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Shopping, hotels, and places to get out around the city this April By Like Media Team April brings longer days and more activity around Spokane, making it a good month to explore the city. Shops, hotels, and entertainment venues across the downtown core stay busy as spring settles in. Shop Downtown Spokane still anchors the city’s retail scene, with a mix of national stores, independent shops, and long-running local favorites. River Park Square 808 W. Main Ave. Spokane’s central shopping hub with more than 50 retailers, dining options, and a movie theater, all steps from Riverfront Park. Auntie’s Bookstore 402 W. Main Ave. An independent bookstore serving Spokane since 1978, known for its strong regional selection and frequent author events. The General Store 2424 N. Division St. A Spokane staple housed in a historic warehouse, offering outdoor gear, clothing, gifts, home goods, and seasonal merchandise. Stay Several of Spokane’s best hotels sit within a few blocks of Riverfront Park, making downtown an easy base for exploring the city. The Davenport Hotel 303 West North River Drive Opened in 1914, this landmark property remains Spokane’s flagship historic hotel with restored architecture, dining, and a central downtown location. Hotel Indigo Spokane Downtown 110 S. Madison St. A boutique hotel set inside a restored historic building with modern rooms and easy walkable access to Spokane’s downtown core. The Centennial Hotel Spokane 303 W. North River Dr. A riverfront hotel along the Spokane River and Centennial Trail offering direct access to Riverfront Park and downtown. Play From major sporting venues to live entertainment and scenic viewpoints, Spokane offers plenty to do once the day’s shopping is done. The Podium Powered by STCU 511 West Joe Albi Way A modern indoor track and field facility that hosts regional and national competitions along Spokane’s north bank district. Spokane Comedy Club 315 W. Sprague Ave. A downtown venue bringing nationally touring comedians to Spokane with regular shows throughout the year. Arbor Crest Wine Cellars 4705 N. Fruit Hill Rd. A historic estate winery overlooking Spokane Valley known for tastings, seasonal live music, and sweeping views of the surrounding hills.

Grounded tones are bringing depth back to residential design By Like Media Team After years dominated by restrained palettes, color is making a clear return in residential design. Rather than covering entire homes in bold tones, today’s approach introduces color with intention. Cabinetry, millwork, and architectural details are becoming the places where color appears, creating depth and contrast while keeping the rest of the home balanced. Designers are also leaning into tones that connect naturally with materials already used in modern homes, such as wood, stone, plaster, and metal finishes. The result is a color that integrates easily into the overall design instead of competing with it. Trending Colors in Today’s Homes The most popular tones appearing right now are grounded and natural rather than bright or overly saturated. These colors work well with both traditional and contemporary interiors, allowing them to transition easily across kitchens, living spaces, and built-in cabinetry. Among the shades gaining the most attention are: • Olive green and muted sage • Clay and terracotta tones • Deep navy and ink blue • Warm browns and tobacco hues • Dusty rose and soft mineral blues These tones often appear against neutral walls, natural wood flooring, and stone surfaces, creating contrast while maintaining a cohesive palette throughout the home. Cabinetry Leads the Color Movement Kitchens remain one of the most visible places homeowners are introducing color. Painted islands have become a common design choice, especially in deeper tones like navy, green, or warm clay. Full cabinet sets in darker colors are also appearing in modern kitchens, often paired with lighter countertops and backsplashes. Beyond the kitchen, color is beginning to show up in other functional spaces. Bathroom vanities, pantry cabinetry, laundry rooms, and built-in storage walls are increasingly finished in color rather than standard white or gray. These elements provide opportunities to add visual interest without altering the home's entire design. Small Spaces, Strong Color Compact areas of the home have become ideal places to experiment with color. Because these spaces are smaller, they allow homeowners to introduce stronger tones without overwhelming surrounding rooms. Powder rooms, mudrooms, entry alcoves, and built-in reading corners are common places where deeper paint colors or patterned materials are being used. A painted wall behind a bench, a bold vanity, or colored shelving can transform a small space into a design feature within the home. This approach allows color to be introduced thoughtfully while maintaining continuity throughout the rest of the house. DIY Updates vs Professional Finishes Paint remains one of the most accessible ways to introduce color into a home, which is why many homeowners start with smaller updates. Interior doors, accent walls, shelving, and furniture pieces are often projects that can be completed over a weekend. Larger applications tend to benefit from professional work, particularly when the finish needs to remain durable in high-use areas. Cabinet refinishing, limewash wall treatments, specialty plaster, and large millwork surfaces typically require experienced painters or finish specialists to ensure smooth coverage and long-term performance. Color Beyond Paint Another trend shaping the return of color is the use of materials that naturally introduce tone and texture. Designers are incorporating colored surfaces through tile, stone, plaster, and stained wood rather than relying entirely on painted walls. Examples include zellige tile backsplashes, tinted concrete surfaces, colored plaster walls, and natural stone with strong veining or mineral color. These materials provide variation within the design while maintaining a refined architectural look. Color is no longer treated as a temporary accent. Instead, it is being integrated into the home's structure through cabinetry, finishes, and materials that contribute to the overall design. The result is a living space with greater depth, stronger visual interest, and a palette that reflects both modern design and natural influence.

