Spokane's Hidden Gem: Montvale Hotel Review (You Won't Believe This!)
Spokane's Hidden Gem: Montvale Hotel Review (You Won't Believe This!) - Seriously, This Place is Weirdly Awesome!
Alright, buckle up, buttercups, because I'm about to spill the tea (or maybe the locally roasted coffee, which you definitely need to try) on the Montvale Hotel in Spokane. Seriously, this place isn't just a hotel, it's an experience. And let me tell you, it's an experience I went into expecting one thing, and came out… well, a changed woman (or at least, a woman who really, really wants a return visit). Let's jump in, shall we?
First Impressions & Accessibility: A+ for Effort, Room for Improvement
So, pulling up to the Montvale, your first thought might be, "Is this a movie set?" It's got this old-world charm, this kinda stately but slightly faded elegance. Think Grand Budapest Hotel vibes, but with a Pacific Northwest twist. Accessibility, bless their hearts, they're trying. The elevator is a godsend, because let's be real, hauling luggage up stairs after a long drive is nobody's idea of fun. They have facilities for disabled guests, which is fantastic. But sometimes, the older buildings present challenges. I didn't delve into the details of specific room layouts, but if you have specific needs, DEFINITELY call ahead and confirm your requirements can be met. But the fact they're even attempting to be accessible deserves serious kudos.
Rooms: Comfort, Character, and the Occasional Mystery Squeak
My room? Oh, my room. It wasn't just a room; it was a vibe. The blackout curtains - essential for a good night's sleep, especially after a long day of exploring! The bed was ridiculously comfy, with extra-long bed, and fluffy pillows beckoned. And the linens? Crisp, clean, and smelled faintly of… well, let's just say "fresh".
Now, here's where the "character" of the Montvale comes in. I swear, the floorboards in my room had a life of their own. There was a mysterious squeak in the hallway, it added to the charm. It was like the ghost of a past guest was just wandering around. I loved it! And the soundproof rooms added to the fun. The bathroom had a nice tub. The bathroom phone was fun, and I got a kick out of the bathrobes - perfect for lounging around after a long day. Definitely call ahead to see if you want a interconnecting room(s) available if that's your style.
Absolutely Necessary Amenities & Internet Access: They've Got You Connected (and Caffeine-Fueled!)
Okay, important stuff. Free Wi-Fi in all rooms! (Did I mention free?!). Praise be! The internet access – wireless was strong and reliable, which is crucial for a travel blogger (or anyone who doesn't want to commit a digital crime by dropping off the grid). They also had Internet [LAN] which I didn't need, but I'm sure it's convenient. You need to find out about the Internet services though. The coffee/tea maker in the room meant I could skip the hotel caffeine run (though, as mentioned, you should still get the local stuff). Complimentary tea and free bottled water were lovely touches. There was a desk and laptop workspace - perfect for working (or pretending to work while secretly binge-watching Netflix, no judgment).
Let's Talk Food & Beverage (Because, Priorities!)
The Montvale nails this aspect.
- Restaurants: Dining options are varied and high-quality. They had Asian cuisine in restaurant and International cuisine in restaurant, giving you some dining variety..
- Bar: The bar is a must-visit. The bartenders know their craft, the drinks are fantastic, and the atmosphere is electric. I spent one evening there, and it was a pure delight.
- Breakfast: The breakfast [buffet] was a glorious thing. Fresh fruit, pastries, all the usual suspects, but the quality was above average. The Asian breakfast was great too. I really didn't make it to the Coffee shop, or the Poolside bar. Definitely put those on the list.
Wellness & Relaxation: Sauna?! Yes, Please!
Okay, I'm a spa person. I'm a total massage addict. And the Montvale? They delivered. The Spa was compact but well-equipped. The Sauna? Ah, bliss. The massage was a dream. I really wish I had a body scrub or a body wrap. I might suggest that to the people at the front desk! There is a Fitness center, great to stay in shape.
Cleanliness & Safety: Feeling Safe and Sound
The Montvale clearly takes cleanliness seriously. This isn't just "spray and wipe" cleaning; they're going above and beyond. Anti-viral cleaning products, Daily disinfection in common areas, Hygiene certification, Rooms sanitized between stays, Professional-grade sanitizing services, Sterilizing equipment. I felt completely safe and comfortable. Kudos to them.
Services & Conveniences: They Thought of Everything
Look, this hotel is run by people who actually understand what travelers need. 24-hour front desk, concierge, daily housekeeping, luggage storage, dry cleaning, laundry service, safe deposit boxes, and cash withdrawal available. It's the little things, you know? Like having a convenience store on-site when you realize you forgot toothpaste.
