Enjoy the outdoors in Pullman

If you are looking for a natural, beautiful, and scenic environment to spend some time outdoors, look no further. Klemgard Park, located off of Highway 195, meets this exact criteria. This park has four distinct habitats that make it diverse and beautiful. These include: mountains, grasslands, a forest and a swamp. Each habitat is home to several animals, and frequently, deer, moose, rabbits, hawks, and sparrows have been spotted within the park.

After taking a field trip to Klemgard Park for my Environmental Science class, I was in awe by the park’s beautiful scenery and wildlife. Up until a year ago, I had no idea that this magnificent park existed. Klemgard Park is set between two sets of hills: the north facing hills and the south facing hills. The hills to the north are dark, shady, cool and covered by forest while the south facing hills reflect sunlight. The atmosphere of Klemgard Park is relaxing, peaceful, and soothing. This park allows people to escape the combustion and crowds found in the city, and enjoy some fresh air and beautiful scenery.

Klemgard Park is ideal for hiking, walking, picnicking, barbequing, and sightseeing. Amenities that the park offers are: a volleyball court, a playground, horseshoe pits, a relaxing gazebo, convenient paths for strolling through the park, barbeques, and hiking trails. If your looking for some alone time, I recommend bringing a blanket and book and curling up at a picnic table. If your interested in spending time with friends, pack a lunch and bring a volleyball for a day of socializing at the park. Either way, this park is a great way to escape the city and spend some time outdoors. For more information visit Klemgard Park.

Walk, run or ride to Moscow

When my dad was in Pullman last November for dad‘s weekend, he told me a story about the Bill Chipman Palouse Trail that runs between Pullman and Moscow. He said that several years ago when the Vandals played the Cougars, the tradition was that if the “away” team lost, all the students from that school would run home on this trail. Now I’m not completely sure if this story is true, but I was intrigued by this tale and decided to visit the Bill Chipman Palouse Trail myself.

This 8 mile trail not only provides beautiful scenery, but is a great way to get outdoors and enjoy nature in the Palouse. Many people enjoy walking, running, biking and rollerblading on this path. The Bill Chipman Palouse Trail is surrounded by beautiful fields and grasslands, and provides a great way to get some fresh air and exercise.

From Pullman, you can enter the trail at the trailheads near the Quality Inn. I recommend finishing your exercise around sunset because the view is absolutely breathtaking. While I was visiting this trail I was able to witness the sun setting behind the hills. If you are interested in immersing yourself in nature for a little fresh air, I recommend visiting the Bill Chipman Palouse Trail.

Local Tasty Treat

Pullman may be a small town, but you know what they say, the best things come in the smallest packages. Located here on the Washington State University campus, a locally owned ice cream shop is sure to please your taste buds.

Ferdinand’s Ice Cream Shoppe is minutes away from all of your classes, and is home of the best old-fashioned ice cream and soda treats around. With a wide variety of flavors, this unique shop has been a favorite to many Pullman natives and residents.

If it is during the cold months, that we all know get to be unbearable,and cold ice cream isn't exactly what you have in mind, Ferdinand’s can still support your needs and keep you satisfied with one of their warm gourmet espresso or coffee drinks.

So next time your sweet tooth is kicking in, or you even have a little bit of time to spare in between classes, stop by Ferdinand’s – you won’t be disappointed.

Little Taste of Italy on the Palouse

For those of you who are tired of Pullman’s limited bar scene, but still want a place to drink and socialize with friends, I suggest you visit The Old Post Office Wine Gallery.

Located in the heart of downtown Pullman, this unique venue offers a variety of wines, beers and food. Whether you are looking for a place to relax and read a good book while sipping a glass of wine, or gather for dinner with friends, The Old Post Office Wine Gallery is the place to be.

In addition to a full, fine dining dinner menu and extensive wine and beer selection, The OPO also offers a “tapas menu”, which offers delicious cheeses and other Italian foods that are a wonderful substitute to our usual bar food.

The Old Post Office Wine Gallery also offers special events that are unlike anything you can find for entertainment in Pullman. If you are looking for something new to do with a date or even a group of friends, wine and beer tastings are offered Friday nights from 5pm-8pm, and will surely keep you entertained, while also giving you the chance to find that new favorite drink!