Spokane springs forward with Unveil the Trail, the Spokane River Centennial Trail’s annual Earth Day cleanup By Taylor Shillam  Photos provided by the Spokane Centennial Trail Each spring, as Spokane shakes off the last signs of winter, a celebrated local tradition brings hundreds of community members together to care for one of the region’s most treasured outdoor spaces. Unveil the Trail, the annual cleanup event along the Spokane River Centennial Trail, has become a cornerstone of the area’s Earth Day celebrations, inviting volunteers from across the community to roll up their sleeves and help prepare the 40-mile pathway for another busy year. Organized by Friends of the Centennial Trail, Unveil the Trail is more than a cleanup day. It’s a community-wide effort that highlights the pride locals take in maintaining a trail that connects neighborhoods, parks, and scenic river stretches throughout the region. According to Executive Director Jen Westra, the event has been part of the trail’s story from the very beginning. “Unveil the Trail is as old as the Centennial Trail itself,” Westra explains. “It’s all about giving the trail a ‘glow up’ after winter and getting it ready for a busy new year of use.” While organizations like Washington State Parks, along with regional partners such as local cities and counties, maintain the trail year-round, the annual community cleanup gives locals the chance to contribute directly. Volunteers help pick up litter, pull weeds, remove debris, and refresh sections of the trail so it’s safe and beautiful for the millions of people who walk, run, cycle, and skate along it each year. Over time, Unveil the Trail has grown into a major volunteer event, regularly drawing 300 to 400 participants. Many come through the trail’s Adopt-a-Mile program, where businesses and organizations take responsibility for maintaining specific sections of the pathway. For many teams, the event doubles as a chance to build connections while giving back. Some groups arrive wearing matching shirts, while others plan a meal or gathering before or after the cleanup. Families often join in, turning the day into a shared community experience. “It’s a great opportunity for employee engagement and team building,” Westra says. “But it’s also a really fun way to meet other people who care about protecting our outdoor spaces.” The impact of Unveil the Trail goes beyond a cleaner trail. Westra says that volunteering often becomes a gateway to deeper environmental stewardship. When people experience firsthand how simple it can be to make a difference, they’re often inspired to get involved in other conservation efforts, from forest health restoration to park maintenance to wildfire risk mitigation. “Volunteering really does help connect people to our community, river, and landscape,” she says. “People see there’s a need for their involvement, that they can make a real difference, and they want to be part of it.” That sense of connection is especially meaningful along the Centennial Trail, which offers a rare experience: a fully paved route that follows the Spokane River from natural parklands through vibrant city centers, even stretching across state lines. For those who want to help care for the trail year-round, opportunities extend far beyond Earth Day. Volunteers can assist with graffiti removal, sign maintenance, and other improvement projects throughout the year. For many locals, Unveil the Trail remains the perfect starting point: a day when neighbors, families, coworkers, and outdoor enthusiasts come together to celebrate and protect a regional treasure that belongs to everyone. Those interested in advocating for the trail or finding ways to partner with Friends of the Trail are encouraged to explore the website at SpokaneCentennialTrail.org  or reach out to Jen Westra at Friends@SpokaneCentennialTrail.org .

