Those traveling to the NASFAA Conference in Seattle by car, RV, SUV, or even by train with a return destination east of Washington, may want to consider stopping in Spokane. Spokane is the largest city in the other half of Washington and is known for its warmth and charm.
Also known as "the heart of the Inland Empire," Spokane is located where the Spokane River descends from the Rocky Mountains into the Columbia Plateau. It is an easy 280 mile drive east of Seattle on I-90. Spokane is the second largest city in the state with nearly 200,000 inhabitants within the city, and roughly 625,000 people residing in the greater metropolitan area.
First inhabited by the Spokanes tribe, the city was developed in 1873 by James N. Glover, the "father" of Spokane. In 1879, nearly the entire city burned to the ground, but from the ashes arose many of the brick and mortar buildings still standing in the downtown area. Where the Native Americans once fished along the Spokane River now sits Riverfront Park, site of the 1974 World's Fair.
The name Spokane means "Children of the Sun," which is exactly what you'll find here. There are many opportunities for outdoor activities including golf, water-skiing, rock-climbing and camping. The city boasts many beautiful parks and recreational areas along the Spokane River and in the nearby mountains.
Spokane has a rich cultural community as well. The Spokane Symphony Orchestra recently celebrated their 50th year of performances, and the Spokane Jazz Orchestra is the oldest performing jazz orchestra in the U. S. Many Broadway hits find their way to the beautiful Spokane Opera House, which also plays host to regular season concerts and international dance companies. The Spokane Arena hosts concerts by well-known country music, contemporary and other types of musical artists. There are also many sporting events held in the arena including the 2007 U.S. Figure Skating Championships.
The city of Spokane is also an educational mecca. Two four-year, independent colleges call Spokane home. Gonzaga University, founded in 1887 by Jesuits, has about 5,400 students, and is located just north of the Spokane River. Whitworth College sits on Spokane's picturesque North Side, has a student population of 2,400, and offers both bachelor's and master's degrees in a variety of academic disciplines. There are also two community colleges, Spokane Falls Community College and Spokane Community College, as well as centers for the area's two public universities, Eastern Washington and Washington State.
The city and surrounding areas boast a wide variety of restaurants and hotels in which to dine and stay. The beautifully restored, historic Davenport Hotel sits in the vibrant downtown district, and is a short walk to shopping and dining.
"Everything was very elegant and romantic. The main entry area is very classy and ornate with beautiful flower arrangements and artwork. It is a bit pricey but, for a romantic evening in Spokane, it was worth it," said one recent guest.
By the NASFAA 2006 National Conference Host Committee
Posted June 15, 2006 on www.NASFAA.org, the Web Site of the
National Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators (NASFAA).
Copyright 2006. Redistribution to non-NASFAA institutions is prohibited
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