Welcome to Browne’s Addition, arguably one of the top ten best neighborhoods in the country. Located within walking distance of Spokane’s vibrant downtown, Browne’s Addition offers a perfect blend of urban convenience and small-town charm. Whether you’re a hipster looking for a trendy spot to call home or a family seeking a friendly community, Browne’s Addition has something for everyone. In this post, we’ll explore some of the reasons why Browne’s Addition stands out as one of Spokane’s best neighborhoods.
Vibrant Events and Attractions
One of the highlights of living in Browne’s Addition is the abundance of events and attractions that take place throughout the year. One such event is “Pig Out In The Park,” a local music festival held annually from August 31st to September 5th. With four stages of free music, over 50 food booths, and a public market, this festival offers a fun-filled experience for all.
As of 2023, the Spokane Farmers Market has moved from the heart of downtown to the center of Brownes Addition. Now at the central Coeur d’Alene Park every Wednesday and Saturday Morning. Read here for more farmer’s market information.
For music enthusiasts, Browne’s Addition is home to several concert venues. Lucky You Lounge, a relatively affordable and intimate concert venue, hosts a wide variety of artists and genres. The Martin Woldson Theater AT THE FOX, a historic theater housing the Spokane Symphony, showcases local talent and educational events.
Culture and art enthusiasts can explore the Northwest Museum of Arts and Culture, the largest art hub in the inland Northwest. With rotating exhibitions, the museum offers something for the whole family. Another must-visit spot is the Mobius Discovery Center, a captivating museum dedicated to sparking creativity through arts, exhibits, and exploration.
Culinary Delights
Browne’s Addition boasts a vibrant food scene with a variety of culinary options to satisfy all palates. Here are a few food spots that residents and visitors love:
Lucky You Lounge: This previously mentioned concert venue also hosts of of the city’s best cocktail bars and happy hour. Their impressive food menu has yet to fail as well as their amazing drink selection to go alongside the spunky street food in front of you.
Italia Trattoria: With its stunning dishes and incredible patio, Italia Trattoria offers a delightful dining experience. Whether you’re looking for an amazing lunch, mouthwatering Italian dishes, or imported wines, this cafe is the perfect spot for a romantic date or a fun hangout with friends.
El Que: A local favorite since 2001, El Que is a Mexican restaurant serving traditional street food and creative cocktails. From the delicious Mexican cuisine to the house-made tequila infusions, El Que is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Frank’s Diner: For breakfast lovers, Frank’s Diner is a must-visit. Voted the #1 Best Breakfast for 22 years in a row, this diner offers made-from-scratch food in a unique train car setting. Enjoy a delicious breakfast any time of the day while immersing yourself in the fun atmosphere.
Bijou: Right in the heart of Browne’s Addition is a tiny cocktail bar that always seems to be bustling with energy. The catchy name meaning trinket or toy is fitting for this pocket-sized spot that will sure to capture your heart. The intimate space with crafted drinks is the perfect spot to meet up with friends or people-watch.
Charming Brick and Mortar Establishments
Browne’s Addition is home to some unique brick-and-mortar establishments that add character to the neighborhood. Here are a few worth exploring:
Fern Plant Shop: If you’re a plant lover or looking to add some greenery to your home, Fern Plant Shop is the perfect place for you. Fern offers a wide selection of indoor plants, pots, and helpful advice from passionate local plant lovers, Amy and Alex. Additionally, the Browne’s Addition location hosts workshops where you can learn how to design and create with plants.
Auntie’s Bookstore: As Neil Gaiman famously said, “A town isn’t a town without a bookstore.” Auntie’s Bookstore is a full-service independent bookstore that brings the joy of reading to Browne’s Addition. From new and used books to book signings and book clubs covering various topics, Auntie’s has something for every bookworm.
Roses & Thread Boutique: This local boutique, primarily an online store, has a physical location right off Browne’s Addition where you can shop their unique clothing items. Whether you’re looking for trendy fashion pieces or something that reflects your personal style, Roses & Thread Boutique will help you find the perfect outfit that makes you feel confident and stylish.