How GLP-1 medications and physician-guided programs are reshaping sustainable weight management and metabolic health By Like Media Team For decades, weight loss advice followed a predictable formula: eat less, move more, repeat. While lifestyle habits still matter, advances in medical research have clarified that weight regulation is far more complex than simple calorie math would suggest. Hormones, metabolic signaling, insulin response, and appetite regulation all play critical roles. Today, a new category of medications known as GLP-1 receptor agonists is reshaping how physicians approach long-term weight management. GLP-1 stands for glucagon-like peptide-1, a hormone naturally produced in the gut. After eating, it signals the brain that the body is full, slows stomach emptying, and helps regulate blood sugar levels. Researchers studying diabetes treatments discovered that medications mimicking this hormone could significantly improve glucose control. What became clear during clinical trials was that these medications also produced meaningful and sustained weight loss. That discovery changed the trajectory of obesity medicine. Medications such as semaglutide and tirzepatide work by enhancing the body’s natural appetite-regulation pathways. Instead of relying solely on willpower or restrictive dieting, patients experience a measurable reduction in hunger signals and food cravings. The result is a lower overall caloric intake without the constant psychological battle many people associate with traditional dieting. Clinical trials have demonstrated weight reductions that were previously difficult to achieve without surgical intervention. In many studies, patients lost 15 percent or more of their body weight over a year when medication was combined with lifestyle support. For individuals with obesity or metabolic conditions such as insulin resistance, the health implications can be significant. Physicians are also observing improvements beyond weight alone. Patients frequently show improved blood sugar control, reduced blood pressure, improved cholesterol markers, and decreased risk factors for cardiovascular disease. These outcomes reinforce a growing consensus within medical communities: obesity is a metabolic condition that requires medical management, not simply behavioral correction. That shift in perspective has opened the door to more structured, physician-guided programs. Responsible medical weight-loss programs do not rely solely on medication. They typically combine GLP-1 therapy with clinical oversight, nutritional guidance, metabolic monitoring, and long-term behavioral strategies. The goal is not rapid weight reduction, but sustained metabolic improvement that patients can maintain over time. Physician supervision plays an important role in this process. GLP-1 medications require careful dosing, monitoring for side effects, and adjustment based on individual metabolic response. Medical providers evaluate factors such as body composition, hormone balance, insulin sensitivity, and overall health history before determining whether these medications are appropriate. Equally important is the transition phase. Weight loss medications can help reset appetite signaling, but long-term success depends on stabilizing lifestyle habits that support metabolic health. Structured programs often focus on protein intake, resistance training, sleep quality, and blood sugar regulation to help preserve lean muscle while reducing body fat. This medical framework marks a significant departure from past approaches that framed weight loss primarily as a matter of discipline. Emerging research continues to demonstrate that biology heavily influences appetite, energy balance, and fat storage. By targeting those biological mechanisms directly, GLP-1 therapies are providing physicians with tools that did not exist a decade ago. At the same time, experts emphasize that these medications are not a universal solution. They are intended for patients who meet specific clinical criteria, including individuals with obesity or those whose weight contributes to serious metabolic health risks. Careful screening and medical supervision remain essential to ensure safe and effective outcomes. What is clear, however, is that the conversation around weight management has shifted. Rather than focusing solely on short-term dieting strategies, modern medicine is approaching weight through the lens of metabolic science. Hormones, gut signaling, insulin response, and neurological appetite pathways are now central to the discussion. As physician-guided programs continue to evolve, the goal is becoming clearer: sustainable weight management built on medical insight, long-term monitoring, and evidence-based treatment.