So, if you are one of us who frequently complains about Pullman’s repetitive nightlife, I highly suggest you broaden your horizons and go check out The Old Post Office Wine Gallery!

Hours:
Open at 4 pm Monday - Saturday
Fine Dining Monday - Thursday 4 pm - 8:30 pm
Friday & Saturday 4 pm - 9:30 pm
Tapas and Appetizers every day until 11 pm

Phone: 509-338-WINE (9463)

Stores Worth A Visit

The curious side of me seems to win out when I'm wandering the sidewalks in a town other than my own. Without a doubt, a must in most small towns when it comes to acquiring a good sense of the local culture is store-browsing. On my most recent trip to Moscow, my checklist was fully checked, most of those items being all about scoping out little shops:

1. Enjoy a steamed "everything" bagel loaded with premium ingredients at Moscow Bagel and Deli
2. Search for the perfect read at TJ's books
3. Hunt out antique cameras, retro art and ideal apparell at the Salvation Army
4. Sip Mexican Hot Chocolate and enjoy good conversation at Sisters' Brew
5. Swing by Moscow Co-op and make a mineola tangelo purchase
6. Attempt to proficiently play expensive guitars at Guitar's Friend
7. Inquire about bear mace and browse the outdoor gear at Hyperspud Sports
8. Catch the 3:35 bus at St. Augustine's back to Pullman

A Commuter's Perspective

When the stress of school begins to set in and the idea of spending nearly every waking minute on campus seems to be less of a threat and more of a reality, the best remedy to this dilemma can be found none other than in a quick trip out of town—specifically to Moscow and, of course, when the chance opportunity arises. Fortunately for WSU and U of I students, accessing free transportation to and from Moscow/Pullman is as easy as simply waiting for the bus with student ID card in hand.

The Wheatland Express offers commuter transportation between Moscow and Pullman; it’s free fare, part of the transit fee paid before the start of each semester. With several stops in Pullman and more than a few on the U of I campus, the Wheatland Express is both a resource for those looking to be commuters and those looking to find a free ride and a potential means of adventuring across the border.

Maybe it's the draw of being able to lounge on the way to an afternoon of strolling through a scenic downtown, or just the prospect of not paying to get to Moscow and having a full day to spend doing unplanned activities that is the attraction of riding the bus. If you're interested in being random, enjoying a day outside Pullman or maybe just both, the Wheatland Express is certainly a recommended option for getting you there. Few things come as close in satisfaction to good traveling than riding a free transit with good company and the intention of having enough fun to fill a couple of days, and all the while not breaking the bank.

You can catch the Wheatland Express commuter bus Monday through Friday, with the exception of on holidays. To learn more, visit http://www.wheatlandexpress.com/commuterbus.html for information about stop times and places.

“Moscow’s Home of Live Music"

Today most people are submerged in technology and receive their music fix by putting on their headphones and jammin’ to their favorite songs on their Ipods. However, Ipods only offer so much entertainment. What if I told you that you could witness live performances, drink a cold brew, and enjoy the company from good people all within fifteen minutes away?

John’s Alley Tavern is located in Moscow, Idaho right on Sixth Street. John’s Alley Tavern is one of the only taverns in the area that has live music at least three times a week, a large selection of draft beers and even a liquor bar! Another amenity that the tavern offers is open mic nights!

So if you’re looking to hear good live music or show off your own musical skills, John’s Alley Tavern is the place to go. Visit the website http://www.alleyvault.com/ for more details about upcoming performances and to sign up to perform!

114 E Sixth Street
Moscow, ID 83843
Bar Phone: (208) 883-766

Lets’ hit up the Beach….in Moscow?

When the weekends come around the typical Coug’ hits up the local bars that are conveniently placed around the WSU campus. Going to the same bars every weekend can become boring and extremely repetitive. College students are always searching for a thrill and new adventure. Therefore, I recommend trying out The Beach nightclub located in downtown Moscow, Idaho.