Architectural Delights: English Tudor and Queen Anne Styles
Browne’s Addition is renowned for its eclectic and historical homes, showcasing impressive gardens and unique architectural styles. The neighborhood predominantly features houses designed in the English Tudor and Queen Anne styles.
The English Tudor homes in Browne’s Addition are characterized by a prominent front door, whimsical wood exteriors, ornate brickwork, and asymmetrical gables. These homes exude charm and evoke a sense of history and elegance.
On the other hand, Queen Anne-style homes in Browne’s Addition often feature a vibrant color palette, utilizing three or more colors to create a storybook feel. Elaborate trim, latticework, and intricate details adorn these homes, which can include elaborate towers, turrets, and large windows. Living in a Queen Anne-style home feels like stepping into a fairytale.
Parks and Trails for Outdoor Enthusiasts
Browne’s Addition offers ample opportunities for outdoor recreation and enjoyment. Some notable parks and trails in the neighborhood include:
Coeur d’Alene Park: Located in the heart of Browne’s Addition, Coeur d’Alene Park is a spacious and inviting park with covered picnic areas, basketball courts, play equipment, and a splash pad. The park also hosts concerts at the Gazebo every Thursday evening, creating a lively and entertaining atmosphere for residents and visitors. The Spokane Farmers Market has just made its move from its previous downtown spot on 5th St to the park this summer. Make sure you don’t miss it!
Riverfront Park: Located along the Spokane River, Riverfront Park is a sprawling green space that offers a wide range of activities for all ages. The park is home to the iconic Pavilion, an open-air structure featuring an impressive LED light display. You can catch movies, concerts, and fantastic light shows on Friday and Saturday evenings. The park also features the Providence Playscape, a large and inclusive playground filled with sensory activities for kids of all ages and abilities.
Numerica Skate Ribbon: This unique attraction doubles as a roller skating rink in the summer and an ice skating rink in the winter. With its winding path and stunning views of the Spokane River and Spokane Falls, the Numerica Skate Ribbon provides a fun experience for skaters and spectators alike all while being just a short walk downtown from Brownes.
Glover Field Park: Spaning 2.29 acres, Glover Field Park is a smaller but charming green space in Browne’s Addition. It features play equipment for children, a softball field, a basketball court, and a picnic area. Whether you want to engage in a friendly game or enjoy a leisurely picnic with family and friends, Glover Field Park provides a tranquil setting to unwind.
Embrace the Charm of Browne’s Addition
Browne’s Addition in Spokane, Washington, offers a unique blend of historical charm, cultural attractions, culinary delights, and outdoor recreation.
From attending concerts at Lucky You Lounge or the Martin Woldson Theater AT THE FOX to enjoying the Farmers Market and exploring the Northwest Museum of Arts and Culture, there’s always something exciting happening in Browne’s Addition. And when it comes to satisfying your taste buds, the neighborhood’s restaurants and eateries like Lucky You, El Que, Italia Trattoria, and Frank’s Diner offer a range of delectable options to choose from. The old dormitory building at the edge of Browne’s hosts one of our favorite bakeries, Rind and Wheat (Don’t miss picking up a Croncha if they are in stock), as well as a local favorite, Ladder Coffee.
For those seeking retail therapy or a quiet afternoon of browsing, Fern Plant Shop, Auntie’s Bookstore, Total Trash Records and Roses & Thread Boutique provide unique shopping experiences.
Additionally, Browne’s Addition takes pride in its parks and trails, such as Riverfront Park, Numerica Skate Ribbon, Coeur d’Alene Park, and Glover Field Park. These outdoor spaces offer opportunities for recreation, relaxation, and family-friendly activities.
Whether you’re looking for a place to call home or planning a visit to Spokane, Browne’s Addition is a neighborhood that will enchant you with its historical character and community spirit. Discover the magic of Browne’s Addition and experience why it is considered one of Spokane’s best neighborhoods.
