Red Lion Hotels roar for the Spokane River
The Spokane River Forum has found a natural ally in our newest sponsor, Red Lion Hotel at the Park. With two hotels on the waterfront, Red Lion knows investing in the Spokane River will pay dividends in the experience they can offer guests.
For Red Lion, embracing the Spokane River is nothing new. General Manager Michael Fear of Red Lion Hotel at the Park likes to tell people “I manage an urban resort,” referring to the majestic falls and Riverfront Park right outside the hotel’s doorstep. River Inn General Manager Patrick McLaughlin agrees, noting that, “The River is part of the draw to how popular we are.”
This fall Spokane Parks and Recreation will build a new access site under Division Street Bridge, making paddling access to this area possible for the first time since the dam was built.
Said Patrick, “Guests ask my staff about fun stuff they can do in the area all the time. The Spokane River is a tremendous asset. Guests can walk on the Centennial Trail to Riverfront Park or book a guided fishing, paddling or rafting trip.”
Working with Forum partners like ROW Adventures and Pangaea River Rafting, guests will be able to hop on the river right outside their hotel. Packages will allow guests to paddle at Division Street Bridge; explore riffles and rapids in the Spokane Valley and whitewater raft through Bowl and Pitcher.
Said Fear, “The fun they have can add a night or two to their stay, and the pictures they send to friends and families will attract new guests. That’s good for us and great for the local economy.”
On August 23rd, the Spokane River Classic will showcase the potential of opening up downtown river access. Over 50 paddlers will make their way down to the Division Street Bridge as part of the family-oriented race.
Spokane River Forum Executive Director Andy Dunau asked McLaughlin and Fear, “Now what would it be like if there were canoes, kayaks and paddle boards playing in front of the River Inn and Convention Center all summer?” Their reply, “That would be awesome.”