Spokane Business & Industrial Park Spokane, WA

While the city of Spokane Valley started to see growth in the late 1700s with fur trappers taking advantage of the economic opportunities on the Spokane River, the city did not become incorporated until 2003. The community originally formed as an affordable alternative to the city of Spokane. Throughout the 1800s, the area saw growth and development with lumber, mining and agriculture as the major industries. Following the Great Depression and World War II, multiple factories were constructed and provided employment for many, growing the population. From the 1950s to present, the area has experienced consistent and substantial development. The Spokane Valley Heritage Museum thoughtfully documents more than 300 years of history. Every September, Valleyfest showcases the recreational opportunities available in the area and fosters a strong sense of community. The event includes educational programming, live entertainment and a triathlon. A fund raising auction in April helps fund the event.

Sometimes a simple sandwich provides the perfect fuel for a busy day of work or errands. At Shamus's Sandwich Shoppe, staff use high-quality and simple ingredients to create crave-worthy sandwiches. The King of Clubs, a favorite of regulars, layers thinly cut ham and turkey with crispy pieces of bacon and a generous portion of sauerkraut. Flamin' Joe's serves up wings with more than 40 different flavor options. From Huckleberry BBQ sauce to Alpine Touch rub, the options and combinations can satisfy just about any appetite. In addition to wings, Flamin' Joe's serves flatbread pizza, ribs, wraps, and burgers. For karaoke, beers, and a night out, the Iron Horse Bar and Grill will always deliver. With pub food, pool tables, and plenty of televisions, the neighborhood favorite serves up strong drinks and tasty eats. The selection of grilled steak dinners provides a substantial base if you order an original derailer cocktail or two.

Due to the spread out geography and steep hills, most residents drive around the neighborhood when running errands or heading into work. Once the city defrosts and Spring has sprung, it is quite common to see people biking around the area as a form of transportation and for fitness. The number of bike lanes is limited. Evening walks for post-dinner ice cream will help you cool down after a hot summer day. If you don't feel like driving or the car needs repairs, Spokane Transit has multiple bus routes that serve the entire area and run daily. Hailing a cab can be challenging, so if you need to head to the airport or be somewhere at a specific time, call ahead. Uber also serves Spokane Valley. Those who do drive rarely have issues finding free street parking. The heart of Spokane Valley centers off Dishman Mica Road. This busy, multilane road leads directly to I-90, which heads directly into the city. If you really want to get out of town, I-90 runs from Seattle, Washington, all the way to Boston, Massachusetts.

One of the most unique and desirable traits the area has may be the close proximity to nature and wilderness. The Dishman Hills Conservancy, located in the heart of Spokane Valley, highlights the ecology and engages visitors to truly experience nature and consider their role in urban development and conservation. The volunteer-run and free park has trails, wildlife and wetlands. For soccer games, picnics and play dates, Browns Park has a spacious layout with play equipment, a baseball field and a large pavilion. Perfect for birthday parties, a family day out or a playful mini-tournament, the park has something for everyone. Dogs are welcome, though a fenced, off-leash area does not exist. Every October, the Spokane Valley Parks and Recreation Department hosts a Haunted Pool event at the Valley Mission Pool. The no-swim event promises a ghoulishly good time for those 12 years of age and older.

The Spokane Valley community includes young professionals, families and retirees looking to maximize their budgets while still being close to the city of Spokane. The price tag for living in the valley makes it much easier for the budget conscious to rent apartments. The neighborhood also has plenty of shops and restaurants that allow for competitive pricing. Heading into the city for the day will cost you less than a latte with a day pass priced at $3.50. With an abundance of apartment complexes, a one-bedroom, one-bath apartment costs $656 on average. If you need an after-work drink, Bolo's Bar & Grill sells mugs of beer for $4.50. Gas comes in around 5 percent below the national average.

A major draw for the area, Spokane Valley Mall houses multiple department stores, movie theaters and service-based businesses. Located just off I-90 and Dishman Mica, the large mall has a two-story Macy's, a Nordstrom Rack and a Dick's Sporting Goods among others. At Gretchen's Hair Studio & Treasure Trove, you can get your hair styled while picking up gifts for your best friend. The shop, located in a restored craftsman home, sells jewelry, purses and accessories. Gretchen herself often hosts trunk shows or special parties to allow for an event-based shopping experience. If you are interested in Lord of the Rings, Magic Cards or gaming, The Gamers Haven just may be your version of heaven. The shop has a passionate staff and many regular patrons. Not only can you purchase and trade merchandise but the store also facilitates games and tournaments. Spokane Valley has an impressive selection of grocery store chains that service the area. Fred Meyers, Albertson's, Safeway, Rosauers and Yokes all have at least one location in the neighborhood. This allows for competitive pricing, high-quality product and the ability to find everything you could possibly need. The neighborhood does not have a farmers market.