Creamy arborio rice brightened with fresh lemon and finished with tender asparagus, sweet peas, and Parmesan for a fresh, comforting spring dish. Servings: 4 Prep Time: 10 minutes Cook Time: 30 minutes Rest Time: 5 minutes Total Time: 45 minutes Ingredients • 1 tablespoon olive oil • 2 tablespoons butter • 1 small shallot, finely diced • 2 cloves garlic, minced • 1 cup arborio rice • 1/2 cup dry white wine • 4 cups warm vegetable broth • 1 cup asparagus, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces • 3/4 cup fresh or frozen peas • Zest of 1 lemon • Juice of 1 lemon • 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley • Optional: extra Parmesan and lemon zest for garnish Instructions Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the shallot and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the arborio rice and stir for 1 to 2 minutes until lightly toasted and coated with the oil and butter. Pour in the white wine and cook, stirring frequently, until the wine is mostly absorbed. Add warm vegetable broth one ladle at a time, stirring frequently and allowing the liquid to absorb before adding more. Continue this process for about 18 to 20 minutes until the rice is creamy and tender but still slightly firm in the center. During the last 5 minutes of cooking, stir in the asparagus and peas so they cook gently while the risotto finishes. Remove the pan from the heat and stir in the remaining tablespoon of butter, lemon zest, lemon juice, and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the risotto rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with parsley, extra Parmesan, and a touch of lemon zest if desired. Notes • For a deeper flavor, substitute half of the vegetable broth with chicken broth. • Stirring frequently helps release the rice’s starch, creating the classic creamy texture of risotto. • If the risotto thickens too much before serving, stir in a splash of warm broth to loosen it.

A look at one of Spokane’s most iconic parks as spring planting begins and Duncan Garden prepares for the season ahead By Like Media Team As Spokane moves out of winter, Manito Park is one of the first places where the transition to spring becomes visible. Located on Spokane’s South Hill, the 90-acre park has been part of the city since 1904 and remains one of Spokane’s most visited public spaces. April marks the start of the seasonal reset, when city gardeners begin preparing beds, planting early flowers, and getting the park ready for the months ahead. At the center of the park sits Duncan Garden, a three-acre formal garden designed in 1913 by park superintendent John Duncan. Inspired by European Renaissance gardens, the space is arranged with symmetrical walkways, trimmed hedges, and a long reflecting pool anchored by a granite fountain. Throughout the growing season, more than 30,000 plants fill the geometric beds, rotated several times a year as displays change with the seasons. While the most dramatic flower displays arrive later in spring, April offers a quieter look at the garden as planting begins and the landscape shifts toward early growth. Points of interest inside Manito Park: • Duncan Garden spans about three acres and is one of the most photographed garden spaces in Spokane. • Manito Park covers roughly 90 acres and includes several themed gardens connected by walking paths. • The Gaiser Conservatory, built in 1912, houses tropical plants and seasonal displays inside a historic glass greenhouse. • Rose Hill features more than 1,500 rose bushes representing over 150 varieties that bloom later in the season. • The park was originally developed as a trolley park in the early 1900s, encouraging residents to ride Spokane’s electric streetcars to the South Hill. Whether visiting for a short walk or exploring the gardens and open lawns, Manito Park remains one of Spokane’s most recognizable outdoor spaces as the city begins settling into spring.

April 11-12 The national tour of TINA – The Tina Turner Musical arrives at the First Interstate Center for the Arts in Spokane April 11–12, bringing the inspiring story of one of music’s most legendary performers to the stage. The production traces Tina Turner’s rise from humble beginnings in Tennessee to global superstardom, highlighting the determination and resilience that shaped her career. Featuring many of Turner’s iconic hits, the high-energy Broadway show celebrates the voice, spirit, and legacy of the Queen of Rock ’n’ Roll. More at BroadwaySpokane.com .

April 4 Riverfront Park’s annual Easter Egg Hunt invites families to gather at Clocktower Meadow for a festive morning of springtime fun in downtown Spokane. Children search for thousands of colorful eggs spread across the lawn, with hunts organized by age groups so younger participants can enjoy the experience alongside older kids in their own rounds. The free community event offers a lively atmosphere where families can celebrate the season, take photos, and enjoy time together in one of Spokane’s most recognizable parks. More at My.SpokaneCity.org .

