If you love the renaissance in the Perry District on the lower South Hill, check out the Sprague Union District. Close to everything — the South Hill, Spokane Valley, downtown, Gonzaga University — the District has undergone a big-time makeover and is drawing new businesses and shoppers to its fun-filled streets.
"There are a plethora of new businesses down here," says Carla Klauder, owner of Tickety Boo and Vibe Vintage. "The best part is that we are ALL local!"
Upgrades to the district included streetscape improvements and traffic calming, funded by city of Spokane grants and the District's local businesses. You'll find four restaurants, six vintage shops, two furniture stores, three coffee shops and two grocery stores, all within walking distance and easy to find. Here's more about some of those Sprague Union businesses.
Blue Cat Vintage
1919 E. Sprague
"We are a consignment store and offer a variety of pre-owned furnishings, home decor, collectibles and so much more," says Janet Taylor, who co-owns the shop with her husband Nick; they've been in the Sprague Union District for five years now. "Everyone enjoys shopping in our nostalgic 1931 building — many will listen to the music, sing and dance while shopping. We love it!"
Creative Catch Studio
1804 E. Sprague
"My business is a portrait studio specializing in high school seniors, headshots, photos with Santa and photo booths," says owner Dana Reinke. "We provide an amazing portrait experience, and we've been in Sprague Union District for about 10 years now. This district has so many historic businesses and buildings. It's been through a lot and came out shining bright on the other side."
Northwest Seed & Pet
2422 E. Sprague
A Spokane tradition for nearly 80 years now, where kids have dragged their parents to see the live pets, while mom and dad can select what they need for their gardens to thrive. In 1978, Bob Mauk worked as a clerk in the plant nursery; in 2018, he purchased the business (along with its North Division location). "The highlight of my job," Mauk says, "is the good feeling when you help somebody out and they're appreciative of it."
Tickety Boo / Vibe Vintage
1926 E. Sprague
1801 E. Sprague
At Vibe Vintage, you can't miss the beautiful green-and-black mural gracing the exterior. Inside is a fun mix of clothing, home decor and other surprises. Owner Carla Klauder says her shop specializes in mid-century modern pieces, throwback items and unique and unusual items from local makers. Just a block away is its sister shop, Tickety Boo, featuring what they call "Good Stuff" — "antique, lacy, rusty crusty heaven," says Klauder — from over 40 local artisans.
Two Women Vintage
2012 E. Sprague
facebook.com/twowomenvintagegoods
The mother-and-daughter team of Dianna and Fielding Chelf are the Two Women whose shop features unique, vintage-inspired gifts and home decor perfect for your urban farmhouse. Dianna is an award-winning folk artist, while Fielding is a jewelry designer using vintage and antique found objects. There's so much to browse, you won't be able to leave without bringing a few treasures home with you.
The Tin Roof / Bide & Burgeon
1727 E. Sprague
1730 E. Sprague
The Tin Roof is one of the region's most beloved furniture stores. In 2020, owner Heather Hanley built on that success by opening a second showroom, Bide & Burgeon, which "opened 75 years to the day, in our original location that my grandfather opened Acme Electric. As a third-generation, locally owned company, we strive to provide extraordinary customer service for our clients because they're our friends and neighbors," says Hanley. Stop in at either store for advice from their team of professional interior designers.
The Union Tavern
1914 E. Sprague
All that shopping can make you thirsty! Since 2018, the Union Tavern has been satisfying visitors and locals alike with their cold beers and tasty pub-style menu. Union Tavern is a great place to feel the history of the neighborhood, with a wooden bar salvaged from Montana and the exposed brick in what was once the Palmistry Building. It's also a great place to catch the Seahawks or the Zags.
Spokane, WA