Hidden Gems: Stuff You Might Not Expect
- Proposal spot: Honestly, I don't know if it's officially a proposal spot, but the vibe is undeniably romantic. Imagine proposing on the terrace overlooking the city lights…
- Meeting/banquet facilities: Surprise! They have a whole range of spaces for events.
For the Kids:
The Montvale is family-friendly. They had babysitting service, kids facilities, and Kids meal.
Getting Around:
Airport transfer, Car park [free of charge], Car park [on-site], Taxi service, Valet parking, Bicycle parking.
The Verdict: Book It! (But Read This First…)
Look, the Montvale Hotel isn't perfect. It's got character, and character sometimes means a few quirks. Not everything is perfect. But that's what makes it special. It has a story to tell.
Here's the catch: This isn't your cookie-cutter, chain hotel experience. This is a place with personality. It's a place that might surprise you. It's a place that will probably charm the pants off you.
So, here's my offer to you:
Book your stay at the Montvale Hotel and use the code "HIDDENGEM" for one complimentary drink at the bar (because you deserve it!).
BUT, before you book, be realistic. If you're after sterile perfection and zero surprises, this isn't for you. If you love a bit of history, charm, a little bit of weird, and a truly memorable experience, then pack your bags – you won't regret it.
This is an honest, unfiltered review. The Montvale Hotel is a Spokane hidden gem, and I can't recommend it enough. Just go. Seriously. Go.
Osaka's Hidden Gem: R-Guest Umekita 7 - Unbelievable Stay!
Alright, buckle up buttercups, 'cause this ain't your grandma's itinerary. We're talking a Spokane adventure in the Montvale Hotel, and trust me, it's gonna be a wild ride. Prepare for a healthy dose of chaos, opinions, and probably a few existential crises thrown in for good measure. Here we go…
Montvale Mayhem: A Spokane Sojourn (with a side of sputtering and existential dread)
Day 1: Arrival, Awkward Awakenings, and a Questionable Pizza
Afternoon (aka: "The Jet Lag Symphony"): Fly into Spokane. Ugh, airport pretzels. Never a good sign. Managed to snag a ride from the, uh, very enthusiastic shuttle driver. He kept talking about his prize-winning zucchinis (which is a thing, apparently). Checked into the Montvale. Honestly? The lobby is gorgeous. Like, "old-money-meets-slightly-creepy-Victorian-ghost" gorgeous. I half expected a stern butler with a monocle to materialize. No luck. Though, the elevators do have a certain creaky, haunted charm…
Afternoon-ish (aka: "Room Service Roulette"): Unpacked. Immediately realized I overpacked. As usual. Ordered room service. My stomach decided it wanted a burger. I was starving. It arrived… lukewarm, and a bit… sad. Like the burger had seen better days. Or at least, a slightly warmer day. Decided not to complain. Didn’t want to face the judging eyes (and potential disappointment) of the front desk. Instead, doubled down on the french fries. They were, at least, adequately salty.
Evening (aka: "Pizza Purgatory"): Venture out for dinner. Heard great things about a local pizza joint called "Pete's Pizza Palace" or something equally appetizing. Got lost. Twice. Found Pete's. Atmosphere was… vibrant. Let's just say the décor leaned heavily into the "eclectic" category. Ordered a pepperoni and mushroom pizza (the classic, right?). Waited. And waited. Finally, the pizza arrived. It wasn't… bad. Just… forgettable. The kind of pizza that makes you question every life choice you've ever made. Ate half, gave the other half to a homeless person.
- Quirky Observation: The pizza had a disturbing resemblance to a slightly melted, pepperoni-covered frisbee.
Night (aka: "The Mystery of the Creaky Floorboards"): Back at the Montvale. Attempted to fall asleep. Failed. Floorboards creaked. Mysterious noises. Convinced I was sharing the room with a particularly active poltergeist. Started googling "how to get rid of a ghost" at 2 am. Found mostly scams. Ended up listening to a podcast on the history of knitting to calm down. Worked surprisingly well.
Day 2: River Runs Through It (and Through My Emotions), Coffee Catastrophe, and a Spirited Hike
- Morning (aka: "Sunrise Surprise and the River's Embrace"): Finally, woke up a reasonable hour. I went down and saw the sunrise over the Spokane River was unbelievably beautiful. It actually brought a tear to my eye. After taking the elevator (with the creaky doors!) from my ghost-infested floor, I decided to be a bit more proactive. Coffee! Needed coffee. Stat.
