Downtown Spokane: The Heartbeat of the Inland Northwest

• HelloHowdy
  [ˈhaʊdi]
• GoodbyeSee ya
  [siː jə]
• YesYep
  [jɛp]
• NoNah
  [nɑː]
• Please/You're welcomePlease/You're welcome
  [pliːz/jɔr ˈwɛlkəm]
• Thank youThanks
  [θæŋks]
• Excuse me/SorryPardon me
  [ˈpɑrdn mi]
• How are you?How's it going?
  [haʊz ɪt ˈɡoʊɪŋ]
• Fine. And you?Good. You?
  [ɡʊd juː]
• Do you speak English?Ya speak English?
  [jə spiːk ˈɪŋɡlɪʃ]
• I don't understandI'm lost
  [aɪm lɔst]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseI wanna check the menu, please
  [aɪ ˈwɑnə ˈtʃɛk ðə ˈmɛnjuː pliːz]
• I don't eat meatI don't do meat
  [aɪ doʊnt duː mit]
• Cheers!Cheers!
  [ʧɪrz]
• I would like to pay, pleaseI'm ready to pay, please
  [aɪm ˈrɛdi tuː peɪ pliːz]

• Help!Help!
  [hɛlp]
• Go away!Get lost!
  [ɡɛt lɔst]
• Call the Police!Call the cops!
  [kɔl ðə kɑps]
• Call a doctor!Call a doc!
  [kɔl ə dɑk]
• I'm lostI'm lost
  [aɪm lɔst]
• I'm illI'm sick
  [aɪm sɪk]

• I'd like to buy...I wanna buy...
  [aɪ ˈwɑnə baɪ]
• I'm just lookingJust browsing
  [ʤʌst ˈbraʊzɪŋ]
• How much is it?How much?
  [haʊ ˈmʌʧ]
• That's too expensiveThat's spendy
  [ðæts ˈspɛndi]
• Can you lower the price?Can you drop the price?
  [kæn juː drɑp ðə praɪs]

• What time is it?What's the time?
  [wɑts ðə taɪm]
• It's one o'clockIt's one
  [ɪts wʌn]
• Half past (10)Half past (10)
  [hæf pæst (10)]
• MorningMorning
  [ˈmɔrnɪŋ]
• AfternoonAfternoon
  [ˌæftərˈnun]
• EveningEvening
  [ˈivnɪŋ]
• YesterdayYesterday
  [ˈjɛstərˌdeɪ]
• TodayToday
  [təˈdeɪ]
• TomorrowTomorrow
  [təˈmɑroʊ]
• 1One
  [wʌn]
• 2Two
  [tuː]
• 3Three
  [θriː]
• 4Four
  [fɔr]
• 5Five
  [faɪv]
• 6Six
  [sɪks]
• 7Seven
  [ˈsɛvən]
• 8Eight
  [eɪt]
• 9Nine
  [naɪn]
• 10Ten
  [tɛn]

• Where's a/the...?Where's the...?
  [wɛərz ðə]
• What's the address?What's the address?
  [wɑts ðə ˈædrɛs]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Can you show me (on the map)?
  [kæn juː ʃoʊ miː (ɒn ðə mæp)]
• When's the next (bus)?When's the next (bus)?
  [wɛnz ðə nɛkst (bʌs)]
• A ticket (to ....)A ticket (to ....)
  [eɪ ˈtɪkɪt (tu ...)]

Long before European settlers arrived, the Spokane region was inhabited by the Spokane Tribe and other Native American tribes. The area around the Spokane River was significant for its natural resources, including fish and wildlife, which supported the local tribes' way of life. The name 'Spokane' itself is derived from the Salish word 'sp'q'n'i,' meaning 'children of the sun.'

Spokane was officially founded in 1881, and its growth was catalyzed by the arrival of the Northern Pacific Railway. The railroad transformed Spokane into a major transportation hub, facilitating the movement of goods and people. The construction of the first railroad bridge over the Spokane River in 1882 was a pivotal moment, linking the city to the rest of the nation.

A devastating fire swept through Downtown Spokane on August 4, 1889, destroying much of the business district. Despite the destruction, the fire led to a rapid rebuilding effort. The reconstruction saw the development of impressive brick buildings, many of which still stand today, reflecting the resilience and ambition of the city's early entrepreneurs.

In 1974, Spokane hosted the World's Fair, known as Expo '74, which was the first environmentally themed world’s fair. The event highlighted Spokane's commitment to environmental sustainability and urban renewal. The fairgrounds, which included the iconic Spokane Riverfront Park, transformed the riverbank and revitalized Downtown Spokane, making it a vibrant community space.

Downtown Spokane has long been a cultural hub, reflecting the diverse communities that settled in the area. The neighborhood hosts various cultural events, festivals, and art exhibitions, showcasing the rich heritage of its residents, including significant contributions from Native American, European, and Asian communities. Institutions like the Spokane Art School and the Northwest Museum of Arts and Culture play vital roles in preserving and promoting this cultural diversity.

Downtown Spokane is easily accessible from various neighborhoods in Spokane. If you're coming from the Spokane International Airport, you can take a taxi, rideshare service, or the Spokane Transit Authority (STA) bus route 60, which connects the airport to downtown. From other neighborhoods, local buses are available, with routes that frequently service downtown. If driving, Downtown Spokane is conveniently located near major highways, including I-90.

Downtown Spokane is pedestrian-friendly, with many attractions within walking distance. The Spokane Transit Authority operates numerous bus routes that service the downtown area. For a unique experience, consider renting a bike through local bike-sharing programs or using scooters available in the area. The downtown area is also well-marked for navigation, making it easy to explore on foot.

Downtown Spokane is generally safe for tourists, especially during the day. However, it is advisable to stay vigilant in certain areas, particularly at night. The neighborhoods near the Spokane River and some parts of East Sprague Avenue have reported higher crime rates. Always keep your belongings secure and avoid displaying valuables in crowded places.

In case of an emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. Local hospitals and urgent care facilities are available in downtown Spokane. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers emergencies. For minor health issues, several pharmacies can be found throughout the downtown area.

Fashion: Do dress comfortably and be prepared for varying weather conditions. Don't wear overly casual clothing if you plan on dining at upscale restaurants. Religion: Do respect local customs, especially when visiting historic sites. Public Transport: Do be courteous to drivers and fellow passengers. Don't play loud music on public transport. Greetings: Do greet locals with a smile; a friendly demeanor can go a long way. Eating & Drinking: Do try local breweries and eateries. Don't waste food; leftovers are often taken home.

To experience Downtown Spokane like a local, visit the Spokane Public Market for fresh produce and artisan goods. Take time to explore Riverfront Park, especially during events or festivals. Engage with locals at coffee shops and eateries; they often have great recommendations for hidden gems around the city. Don't miss the Spokane Falls, especially during spring when the water flow is at its peak.