Just a few weeks ago, my husband John and I embarked on a much-needed escape to the magnificent Northern Quest Resort & Casino in Spokane. Nestled surprisingly close to home, less than 25 minutes from our doorstep, this staycation felt like a journey to a far more distant and serene world. It was a profound realization how much we truly needed this break, a sentiment that deepened with every moment of relaxation. We dedicated two precious days to reconnect, indulge in extraordinary culinary experiences, and unwind completely with a blissful couples massage. Northern Quest offered the perfect blend of convenience and luxury, proving that you don’t always need to travel far to find a profound sense of peace and rejuvenation.

Unforgettable Experiences at Northern Quest Resort & Casino, Spokane

Our staycation at Northern Quest wasn’t just about relaxation; it also unearthed a delightful discovery: our fiercely competitive spirits, particularly when it came to the classic game of Space Invaders within the resort’s vibrant new Cyber Quest arcade. The giant screen and immersive atmosphere transformed a simple arcade game into an exhilarating challenge. I truly believe that if I ever find myself overwhelmed by a stressful day, a quick drive to Northern Quest for a session of gleefully shooting down pixelated invaders on that enormous screen would be the ultimate stress-buster. It’s a surprisingly effective form of therapy, melting away tension with every triumphant shot.

A Culinary Journey at Northern Quest: From Fine Dining to Casual Bites

One of the most cherished aspects of our staycation was the sheer luxury of having someone else prepare our meals and, even better, handle the cleanup. This freedom from daily chores elevated every dining experience. A romantic date night at Masselow’s Steakhouse is an absolute must, regardless of the season. The ambiance is one of sophisticated elegance, with attentive service that anticipates your every need, making it a truly special occasion. Our dinner began with an unexpected but utterly divine treat: warm, pillowy fry bread accompanied by a rich huckleberry glaze. The combination of textures and flavors was beyond delicious, a tantalizing preview of the culinary excellence to come.

Masselow’s Steakhouse: An Award-Winning Dining Experience

Following the unforgettable fry bread, we shared a meticulously curated cheese plate featuring an array of artisanal selections. For our main course, we both opted for the chef’s choice – a unique and exquisite creation of tender fry bread generously topped with creamy brie cheese and even more of that exquisite huckleberry sauce. I honestly could have made an entire meal out of this course alone; it was that good. However, with Masselow’s incredible menu, stopping at the first course would be a missed opportunity. John savored a perfectly cooked bone-in prime rib, declaring it one of the finest steaks he had ever tasted, a high compliment given his extensive travels. My dish was equally impressive: a rich, decadent mac and cheese complemented by an incredibly flavorful parmesan risotto. I’m still hoping to get my hands on that risotto recipe!

And then there was dessert. Masselow’s desserts, particularly the Bananas Foster, are a compelling reason to visit the restaurant in themselves. The spectacle begins tableside, as flames leap several feet into the air during its preparation, creating a dramatic and captivating show. This theatrical presentation alone is worth the experience, but the true magic happens when you taste it. The caramelized bananas, rich rum sauce, and creamy vanilla ice cream create a symphony of flavors that will transport your taste buds straight to heaven. It quickly cemented its place as our new favorite dessert in all of Spokane, a sweet memory we often revisit.

The Taphouse: Casual Elegance and Craft Delights

If you’re planning a date night but prefer a more casual yet equally delightful atmosphere, Northern Quest’s recently opened Taphouse is an outstanding choice. This vibrant establishment boasts an impressive selection of small plates, perfect for sharing, alongside an extensive menu of local and international beers, fine bourbons, and expertly crafted cocktails. The lively yet sophisticated ambiance makes it an ideal spot for unwinding and enjoying good company.

We were so captivated by the Taphouse’s offerings that we found ourselves returning three times during our three-day stay! I’ve officially become infatuated with their brie and fig pizza, a harmonious blend of sweet and savory flavors that I would happily enjoy at every opportunity. Another absolute must-try is their exceptional pretzel, served warm with a rich, savory beer cheese dip that is simply irresistible. We explored a significant portion of the menu and were consistently impressed by the quality and creativity of every dish. The Taphouse has undoubtedly earned a permanent spot on our rotation of must-visit Spokane Restaurants, offering a fresh and exciting dining experience.