April 3-5 Opening weekend for the Spokane Indians kicks off the baseball season April 3–5 at Avista Stadium, where the team opens its home schedule against the Everett AquaSox. Fans can enjoy America’s pastime in a lively ballpark atmosphere known for family-friendly entertainment, themed promotions, and classic ballpark favorites. The opening series also features fireworks on Friday and Saturday nights, helping launch another season of Northwest League baseball and community tradition in Spokane. More at VisitSpokane.com .

April 18 An evening of celebration, confidence, and community returns as The Arc of Spokane hosts the 10th annual Rock The Runway on April 18 at the Spokane Convention Center. This milestone event marks a decade of highlighting inclusion while raising vital funds that support programs for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities throughout the region. Rock The Runway is the signature fundraiser for The Arc of Spokane, with every ticket purchased helping advance programs that promote independence, choice, and full participation in community life. The event centers on a one-of-a-kind fashion show in which individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities take the stage and shine on the runway. Guests can expect an uplifting evening that brings together supporters, families, and community members to celebrate the confidence and joy of the event’s runway models. The program also includes live and silent auctions, adding to the excitement while helping generate additional support for The Arc’s mission. The evening will be emceed by Spokane journalist and KHQ news anchor Kalae Chock, who will guide the program as the community gathers to celebrate this 10-year milestone. For event details, ticket information, and sponsorship opportunities, visit: Arc-Spokane.org/rocktherunway .

Rebuilding vitality, immune strength, and mental clarity as routines shift into early spring By Like Media Team The shift into early spring is subtle but noticeable. Evenings stretch longer. Air moves more freely through open windows. After months of slower winter rhythms, the body begins searching for steadiness and forward motion. Seasonal transition does not require dramatic resets. Small recalibrations in daily habits allow vitality to rebuild gradually. When routines align with increasing light and movement, energy returns steadily and sustainably. Strengthening Immunity After Winter Colder months often involve heavier meals, less sunlight, and more time indoors. As daylight increases, immune resilience benefits from renewed attention. Whole foods rich in vitamin C, zinc, and antioxidants help reinforce internal balance. Citrus, leafy greens, fermented vegetables, and mineral-rich broths contribute to gut health, which plays a central role in immune function. Hydration also deserves focus as activity levels rise. Consistent water intake supports circulation, digestion, and mental clarity. Morning light exposure helps regulate circadian rhythm, influencing both immune response and sustained focus. A short walk or a few minutes outside early in the day can reset internal timing. Sleep remains foundational. Consistent bedtimes, even as evenings grow brighter, protect recovery and maintain stable energy. Internal resilience strengthens further through circulation. Encouraging Lymphatic Flow and Circulation Winter routines often reduce overall movement. Because the lymphatic system relies on muscular contraction to circulate effectively, reduced activity can create a sense of heaviness. Gentle daily movement restores rhythm. Brisk walks, light strength sessions, or yoga flows that incorporate twisting and dynamic transitions stimulate circulation. Dry brushing and alternating warm and cool showers can further support lymphatic movement. Breathwork enhances oxygen delivery and supports natural detox pathways. Five minutes of slow, diaphragmatic breathing in the morning can sharpen clarity while supporting overall vitality. Consistency builds noticeable change over time. Regular movement signals the body to increase stamina and alertness as the season progresses. As circulation improves, external care also shifts. Adjusting Skincare for a New Season Dry winter air often calls for heavier moisturizers and barrier repair. As temperatures fluctuate and humidity gradually increases, skin responds well to lighter formulations. Transitioning from dense creams to breathable hydrators allows skin to rebalance. Ingredients such as hyaluronic acid and ceramides maintain moisture while supporting barrier function. Gentle exfoliation removes buildup from colder months and improves absorption of active ingredients. With more time spent outdoors, daily sunscreen becomes essential. Even mild spring sunlight contributes to long-term skin damage. Consistent use of SPF protects collagen and preserves skin tone. Seasonal adjustments also create an opportunity to simplify. A focused routine built around a few effective products often supports healthier skin more reliably than layered regimens. Physical renewal supports mental clarity. Reawakening Through Movement and Focus Energy builds through motion. A modest change in environment can refresh motivation. Outdoor walks, trail runs, or bodyweight sessions in fresh air stimulate metabolism and elevate mood. Mobility work restores flexibility in the hips, shoulders, and spine, which often tighten during colder months. Short daily mobility sequences improve posture and create a sense of physical lightness. Mental clarity responds to a similar structure. Clearing work surfaces, refreshing living spaces, and establishing brief planning rituals convert seasonal momentum into practical direction. Balanced meals with adequate protein and healthy fats stabilize blood sugar and sustain concentration throughout the day. A simple seasonal reset might include: Morning light exposure Daily intentional movement Simplified skincare Consistent sleep routines These habits build cumulative strength. Early spring invites steady alignment. As routines adjust to longer days and rising activity, resilience and clarity follow naturally into the months ahead.

