Seattleites are frequently accused of looking down on their sister city to the east. Travel through Spokane and spend time on South Perry Street and see how urban renewal and creativity are helping transform the city. There is nothing like the charm, attitude and grace of a small town and this neighborhood has it.

The Perry District (formally the Grant District) has a long history in Spokane with the elementary school having been open since 1900. Described by one local as “The Mason-Dixie Line” the community is a blend of people from different backgrounds. With the excitement and enthusiasm of young locals (some even former Seattleites) and community oriented business owners, this neighborhood is one of the most inviting places in the Pacific Northwest.

The Shop: Where the Locals Hang

Connecting with the community is easy on South Perry Street. Most people can be found hanging out at The Shop. The former gas station turned café has a relaxed and open atmosphere with a mix of reclaimed period furniture adding to the charm. Coffee, sandwiches, and vegan and gluten free baked goods make lingering even easier. On Saturday nights in the summer The Shop sponsors an outdoor movie on the neighboring white wall, collecting donations for a local charity. Everyone comes out on a hot summer night with their lawn chair, a bottle of wine, and a smile.

Perry Street Café and South Perry Pizza: Where the Locals Eat

Breakfast has to be eaten at Perry Street Café where (almost) everything is made with love from scratch. The French toast is a favorite but you can’t leave here without trying a baked good. For dinner South Perry Pizza is regularly packed, and with patio seating people take their time. This artisan pizza place has purposefully designed their space to foster the sense of community, so people will use it as a place to gather with friends, family, and neighbors.

The Lantern: Where the Locals Drink

Once you get to the Perry District there really is little reason to ever leave. The Lantern Tavern is a small craft beer bar featuring 30 rotating taps. Sidewalk seating, beer enthusiasts and a culture around community make this the pub for quenching late night thirst. Their claim to fame is that they are the “smallest and friendliest bar in Spokane.”