Diversity Rules Magazine

3 Diversity Rules Magazine July 2019 Joey Amato is the publisher of Pride Journeys, the premier source for LGBT travel. Joey publishes des na on reviews in addi on to lifestyle content that is both insigh ul and engaging to LGBT readers. Joey has spent the majority of his career dedicated to the LGBT community, having contrib- uted to numerous publica ons around North America. In ad- di on, he owns Agency33 Public Rela ons, a full-service firm spe- cializing in LGBT outreach. The Pacific Northwest is and has al- ways been one of my favorite places in the country to visit. Natural beau- ty is around every corner and Spo- kane is no different. The city, histori- cally overshadowed by Sea le, is going through a bit of a renaissance as of late and crea ng a vibe and culture that sets itself apart from its larger neighbor to the west. Begin your tour of Spokane by walk- ing around downtown. Visit Riverfront Park, take a ride on the SkyRide (over the Spokane River) and jump on the Looff Carousel. Yes, I was probably the oldest person riding the carousel, but when in Rome... An interes ng note: Walt Disney tried to purchase the carousel for his Anaheim property but was out- bid. Downtown Spokane is an Instagrammers paradise. A giant red wagon, garbage ea ng goat, running statues and of course the waterfalls, make downtown the perfect spot for va- ca on photos. The first stop in my downtown tour of the city was Maryhill Winery, a beau ful win- ery overlooking the river and the perfect place for a tas ng of some local wines. Washington state is known for having some of the best wines in the country and Maryhill didn't disappoint. Out of eight wines offered during the tas ng, I think I enjoyed all but one. I was also in- formed that visitors who travel on Alaska Airlines get to check wine for free in the airline's Wine Flies Free program. Spend your evenings at the Davenport Grand, a 4-star property located in the heart of the city, which provides easy access to all of Spokane's main a rac ons and dining. Their penthouse suites fea- ture king size beds with luxury linens, a cozy sea ng area with electric fireplace and magnificent views of the city. The Grand Terrace Bar is the perfect place to enjoy some happy hour cocktails before heading out on the town. Grab dinner at Wild Sage Bistro, a wonderful restau- rant in the heart of downtown. Being so close to the Pacific, fish should be your top choice. I opted for the Hawaiian Style Poke and Alaskan Halibut, which came pan seared with basil bu er, Walla Walla sweet onion soubise, dressed peas and pickled rhu- barb. Wild Sage is a favorite among residents of the 'Lilac City' and I was able to see why. LGBTQ nightlife is vibrant in Spokane. To catch a glimpse of the local crowd, head to the Blind Buck, one of Spokane's ho est gay bars. I got a chance to Spokane - Con't on page 7 Pride Journeys Spokane, WA By Joey Amato Photo Credit: James Richman

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