walk to many of Seattle’s famed attractions. Strolling through the neighborhood around the Alexis is a must—but more of a must is an excellent pair of walking shoes.

Pikes Place Market

1531 Western Ave.

206-682-7453

www.pikeplacemarket.com

This wonderful market is a cheerfully noisy happening. Here, both people and produce thrive. You’ll find all the fresh fruits and vegetables you can imagine, as well as freshly baked pastries of all varieties and sizes. A morning walk for a very fresh pastry and coffee is a nice way to start the day. You may not want any fresh fish (or even like fish), but the famous fish throwing and chanting is a must-see and will cause you to smile and laugh. Trinket vendors and the like seem to be everywhere. Take some fresh fruit back to your room or for your trip. This unique nine-acre market was started in 1907 to bring farmers and consumers together. There are many restaurants. Musicians perform a variety of sounds and tempos. At the market, there are “permanent” vendors who have a set spot; others can rent one of the two hundred table spaces by the day. Are you running out of room in your car? Have you made too many purchases along the way? Maybe you can rent a table for the day to sell those spur-of-the-moment items you’re no longer sure you need. Just a thought.

Pioneer Square

The historic
district of Seattle is called Pioneer Square. This ninety-acre area has art centers of all varieties and sizes, museums, shops, restaurants, bars, and such. There are also spots to be aware of as the homeless and undecided folk frequent the area. Be alert.

Bill Speidel’s Underground Tour

608 First Ave.

206-682-4646

www.undergroundtour.com

I did this when I was tired and my feet numb. Although I recommend taking the one-and-a-half-hour underground tour, don’t do it under the conditions I did. In 2011, tickets cost $16 for adults, $13 for students and senior citizens, and $8 for children (the tour isn’t recommend for those age six and under). The tour actually takes you underground to see the sights under the Seattle streets and sidewalks. You are actually walking on what were once the main streets of old Seattle. The informative, interesting, and humorous tour begins inside the saloon,
Doc Maynard’s Public House
. You will eventually proceed down the equivalent six uneven flights of stairs. (It did not seem that many to me.) Wear appropriate shoes or sneakers. It is damp and cool in this subterranean city, so a sweater will be appreciated. You will learn about the coining of the term
skid row
and also the association between the Seattle underground and toilets. The guide on my tour was informative, handsome, fun, and very creative in his presentations.

Note:
This tour is not for the claustrophobic, although it is definitely not like going into a cave or a natural cavern. It is just under and around underground. This area is within walking distance of the Alexis, and there are lots of shops—again of all varieties.

Waterfront Seafood Grill

2801 Alaskan Way

206-956-9171

www.elgaucho.com/waterfrontpier70/home.htm

This nice restaurant was filled with young people. The attention to service and food was right. The view overlooking the waterfront and of the surrounding tables was most pleasant. The latter made you realize that you are not, and probably never were, like the young people of today. (Can’t have everything!) The recent reviews—since I was there—are so excellent that I look forward to returning.

Bainbridge Island

When planning
the visit to Seattle, I read up on the city and collected info from friends, but no one mentioned Bainbridge Island. What a treasure I was to discover! It is a real island reached by a ferry from the
Ferry Terminal
(801 Alaskan Way, Pier 52 ), which is also within walking distance of the Alexis. The ticket price is very reasonable, and senior citizens get a discounted rate. Arriving on Bainbridge Island after a peaceful, relaxing, thirty-five-minute ride, you will find that the popular modes of travel are bicycle or walking, although you can ferry over in your car.