Riverside: The Heartbeat of Spokane, Washington

• HelloHowdy
  [haw-dee]
• GoodbyeSee ya later
  [see yuh lay-ter]
• YesYep
  [yep]
• NoNope
  [nohp]
• Please/You're welcomePlease/No problem
  [pleez/no problem]
• Thank youThanks
  [thanks]
• Excuse me/SorryPardon me/My bad
  [par-dn me/my bad]
• How are you?Howdy partner?
  [haw-dee par-tner]
• Fine. And you?Just dandy. How 'bout you?
  [just dan-dee. how bout yew]
• Do you speak English?Ya speak English?
  [yah speak ing-glish]
• I don't understandI'm lost
  [ahm lost]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseCan I check out the grub options?
  [kan eye chek out thee grub op-shuns]
• I don't eat meatI'm a veggie
  [ahm uh veh-gee]
• Cheers!Bottoms up!
  [bot-ums up]
• I would like to pay, pleaseCheck please
  [chek pleez]

• Help!SOS!
  [ess oh ess]
• Go away!Get lost!
  [get lost]
• Call the Police!911!
  [nine one one]
• Call a doctor!Doc, I need help!
  [doc eye need help]
• I'm lostI'm all turned around
  [ahm all turned uh-round]
• I'm illI'm feelin' under the weather
  [ahm feel-in under thee weh-thur]

• I'd like to buy...I'm lookin' to purchase...
  [ahm look-in to pur-chase]
• I'm just lookingJust browsin'
  [just brow-sin]
• How much is it?What's the damage?
  [whats thee dam-ij]
• That's too expensiveThat ain't worth it
  [that aint wurth it]
• Can you lower the price?Can ya cut me a deal?
  [kan yuh kut mee a deel]

• What time is it?What's the time?
  [whats thee time]
• It's one o'clockIt's one
  [its one]
• Half past (10)It's half past ten
  [its half past ten]
• MorningMornin'
  [mornin]
• AfternoonAfternoon
  [afternoon]
• EveningEvenin'
  [evenin]
• YesterdayYest'day
  [yest-day]
• TodayToday
  [today]
• TomorrowTomorra
  [tom-or-rah]
• 1One
  [wun]
• 2Two
  [too]
• 3Three
  [three]
• 4Four
  [four]
• 5Five
  [five]
• 6Six
  [six]
• 7Seven
  [seven]
• 8Eight
  [eight]
• 9Nine
  [nine]
• 10Ten
  [ten]

• Where's a/the...?Where can I find...?
  [where kan eye find]
• What's the address?What's the street?
  [whats thee street]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Can ya point it out?
  [kan yuh point it out]
• When's the next (bus)?When's the next ride?
  [whens thee next ride]
• A ticket (to ....)A pass (to ....)
  [uh pass to]

The Riverside neighborhood, like much of Spokane, was originally inhabited by the Spokane Tribe of Indians. These Indigenous peoples thrived along the banks of the Spokane River, utilizing its resources for fishing, hunting, and trade long before European settlers arrived.

In the mid-19th century, the area began to see European settlers, spurred by the establishment of Fort Spokane in 1880. This military outpost not only provided protection for settlers but also facilitated the growth of nearby communities, including Riverside.

By the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Riverside became a bustling area characterized by its rich commercial activity. The Spokane River served as a critical transportation route, fostering economic growth and attracting businesses that contributed to the neighborhood’s development.

The Great Spokane Fire devastated much of the city, but Riverside, located just across the river from the downtown area, played a crucial role in the city’s recovery. The fire led to a building boom, as damaged structures were replaced with more resilient constructions, paving the way for Riverside's future growth.

Throughout the 20th century, Riverside became known for its diverse community. The influx of various immigrant groups contributed to the neighborhood’s cultural fabric, particularly through the establishment of local businesses, churches, and community organizations that reflect this rich mosaic.

Riverside Park, established in the early 1900s, became a central feature of the neighborhood, offering recreational opportunities and serving as a gathering place. In the late 20th century, urban renewal efforts sought to revitalize Riverside, addressing issues of decline while preserving its historical significance.

Riverside is conveniently located in Spokane and can be accessed from other neighborhoods via public transportation, such as the Spokane Transit Authority buses. The neighborhood is also a short drive from downtown Spokane, with easy access via North Howard Street, North Division Street, or East Riverside Avenue. For visitors arriving by air, Spokane International Airport is about 8 miles away, and a taxi or rideshare service can take you directly to Riverside.

Riverside is well-served by public transportation, including several bus routes that connect to downtown Spokane and other neighborhoods. The Spokane Transit Authority offers a reliable service, and schedules can be checked online. For a more leisurely experience, consider renting a bicycle, as Riverside has bike-friendly paths, particularly along the Spokane River. Walking is also a popular option, as many attractions are within a manageable distance.

Riverside is generally safe for tourists, but it is advisable to remain aware of your surroundings, especially in less populated areas. Certain parts of the neighborhood, particularly around the Spokane River, may have higher incidences of petty crime, such as theft. Avoid walking alone at night in secluded areas and be cautious with your belongings in crowded places.

In case of an emergency, dial 911 for police, fire, or medical assistance. The nearest hospital is Sacred Heart Medical Center, which is equipped for emergencies. It’s recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical situations. Local pharmacies are available for non-emergency health needs, and the staff can assist with basic medical inquiries.

Fashion: Do wear comfortable clothing and shoes suitable for walking. Don't wear overly flashy attire as Spokane has a laid-back vibe. Religion: Do respect local customs, particularly when visiting places of worship. Public Transport: Do be polite and give up your seat for elderly passengers. Don’t eat or drink on the bus. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly smile or wave. Don’t interrupt conversations; wait for an appropriate moment to speak. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes at restaurants. Don't waste food, as it is considered disrespectful.

To experience Riverside like a local, visit the seasonal farmers market for fresh produce and homemade goods. Explore the Spokane Riverfront Park, where you can enjoy scenic walks and various outdoor activities. Engage with local residents; they often have great recommendations for hidden gems in the area. Additionally, consider trying local breweries and eateries to get a taste of Spokane's vibrant culinary scene.