Local favorites across the city in 2026By Like Media TeamMarch is a strong time to explore Spokane. Longer daylight hours and steady event calendars make it easy to plan a weekend around downtown energy, neighborhood shopping, and open-air spaces. Here is your guide to where to shop, stay, and play this month. Shop Spokane’s retail scene blends independent boutiques, locally made goods, and coffee culture. Vintage Habits 1926 E. Sprague Ave., Suite AA curated vintage boutique offering retro clothing and accessories for shoppers seeking distinctive pieces. From Here 808 W. Main Ave., Suite 251A collective featuring jewelry, candles, and Spokane-themed goods created by regional artists. Ideal for locally sourced gifts. Atticus Coffee & Gifts 222 N. Howard St.A bookstore, gift shop, and coffee bar in one. Suitable for a relaxed stop with browsing built in. Stay Whether you prefer modern comfort or riverfront access, Spokane offers practical and upscale lodging options. The Davenport Grand Hotel 333 W. Spokane Falls Blvd.Contemporary design, walkable access to downtown, and proximity to Riverfront Park make this a strong central base. Ruby River Hotel 700 N. Division St.Riverfront setting with direct access to trails and parks. Suitable for visitors who want quieter surroundings while remaining close to downtown. For dining, visit Two Seven Public House  (2727 S. Mt. Vernon St., Suite 5) for American fare with a full bar, including draft beer and cocktails.  Play March in Spokane offers accessible outdoor spaces and scenic walking routes. Manito Park 1702 S. Grand Blvd.Nearly 90 acres of gardens, walking paths, and the Gaiser Conservatory. Turnbull National Wildlife Refuge Located about 40 minutes south of Spokane.Wetlands, forests, and open habitats support wildlife viewing and photography. Riverfront Park In the heart of downtown, Riverfront Park features walking paths, public art, and views of Spokane Falls, making it a consistent choice for visitors and locals alike. Spokane delivers a balanced mix of shopping, dining, and open-air recreation, all within easy reach in March.

March 6-8 Custer’s 49th Annual Spring Arts & Crafts Show returns to the Spokane County Fair & Expo Center in Spokane, bringing together hundreds of professional artists and craftspeople from across the Northwest. Shoppers can browse a wide range of handcrafted goods, including home décor, specialty foods, jewelry, woodwork, clothing, and seasonal gifts, all under one roof. The three-day event runs March 6–8 and offers convenient daytime hours, along with the opportunity to meet makers directly and discover unique, high-quality products. More at CusterShows.com .

