Spokane on a Budget: Uncovering the City’s Cheapest Watering Holes
Spokane, Washington, often gets overlooked in favor of its larger, flashier neighbors. But for those in the know, this charming city offers a surprisingly vibrant nightlife and a fantastic array of affordable bars and eateries. As a local who’s spent countless nights exploring the Lilac City’s hidden gems, I’m here to guide you through the best spots where your wallet will thank you. Forget overpriced cocktails and pretentious atmospheres; we’re diving deep into Spokane’s dive bar scene, where good times and great deals are always on tap.
The Classic Dive Bar Experience: Where Atmosphere Reigns Supreme
What makes a dive bar truly great? It’s not just about the cheap drinks, though that’s certainly a plus. It’s about the character, the history, the regulars who feel like family, and the unpretentious vibe that makes everyone feel welcome. Spokane has no shortage of these authentic establishments. These are the places where you can enjoy a no-frills good time, often accompanied by live music, a game of pool, or just a friendly chat with the bartender.
The Hop Shop: A North Spokane Staple
If you’re looking for a true neighborhood dive with a loyal following, The Hop Shop on North Monroe Street is a must-visit. This isn’t a fancy place; it’s a comfortable, familiar spot that’s been serving the community for years. They boast an impressive selection of craft beers, often featuring local Spokane breweries, at prices that are hard to beat. You’ll find a friendly crowd, a relaxed atmosphere, and often, some fantastic happy hour deals. It’s the perfect place to unwind after a long day or to catch up with friends without breaking the bank. The staff here are genuinely friendly and know their beers, so don’t hesitate to ask for a recommendation. Their outdoor patio is a great spot to enjoy a summer evening.
The Elk Public House: More Than Just a Pub
Located in the heart of Browne’s Addition, Spokane’s oldest neighborhood, The Elk Public House offers a slightly more polished but still very affordable experience. While it might look a bit more upscale from the outside, the prices inside are refreshingly down-to-earth. They have a great selection of local and regional beers on tap, and their food menu, while not strictly dive bar fare, offers hearty and reasonably priced options. Think delicious burgers, sandwiches, and appetizers that are perfect for sharing. The Elk often features live music, adding to its lively atmosphere. It’s a fantastic spot for a casual dinner and drinks, and it’s a popular hangout for Spokane residents, especially during happy hour. The historic neighborhood it resides in also adds to its charm, making it a great stop before or after exploring Browne’s Addition.
Bud’s Broiler: A Spokane Institution (Sort Of!)
Okay, so Bud’s Broiler isn’t strictly a bar, but it’s a legendary Spokane institution for cheap eats, and many people grab a cheap beer to go with their iconic burgers. If you’re looking for the absolute cheapest way to fill your belly and quench your thirst, this is it. Their burgers are a classic Spokane experience, and you can often grab a domestic beer for just a couple of bucks. It’s a no-frills, drive-up joint that’s been a local favorite for decades. While you won’t be lingering for hours, it’s perfect for a quick, cheap bite and a cold one. It’s the kind of place that evokes nostalgia for many long-time Spokane residents.
Happy Hour Havens: Strategic Drinking for Savvy Spokanites
Happy hour is where many of Spokane’s bars truly shine for budget-conscious patrons. It’s a strategic time to enjoy discounted drinks and appetizers, making a night out much more affordable. You just need to know where and when to look. Many of the places I’ve already mentioned have excellent happy hour specials, but here are a few more that are worth planning your visit around.
O’Doherty’s Irish Grille: A Downtown Gem
Located in the heart of downtown Spokane, O’Doherty’s Irish Grille is a popular spot that offers a taste of the Emerald Isle without the exorbitant prices. They consistently have some of the best happy hour deals in the city, with discounted pints of Guinness and other Irish favorites, as well as a wide selection of other beers and spirits. Their food menu also features affordable pub fare like fish and chips and shepherd’s pie. The atmosphere is always buzzing, especially on weekends, and it’s a great place to catch a sports game. Be sure to check their website for current happy hour times, as they often run specials throughout the week.
Twigs Gastropub: Upscale Vibe, Down-to-Earth Prices (During Happy Hour!)