- Morning (aka: "Coffee Catastrophe"): The Montvale's complimentary coffee was…well, it exists. Went to a coffee shop nearby. Ordered a latte (trying to be sophisticated). The barista misunderstood my order. Ended up with a caffeinated concoction that tasted suspiciously like dirt and despair. Attempted to drink it. Failed. Ended up dumping it in a nearby bush, feeling a surge of guilt (because I hate waste), combined with a powerful urge to scream.
- Late Morning (aka: "Riverfront Revelations"): Decided to embrace the river. Walked along the Centennial Trail. Saw the falls. Actually, they’re pretty impressive. Felt a wave of… something. Maybe it was the beauty. Maybe it was the leftover anxiety from the coffee. Maybe it was the slight hint of desperation I felt after my pizza experience. Walked and thought. Didn't realize just how big the river was.
- Lunch (aka: "A Sandwich and Self-Reflection"): Found a little deli. Got a turkey sandwich. Sat and ate it, watching the river flow. Actually took a moment to breathe. Realized… I needed a break. A real break. Not just a physical break. A… mental break. A moment to not think about work, or deadlines, or the fact that I still hadn't conquered my fear of public speaking.
- Afternoon (aka: "Manito Park and Emotional Hiking"): Heard Manito Park was nice. Drove there (after accidentally taking a detour through what looked like a zombie apocalypse-themed community garden). The park was incredible. Did some more hiking (which I hate and love simultaneously). Found a Japanese garden. Sat and just… looked. The serenity was…almost overwhelming. Started crying a little. Then, laughed, because that’s what I do.
- Evening (aka: "Dinner, Disappointment, and a Deep Dive"): Dinner. A restaurant called "The Elk Public House," which looked promising. The food? Eh. Nothing to write home about. But, the atmosphere was good, and the beer was good. I also spent an hour researching the best ghost hunting equipment to buy online.
- Night (aka: "Doodling and Despair" ): Back at the hotel. The creaky floorboards were back. And the ghost was even more active! I started doodling in a notebook and making plans for the following day.
Day 3: Brunch, Bookstores, and a Bitter Farewell
Morning (aka: "Brunch Bonanza and Bookish Bliss"): Found a brunch place. The food was surprisingly good! Omelet was perfect. French toast, divine. For the first time in a while, felt good. (Okay, not counting the ongoing existential dread.) I thought about going over the edge and just deciding to uproot my life and move here.
Morning-Afternoon (aka: "Bookworm's Bounty"): Explored a few bookstores. Browsed the stacks. Found a first edition of a book I've been searching for years. Actually felt a moment of pure, unadulterated joy.
Lunch (aka: "A Quiet Moment Before the Storm"): Ate a quick lunch.
Afternoon (aka: "Bittersweet Departure and Reflections"): Checked out of the Montvale. Said a reluctant goodbye to the creaky elevator. The city of Spokane had grown on me. Or perhaps, I had grown on it? No matter! Boarded the plane back, feeling a strange mix of sadness and relief.
- Emotional Reaction: The whole trip was a rollercoaster. Some of the feelings were good and some were bad…but it was all real.
Evening (aka: "Reflection and Regret"): Back home. Unpacked (again), Still overpacked. Found one last lingering piece of pizza. Ate it cold. Still regretted the pizza. But, I wouldn't have traded the experience. The trip to Spokane was the kind of experience that made me have a real experience.
This itinerary, my friends, is a testament to the beautiful mess that is human experience. Montvale Hotel, Spokane – you’ve been warned. Now go forth and embrace the chaos! And for the love of all that is holy, bring a good book and some earplugs for the poltergeist!
Rossford Getaway: Unwind at the BEST Country Inn & Suites (Toledo South)!
Montvale Hotel: Spokane's Hidden Gem...or Just a Really Old Building? (Let's Dive In!)
Okay, spill the tea! Is the Montvale REALLY a hidden gem, or just...old?
Alright, alright, lay off the pressure! Okay, so... yes and no. It's definitely *old*. Like, you can *feel* the history, which is kinda cool, but also means you're probably gonna hear the plumbing. Seriously, the pipes sound like a grumpy grandpa getting out of bed at 3 AM. But... there's a certain charm to it. Think of it as a time capsule with Wi-Fi. It's not the Ritz, people. But if you're looking for character, cozy vibes, and a story to tell? Yeah, the Montvale's got that in spades.
