Rollin 253 is a skate and community center located on the University Place-Fircrest border.
The indoor rink - which reopened under a new name and management in February 2012 - offers programs for roller skaters of all abilities.
Customers can also reserve spaces for parties and special events.
Dude! Grab your deck and skate on down to Puyallup's newest, coolest skate-shop! All-A-Board Skate Shop on River Road may not be much to look at from the outside, but the bargains inside are definitely worth checking out. It has great deals on skate shoes, and their decks, trucks, wheels, bearings and other accessories are priced pretty competitively, too. All-A-Board Skate Shop is the perfect place to gear-up for some sessions at the Puyallup Skate-Park located just down the road.
Lynnwood Bowl and Skate is an entertainment complex offering bowling, skating, and a bar and lounge. Open bowling is available every day. Weekly specials include family bowling, ladies' night and extreme bowling. The skate rink operates on its own schedule and offers adult, teen, open skate and skate class options. Dining is available at the facility: finger foods, salads, soups, burgers, sandwiches and pizza. Private parties are offered for adults, kids and corporate events.
Ask any Spokanite what to see in their city, and Riverfront Park will likely be at the top of their list. It's one of many sites in this town with the word "River" in its name, but you'll know you're in the right place because of the SkyRide Over the Falls, IMAX theater, Looff Carousel, clock tower, giant red wagon play area, and of course, the garbage-eating goat. On top of the attractions (many originally from the Expo '74 World's Fair event), there are gorgeous views of the Spokane River and Spokane Falls from throughout the park, as well as a number of pieces of local art on display year-round.
How to get to Riverfront Park
If you're staying downtown, you can easily get here on foot by heading north toward the Spokane River. For those coming from outside the city, you can cycle on the scenic Centennial Trail if you're feeling active (it runs straight through the park from both directions). Or, if driving's your preference, there's plenty of parking available in lots and on many bordering streets.
Best and worst time go to Riverfront Park
Like most parks, it's better to go during the day than at night. If you're someone who doesn't like crowds, you'll want to plan around holidays and Spokane's major events like Hoopfest and Bloomsday. Spring and summer offer more attractions, including rides, outdoor dining, and a splash pad. In the late fall and winter there are ice skating and holiday lights on display, so there is never a bad time to go. Just make sure to bundle up, Spokane winters can be frigid.
Admission to Riverfront Park
The park itself is free, but keep in mind some of the best attractions, like the SkyRide, IMAX, carousel, and the ice rink, have separate charges.
Must see/do at Riverfront Park
Be sure to check out Spokane Falls. The SkyRide offers fantastic views when it's running but it does keep limited hours, so don't worry if you miss it; there are plenty of other great vantage points from around the park. You won't want to miss the garbage-eating goat either, especially if you have kids with you. A Spokane original, it's a one of a kind novelty that's part vacuum-cleaner, part work of art.
Other places to visit near Riverfront Park
Nearby River Park Square mall is prime shopping, with the best collection of national retailers in the area, and favorite local restaurants like Rock City Grill and Twigs Bistro and Martini Bar. A few blocks away from that is Auntie's Bookstore, a huge independent bookstore definitely worth a visit. On the south side of the river, consider checking out the Flour Mill, an older building with an eclectic handful of businesses, including the Chocolate Apothecary and Clinkerdagger restaurant.
Insider tip
Spokanites are passionate about the outdoors, and this park caters to that love. Since it's walking distance from downtown, locals are often here for runs, walks, or for downtime during lunch breaks. For a true Spokane experience, pick up lunch or coffee from a nearby cafe and secure a secluded bench to enjoy views of the river. You'll get a taste of the city's slogan, "Near nature, near perfect" without technically leaving downtown.
Author's bio: Dena Ogden is a freelance writer who can be found online at denaogden.com and @DenaOgden.