Luxury Accommodations: A Haven of Comfort at Northern Quest

Each morning of our stay began with the comforting aroma of a hot cup of Thomas Hammer coffee, enjoyed in the plush, comfortable chairs of our room. Our king-size bed was a true sanctuary – so grand in scale that it even featured small stairs on one side, inviting us into its luxurious embrace. Piled high with an abundance of soft pillows, it evoked a whimsical “princess and the pea” sensation, offering unparalleled comfort. Sinking into the pillow-top mattress felt like being cradled, making it incredibly difficult to ever want to leave. During our visit, Spokane was graced with a beautiful snowfall, and we spent tranquil moments simply relaxing, sipping our coffee, and watching the delicate flakes descend outside our window, adding to the serene atmosphere.

Indulgence and Rejuvenation at La Rive Spa

For the ultimate in relaxation, we dedicated a significant portion of our stay to the award-winning La Rive Spa at Northern Quest. From the moment you step inside, the atmosphere is meticulously crafted for pure tranquility and pampering. The waiting room, featuring crystal-infused water, immediately sets a tone of serene luxury. The spa’s innovative “experimental showers” are a sensory delight, beckoning guests with their vibrant colorful lights and a variety of invigorating water options. It’s a place where you could easily spend an entire day, surrendering to the lavish treatments and soothing environment.

Our couples massage was nothing short of blissful. My skilled masseuse expertly worked out knots that I hadn’t realized had accumulated for so long, their presence fading into oblivion with each precise stroke. I could feel my entire body transforming into a state of relaxed “mush” on the heated table, as the warmth from the fireplace behind me added another layer of comfort. It was genuinely challenging to leave that tranquil room; if a post-treatment nap had been an option, I would have gladly extended my stay indefinitely, such was the depth of relaxation achieved.

Retail Therapy: Discover Unique Treasures at Northern Quest

Be forewarned: a visit to the spa boutique and the resort’s new Windfall store can be delightfully “dangerous,” as both are brimming with an array of irresistible items you’ll suddenly realize you need in your life. During my visit, I eagerly stocked up on my beloved Vanilla Coconut Dandles Candles, their comforting scent a perfect reminder of the spa’s serene ambiance. Windfall, on the other hand, is a treasure trove of gorgeous, high-end outdoor recreation gear and exquisite home goods. From luxurious Pendleton Blankets that invite cozy evenings to sophisticated fly-fishing equipment, the store offers a curated selection of items you never knew you needed until you saw them, appealing to both adventurers and those seeking to elevate their home décor.

The spa store also boasts the most incredibly soft and cozy UGG robes and slippers, which I am still dreaming about. What truly impressed me was Northern Quest Spa’s commitment to inclusivity, offering robes up to a size 4X. This thoughtful detail ensures that every guest can enjoy the ultimate comfort and relaxation without any self-consciousness. The robes themselves are so delightfully soft and plush that I genuinely didn’t want to take mine off. While I ultimately decided against walking to my car wrapped in my comfy robe, the thought definitely crossed my mind – a testament to their unparalleled comfort!

Dinner and a Movie: An Elevated Entertainment Experience

To conclude our exceptional stay, we indulged in an amazing dinner and a movie experience, conveniently located just across the street from the resort. This unique concept was something I had always wanted to try. The process is seamless: you can order delectable food in the lobby area to enjoy with a cocktail before heading into the cinema, or, even better, you can select specific menu items designed to be savored during the movie itself. That’s right – you can enjoy a full dinner while watching the latest blockbusters!

To streamline the experience, you simply provide a credit or debit card beforehand, and all your orders are charged directly to it throughout the movie. This thoughtful system eliminates the hassle of waiting in line to pay at the end, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the film and your meal. We were so impressed by this innovative offering that we’re already checking our calendars, eager to take advantage of as many $6 Tuesday night movies as possible. It’s an entertainment experience that truly combines convenience, comfort, and culinary delight.

A Staycation That Exceeded Every Expectation

It’s only been a couple of weeks since our luxurious stay at Northern Quest, and already we’re brainstorming ways to schedule more date nights and getaways to this incredible destination. The moments and experiences we shared there are among our new favorites. If you’ve been dreaming of booking a staycation or a romantic couples’ retreat, trust me when I say, don’t hesitate – book one now! The couple of days we spent at Northern Quest were far more rejuvenating and delightful than we could have ever hoped for, proving that a local escape can be just as, if not more, rewarding than an distant journey.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Northern Quest Resort & Casino for graciously hosting our stay and providing us with the wonderful opportunity to relax and reconnect right in our own hometown. Their hospitality and the unparalleled quality of their offerings made for an truly unforgettable experience.

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