The website says "historic elegance." Is that code for "dusty and falling apart?" Because, let's be real...
"Historic elegance" is a good way to say it, but with a caveat: *be ready for reality*. The lobby is stunning! Seriously, that's the "elegance" they're talking about. Think high ceilings, dark wood, old-school charm. But… the elevator? Let's just say it’s a slow ride… and it *does* feel like it might swallow you whole. My first thought was, "Uh, is this thing gonna get me to my room, or am I gonna end up Indiana Jones-ing down to a forgotten chamber?" And the rooms themselves? Okay, some are better than others. Mine was a bit...cozy. And the bathroom? Small. Like, comically small. I’m 6’3”, and I felt like I was showering in a phone booth. But, hey, it's part of the experience, right? Right?!
Speaking of rooms, what are they actually like? Is it worth the price?
Alright, the room situation… it’s a mixed bag. Think about it – a historic building, right? So, expect some variations. I stayed in a "deluxe room" (don't get too excited). It was clean - THANK GOD - and had a comfy bed. The decor? A bit dated, but honestly, I didn't hate it. It had character. And the windows! They let in so much morning sun, it woke me up! Which was… well, it was good for getting up. The price… well, it really depends on the time of year, but generally, it's not *insane*. It's probably on par with other downtown hotels, but with the added bonus of feeling like you’ve stepped back in time. Honestly, for the experience, I'd say it's worth it. If you appreciate older buildings and aren't expecting gleaming perfection. (Plus, free coffee in the lobby. That's a major win in my book.)
Let's talk about the service. What was *that* like?
Okay, service… this is where things get interesting! The staff… they are *wonderful*. Seriously, super friendly, helpful, and genuinely seem to care. They're not the most polished, if that's what you're after, but they're genuine and clearly trying their best. I had a slight issue with my room (minor, honestly), and they were on it immediately. They also gave me a free upgrade the next night because… well, because I’m guessing they felt bad about the room I was in the first night! (See, even more reason why it's a bit messy and old; but, good!). I would give them a solid A for effort and personality. And the bell hops? I think they might *be* the hotel! Old school service, and it's kinda great. Just don’t expect instant gratification; they’re working with a classic, after all!
What about food? What are the dining options *in* the hotel?
Ah, yes, the food. The Montvale has a few options. There's a restaurant, which is not bad - nothing mind-blowing, but solid. The bar is even better. Seriously, great cocktails and a cozy atmosphere. It’s the kind of place where you can actually *talk* to the bartender and get a good conversation going. Oh! And they have a continental breakfast. It's free! Bread, coffee, some fruit… the usual. Don’t expect a buffet bonanza, but for grabbing something quick before you head out, it’s perfect. And bonus: the bar's also open in the morning, if you need a little…hair of the dog. (Hey, no judgement!) The surrounding area also has plenty of spots too, so explore!
Okay, I’m convinced. What’s the BEST part of staying there?
Man. The best part? Okay, so I'm sitting there, right? I'm in the bar (again, because, seriously, great cocktails). It's late, and the lighting is all dim and warm. I'm nursing a drink, and this musician starts playing. And he's *good*. Really good. He's playing some old jazz standards, and the whole place just… hums. There's a feeling of… well, it's hard to describe. It’s a vibe. A *historic* vibe. A cool, comfortable, genuinely Spokane vibe. And for a moment, I just... I was *there*. Not distracted by my phone. Not worrying about the future. Just… enjoying the moment. And I thought, "Yeah, this is why I come to places like Montvale." It's not just a hotel; it's the *experience*. It’s a feeling. A place to connect with history and yourself. (Okay, and the cocktails. Let's be honest.)
And the worst part? Be honest.
Honestly? Okay, two things (besides the tiny shower, which, let's be real, that was annoying.) #1 The sounds. The walls are thin, and you hear… everything. The plumbing, the slamming doors, people talking in the hallways. So, if you're a light sleeper, bring earplugs. Seriously. #2 The parking. It’s a downtown hotel, so parking is… a nuisance. You're either paying, or hoping to find a street spot. And, you know, Spokane winter… which is a whole other level of suffering. So, plan accordingly. But those are minor things. The character, the atmosphere, the staff… they make up for it. Except for the shower. Still annoyed about that shower.
Would you stay there again?
Absolutely. Despite the quirks, the minor annoyances, and the tiny shower, I would stay there again in a heartbeat. It's the kind of place that sticks with you. The kind of place that offers a *real* experience. The kind ofLow Price Hotel Blog
