The Inland Northwest bar scene, like the community it serves, is unfathomably varied. While that's an exciting prospect for many, it can still be overwhelming to find the perfect place to pair with whatever you have planned. Many of us think about a bar's location or menu when considering where to go, but it may be easier to search with a specific vibe in mind. So whether you're in the mood or not for the usual upbeat bar scene or looking for a quieter place to gather, we've got you covered.
A cheerful, uplifting setting
GARDEN PARTY
107 S. Madison Ave., open Tue-Thu & Sun 11 am-11 pm, Fri-Sat 11 am-midnight
Have you ever had to cancel on a night out with your friends because you just weren't feeling your brightest? While that may seem like the best option at the moment, don't wallow in those negative emotions at home. Instead of canceling the outing, ask your friends to relocate their plans to downtown Spokane's botanical bar, Garden Party. Between the tasty selection of cocktails, a handful of special events (like an ongoing comedy series, "Giggles in the Garden") and the bar's decorative floral flourish, it's almost impossible to feel anything but joy at Garden Party.
A place to chat with friends
Q LOUNGE
238 W. Sprague Ave., open Thu-Sun 5 pm-close
For a decade now, nYne Bar & Bistro has been lauded by locals as the best place to dance the night away. But sadly, no one has ever thought "I'm gonna go to nYne to catch up with an old friend" (at least after 5 pm). Luckily, nYne's owners realized this, and created the Q Lounge next door. With a quieter, cozy vibe, the bar can serve as the perfect spot to have an audible conversation with an old friend. Plus, with weekly "Sapphic Social" events and the bimonthly queer open mic comedy night, the location serves as another safe place in Spokane for queer folks to gather.
A first-date-approved atmosphere
STYLUS WINE &VINYL BAR
2605 N. Fourth St., Coeur d'Alene, open Wed-Thu noon-9 pm, Fri-Sat noon-10 pm, Sun 11 am-3 pm
First dates are almost impossible to plan. Like Goldilocks, you've got to find a place that's just right — not too fancy and definitely not too casual. So a place like Stylus Wine & Vinyl Bar, where you can get a drink at the bar and pair it with some fancy French food, is likely to be your best bet. With dozens of wine and beer options, you and your date are likely to find something on the menu that fits your tastes. Plus, those who are nervous or shy will have an easy conversation starter from the bar's massive collection of vinyl records.
A chill, backyard patio
RADIO BAR
2408 W. Northwest Blvd.; open Tue-Sat 4 pm-close, Sun noon-8 pm
If you're tired of the indoor bar scene, Radio Bar is a perfect place to go. While the bar is known for its selection of creative craft cocktails and killer sound system, its gorgeous garden-like patio and sizable back deck are a huge warm weather bonus. While many Spokane bars have outdoor seating, Radio Bar is tucked inside a former residence in the Audubon-Downriver neighborhood, and its patio feels more like a traditional backyard than a random alleyside addition. So whether you live in a yard-less apartment complex or your backyard just isn't up to snuff for an afternoon or evening of drinking, head to Radio Bar.
LUNARIUM
1925 N. Monroe St. (all ages); open Wed-Sat 3 pm-midnight
There's something uniquely enthralling about reading a book at a cafe. Between the barely audible music playing, the barista banter and the scent of the coffee constantly brewing, the ambiance is unmatched. Unfortunately though, many cafes aren't open late, so nighttime readers are often left searching for that experience elsewhere. Not anymore, thanks to Lunarium. The cafe, which opens around the same time other cafes close, doesn't serve alcohol, but instead offers homemade treats, coffee, and tea until midnight. So, if you're looking for somewhere other than the sunken-in spot on the sofa to finish that book you've been reading, consider Lunarium. ♦
