Shop, Stay & Play: January in Spokane

A calm-season guide to browsing, relaxing, and winter fun

By the Like Media Team

January in Spokane brings a distinct winter calm. After the holidays, the city settles into crisp mornings, quieter streets, and a slower pace that feels intentional. Snowy landscapes and downtown lights create a reflective backdrop, inviting both residents and visitors to reset routines and enjoy the season. It’s a time to slow down, focus on comfort, and rediscover familiar places with fresh eyes.

One of the season’s highlights is the Numerica Skate Ribbon at Riverfront Park, where skaters can loop on ice and warm up by cozy fire pits—a draw through the colder months. Spokane also hosts free winter-themed family days such as Winterfest at Riverfront Park in late January, featuring ice skating, carousel rides, and community activities.

Winter weather also offers a chance to savor slow mornings, explore local stores at your own pace, and plan restorative stays in downtown hotels that feel especially cozy this time of year. Here’s how to make the most of Spokane in January.

SHOP

Spokane’s winter shopping scene is perfect for browsing indoors and discovering both familiar favorites and unique finds.

• River Park Square (808 W. Main Ave.) — A premier downtown shopping destination with popular national retailers and unique local vendors. It’s easy to spend an afternoon here out of the cold. RiverParkSquare.com

• Northtown Mall (4750 N. Division St.) — A classic mall with a variety of shops, eateries, and indoor comfort during winter days. NorthtownMall.com

• The Flour Mill (621 W. Mallon Ave.) — A mixed-use shopping area with boutiques, galleries, and cafés in a historic setting that feels especially inviting during winter. VisitSpokane.com

• Wonders Of The World (621 W. Mallon Ave.) — An eclectic boutique with jewelry, art, and gifts for those looking for something distinctive. WondersOfTheWorldInc.com

• Boo Radley’s (232 N. Howard St.) — A beloved toy store downtown that delights with nostalgic and creative playthings. ShopBooRadleys.com

• Chosen Vintage (7 W. Main Ave.) and Teleport Vintage (917 W. Broadway Ave.) — Vintage clothing and thrift finds for winter style and seasonal layering. VisitSpokane.com TeleportVintage.com

STAY

Spokane’s boutique and well-located hotels make winter stays comfortable and walkable. Many are steps from restaurants, parks, and downtown attractions.

• MAX at Mirabeau (1100 N. Sullivan Rd., Spokane Valley) — A well-known Spokane Valley hotel and dining destination offering comfortable guest rooms, on-site amenities, and one of the region’s most established restaurants. It provides easy access to the Spokane Valley Mall, the Centennial Trail, and nearby winter recreation options.

• Montvale Hotel (1005 W. 1st Ave.) — A boutique historic hotel in the heart of the arts district. Its restored details and cozy interiors make it a relaxing winter home base near theaters and dining.

• Ruby River Hotel (700 N. Division St.) — Located along the Spokane River, this property offers a peaceful winter setting with easy access to downtown, Gonzaga, and the Centennial Trail.

• Holiday Inn Express Spokane-Downtown (801 N. Division St.) — A popular, reliable stay with river views and quick access to the University District and downtown.

• DoubleTree by Hilton Spokane City Center (322 N. Spokane Falls Ct.) — Directly connected to the Spokane Convention Center and steps from Riverfront Park, making it convenient for winter events, skating, and downtown exploring.

PLAY

Spokane’s winter play mixes outdoor tradition with warm indoor fun.

• Numerica Skate Ribbon at Riverfront Park — Skate a 650-foot ice path with breaks by fire pits and seasonal lights. It’s open through the colder months and highlights winter activity downtown.

• Winterfest at Riverfront Park (Jan. 30, 2026) — A free community day with ice skating, carousel rides, youth activities, and more.

• Spokane River Centennial Trail — A scenic paved path for winter walks, bike rides, or brisk strolls beside the river. 

• Mobius Discovery Center — A hands-on children’s museum ideal for families on cold days.

• LaserMaxx Spokane and Get Air Trampoline Park — Active indoor play options that are great for days when outdoor temps dip.

• Wonderland Family Fun Center and Flight 509 — Arcade and entertainment centers for family fun.

January in Spokane isn’t a pause—it’s a chance to experience the city with calm mornings, thoughtful explorations, and cozy winter rituals. From skating to strolls, indoor play to boutique hotels and thoughtful shopping stops, the season invites you to embrace simplicity without losing adventure.

Bundle up and wander through downtown shops; lace up your skates beneath soft winter lights; warm up in a lobby or lounge with a hot drink. Spokane’s winter charm is quiet but unforgettable, offering space to reset routines, make new memories, and start the year with intention.

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