Exterior design, construction timing, and the rise of functional outdoor rooms By Like Media Team Exterior space has become part of the floor plan. What was once treated as an open yard or secondary patio is now planned, financed, and constructed with the same intention as interior living areas. The shift has moved beyond trend and into standard practice. March marks the point when exterior projects move from inspiration to contract. Measurements are finalized. Budgets are allocated. Contractor schedules begin to lock in. Structural decisions are made before peak demand compresses timelines. The design evolution is visible in the architecture itself. Open patios are being replaced with defined outdoor rooms. Rooflines extend to create continuity between interior and exterior space. Pergolas establish framework and proportion. Partial enclosures introduce separation without eliminating airflow. Built-in seating replaces temporary arrangements. Lighting is integrated into beams, stair risers, and pathways during construction rather than added after completion. The result is cohesive rather than improvised. Layout strategy has advanced as well. Exterior areas are divided into functional zones for cooking, dining, and gathering. Circulation paths are mapped with the same care given to interior hallways. Sightlines are considered. Shade coverage is calculated. Electrical access is planned before finishes are selected. These decisions reflect a broader architectural mindset: outdoor space is being treated as livable square footage. Construction timing remains critical. Composite decking installations, concrete pours, irrigation upgrades, and turf conversions require coordination and lead time. Early scheduling allows for material comparison and design refinement. Delayed decisions often narrow options and increase cost. March provides space for deliberate planning before contractor calendars tighten. Material selection reinforces the long-term approach. Composite decking has become a popular choice due to its durability and low maintenance. Artificial turf continues gaining traction for its consistent appearance and lower water demand. Automated irrigation systems and low-voltage lighting are installed during initial construction to avoid later retrofits. Durability and efficiency now guide exterior investment. Permanent outdoor kitchens further signal the shift. Built-in grills, storage cabinetry, prep surfaces, and dedicated utility connections replace portable setups. Expanded hardscape reduces seasonal wear and stabilizes furniture placement. Even smaller yards are redesigned for improved function, with layout often carrying more influence than overall size. Assessment is part of the capital strategy. Hardscape areas are power-washed to reveal cracks or settling. Deck framing is evaluated for structural integrity before additional weight is added. Drainage patterns are reviewed to prevent future water issues. Addressing these elements early protects the overall investment. Exterior upgrades increasingly influence property perception. Listing photography highlights defined outdoor rooms. Buyers evaluate usable exterior space alongside interior square footage. Appraisal conversations reflect the added function of covered structures and integrated systems. By the end of March, many projects are no longer conceptual. Materials are selected. Contracts are signed. Install timelines are secured. What once served as an open yard is redefined through structure and intention. Exterior square footage is no longer decorative. It is designed, budgeted, and built as part of the home itself.

Overlooks, river trails, and open paths for March miles By Like Media Team March opens access to overlooks, river corridors, garden paths, and miles of paved trail. It is a practical time to reset routines and spend time outdoors on foot or on two wheels. Scenic Overlooks & Open Views • High Drive Bluff Park • Mount Spokane State Park • Huntington Park Bluffside Perspective High Drive Bluff Park A network of gravel bluff trails overlooking Latah Valley. The elevation provides broad views and steady terrain for walking and trail running. Ridge & Forest Access Mount Spokane State Park Washington’s largest state park by area, offering forested trails, scenic drives, and expansive viewpoints as conditions allow at lower elevations. Along the River Huntington Park Located near Lower Spokane Falls, Huntington Park features landscaped overlooks and short paved paths with direct views of the river. Bike & Running Routes • Centennial Trail • Fish Lake Trail • Children of the Sun Trail • Riverfront Park Loop River Miles Centennial Trail Stretching 37 miles through Spokane County, this paved multi-use trail follows the Spokane River and connects parks, bridges, and neighborhoods. West Plains Route Fish Lake Trail A paved 9-mile trail beginning near Government Way and extending toward Cheney, popular for cycling and distance running. North Spokane Corridor Path Children of the Sun Trail A paved trail running along U.S. 395 in north Spokane, offering a long, uninterrupted route for cyclists and runners. Downtown Loop Riverfront Park Paved pathways circle Spokane Falls and connect directly to the Centennial Trail for shorter urban mileage. Garden Walks • Manito Park • Gaiser Conservatory Formal Grounds Manito Park Includes Duncan Garden, wooded walking paths, and open lawns suitable for steady walking routes. Indoor Green Space Gaiser Conservatory Located within Manito Park, this greenhouse features tropical and seasonal plant displays year-round. Overlooks, working studios, paved miles, and open gardens. March favors movement.