Found only fifteen minutes away from campus, The Beach is a change of scenery for most Cougs’. This nightclub offers happy hour specials, a variety of different music genres and even a dance floor to get your groove on! The best part is you don’t even have to be 21. The bar inside is sectioned off, allowing the entire non 21 crowd to still have a night of fun too!

When you don’t think this nightclub could sound any better...it does by having various themed nights too! Ranging from hot country, hip hop or even pirates versus ninjas….you name it and The Beach has done it!

So if you are looking for a good night on the town, a reason to dress up or even a change of scenery…..grab your friends, hop in a taxi and head to The Beach where you may not find sand, but always a good time!

302 South Main Street
Moscow, ID 83843-2968
(208) 882-0500‎.

Painting a pretty picture

Sick and tired of the same old activities in Pullman? My friends and I often complain that there is little to do in our spare time other than going to movies, out to eat, to the bars etc. Entertaining as it is, after while we all can admit those activities get a little old. If you are someone who likes to try new things and doesn’t mind getting a little messy, than look no further. Wild at Art in Moscow provides a warm atmosphere where you can paint beautiful ceramics and explore other art media.

Instead of sitting home and watching television or partying, I encourage you take the ten minute drive to Moscow and experience something different. Not only is it a change of atmosphere and a beautiful drive, but it’s a chance to get off of campus and out of Pullman for a day of creativity.

Sit back, relax and enjoy yourself

Ever feel like you need a break from class, studying, work etc? As students, we often have poor time management skills and wind up exhausted. Whether it’s cramming all night for an exam or committing ourselves to too many activities, we all experience fatigue and exhaustion at some point.

Identity Salon Day Spa in downtown Pullman provides a great way to escape our daily responsibilities and stress. They provide a number of relaxing services in which you can sit back, relax and enjoy yourself. Massage, facial, waxing, nail, hair, and tanning services are among several options that are available here. Go ahead and treat yourself to a day or just a few hours of being pampered.

Sometimes it feels as though Pullman has limited options due to its size, so try something new for a change! Also did you know studies show that treating yourself to a massage every now and then can be beneficial to your health? As a student, I don’t always eat as healthy as I should or get enough exercise and sleep, so massages can help compensate for some of the things I‘m lacking. Massages, among other things, can help improve the immune system, pain, anxiety, sports related soreness, and self esteem.

Not only is a day at the spa a great way to relax and enjoy yourself, but it also can make you feel better. To read further about the benefits of massages visit stress management and to get more information on spa services, pricing, and location visit Identity Salon Day Spa.

Goin' Greek

Looking for a bite to eat that won’t leave a dent in your pocket? If that’s you, like most of us fellow coug’s, then check out Mikey’s Greek Gyros on Main Street in Moscow, Idaho.

Located literally minutes away from campus, this locally owned restaurant provides delicious Greek foods at a very low cost. It’s retro décor and wide open space provides a great place to catch up with friends over lunch while also enjoying one of their many rotating beers on tap.

Although their menu selection focuses mainly on gyros, Mikey’s also offers other Greek cuisine classics, including soups made from scratch.

With their combination of a friendly staff and laid-back atmosphere paired with good food at low costs, what is there not to love?

527 S Main St
Moscow, ID 83843
(208) 882-0780

Devine Dining

It would be hard to find someone to argue the fact that Pullman is the epitome of a college town. Although it is a place we all share a deep love for, we can’t deny the fact that it is a small city surrounded by wheat fields and everything far from urban.

Being that we are in, well, the middle of nowhere, how can we expect to find a nice place to take a date, or maybe remind us of our former city lifestyles? That is where Moscow’s restaurant, The Red Door, comes into play.

Located less than fifteen-minutes from our college campus, The Red Door is a fancy, quaint restaurant that offers an intimate setting and amazing cuisine.

The restaurant prides themselves on their fresh ingredients and custom recopies, serving foods they claim as being part of the “slow movement” that stems from Italy. Their dinner menu includes everything from pastas and salads to seafood and poultry.

So whether you are looking for a dining experience unlike most places in the Palouse, or maybe somewhere new to enjoy appetizers and cocktails, The Red Door is an excellent place to be.

215 S. Main
Moscow, ID 83843
Reservations 208.882.7830
info@red-door-restaurant.com