There is something to be said about Spokane, Washington. I’ve grown up here my entire life, and although it’s not the most luxurious city, I wouldn’t have it any other way. I’m not writing this article to preach about why my hometown is better than everyone else’s or why you should love Spokane. However, I would like to clear the air about some of the misconceptions that people tend to believe about Spokane, and what it’s like to know this place as home.
“Spokane is so ghetto.”
As a resident of Spokane for nearly 20 years now, this one is frustrating to hear. If you think Spokane is ghetto, you clearly have not experienced some of the amazing things this city has to offer. Yes, there are parts of town you wouldn’t want to explore alone, but isn’t that the same for almost everywhere? Just because some areas and neighborhoods are more run-down than others doesn’t characterize the entire city and the people in it as ‘ghetto.’
“There is nothing fun to do on the weekends.”
Actually, you’re mistaken. Spokane has a variety of adorable hole-in-the-wall coffee shops that serve an amazing latte, ski mountains within driving distance, breathtaking hiking options, and so much more. Although activities may not be visible right in front of your eyes, there is always something fun to be done -- you just need to look for it. You live in the Pacific North West, so take advantage of it and find something fun to do!
“You never know what the weather is going to be like.”
OK, I have to admit that this statement is slightly true sometimes, but for the most part, Spokane’s weather is pretty mild. We have all four seasons, all of which are beautiful. In the fall the changing leaves are absolutely stunning and you can’t go anywhere without seeing their vibrant colors. Winter can be tough to endure at times, but there is nothing prettier than a snowed-over Spokane. And you already know that in spring, the blooming flowers are everywhere you look. Summers can average out to be insanely hot, but thankfully we have a vast array of parks, public pools, and outdoor sightseeing to distract you from the heat.
“Everything here is outdated.”
Contrary to popular belief, Spokane Is definitely starting to catch the latest trends and even follow them. We finally got an Anthropologie, and are scheduled to have a new Urban Outfitters by fall of 2016! Those are just a few of the updates Spokane has received lately. There are also plans to redo essentially the entire area of River Park Square, including the carrousel and the ice rink. I can admit that not everything in Spokane is up to speed or as advanced as other places, but we're getting there. Patience, everyone.
“No one even knows that Spokane exists.”
It’s easy to feel like no one knows we're here and that Spokane’s existence is pretty minimal in comparison to other large cities in the U.S. However, we host some pretty big events that are definitely putting Spokane’s name on the map. We have Hoopfest every June, which is the largest three-on-three basketball tournament in the world. There is also Bloomsdsay, a 12k race that has been going on for 40 years, that attracts thousands of people from across the globe. Not to mention our own Gonzaga basketball team has done a great job of bringing national attention to the team and University, which happens to be located in our very own Spokane!
Don’t forget to appreciate the little things Spokane has to offer. There are no palm trees or stunning beaches, but the views here are breathtaking if you only take the time to find them. Before you are quick to criticize, explore. Take a look around and find one of the inviting coffee shops or hiking trails. Make yourself open to the possibility of getting to know Spokane, and maybe even beginning to like it. I can’t imagine myself living my entire life here, but I would be lying if I said I wasn’t proud to be from Spokane and that I don't love this city.