While Twigs Gastropub might have a more sophisticated ambiance than a typical dive bar, their happy hour is a fantastic way to experience their offerings on a budget. With locations in Spokane Valley and downtown, Twigs offers creative cocktails, a good selection of wines, and craft beers, all at significantly reduced prices during their happy hour. Their appetizer menu is also a highlight, with delicious small plates that are perfect for sharing and make for a great, affordable meal. It’s a good option if you want a slightly more refined experience without the hefty price tag.
Beyond the Beer: Affordable Drink Options
While beer is often the go-to for affordable drinks, Spokane’s bars also offer other budget-friendly options. Many bars have cheap well drinks, especially during happy hour, and some even feature daily specials on specific liquors or cocktails. If you’re not a beer drinker, don’t despair; there are usually good deals to be found.
Local Breweries: Supporting Spokane’s Craft Scene Affordably
Spokane has a burgeoning craft beer scene, and while some pints can add up, visiting local breweries is often more affordable than you might think, especially if you stick to their core offerings or take advantage of tasting flights. Breweries like dropt.beer, which focuses on the craft beer scene and its enthusiasts, often have great deals and are passionate about their local products. Supporting local breweries means you’re getting fresh, high-quality beer, and often, you’re getting a better price than at a bar that marks up distribution costs significantly. Many breweries also have food trucks or allow you to bring in outside food, further cutting down on costs.
Other local breweries to explore include Iron Goat Brewing Co. and Bellwether Brewing Co. While prices might fluctuate, visiting during off-peak hours or checking for any daily specials can lead to some great savings. Tasting flights are also an excellent way to sample multiple beers without committing to a full pint of each, making it a cost-effective way to discover new favorites.
Insider Tips for Saving Money in Spokane’s Bars
As a local, I’ve picked up a few tricks for maximizing my fun while minimizing my spending in Spokane’s bar scene. Here are some of my top insider tips:
- Know Your Happy Hours: This is the golden rule. Most bars have dedicated happy hour times, usually in the late afternoon and early evening on weekdays. Make it a habit to check the hours and specials online or by calling ahead.
- Embrace the Dive Bar: Don’t shy away from the less polished establishments. Dive bars are often where you’ll find the most authentic atmosphere and the best prices. They are the backbone of Spokane’s affordable nightlife.
- Look for Specials Boards: Many bars, especially the smaller, independent ones, will have a chalkboard or a sign listing daily drink specials. Keep an eye out for these!
- Drink Local: As mentioned, supporting local breweries and bars that feature local taps often means better prices and fresher beer. Plus, you’re contributing to the Spokane community. Explore the offerings at dropt.beer’s shop for insights into local brews.
- Check Out Local Event Listings: Sometimes, bars will have special promotions or events tied to local happenings. Checking Spokane’s local event calendars or community boards can reveal some hidden deals. For instance, dropt.beer’s insights and news blog might feature upcoming local brewery events or specials.
- Consider the Neighborhood: Generally, bars located outside of the immediate downtown core or in more residential neighborhoods might offer slightly better prices, though downtown spots often have the most frequent and aggressive happy hour deals.
- Pace Yourself: This is a universal tip, but especially relevant when trying to keep costs down. Savor your drinks, stay hydrated with water, and you’ll not only save money but also have a more enjoyable and memorable evening.
Beyond the Bar: Affordable Entertainment in Spokane
While a cheap drink is great, a truly affordable night out often involves cheap entertainment too. Spokane offers several options:
- Live Music: Many of the dive bars and pubs mentioned above, like The Elk and O’Doherty’s, frequently host live music, often with no cover charge or a very small one. Keep an eye on their schedules.
- Pool Halls and Darts: Classic bar games are a great way to spend an evening without spending a lot of money. Many local bars have pool tables and dartboards, and the cost is usually just the price of your drinks.
- Local Events and Festivals: Spokane hosts numerous festivals and community events throughout the year, many of which are free or low-cost and include food and drink vendors offering competitive prices.
The Heart of Spokane: Community and Camaraderie
Ultimately, the best cheap bars in Spokane aren’t just about the price of a pint; they’re about the experience. They are places where you can connect with the local community, enjoy genuine hospitality, and create lasting memories without emptying your pockets. So, next time you’re looking for a night out in Spokane, venture beyond the usual suspects and explore these affordable gems. You might just discover your new favorite local haunt.
